tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95264322024-02-28T07:21:32.249-05:00Church of Christ at AsburyChurch of Christ at Asbury is a non-denominational church. Which is located in Knoxville, TN. Mark Talbert is the preacher at the Church of Christ at Asbury.
Our address is 2441 Asbury Road Knoxville, TN 37914roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1143394104805273872006-03-26T12:20:00.000-05:002006-03-26T12:28:24.820-05:00Emotions #2Thar's snow on that thar mount'n. Yes indeed, knoxville is snug as a bug in a rug while the wolves are chattering their teeth out. A good blast of cool weather put 3-6 inches of fresh fallen snow on evelations above 3000 ft. Cades Cove was clear but the mountains around it was snow capped. We had a cool 27 degrees this morning 3/24. Hope your weekend will be wonderful. Thanks again to Jeoff Mabe in turning our thoughts to the emotions of Jesus at the Lectureship. - KIRK<br /><br />The Emotions of Jesus Heb. 12:1-3<br />The short of it:<br />I. Intro:<br />II. Joy is defined as: “The emotion of great happiness” Emotions come in response to stimuli.<br />Design a product that "looks so cool and is such a joy to interact with, that you want your neighbors to come over and see it," says Charles Jones of Whirlpool. In other words, they wanted appliances that would actually make people happy.<br />As Christians, should we not radiate with a joy that would be inviting to our neighbors? Have we not discovered that our unchurched neighbors knows the difference between a social smile and real happiness.<br />There is a secondary meaning of the word Joy. Heb. 12:2 “Who for the joy set before him endured the cross...” Jesus was pliable to the will of his Father.<br />In likemanner when we delight in the Lord we become pliable to his will. Luke 6:22-23 Blessed are you when men hate you....<br />So this kind of joy I am speaking of is not merely being joyful or having a cheerful attitude. It is an incredible emotion that is brought forth by the Holy Spirit.<br />Paul spoke of it in Romans 8:16, 17 This joy is inexpressible. You cannot adequately explain it to people. It is full of the glory of God. It is the recollection of all the spiritual blessings which are found in Christ (Eph. 1:3). “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.”<br />Why would this knowledge make one emotionally elated?<br />Because Eph. 2:12 describes the human condition without a relationship with God. It is pictures a man as being DEPRIVED - without Christ, DISPLACED person - alien, DISASSOCIATED - strangers of promise, DESPAIRED - without hope, DEBASE - without God, DESOLATE - all alone in the world. What a DISTRAUGHTFUL condition! But when one finds Christ v. 13ff, those at a DISTANCE are drawn near, eyes are DRIED - peace, DIVISION rectified - united, and hostility DESTROYED.<br />So delight yourself in the Lord. Yield yourself to his will in a way that bring glorious delight to your emotional state of mind.<br />The disciples joy was not based upon feelings, it was based upon the fact that Jesus, God’s son, came to earth, loved them so much that he gave up his life for them, and defeated death. Now there was no enemy they could not face. Now there was no evil or hurtful situation that would be permanent. If God’s love gave his son for them, how much more freely would he give them all things?<br /><br /><br />THE LONG OF IT.......<br />Emotions of Jesus #2<br />Heb. 12:1-3<br />I. Introduction<br />A. Last time we talked about Jesus and his emotions we observed that:<br /> 1. He was no cardboard person as paintings portray him - emotionless.<br /> 2. Capable of zealousness whether in anger (cleansing the temple) or right behavior.<br /> 3. Noted his compassion as he wept over Jerusalem & with Lazarus’ friends.<br /> 4. Touched by his Anxiety as he was Troubled or greatly disturbed (in the garden).<br /> a. And how knowing these help us in becoming conformed to his image.<br />B. Today we will conclude the emotions of Jesus emphasizing two of his greatest attributes.<br /> 1. His Happiness or joy (Jn. 17:13).<br /> 2. His Love (Jn. 13:34).<br />II. Joy is defined as: “The emotion of great happiness”<br />A. Emotions come in response to stimuli.<br /> 1. The stimuli can come from any of our five senses or it can come from our thoughts. The mind certainly plays a significant role in our feelings. It interprets what we see, touch, hear, feel, or smell and think.<br /> 2. Sensory Logic of St. Paul, Minn., studies videotape of people's facial reactions -- to products and commercials -- in increments as fleeting as 1/30th of a second. In measuring happiness or fulfillment, the company's staffers look for the difference between, say, a true smile (which includes a relaxation of the upper eyelid) and a social smile (which occurs only around the mouth). The company also measures the "micro-smile," which uses less than half the face and indicates "just a slight glimmering of buy-in," says Dan Hill, company president.<br /> 3. (a couple years back KW) Whirlpool used Sensory Logic to test reactions to a yet-to-be-launched generation of Duet washers and dryers, the company's premier line. The goal: Design a product that "looks so cool and is such a joy to interact with, that you want your neighbors to come over and see it," says Charles Jones of Whirlpool. In other words, they wanted appliances that would actually make people happy. "Scientists probe sources of contentment, bliss -- mostly to sell us stuff" JEFFREY ZASLOW, Wall Street Journal as found at the “Charlotte Journal” website.<br />B. Some passages which describe this kind of Joy.<br /> 1. "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 "If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love...I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." John 15:10-11. "Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise." James 5:13 "You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy." Hebrews 1:9<br /> 2. As Christians, should we not radiate with a joy that would be inviting to our neighbors? Have we not discovered that our unchurched neighbors knows the difference between a social smile and real happiness.<br />C. There is a secondary meaning of the word Joy. In Psalm 37:4 one reads, “Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.”<br /> 1. ‘Delight’ is the English word used to translate the Hebrew word aònag (aw-nag'). It is to be effeminately soft and pliable. It has a sense of yielding to a lover in a way that brings glorious delight.<br /> 2. A clear understanding of this kind of joy is seen in Heb. 12:2 “Who for the joy set before him endured the cross...” Jesus was pliable to the will of his Father. Whatever Father God required of him, regardless how pleasant or how difficult, Jesus exercised each task with great joy.<br /> a. The joy Jesus spoke about as “his joy” came from being honored by his Father for his obedience. During Jesus’ ministry on earth, God the Father honored his obedience at his baptism (Matt. 3:13-17). On the Mount of Transfiguration, the Father again spoke of his pleasure in his Son (Matt. 17:5). Only one thing motivated Jesus; that was pleasing his Father (John 8:29). In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus laid down his own will to submit to his Father’s will. He did this looking beyond the cross to his Father’s pleasure in his obedience. He looked forward to his Father exalting him for his obedience. He certainly was not disappointed. After Jesus’ ascension, God highly exalted him and gave him the name above every other name Phil. 2:8 “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name...”<br /> 3. In likemanner when we delight in the Lord we become pliable to his will.<br /> a. Luke 6:22-23 Blessed are you when men hate you, And when they exclude you, And revile you, and cast out your name as evil, For the Son of Man's sake. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed your reward is great in heaven, For in like manner their fathers did to the prophets.<br /> b. 1 Pet 4:12, 13 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.<br /> 4. Romans 14: 17…the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Joy is the pinnacle of the Kingdom.<br /> a. You can have righteousness without peace or joy (Pharisees). You can have peace without joy (Settle wrongful death suit brings closure but won’t bring loved one back). You can have joy without righteousness and peace (Greedy, unholy people). So to have a delightful joy, a biblical joy, a Christ centered joy, one must embrace obedience. Psa. 1:1, 2.<br /> 5. So this kind of joy I am speaking of is not merely being joyful or having a cheerful attitude. It is an incredible emotion that is brought forth by the Holy Spirit.<br /> a. Paul spoke of it in Romans 8:16, 17 This joy is inexpressible. You cannot adequately explain it to people. It is full of the glory of God. It is the recollection of all the spiritual blessings which are found in Christ (Eph. 1:3). “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.”<br /> b. Why would this knowledge make one emotionally elated?<br /> c. Because Eph. 2:12 describes the human condition without a relationship with God. It is pictures a man as being DEPRIVED - without Christ, DISPLACED person - alien, DISASSOCIATED - strangers of promise, DESPAIRED - without hope, DEBASE - without God, DESOLATE - all alone in the world. What a DISTRAUGHTFUL condition! But when one finds Christ v. 13ff, those at a DISTANCE are drawn near, eyes are DRIED - peace, DIVISION rectified - united, and hostility DESTROYED. So delight yourself in the Lord. Yield yourself to his will in a way that bring glorious delight to your emotional state of mind.<br /><br />III. To preach the cross LOVE must be involved.<br />A. So lets talk about the love of Jesus and how it brings joy to our life.<br /> 1. Hearing that Jesus loves me may warm the heart. Knowing that he sacrificed his life for my sins offers hope to my spirit. But the resurrection of Jesus brings joy unimaginable.<br /> 2. Dawn makes everything beautiful. The rising sun bursting through the sky touches the common scene and transforms it into something splendid and beautiful.<br />The love of Jesus is like the dawn. The rising cross on the horizon brightens and warms the most common life and transforms that life into something splendid and beautiful.<br />As the reflection of the rising sun upon the most desolate scene is beautiful to behold, the love of the crucified risen Christ, is even a more spectacular view.<br />B. When Jesus told his disciples about his impending death it brought them great distress.<br /> 1. Recognizing their fear and pain he said, “Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you” (Jn. 16:22).<br /> 2. Peter writes, “whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls” (1 Peter 1:8, 9).<br /> 3. When Jesus sent the seventy out on the first ever Christian missionary tour he gave them power to heal and cast out demons, they returned rejoicing in their labor. Jesus responded to their joy by saying, “in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven - in that hour Jesus rejoiced greatly in the spirit” (Lk. 10:20, 21). Here we see Jesus leaping and laughing with his disciples because they were bring lost souls to the Christ!<br />C. The salvation of souls brings Jesus great joy and it is by his great love we are saved.<br /> 1. The wise preacher once said, “He that wins souls is wise (Prov. 11:30).<br /> 2. In Lk. 15 we find great rejoicing in the teachings of Jesus conserning things which was lost but were found.<br /> a. There was the lost sheep - It was lost, knew it was lost, but could do nothing about it unless someone came and helped.<br /> b. There was the lost coin - It was lost, didn’t know it was lost, but prompted an entire house cleaning before it was reclaimed.<br /> c. Then there was the lost son - Who, was safe, but became lost, came to his senses that he was lost, and did something about his lost condition.<br /> 3. At the conclusion of each of these stories, Jesus reveals the demonstration of joy by the shepherd, woman, and the father as they hosted a great party.<br /> 4. In the telling of the stories he leaves the door of heaven ajar which allows you and me to sneak a peek at what’s happening inside. And what do we see? A great angelic party going on every time a sinner repents. Fascinating!<br /> 5. The disciples joy was not based upon feelings, it was based upon the fact that Jesus, God’s son, came to earth, loved them so much that he gave up his life for them, and defeated death. Now there was no enemy they could not face. Now there was no evil or hurtful situation that would be permanent. If God’s love gave his son for them, how much more freely would he give them all things?<br />D. Someone might respond, “Well I don’t feel too happy right now. If you knew what all I was going through you’d be crying too.”<br /> 1. I am not saying that we never feel pain, that we are never burdened, that our feelings don’t get hurt. And yet, I don’t think Jesus was smiling when Judas kissed him. I can’t see him grinning from ear to ear as Pilate parades him before the crowds beaten and humiliated. I can’t imagine him laughing as they were placing the crown of thorns upon his brow or scourging him nearly to death. Neither did we hear a giggle come forth as they drove the nails in his hands or feet but the text says, “who for the joy that was set before him,” not the cross, not the pain, but the glory he would receive after his resurrection.<br /> 2. That’s what his joy was all about.<br /> 3. The Psalmist writes, “weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” Psalm 30:5.<br /> a. Would it surprise you to discover that joy and sorrow are very often linked in God’s Word? It is almost as if sorrow digs the well and joy is the sweet water that fills it.<br /> b. Could it be that in the time of sorrow we can be so occupied with our weeping and peering into the darkness that we do not notice our back is to the dawn? Turn around. Behold the love on the cross! Cling to every precious promise until the light breaks through.<br /> 4. It’s not a healing we may receive that makes us happy. It’s not riches, pleasure or freedom that brings fulfillment to our lives and joy to our hearts. It’s knowing how our life’s story is going to end - safe in the loving arms of Jesus!<br /><br />Let us rejoice that our names are written in heaven!<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />There is great strength in seeing the emotions of two of Jesus’ greatest attributes, his joy and his love.<br />knowing about the joy of Jesus gives us strength to persevere when everything about us seems to be falling apart.<br />Knowing about the love of Jesus gives us joy in this life through the knowledge that we serve an everlasting King, and that king is full of grand rewards.<br />So great is our joy as we await His appearing. “…in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” Psalms 16:11. What a beautiful dawn…what a glorious day! Jesus is the joy of living!<br /><br />But if you are still dead in your trespasses and sins, you cannot rejoice as do the saint. Will you not respond this hour to his great love and receive this joy unimaginable that no man can take away!<br />Be conformed to the image of his son through experiencing the joy and love of Christ.<br />Those who are truly happy can sing..... Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, sing his mercy and his grace.....roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1143393599139500602006-03-26T12:16:00.000-05:002006-03-26T12:19:59.160-05:00Emotions of JesusGreeting and salty talons (saluations) to everyone! Won't be long before we will be out in the garden breaking out a sweat! Yea! Planted some blueberrys today. It will take a year for them to produce. My tulips are beginning to show their color. by next couple of weeks they should be showing their glory.<br /><br />Thanks to Jeoff Mabe in the direction of this lesson. Another will follow dealing with 2 other emotions of Christ. Hope you enjoy - Kirk<br /><br />Emotions of Jesus #1 Heb. 4:15 If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest.<br />I. Introduction<br />A. If you were to draw a mental picture of how Jesus appeared what comes to mind?<br /> 1. Most pictures represent him as an emotionless being like Dr. Spock of Startrek.<br />B. The scriptures reveal a wide variety of emotions displayed by Jesus.<br /> 1. Presents him exerting zealousness (cleansing the temple).<br /> 2. His Compassion as he Weeps over Jerusalem & with Lazarus’ friends.<br /> 3. His Anxiety as he was Troubled or greatly disturbed (in the garden).<br /> 4. His pleasure - Happiness or joy (Jn. 17:13).<br /> 5. His Love (Jn. 13:34).<br />II. Emotions are circuits which channel information causing a reaction.<br />A. Every person’s mood changes depending upon how they interpret what is seen or heard.<br /> 1. Hear about an accident, bombing, tornado. See one - different emotions.<br /> 2. Hear about a wedding, birthday party, birth of a baby. See one - more intense.<br /> 3. Hear of a Church split, family feud, error being preached. If its happening about you - terribly upsetting.<br /> 4. Being lied about, child abuse, see gas price increase. All these enrage whether seen or heard.<br />B. Being Christ-like we channel information differently than those in the world (2 Cor. 3:18).<br /> 1. Man cussing and swearing because poor parking situation at hospital.<br /> 2. We Agape, the world lusts.<br /> 3. Story about N.B. Hardeman & A.G. Freed. Hardeman was having great difficulty with his horse one day and was really getting on the horse. Brother Freed saw what was happening and said, “Hardeman watch that temper.” To which Brother Hardeman replied, “Brother I have handled more anger in 15 minutes than you have handled in a whole life time.” If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest.<br />III. Knowing Jesus was an emotional person should improve my Christian conduct.<br />A. Regardless what emotional state I am in, I know Jesus has been there.<br />B. He has left me ample information about processing these emotions in a correct way.<br />IV. In this lesson let us observe three emotions of Jesus.<br />A. Zealousness - righteous zeal, enthusiasm - The emotion to do spiritual things right because there is a right way to do them.<br /> 1. This emotion can be abused and turned into fanaticism. Fanaticism, will go to any measure to bring about change, i.e.. threats, abuse, killing. (Saul, before he became the apostle Paul was fanatical).<br /> 2. But true zealousness prompts one into actions of divine calling.<br /> a. We are called to be holy - as Christ was (1 Pet. 1:15, 16; Ps. 16:10).<br /> b. We are called unto peace - (Matt. 5:9) - Jesus (Eph. 2:14-16).<br /> c. We are called servants - (Matt. 20:25-28)<br /> d. We are called unto unity - (Mk. 3:23-25; Jn. 17:19-23).<br /> e. We are called to preach repentance (Mk. 6:20; Lk. 24:46-49).<br /> f. We are called to love one another (Jn. 13:34, 35) Jesus sacrificed.<br /> 3. And since we are called saints, children of light, - Christians - we must perform these spiritual works not with lip service, but zealously - in spirit and in truth.<br /> 4. As we imitate the zealous emotion of Jesus let us do spiritual things right because there is a right way to do them. If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest.<br /><br />B. Many times the Bible writers spoke of the compassion of Jesus.<br /> 1. It is illustrated by his groaning over Jerusalem, tears at Lazarus’ tomb, healings of the multitude, feeding of the thousands.<br /> 2. We might call compassion, 'tears that make a difference.' (Lk. 7:11-16 widow/Nain)<br /> 3. Webster. Compassion – “Sympathetic consciousness of others’ distress together with a desire to alleviate it.”<br /> 4. The world does not understand Bible compassion for example: if you agree with homosexuality, you are compassionate. If you disagree, you are not only lacking compassion, you are a homophobe. Also, according to the world, supporting certain politically correct medical issues and research makes one compassionate. Consider this, the world says that you are compassionate if you fund AIDS research at a much higher level than such things as breast cancer and leukemia, EACH of which kills more people per year than AIDS. Is not AIDS spread primarily by behavior? You don’t get breast cancer and leukemia by sleeping around. Other than in situations involving blood transfusions, you generally don’t get AIDS except through sexual activity. So why is it compassion to over fund AIDS research? Thing is, it is the politically correct thing to do.<br /> 5. When the Bible says that Jesus had compassion, it was not mere sympathy or feeling badly. He was compassionate enough to make a difference in their life. He healed, raised the dead, brought sight to blind. He was active in their sorrow.<br /> 6. But above all this, he die for them. He was going to be humiliated by them and for them. But not just for them, but for the whole world who knew him not (Rom. 5:8). What drove Jesus to the cross - His compassion for humanity, the object of God’s affection. He didn’t just have empathy regarding our hopeless situation. He did something about it.<br /> 7. We are exhorted to weep/rejoice (Rom. 12:15) shed tears that make a difference in another’s life. Groaning and yearning to help is of no avail if nothing is done to alleviate the suffering (2 Cor. 1:3, 4). We must be compassionate enough to preach the gospel for this is man’s greatest need. If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest.<br /><br />C. The third emotion of Jesus I wish to observe is that of an anxious or troubled spirit (Lk. 22:39-44)<br /> 1. Jesus burdened? Sweating bullets? Agonizing? Stomach all knotted up? Yes!<br /> 2. He felt that sinking feeling as he looked about his disciples and asked “Will you also go away?” (JN. 6:67).<br /> 3. He faced death as you and I face it, trusting in God but shaking in our boots. We worry about the loved ones we will leave behind, he the disciples. We worry about the way we are going to die - he knew and still groaned in his spirit.<br /> 4. Just because you know that all will be well with our soul does not mean we fear death or pains which involve living. What we do have is hope. And that hope keeps us moving forward, one day at a time, because this hour may be our last. Let’s live it to the fullest to bring God the glory!<br />If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest.<br /><br />V. Now that we see that Jesus is not some cardboard person, what lessons can we learn.<br />A. I am being like Christ when I get all excited about doing spiritual things right.<br /> 1. In the mist of the assembly I will sing praise to your name (Heb. 2:12). When I see Jesus singing, smiling, and being enthusiastic in worship it will change my attitude and outlook during assembly time.<br /> 2. I won’t feel badly when trying to correct false teaching.<br />B. I am being like Christ when I act compassionately.<br /> 1. As I feed the poor, wait on the sick, assist the helpless without expecting anything in return I am illustrating the compassion of Christ. For this Jesus says great is your reward for even just a cup of water given in my name is noticed in heaven. Remember, compassion is tears which make a difference.<br />C. I know I am Christlike when I groan in my spirit and troubled over things of great concern.<br /> 1. Pain and suffering comes to us all. It helps us pray as we ought. It draws us nearer to our God. It makes me look beyond my pain and see the need of my neighbor who also is in distress. It helps me minister to others as I should.<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />A. We close with this text Heb. 4:14-16<br />B. Are your emotions getting away from you - cast all your care upon him for he cares for you. If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest.roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142199878674218022006-03-12T16:38:00.000-05:002006-03-12T16:44:38.680-05:00Two, Not of a Kind<p class="MsoNormal">What a great lectureship we had - Jesus the Master Teacher. Great to see many of the good brethren keeping the faith. I was dissappointed to have not seen several of my fellow class mates. Hope you all are well. The flu bug hit during the last day of the lecture and at least 2 speakers were knocked out of commission. Brother Deloach jokingly remarked, "Would it be safe to say that this lectureship has been sickening?" We all had a great time together and was spiritually uplifted. Someone remarked to me, "Well should we expect you to give us some sermons from the lectures in your mailing?" WHY NOT??? DUH...... These guys make me sound good and my congregation needs me to sound good from time to time. Here is a expansion of one of brother Deloache's thoughts. Hope you can make it better. <span class="st"><span name="st" id="st">Kirk</span></span><br /><br /><b><i>Two, not of a Kind </i></b><br /><b>Matthew 7</b><br />I. <b>Introduction</b><br />A. In Matthew 7 we find a host of contrasts and action words.<br />B. It is the intent of this lesson to describe these ideals Jesus set out for those who wish to be associated with his kingdom.<br />C. Immediately following his emphasis on ‘seeking his kingdom first’ he delivers what I believe to be productive characteristics of his people who are to be found in his kingdom.<br /><br />II. <b>He begins first by noting two kinds of profilers.</b><br />A. The current CBS hit show ‘Criminal Minds’ is about FBI profilers.<br />B. Everyone profiles another or makes judgment based upon what is known about various behavior traits.<br /> 1. We know a sneak by the way they behave. We know a liar by the way they talk, we know a person lax in morals by their sensual behavior.<br />C. Jesus describes in vs. 1-6 two types of profilers.<br /> 1. The one is critical, insensitive, offensive.<br /> a. They are the fault finders, the carping, the derogatory, the disapproving. Around them, you can never be good enough.<br /> 2. Though the text doesn’t come out and identify the other, it is understood because Jesus told us what not to become. Kingdom worshipers ought to be sensitive, delicate, tender, sympathetic. He understands that he has specks in his eye, dirt on his hands and mud on his feet because all we like sheep have gone astray.<br /> a. This person has heard the rebuke by James 4:12 Who are you to judge another? And Paul’s admonition in Rom. <st1:time minute="13" hour="14">14:13</st1:time>, “Let us not judge, rather resolve not to put a stumbling block in our brother’s way.<br />D. How then does v. 6 come into view with judging?<br /> 1. During the restoration movement, there was a man by the name Daniel Sommer. A good man but one who turned very critical in his early ministry. The result of his critical thinking resulted in him dividing the church over located preachers, orphanages, and one cup. His preaching persuaded about 15% of the Lord’s people to take his position, mainly in the north central states. Later in life, when he mellowed, he found himself preaching unity instead of fault finding. The end result was, his own son withdrew fellowship from him, and took over the publication he had vigorously wrote in defense of his position for years.<br /> 2. Could it be that casting your pearls (righteous judgment and courteous behavior) means that we should not take time associating and adoring those who are critical and judgmental for in the end they will turn on you and trample you and tear you in pieces as they cast you from their fellowship?<br />What Kind of profiler are you? Disapproving or sympathetic?<br /><br />III. <b> Next, Jesus describes two kinds of petitioners 7:7-12.</b><br />A. First there are those who are expectant, full of faith, trusting, mighty in conviction; positive.<br />B. Then there are those who are doubtful, uncertain, skeptical; negative.<br />C. The contrasts considers that there are those who work with their prayers and those who are lazy prayers.<br /> 1. The busy man will make attempt to take care of his child’s request.<br /> 2. The lazy man will put off until the child finds out there is no since in asking.<br /> 3. The point then is that God know what we need, and is busy taking care of our needs, therefore v. 12 we ought to get busy with our prayer life to help others in their need for one day you may need their help. And isn’t this God’s providence at work?<br /><br />IV. <b>Thirdly, Jesus describes two kinds of travelers <st1:time minute="13" hour="19">7:13</st1:time>, 14.</b><br />A. The one takes the trail of ease, the path of least resistance. He seeks a comfortable highway, the road most traveled.<br /> 1. This highway is the highway to <st1:city><st1:place>Sodom</st1:place></st1:City> and <st1:city><st1:place>Gomorrah</st1:place></st1:City>, the Devil’s freeway.<br />B. The other path, we may term as <st1:place>Calvary</st1:place>’s road. The King’s highway. It often is a uphill climb, there are rocks along the way, branches will smack you in the face. It is narrow.<br /> 1. It is the path of father Abraham.<br />C. Jesus describes that every journey has a gate at the end of the line.<br /> 1. We see him illustrating distinctly the tale of two roads which lead to two different cities. At each city there is a gate though which the traveler must pass. As the traveler view the cities from a distance there is a glow emanating from both of them. One is of glory, the other of hell. From a distance you cannot tell which is which.<br />D. Imagine being on the broad path.<br /> 1. Everyone is traveling merrily along. They are in a trot. Everyone is smiling and happy because it appears that everyone is going some place grand.<br /> 2. Along this road there are detour signs.<br /> a. The first says, “Mom and Dad would not approve, detour now!”<br /> 1) Old fogies! They’re stupid......<br /> b. The second says, Danger! Hell ahead! Church this exit.<br /> c. The third admonishes, This way to heaven! Bible land this exit.<br /> d. The fourth and final exit merely states, for access to the cross exit now.<br /> 3. But the crowd must be right. They seem happy enough, moving fast enough. And then the end comes in sight. It is hell. You are close enough to smell the smoke and burning flesh. You hear panic cries ahead of you but you can’t stop, you can’t turn back for there are a host behind you, pushing you until you reach the city’s gate and tumble in with all the rest.<br /><br />V. <b> Jesus again talks about two kind of preachers 7:15-20. </b><br />A. The first is smart and sly. He is politically correct in his communication. He fancies your ears with stories which make you weep, jokes which make you laugh. They are wolves attired in sheep’s skin, demons dressed up like angels.<br /> 1. This kind of preacher tells his audience that everyone is going to heaven, just taking different churches to get there. There is nothing wrong with divorce. Worship God as you please, not as he directs.<br />B. The second kind of preacher, though not specifically mentioned, would be those who was not afraid to call sin, sin! Who takes a stand, politically correct or not. Who will preach Jesus rather than politics, doctrine rather than dogma, truth rather than fables.<br />C. This story reveals one valuable truth the world does not wish you to perceive - YOU CAN KNOW FALSE TEACHERS WHEN YOU SEE ONE.<br /> 1. Grapes of thorns or figs of thistles - you know the difference at a glance which is which. A healthy tree and a diseased tree. In an instance you know from which one you will pick the fruit.<br /> 2. You ought to know by now which kind of preacher you desire - one who tickles your ears or one which convicts your spirit.<br /><br />VI. <b> Then Jesus describes two kinds of workers 7:21-23.</b><br />A. One works for show, the other sincerely. One is motivate out of personal recognition the other works behind the scenes.<br /> 1. The one for show is identified in 6:2, 5, 16 - they have their reward - earthly applause.<br /> a. This should be reason enough for any preacher to discourage his audience from clapping during his message. Soloist and choir seekers take warning.<br />B. What an awful day it will be for those who built in the name of another, who labored in the name of a denomination rather than Christ, who tirelessly toiled for an institution rather than the <st1:place><st1:placetype>church</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>Christ</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>.<br />C. But what is even worse is to see children of God gloating about their works on earth forgetting the basic truth - we still are only servants.<br /><br />VII Finally, Jesus addresses two kinds of listeners 7:24-27.<br />A. The action words in this story are so vivid - built, floods, winds, rain beat, great fall.<br />B. The action word most important is “DO.”<br />C. Both men heard, both built, both suffered the raging storm, but only one survived.<br />D. The difference - one chose the high ground, the ground of moral integrity the other chose the well watered plains of <st1:city><st1:place>Sodom</st1:place></st1:City> and <st1:city><st1:place>Gomorrah</st1:place></st1:City>.<br /> 1. Sands shift, sink, become a mudslide. The torrents of rain coming down the gullies washed it away for it was built too close to the edge of the creek. He built his morals too close to the edge of sin.<br /> a. Song - Because of you, I never stray too far from the sidewalk Because of you, I learned to play on the safe side so I don't get hurt.... DO YOU FEEL JESUS AND HIS CHURCH HAS DONE THIS TO YOU?<br /> 2. Rock does not give way. It is secure, safe, permanent. Christ Jesus is the chief cornerstone of the person when they begin to build their life.<br /><br /><b>CONCLUSION </b><br />Contrasts - Jesus used them to illustrate a point of those whom he seeks to be part of his kingdom. They are those who:<br />1. Profiles rationally not critically.<br />2. Who are full of faith in their prayer life.<br />3. Who are daring enough to take the King’s highway rather than the road well traveled.<br />4. They who listen for truth, even if it pricks their heart.<br />5. Those who don’t mind being a servant - not a showman.<br />6. And those who listened in view that every lesson has a message for them and not for someone else.<o:p></o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142199457928541952006-03-12T16:35:00.000-05:002006-03-12T16:37:37.930-05:00Diary of Don Iverson, March 8<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;">For those who were concerned about our Indian brethren......<br /><br />Contact Don to be put on his update I will broadcast no further for him. May God bless - <span class="st"><span name="st" id="st">Kirk</span></span> White, Asbury <st1:place><st1:placetype>church</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>Christ</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /><b>Kuthin Guli<o:p></o:p></p> <p>Today I stood on the morning <st1:place><st1:placetype>shore</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>Kuthin Guli</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> Village. I watched scores of fishermen as they rode their brightly-painted new boats inland on the waves. It's early morning and most have fished all night. A crowd of men are gathered beneath a grass shed auctioning their catch. One man explained that he had yielded 4,000 ruppees ($88) from the night before. Ladies, squatting on the ground, cleaned their fish in preparation for going to the market. Excitedly, some of the fishermen escorted me to see the baby sharks they had caught during the night.<o:p></o:p></p> <p>But these are not our brothers. Our brothers have been standing on the shore casting partial remnants of nets to try and catch enough fish to feed their families. Some of these faithful have searched to find shells and souvenir items they can sell for the tourist industry. At one brother's house I saw a partial cadamaran (canoe like boat) that had been cut in half by the tsunami. By sawing the boat and attaching a scrap board across the open end, they had been dangerously attempting to fish with half of a boat. These mighty men, babes in Christ, have been denied assistance because they are now members of the <st1:place><st1:placetype>church</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>Christ</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>.<o:p></o:p></p> <p>The Word of God is powerful (Heb. <st1:time minute="12" hour="16">4:12</st1:time>). And as these fishermen's hearts were being pricked by the good news of a loving Savior who gave his life, they knew what would be the consequences of their confession. Their faith was greater than their fear and they looked into the eye of the "beast" and boldly proclaimed, "I will stand with God." I love these men! <o:p></o:p></p> <p><i>FOOTNOTE: As I sit in this e-mail office on March 8, we jave just handing over money to the boat company to buy boats for these brethren. They will be delivered tomorrow. This is only one of the areas where we are able to assist. As I sit here I am thankful to a loving and compassionate Father who cares for his children. I am thankful for our brethren who have generously given to help these men. What a privilege I have to be here. Thank you. God is Great! </b></i><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142199339449859542006-03-12T16:29:00.000-05:002006-03-12T16:35:39.456-05:00One Day at a Time<p class="MsoNormal">Don't forget the ETSOPM lectures start Sunday. See you there! <span class="st"><span name="st" id="st">Kirk</span></span><br /><br /><b><i>One Day At A Time</b></i><br /><b>Matt. <st1:time minute="25" hour="18">6:25</st1:time>-34</b><br />I. <b>Introduction</b><br />A. Ann Landers wrote, “To be a parent is to worry.”<br /> 1. Many of us have broken that rule - whether parents or not, we worry.<br />B. Our lesson is quite simple today - we will examine the need to take life one day at a time.<br />C. From time to time every one of us need to be reminded:<br /> 1. GOD KNOWS OUR NEEDS this is why you should take it one day at a time.<br /><br /> 2. GOD MEETS OUR NEEDS so why would you want to take it more than one day at a time<br /> 3. GOD EXCEEDS OUR NEEDS therefore, let us take it one day at a time<br />II. <b>Since God knows your needs - let us take it one day at a time.</b><br />A. The text contrasts worry and reliability. Man worries - but God is reliable.<br />B. The text proves this by noting how nature relies on God a man without God becomes self reliant.<br /> 1. Until we as humans interferes, everything in nature works together, because all of nature trusts God. Jesus was saying God has built into His Creation the means by which all things are cared for. The birds are fed because they diligently work to maintain their lives. They do not store up great amounts of food, but continually work! The lilies grow daily through a natural process. The grass land greens during the rainy season and browns during droughts, yet the whole of earth is a planet of greenery.<br /> 2. Morgan Freeman in the Shawshank Redemption said, “You either get busy living or get busy dying.” In other words, you’re going to live today or die today - there’s nothing you can do about it. But the wisest thing to do is get busy living because death comes too soon regardless what age you attain. So Jesus says that nature teaches man all birds die and so do the plants but they don’t worry about it. They sing today and bloom today for their creator today, for by his grace, they are living today. God knows their needs, and he knows your needs - so take it one day at a time.<br />C. Man worries, about..... Terrorist, gas prices, retirement, beauty, popularity<br /> 1. Survey says.... 40% of the time we worry about things that will never happen, 30% concern things that can’t be changed, 12% center in on criticism, mostly untrue, made by people who feel inferior, 10% relate to health which worsens when you worry, And only 8% are legitimate concerns which you can do something about. Most of the time we worry about things that never happen.<br /> 2. What secret does the grass, birds and lilies have that we have yet to discover? Live one day at a time, because you are just given one day to live at a time.<br /> 3. If a terrorist strikes - be ready to meet God, if gas increases - conserve, if retirement benefits fold - be thankful you made it to retirement age - you’re beauty will fail, your popularity will fluctuate - be a man after God’s heart where beauty and popularity is weighed on a spiritual scale. Because God knows what you need - so take it one day at a time.<br /><br />II. <b>God meets your needs - So why would you want to take it more than one day at a time.</b><br />A. You recall the story of the rich fool (Lk. <st1:time minute="16" hour="12">12:16</st1:time>-21)?<br /> 1. Here we see the demise of a man who did not take it one day at a time.<br /> 2. He thought only of self - he used the personal pronoun “I” six times.<br /> 3. This rich man had only one day to live and he wasted it on himself<br /> 4. Song - Tim McGraw “Live like you were dying” speaks of the self seeking and self serving ideals we possess. “I went sky diving, rocky mountain climbing, 2.7 seconds on a bull named Fu Manchu, loved deeper, spoke sweeter, gave forgiveness I’ve been denying. Hope you get the chance to live like you were dying.”<br /> 5. Jesus - “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” The rich man spent those final few hours of his life grasping the things of the world and not looking up to God.<br /> a. He thought of Gold - instead of God.<br /> b. He thought of Pleasure - instead of People.<br /> c. He thought of Ease - instead of Eternity.<br /> 6. God meets our needs Psalmist writes “I’ve been young, now I am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken nor his descendants begging bread.”<br /> 7. Remember the Lord’s Prayer. “Give us this day our daily bread.” Jesus didn’t say anything about accumulating bread for tomorrow. He didn’t say anything about having a bread bank from which to draw. No, he said, “Give us today what we need today.” Focus on what we need now, not on what we feel we will need in the future.<br />B. God has met the needs of his people ever since they were alive.<br /> 1. Adam & Eve - <st1:country-region><st1:place>Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region> in captivity and wilderness; church in growth and persecution.<br /> 2. Ever wonder why God permitted Stephen to be stoned, Polycarp and others to be executed for his cause? Did not God see their need? Why did he let them die and others live?<br /> a. War is war whether it be physical or spiritual. Causalities of war is inevitable. The cost of spiritual freedom is as great as the price of democracy - at times blood must be shed. So when my faith grows weary and my prayers appear to go unheard, I reflect back to savior who gave his life and those men and women who paid the price so truth may continue to spread and see....... God meets my needs, in life, in death... so why would I want to live life more than one day at a time - the worries of this day are great enough.<br /><br />III. <b>God exceeds your needs - Therefore, let us take it one day at a time. </b><br />A. Ten times God exceeded the needs of <st1:country-region><st1:place>Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region> by plaguing <st1:country-region><st1:place>Egypt</st1:place></st1:country-region>.<br /> 1. They still worried when they came to the <st1:place>Red Sea</st1:place>. “Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord.”<br /> 2. Later, even after they had seen the miracles, God coming upon the mountain blazing in glory, they built an idol proclaiming, “This is what delivered you!” Why? Because they worried about Moses being gone 40 days saying this God must have killed him.<br /> 3. We read about God exceeding their need but they worried about giants in the land, bread to eat, water to drink and because of it, died in the wilderness - there’s a story here brethren - listen up! Worry will get you killed!<br />B. What the Matthew text tells us is that when we worry about things in which we have no control, we put ourselves in the same category as those who don’t know God verse 32<br /> 1. The unbeliever lives in a way in which he relies on himself.<br /> 2. Its sad to know that some Christians are still self seeking instead of seeking the kingdom.<br /> 3. Daniel wasn’t going to worry in the lion’s den he just kept on praying - Shadrack, Meshack, and Abindigo wasn’t going to worry when they had to take the high ground even if it meant the fiery furnace. Paul wasn’t going to worry even if going to <st1:city><st1:place>Jerusalem</st1:place></st1:City> would mean bondage. The apostles wouldn’t stop preaching even though it cost them their life. When they hid behind closed doors after the crucifixion Jesus appeared to them even behind closed doors to encourage them to get out and get busy living or my church will be dying. Seek first my kingdom - Worry kills the church.<br />C. Hasn’t God exceeded our needs? Shouldn’t we be about seeking the kingdom first?<br /> 1. The Greek word translated ‘do not worry’ literally means “to be drawn in different directions.” Thus, worry pulls us apart.<br /> 2. One of the things lion tamers carry into the cage with them is a chair. I understand that the chair is the most important piece of equipment they have. They will point that chair at the lions and the animals will try to focus on all four legs at once and become sort of paralyzed. Their attention is fragmented and they are disabled and weakened. That makes sense, doesn’t it?<br /> 3. So when we get focusing on too many worldly things we forget to seek out the one thing which is most important - the purpose of the kingdom in our life. Satan causes one to loose sight of the goal of Christ by pulling and drawing us in different directions - thus making us infidels - people who don’t trust in Yahweh Jirah - (the God who provides).<br /> 4. God exceeds our needs so lets take it one day at a time.<br /><br /><br /><b>CONCLUSION</b><br />So there you have it. Jesus says, that if you are seeking the kingdom, you have very little to worry about. Nature is taken care of. The heathen are fed and clothed. Why worry about tomorrow when you may not even be given tomorrow. Today’s concerns are enough - live one day at a time for God and you will be a happier, healthier, and prosperous Christian.<br /><br />A story is told about a man who came face to face with the dangers of worry: Death was walking toward a city one morning and a man asked, "What are you going to do?" "I’m going to take 100 people," Death replied. "That’s horrible!" the man said. "That’s the way it is," Death said. "That’s what I do." The man hurried to warn everyone he could about Death’s plan. As evening fell, he met Death again. "You told me you were going to take 100 people," the man said. "Why did 1,000 die?" "I kept my word," Death responded. "I only took 100 people. Worry took the others."<br /><br />Now, if you knew that you had only one day to live, what would you do? Would you worry about it? Get busy living, or get busy dying. Seek the <st1:place><st1:placetype>kingdom</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>God</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> first or get busy preparing for an infidel’s reward. Live one day at a time because:<br />God Sees your needs<br />God meets our needs<br />God will exceed your need.<br />Thanks to HOWARD MCGLAMORY, SCOTT CARMER & TONY BRITT for several thoughts scattered throughout this lesson. <o:p></o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142198949514116332006-03-12T16:25:00.000-05:002006-03-12T16:29:09.520-05:00From the Diary of Don Iverson<p class="MsoNormal">Here is an ongoing struggle that continues to need our help. If you feel this is a work you wish to get involved, contact <a href="mailto:doniverson@juno.com" onclick="return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)">doniverson@juno.com</a> - just thought you'd like to know. <span name="st" id="st">~K<span class="st">irk</span></span><br /><br /><br /><span style=""> </span><br /><br /><b>Brethren, Cathy and I returned from India today to our nice comfortable home. Through tear-filled eyes I want to share the writings of my diary from February 15. Please take the time to read it.<br /><br />Don Iverson<br /><br />The <st1:country-region><st1:place>India</st1:place></st1:country-region> sun was setting on the evening of February 15. We stood beneath a cloudless sky one mile from the <st1:place>Bay of Bengal</st1:place>. On this eastern shore the stinch of death is still fresh in the nostrils of these folks who now divide their lives by "pre" and "post" tsunami.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Gathered before me are my brothers and sisters. More than 100 sit cross-legged on the sandy ground. Some are widows. Their skin is as black as coal from working daily in the fields in the hot sun. In the front of the crowd are more than thirty children. They have just eagerly sung for me their newly learned song about being "Sons of Abraham." Their faces were so happy! How could I have known they were hungry?<br /><br />I preached from Luke 5 about Peter gathering multitudes of fish into his boat. At one point I pulled a man from the crowd. His skin was coarse and dark. I knew he was a fisherman. I told the crowd, "I love these fishermen!" How was I to know as I shook his hard calloused hand that I was shaking hands with a mighty warrior, a spiritual giant in the <st1:place><st1:placetype>kingdom</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>God</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>? As I preached about using our boats (or whatever assets we might have) for God I didn't know this fisherman had lost his in the tsunami. Furthermore, he had been told that if he would stop being a faithful member of the <st1:place><st1:placetype>church</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>Christ</st1:PlaceName></st1:place> he could have a new boat, motor, and nets. He chose to suffer with Christ (I Peter <st1:time minute="13" hour="16">4:13</st1:time>).<br /><br />In the shed-type house behind me, dinner had been prepared for Cathy and me. We struggled to eat the fish-fried rice, but the hospitality warmed our hearts. From the other room they brought a Pepsi for us to share. I felt guilty and could hardly swallow the soft drink. We gave the remaining half to the children of the hostess. That seemed to please her.<br /><br />This house owner is my new brother in Christ. As we visited I learned that this generous husband and wife had been feeding these thirty-eight children (biscuits and an egg) twice weekly, teaching them Bible stories and songs. The little ones come from tsunami affected families and do not have enough food. He went on to explain how the Bible had completely changed him. Since the tsunami he has been baptized and completed three months in our <st1:place><st1:placename>Open</st1:PlaceName> <st1:placename>Bible</st1:PlaceName> <st1:placetype>School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> program. What money he had is now gone and he has stopped the twenty-dollar-per-month program for the children. I found out through the translator that he had recently received a phone call from a Catholic priest who told him if he would stop the church of Christ from meeting in his home they would give him boats and nets to support his family. He chose Christ over food. I asked this brother, "Have you ever thought of being a gospel preacher?" Before he could answer his wife affirmed in Tamil, "Kaandipaar" (definitely)!<br /><br />Though he was not asking, I explained that if there was any way, we would help. I stared into his smiling face as he answered, "Thank you, but regardless of whether you can help or not, we will stand for Christ and his Word!" I love these new brothers and sisters and I marvel at the power of God's word working in their lives. We don't have to doubt the sincerity of our brothers words. He has been suffering for his faith for nearly a year. I thought to myself, "It is one thing to say we love Jesus, and another to watch our family go hungry."<br /><br />In Trichendur (where 25 members were withdrawn from by the village) our new brothers are being mocked. The other fishermen in the village have had their professions restored with new boats and nets. They now chide our poor hungry brothers and sisters and try to get them to leave the church. I asked my brother, "Why did you refuse?" He answered, "I cannot sell my soul. Money doesn't last forever. All of the other people are making fun of us. They scold us and say, 'you have lost everything because of the <st1:place><st1:placetype>church</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>Christ</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>.' I told them all material things will be destroyed one day. God will care for us!"<br /><br />Thus far I have discovered 109 families, our new brothers and sisters, who have been treated the same way. They have been denied because of their faith. This is truly one of the most amazing things I have ever seen! So far, we have not even found one warrior who has broken ranks. They all continue firm on their newfound foundation, Jesus Christ. These are like those in Revelation who refused to worship the beast and had not his mark in their foreheads (Revelation 20:4). Their names, along with ours, are recorded in the Lamb's Book of Life. </b><br />------------------------------<wbr>------------------------------<wbr>--------------------<br /><br /><i><b>With a lump in my throat I send this e-mail. Our American brethren have been so generous to this cause, but we do not have funds to help these hungry saints who have given all for their faith. We feel responsible. In a way they are like our own spiritual children (II Tim. 1:2).Cathy and I have discussed the possibility of selling our own house (but that is unlikely at this point). Our initial survey shows we will need about $500 per family (109 families) to get them functioning again in their life-long professions. I am considering heading back to <st1:country-region><st1:place>India</st1:place></st1:country-region> next Sunday to deal directly with this problem.<br /><br />Brethren, please share this with your congregation tomorrow. If there are those who can help, please send us an e-mail immediately, even before sending your check. That helps with the initial plan.<br /><br />On behalf of our Indian brethren, Thank you.<br /><br />Don Iverson</i></b><o:p></o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142198641747823342006-03-12T16:23:00.000-05:002006-03-12T16:25:12.033-05:00Unify<p class="MsoNormal">Well it seems to be snowing every weekend now. Just a dusting on the valley floor. The mountains have been getting pounded, but within a day or so it is all melted and life is back to normal. So far, it hasn't laid on the street - its been too warm. My tulips are starting to sprout<br />-<b>NOOOOO!!!! </b>Won't be long till its time to crank up the mowers - happy, happy - Have a great week. - <span class="st"><span name="st" id="st">Kirk</span></span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">UNIFY<br /><b> Jn. <st1:time minute="20" hour="17">17:20</st1:time>-23 </b><br /><br />The short of it:<br />INTRODUCTION<br />A. Three words which sum up John 17 - Glorify, Sanctify, Unify<br />B. Today will will complete the list with UNIFY.<br />C. Most of us present today grew up hearing that the church should be ONE.<br />D. In the mind of the American worshipper, different is good. Tolerance is great. Diversity is wonderful!<br />E. It is the thrust of this lesson to speak of unity the way Jesus has described it.<br /> 1. When we fail to glorify, and sanctify ourselves as we ought there is no way to unify as we should.<br /> 2. We will notice church unity it in three avenues, theologically, emotionally, purposefully.<br />I. UNITY, THEOLOGICALLY SPEAKING.<br />A. It takes help in misunderstanding what Jesus meant.<br />B. Did the Holy Spirit instruct the apostles to be diverse in doctrine (Jn. <st1:time minute="13" hour="16">16:13</st1:time>)?<br />C. How Paul perceived theological unity.<br />D. No where in scripture are Christians taught:<br />E. You can know who is going to heaven.<br />II. UNITY, EMOTIONALLY SPEAKING<br />A. Jesus makes everyone equal (Gal. <st1:time minute="24" hour="15">3:24</st1:time>-28) by bringing them into his church (Eph. <st1:time minute="23" hour="17">5:23</st1:time>).<br />B. Such structure is designed to build up the smallest of person to help them become great servants of God.<br />III. UNITY, PURPOSEFULLY SPEAKING<br />A. We live in an age where we have institutionalized everything.<br />B. The church serves a divine purpose not the human purpose.<br />C. When the church is too busy building gymnasiums and touring the world, it cannot glorify, sanctify, educate or help his fellow man.<br />IV. PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER<br />A. How is unity maintained?<br />B. When we fail to glorify God, and sanctify ourselves as we ought there is no way to unify as we should.<br /><br />THE LONG OF IT:<br /><br />INTRODUCTION<br />A. Three words which sum up John 17 - Glorify, Sanctify, Unify<br />B. Today will will complete the list with UNIFY.<br />C. Most of us present today grew up hearing that the church should be ONE.<br /> 1. We were taught that that ‘ONEness’ meant every visible house of worship ought to believe, practice, and do things in the same way.<br /> 2. Unity in the mind of the 21st century worshipper is not what it was fifty years ago. There was a time when truth could be discovered, change made, and liars debunked. We now live in an age of ‘tolerance.’ It’s not that you must accept another’s views, but you must tolerate their views because they are espousing something different - and different to the world is good.<br /> 3. J. Gordon Melton is a Methodist minister with an unusual hobby. His hobby is denomination hunting. He literally scours the country trying to count the number of major denominations in the <st1:country-region><st1:place>United States</st1:place></st1:country-region>. He has currently identified over 70 major branches which make up over 2,000 denominations.<br /> a. Some of them are very interesting.<br /> 1) One of them is "The Church of the Kennedy Worshippers." It is a church which actually believes that it can pray to the late President John F. Kennedy, and can be cured both of congenital defects as well as of terminal diseases.<br /> 2) Then there’s "The Church of the Ministry of Universal Wisdom." They look for flying saucers to come.<br /> 3) And then there’s "The Church of What’s Happening Now." It’s obviously a more contemporary church.<br />D. In the mind of the American worshipper, different is good. Tolerance is great. Diversity is wonderful!<br /> 1. As Ophra Winfrey said, “I believe that every religion is a way to God.”<br /> 2. Bobby Gilstrap makes an analogy about the stupidity of trying to unify the churches theologically. He said, “ IT’S LIKE THIS BOX OF CRAYONS – the crayons are different in color … different in size … different in use … but they all go back into the box together. As Christians (various denom. KW), we may be like different colors … different experiences, different worship styles, different approaches, etc. Some are newer and older colors … spiritually more experienced than others … some are new in the faith. The paper wrapper is peeling off of some crayons: like some believers show the evidence of suffering and pain and others are young in the faith with all the paper still in tact. Yet, with all the differences … all of the crayons fit right back into the box. Any observer can see that they are all together and unified in their task of being crayons. If the crayons refused to take (accept KW) their differences and (you to try) get them back in the box together with the other crayons … well you can see my analogy, can’t you?”<br /> 3. The rallying call use to be “Unity in Diversity.” I believe it has changed to “Forget Unity - Tolerate Me.” And so I read of ‘Christian’ worship centers voting on acceptability of women and gay ministers and such silliness whether the man is the head of the house or not. They vote on the reliability of the scripture, and what specific doctrine they will propagate. It’s not that the proponents of these ideas are interested in being right according to scripture, they just want something different. They wish not only to be tolerated in their views - but accepted. They want the Bible to submit to their philosophy and hog tie the church while they do it.<br />E. It is the thrust of this lesson to speak of unity the way Jesus has described it.<br /> 1. When we fail to glorify, and sanctify ourselves as we ought there is no way to unify as we should.<br /> 2. We will notice church unity it in three avenues, theologically, emotionally, purposefully.<br /><br />I. UNITY, THEOLOGICALLY SPEAKING.<br />A. It takes help in misunderstanding what Jesus meant.<br /> 1. ‘As you are in me and I in you’ - what things theologically (doctrinally) did Jesus and his Father disagree upon? Isn’t this the same for you and me?<br /> 2. When Jesus promised to build his church he wanted us to maintain certain ideals (Matt. <st1:time minute="18" hour="16">16:18</st1:time>; Eph. 4:3-6). If one can understand that there is: ONE God, Son, Spirit, hope (heaven), then he should have no problem understanding that there also is ONE body (Eph. 1:21church not churches), ONE faith (Jude 3 not faiths), ONE baptism (Acts <st1:time minute="38" hour="14">2:38</st1:time> not many).<br />B. Did the Holy Spirit instruct the apostles to be diverse in doctrine (Jn. <st1:time minute="13" hour="16">16:13</st1:time>)?<br /> 1. Paul to <st1:city><st1:place>Corinth</st1:place></st1:city> (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="10" hour="13">1:10</st1:time>-13)<br /> 2. Paul to <st1:country-region><st1:place>Galatia</st1:place></st1:country-region> (Gal. 1:6-9)<br /> 3. John recorded Jesus rebuking those who accepted different doctrines (Rev. 2-3).<br />C. How Paul perceived theological unity.<br /> 1. It should be defended (2 Timothy 2:2-4) and was (Acts 15; Gal. <st1:time minute="11" hour="14">2:11</st1:time>-17).<br /> 2. It was distributed to every church (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="17" hour="16">4:17</st1:time>).<br /> 3. Those who changed were to be dealt with (Rom. <st1:time minute="17" hour="16">16:17</st1:time>).<br />D. No where in scripture are Christians taught:<br /> 1. We are all going to heaven, just taking different roads.<br /> 2. We are all united in Christ, just under different names and worship practices.<br /> 3. You can’t know what really is truth (Jn. <st1:time minute="17" hour="13">1:17</st1:time>; <st1:time minute="17" hour="17">17:17</st1:time>).<br />E. You can know who is going to heaven.<br /> 1. Slanderous story about St. Peter giving a new comer to heaven a grand tour. In this room he said are all of this denomination, in this room is all of that denomination. As they passed another room the man asked Peter, who is in this room - Oh, don’t bother them, they are <st1:place><st1:placetype>church</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename>Christers</st1:placename></st1:place>, they think they are the only one’s here.<br /> 2. Those who will be in heaven are (Jn. <st1:time minute="24" hour="16">4:24</st1:time>) those who worship with the right attitude and in the correct way.<br /> 3. When we fail to glorify, and sanctify as we ought there is no way to doctrinally unify as he commanded.<br /><br />Now to maintain doctrinal unity just to maintain doctrinal unity is a shallow faith. Therefore we must look at unity Jesus spoke of with deeper ideals in mind.<br /><br />II. UNITY, EMOTIONALLY SPEAKING<br />A. Jesus makes everyone equal (Gal. <st1:time minute="24" hour="15">3:24</st1:time>-28) by bringing them into his church (Eph. <st1:time minute="23" hour="17">5:23</st1:time>).<br /> 1. Phil. 2:2-5 be sincerely inclined to meet each other’s emotional need.<br /> 2. Jas. 2:1-4 no preference to be given to the rich.<br /> 3. Philemon <st1:time minute="16" hour="13">1:16</st1:time> no difference in Christ between a master and his slave.<br /> 4. Rom. <st1:time minute="14" hour="13">1:14</st1:time>-16 no barriers of race in the <st1:place><st1:placetype>church</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename>Christ</st1:placename></st1:place>.<br /> 5. 1 Cor. 12:13ff no big “I” and little “you” in the body. .- A man asked the preacher, “How many active members do you have in your church?” The preacher said, “They’re all active. Half of them are working with me and half of them are working against me.”<br />B. Such structure is designed to build up the smallest of person to help them become great servants of God.<br /> 1. When the body is about ‘to owe no man anything but love’ we will refrain from slanderous gossip, hateful looks, petty grievances. By love shall all men know we are his disciples (Jn. <st1:time minute="35" hour="13">13:35</st1:time>).<br /> 2. When we fail to glorify, and sanctify as we ought there is no way to be emotional unified as we should.<br />III. UNITY, PURPOSEFULLY SPEAKING<br />A. We live in an age where we have institutionalized everything.<br /> 1. Health care - nursing homes; child care - orphanages; benevolent care - Red Cross etc... entertainment care - gymnasiums, churches built as theaters.<br />B. The church serves a divine purpose not the human purpose.<br /> 1. It’s divine purpose is to dispense the knowledge of God throughout the world.<br /> 2. It’s divine purpose is to dispense the glory of God throughout the world.<br /> 3. It’s divine purpose is to sanctify the people so God may dwell with man.<br /> 4. It ‘s divine purpose is to help our fellowman attain heaven.<br />C. When the church is too busy building gymnasiums and touring the world, it cannot glorify, sanctify, educate or help his fellow man.<br /> 1. We are not told HOW to take care of the widows and orphans (Jas. <st1:time minute="27" hour="13">1:27</st1:time>) we are just told to do it.<br /> 2. We are not told HOW to help the poor or those in crisis situations (1 Jn. <st1:time minute="17" hour="15">3:17</st1:time>), but we are told to do it.<br /> 3. If the church - locally, nationally, universally would work as a unit, it would be greater than the Red Cross, <st1:street><st1:address>United Way</st1:address></st1:street> and the Bill Gates Foundation. But we don’t see the BIG PICTURE. We borrow money to build theaters but nothing for the orphanages. We mortgage ourselves to the eyeballs for gymnasiums, ball fields and workout centers and turn a blind eye to the aging and those burdened during disasters. The church is failing in this area.<br /> 4. What is the purpose of the church at this location? What is our mission? What do we plan to achieve for this community, region, state, nation, and world that God may be glorified?<br /> 5. When we fail to glorify, and sanctify as we ought there is no way to unite in purpose as we could.<br /><br />IV. PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER<br />A. How is unity maintained?<br /> 1. Jesus - if you seek to glorify God you will not be so ‘me-centric’ and develop a work and sacrifice ethic in the behalf of God - then, unity will be maintained.<br /> 2. Jesus - if you seek to sanctify the Lord God in your heart, we will live holy lifestyles, we will avoid defiling ourselves, we will come out of Satan’s world and get into God’s - then, unity will be maintained.<br /> 3. Jesus - if you strive for theological unity, emotional unity, and unity of purpose under my direction - then, unity will be maintained.<br />B. It’s when we fail to glorify, and sanctify as we ought that there is no way to unify as we should.<br /> 1. Unity is maintained - not through tyranny, I’m the boss. Not democratically - let’s vote. but through love recognizing the Standard by which we all should obey.<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />Should we not be about practicing this kind of unity for which Jesus prayed? - So the world (ungodly) may believe! Should we not strive for the unity that the Holy Spirit commanded the apostles to teach so the church may be whole - emotionally and purposefully.<o:p></o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142198070130803522006-03-12T16:09:00.000-05:002006-03-12T16:14:30.143-05:00Sanctify<p class="MsoNormal">Nothing exciting to write home about this week - have a fabulous weekend!<br /><br />The short of it:<br /><br />SANCTIFY<br />John 17:13-19<br />Introduction<br />A. Last week:<br /> 1. Three words sum up John 17 - Glorify, Sanctify, Unify.<br />I. Definition “Sanctify - to set apart for holy purposes.”<br />A. Scripture inform us that nothing sacred is sanctified without blood.<br /> 1. As evidenced in the holy vessels of ancient worship (Heb. <st1:time minute="19" hour="9">9:19</st1:time>-22).<br />B. Now watch this - We are holy vessels of worship<br /> 1. Our bodies are the temple (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="16" hour="15">3:16</st1:time>) God cannot dwell in things which are not sanctified by holy blood.<br />So we need to be sanctified - HOW??<br /> 2. We are sanctified by the blood of Christ HEB. <st1:time minute="13" hour="9">9:13</st1:time>-14; <st1:time minute="14" hour="10">10:14</st1:time><br /> 3. 21 things the blood does for the believer.<br />II. Christ’s Blood has the Power to sanctify anybody.<br /> 1. chiefest sinner<br /> 2. paul<br /> 3. thief on crosss<br /> 4. you and me<br />III. Come out from Satan’s World and get into God’s.<br />A. In Exodus 19:10-11 We have a story of the people sanctifying<br />themselves for the appearance of the Lord.<br />B. We are called to be Holy Leviticus 20:7-8 Sanctify yourselves<br />therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God. And ye shall keep<br />my statutes, and do them: I am the LORD which sanctify you.<br />C. Stop defiling yourself!<br />IV. How to sanctify yourself<br />A. 10 ways the word sanctifies you.<br />B. By the Blood of Christ.<br /><br />THE LONG OF IT<br /><br />SANCTIFY<br />John 17:13-19<br />Introduction<br />A. Last week:<br /> 1. Three words sum up John 17 - Glorify, Sanctify, Unify.<br /> 2. We studied its not ‘all about me’ but to glorify our Heavenly Father.<br /> a. We noticed that Jesus glorified the Father through obedience, works and sacrifice.<br /> 3. Today we look at the word “Sanctify.”<br />B. Illustration<br />A woman at a garage sale spotted a handsome antique copper kettle for only $2.50. It was badly tarnished, so she asked the woman running the sale if the discoloration would come out. She cheerfully offered to try some copper cleaner on it and disappeared with it into the house. Reappearing with the gleaming kettle, she handed it to the buyer for inspection. It was indeed a more attractive item, plus it also had a new tag attached. It read: "Like new-$10." APPLY: Interesting. When the copper kettle first went on sale, it’s owner practically gave it away. But something changed its value - a simple cleansing. When the owner took the trouble to clean away the grime/removed the discoloration and stains it was worth four times the amount she originally asked.<span style=""> </span>Almost everything IS more valuable once it has been washed and cleaned up - and so it is with us. The Bible tells us we are stained with sin. The guilt and shame of our past behavior takes away our value Romans <st1:time minute="23" hour="15">3:23</st1:time> tells us “for all have sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God”<br />I. Definition “Sanctify - to set apart for holy purposes.”<br />A. Scripture inform us that nothing sacred is sanctified without blood.<br /> 1. As evidenced in the holy vessels of ancient worship (Heb. <st1:time minute="19" hour="9">9:19</st1:time>-22).<br />B. Now watch this - We are holy vessels of worship<br /> 1. Our bodies are the temple (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="16" hour="15">3:16</st1:time>) God cannot dwell in things which are not sanctified by holy blood. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">So we need to be sanctified - HOW??<br /> 2. We are sanctified by the blood of Christ HEB. 9:13-14; <st1:time minute="14" hour="10">10:14</st1:time> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> a. 1 Peter 1:18, 19 were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, But with the precious blood of the lamb.<br />C. You see, When God sees the Christian he sees RED! How precious is Christ’s blood!<br /> 1. IT - Established a new Covenant (Matt. 26:28; Heb. 8:6-13; <st1:time minute="20" hour="13">13:20</st1:time>)<br /> 2. Bought redemption (1 Pet. <st1:time minute="18" hour="13">1:18</st1:time>, 19; Rev. 5:9)<br /> 3. Establishes eternal life in the believer (Jn. <st1:time minute="54" hour="18">6:54</st1:time>)<br /> 4. Purchased the church (Acts <st1:time minute="28" hour="20">20:28</st1:time>)<br /> 5. At times brought physical death to the faithful (Acts 7)<br /> 6. Demonstrated God’s righteousness (Rom. 3:25ff)<br /> 7. Justifies the sinner (<st1:country-region><st1:place>Rom.</st1:place></st1:country-region> 5:9)<br /> 8. Ensures fellowship with the godhead (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="16" hour="10">10:16</st1:time>;1 Jn. 1:7).<br /> 9. Brings to remembrance to the mind of the believer the act of grace (1 Cor. 11:23ff).<br /> 10. Receives forgiveness (Eph. 1:7).<br /> 11. Brought those who were estranged into fellowship (Eph. 2:13ff).<br /> 12. By it God was reconciled with us (Col. 1:20).<br /> 13. Obtained eternal redemption (Heb. <st1:time minute="12" hour="9">9:12</st1:time>)<br /> 14. Sanctifies the flesh of the believer (Heb. <st1:time minute="13" hour="9">9:13</st1:time>, 14; <st1:time minute="29" hour="10">10:29</st1:time>).<br /> 15. Remove sin (Heb. 10:4; Rev. 1:5)<br /> 16. Grants the believer boldness to enter the domain of God (Heb. <st1:time minute="19" hour="10">10:19</st1:time>).<br /> 17. Bears witness that the believer has overcome the world (1 Jn. 5:4-8)<br /> 18. Gives the believer righteous robes (Rev. 7:14).<br /> 20. Overcame Satan (Rev. 12:10, 11).<br /> 21. Worn as a vestment of victory in the battle against sin (<st1:time minute="13" hour="19">Rev 19:13</st1:time>).<br />II. Christ’s Blood has the Power to sanctify anybody.<br />A. It takes the chiefest, vilest of sinners, sanctifies them body soul and spirit into a new creature formed in the image of God’s Holiness (1 Tim. <st1:time minute="15" hour="13">1:15</st1:time>).<br />B. Saul, a murderer, tried to destroy the church of the living God had an encounter with the power of that blood and was forever sanctified into “Paul, an apostle of Christ”<br />C. The thief on the cross had an encounter with the power of the blood of Jesus, and was sanctified from that of a condemned man into a saint dwelling in <st1:place>Paradise</st1:place>. (Heb. 9:15)<br />D. And to the man who desires to become a Christian, Christ’s blood can sanctify you 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.<br /> 1. Isaiah <st1:time minute="18" hour="13">1:18</st1:time> Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.<br /> 2. In fact, God created blood to be a cleansing agent. In your body, blood takes oxygen and other supplies TO cells AND REMOVES waste and impurities from those cells. Blood literally cleans out the filth from your body. That is one of it’s major responsibilities. There is NO OTHER cleansing agent known to man that can purify our bodily system as well as the blood that courses through our veins.<br /> 3. Spiritually speaking there is no other cleansing agent known to man that can rid your soul of its filth and shame than the Blood of Jesus. # 2, 3 by JEFF STRITE<br />Since the blood of Christ is that means by which we have been sanctified, “Set apart,” what is our responsibility to that sanctification?<br />III. Come out from Satan’s World and get into God’s.<br />A. In Exodus 19:10-11 We have a story of the people sanctifying themselves for the appearance of the Lord.<br /> 1. God told <st1:country-region><st1:place>Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region> to Sanctify themselves and wash their clothes<br /> a. In washing their clothes they would think about washing their souls clean.<br /> 2. What would you do if you knew God was coming back in two days<br /> a. Prepare your body - wash, put on modest clothes, cover the tattoos, avoid intimacy, stop drinking, smoking, doping your system.<br /> b. Prepare your behavior - Throw away certain music, videos, magazines.<span style=""> </span>Go to church, pray, respect those of authority, age, and different race.<span style=""> </span>Check your language, avoid lusting, speak up for Jesus! Make honest business deals. Be kind to family and friends.<br /> c. All those questionable things in your life would not be so questionable.<br /> 3. We have been told that Jesus is coming, as a thief in the night - therefore the need for our continual sanctification.<br /> 4. Come out of Satan’s world and get into God’s.<br />B. We are called to be Holy Leviticus 20:7-8 Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God. And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the LORD which sanctify you.<br /> 1. Just like <st1:country-region><st1:place>Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region>, we have to do a sin check or a holiness check<br /> 2. Could it be that we have become so accustomed to sin that we are like <st1:place>Lot</st1:place> who sat in the city gates of a vile city that God destroyed.<br /> a. We allow things into our lives and invite things into our home.<br /> b. We categorize actions as YOUR “personal convictions”<br /> c. We quote scriptures like “judge not lest you be judged” - Wimp! How dare you quote scripture to insult the grace of God.<br /> 3. Come out of Satan’s world and get into God’s.<br />C. All the Bible calls sin long ago, is still sin, God is still God. Sin will destroy you.<br /> 1. In the dark recesses of your mind you know it is wrong, you know it is sin and it is time we get back to a holiness state of living and quit making excuses. We need to sanctify ourselves before God!<br /> 2. We need to get out of Satan’s world and get into God’s.<br /> How do you fare?<br />IV. We are encouraged to Quit defiling ourselves. Leviticus <st1:time minute="44" hour="11">11:44</st1:time> For I am the LORD your God: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy: neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.<br />A. 1 Pet. 1:13-16 Prepare your mind for action...be holy. Quit defiling.<br /> 1. 1 Pet. 2:9 we are a chosen people ...be holy. Quit defiling.<br />B. We are called to be a light unto the world and there is no problem distinguishing light. Light and darkness can’t dwell together. You are either one or the other...be holy. Quit defiling .<br />C. I don’t care what it is or what you call it but there has to be a separation from the world. If you look like a duck, act like a duck, quake like a duck, you must be a duck.<br />1. Be in the world but not of the world. be holy. Quit defiling.<br /><br />IV. How to sanctify yourself How do we sanctify ourselves? how do we become dead to our flesh? how do we prepare the way for the Glory of God to be seen in me?<br />A. Jesus left no doubt as to the process of how one may sanctify themselves John 17:17-19<br />We are sanctified by hearing, studying and applying the word of God to our lives. Ephesians 5:25-26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,<br /><br />1. God’s word separates us from the world by: inspiring, instructing, correcting, improving and training us in righteousness, we are unable to overcome our sinful desires. Study to know - then study to show.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2. God’s word separates us from the world by: gives us perspective that comes from above instead of from this world below. It is too easy to conform to the ways of the world set your mind on things above rather than on things below with the sanctifying power of God’s word.<br /> <span style=""> </span>3. God’s word helps us separate ourselves from cultural conformity. In an age when it seems vogue to be in sync with the pulse of the world’s morality it is vital to remember that God’s word holds us to a higher standard than what seems popular in the public’s perception. Rom. 12: 1,2<br /> <span style=""> </span> 4. God’s word separates us from the world by: helps us praise God with the glory that is due to Him.<br /> 5. God’s word separates us from the world by: helps us gain greater patience to overcome evil with good instead of allowing evil to overtake us. God’s word endues us with a spiritual peace that passes human comprehension. Too many people try to find peace in intellectual endeavors or meditation exercises, but the word of God sanctifies our conscious brain.<br /> 6. God’s word separates us from the world by: helps us focus on projects that will have eternal value.<br /> 7. God’s word separates us from the world by: helps us focus on the higher purposes that God has for our life.<br /> 8. God’s word separates us from the world by: helps us focus on kingdom priorities instead of mere human needs.<br /> 9. God’s word separates us from the world by: helps us gain a problem-solving ability that comes from heavenly wisdom.<br /> 10. God’s word separates us from the world by: helps us please the Lord in all respects and bear fruit in every good work as we increase more in the knowledge of God. Only the Bible gives us the ability to please God because it aligns our thoughts with the mind of Christ. adapted PAUL FRITZ<br />B. Through his blood<br /> 1. We are sanctified by continually claiming the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ 1 Jn. 1:7<br /> 2. Hebrews <st1:time minute="10" hour="10">10:10</st1:time> By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.<br /><br />Go home today and sanctify yourselves in fasting, prayer reading of the word. Put off worldly activities for a while and prepare yourself for tonight and see what the Lord does for you tomorrow.<br /><br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />A. What a tremendous task Jesus asks of his disciples.<br /> 1. Whatever you do, do all for the glory of God.<br /> 2. Sanctify yourself to be known as holy people.<br />B. One cannot sanctify themselves by their own mental powers (Isa. 55:8, 9).<br /> 1. Only the word of God can tell me how to set myself apart for his holy purpose.<br /> 2. My body is the <st1:place><st1:placetype>temple</st1:PlaceType> of <st1:placename>God</st1:PlaceName></st1:place>, It has been sanctified by the blood of Christ when I was baptized. Let me not trample the blood of Christ under foot and do spite to the grace of God by Staying in Satan’s world and defiling myself with fleshly desires.<br /> 3. As the medication we take courses through our veins helping and healing our infirmities, let the word of God course throughout your body so it may cleanse your soul and be a new man, created in Christ Jesus.<o:p></o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142197699467367652006-03-12T16:08:00.000-05:002006-03-12T16:08:19.476-05:00Glorify<p class="MsoNormal">Well we finally got a smattering of snow. They are calling for 2-4 inches tonight (Friday). Hope you have a great week! <span class="st"><span name="st" id="st">Kirk</span></span><br /><br />The short of it:<br />GLORIFY<br />John 17:1-5<br />I. Introduction<br />A. Three words which sum up John 17 are:<br /> 1. Glorify - Sanctify - Unify<br />II. Man needs to glorify his Creator<br />III. Jesus Left us an Example to Glorify God.<br /> 1. Jesus Glorified God first through Obedience.<br /> 2. Next, Jesus Glorified God through works.<br /> 3. Third, Jesus glorified God through sacrifice.<br />CONCLUSION<br />A. REMEMBER … It’s not about YOU. Your struggles and trials might be for God to display His glory through you. God might be using you to reflect His glory … as a “Son-reflector”. MAYBE … You have been selected to suffer for God’s glory.<br />B. God will use whatever He chooses to reflect His glory … the universe … a beautiful sunset … your obedience, your works and your sacrifice<br /><br />THE LONG OF IT:<br /><br />GLORIFY<br />John 17:1-5<br />Introduction<br />A. Three words which sum up John 17 are:<br /> 1. Glorify - Sanctify - Unify<br /> 2. If one glorifies God in their thoughts, conduct and activity then....<br /> 3. They will sanctify themselves unto his service.<br /> 4. And if one sets himself a part for the Master’s use, then unity will prevail at home, in church and in the world.<br />B. For all intent and purpose this lesson will deal with the first aspect of Jn. 17 GLORIFY<br /> 1. 1 Cor. <st1:time minute="31" hour="10">10:31</st1:time> "Whatever you do, do it ALL to the glory of the Lord."<br /><br />II. Man needs to glorify his Creator<br />Quote: Charles Ryrie, a famous teacher from Dallas Seminary said, "God’s glory is His reputation. To live for God’s glory means to live so that God’s reputation is enhanced and not diminished in any way."<br />A. Glory in the Bible refers to worth, beauty and value.<br /> 1. The glory of God is His renown, his honor and His fame. When we seek to glorify God we give Him all our homage, service and devotion in all ways.<br /> 2. In the Old Testament, glory meant weight, substance and radiant beauty. To glorify someone is to recognize one’s worth, beauty and to speak of their honor so others may hear.<br /> 3. Thus to glorify the Lord is to speak of Him in a truthful way so we can worship Him with the beauty of holiness, truth and love (Jerm. 9:23, 24 good)<br /><br />Quote: Ray Pritchard "Just as we cannot darken the sun we cannot decrease God’s glory, but we can cause others to see the glory of God or lessen their motivation to behold His splendor by poor choices." Jesus put it this way - Matt. 5:16<br />B. Too many people are turning to the Bible as a self-help book.<br /> 1. The Bible is essentially a book about God and His glory. The Lord is seeking people to be His worshipers (John <st1:time minute="22" hour="16">4:22</st1:time>-24). He draws people as worshipers who will freely give to Him their love inspired glory.<br /> 2. The Lord wants to draw all people into thanksgiving praise, sanctification of life and obedient worship. John revealed heaven as a place where the people “bring their glory and honor into it” (Rev. 21:24). 1 Cor. <st1:time minute="31" hour="10">10:31</st1:time> Whatever you do, do all for the glory of the Lord.<br /><br />( following points [C-E] based on Lucado’s book – “It’s Not About Me”)<br /><br />C. We live in a “me-centric” world. i.e., everything revolves around ME … my happiness … my wants … my pleasure … ME!<br /> 1. Up until 450 years ago, everybody believed that the universe, and the sun, and the planets revolved around the earth. THEN, in 1543, Copernicus told them that the earth wasn’t the center of the universe. 50 years later, Galileo said that the planets revolved around the sun. They were so opposed to this idea, that they threw him in prison, and kicked him out of the church. The very IDEA that WE weren’t the center of the universe, was unthinkable!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> 2. God has a very important LESSON in all of this … the world doesn’t revolve around YOU … or ME. God’s priority isn’t your comfort … happiness … or YOUR pleasure. If God existed to please you & me … THEN … why aren’t we pleased all the time? The TRUTH is … it’s not all about you or me … it’s all about GOD.<br /> a. Why did God create the universe? Psalm 19:1 - “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork.”<br /> b. Why has God chosen the righteous to do his work? Isaiah 43:7 – “Even<br />every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.”<br /> c. Why does God allow troubles in our life? Psalm 50:15 – “And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.”<br /> d. Why did God send Jesus to earth? John 17:4 – “I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.”<br />D. God wants the SPOT-LIGHT on HIM! EVERYTHING that God does, it brings Him glory!<br /> 1. NOW … this doesn’t mean that God has an EGO PROBLEM. If you or I did<br />everything we do for the purpose of receiving honor and glory, we would be considered arrogant … egotistical … conceited … pompous.<br /> 2. BUT … God doesn’t do everything so His glory will be revealed for HIS OWN good. God wants His glory revealed in everything that happens … FOR OUR GOOD … so we can WITNESS His glory … AND be a witness OF His glory (Rom. <st1:time minute="28" hour="8">8:28</st1:time>).<br /> 3. 1 Cor. <st1:time minute="31" hour="10">10:31</st1:time> Whatever you do, do all for the glory of the Lord.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> 4. God wants us to SEE His glory … SO … we can REFLECT it to the rest of the world. We are to be like the MOON. The moon doesn’t have any light of its own … it REFLECTS the light of the sun. We are to be “Son-Reflectors” … and reflect the glory of God that He displays for us in everything He does.<br /> a. 2 Cor. <st1:time minute="18" hour="15">3:18</st1:time> – “But we behold the glory of the Lord as a mirror, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, by the Spirit of the Lord.”<br />E. Everything happens … everybody exists … everything was created … to give glory to God! Including YOU!<br /> 1. We think that the world ought to revolve around us. Do you really want that? (I know some people who SEEM to want it … want to be in the SPOT-LIGHT). LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING … IF it’s all ABOUT you … <span style=""> </span>THEN … it’s all UP TO you.<br /> 2. God knows better than to revolve the world around you & me. WHY? BECAUSE … He knows that we are weak and powerless … He knows our limitations. BUT … GOD is GOD! To HIM be the glory! THAT’S WHY God wants all the glory … it’s not all about YOU … it’s all about HIM!<br /> 3. And one other thing - God doesn’t share His glory. LISTEN to what God says - Isaiah 42:8 – “I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another …”<br /> 4. The world doesn’t revolve around you & me … it revolves around God. LISTEN to what John the Baptist said about Jesus - John 3:30 – “He must increase, but I must decrease.” WHY? BECAUSE … it’s all about HIM … NOT about you & me.<br />1 Cor. <st1:time minute="31" hour="10">10:31</st1:time> Whatever you do, do all for the glory of the Lord.<br /><br />III. Jesus Left us an Example to Glorify God.<br />Quick Summation: First we will notice how: 1. Jesus Glorified God first through Obedience.<br />2. Next, Jesus Glorified God through works. 3. Third, Jesus glorified God through sacrifice.<br />A. Jesus Glorified God first through Obedience.<br /> 1. Obedience comes through obeying the positive laws of God.<br /> 2. Some Bible characters who suffered for not obeying the positive laws of God.<br /> a. Eve - ate the fruit, lost paradise; Nadab & Ahihu offered strange fire (Lev. 10:1, 2) lost their life; Saul didn’t fully obey (1 Sam. 15) lost the kingdom; The church at Ephesus was rebuked for losing their first love, Pergamos allowed different doctrines to enter the church, Thyatira tolerated sexual permissiveness, Laodicea was luke warm, and if these churches did not repent, he would take away their right to be called the church of Christ.<br /> b. Naaman almost wasn’t cleansed (2 Kn. <st1:time minute="10" hour="17">5:10</st1:time>-13), fortunately he repented; Jonah became angry with God and got swallowed by a whale. Fortunately he repented.<br /> 3. On the other hand many others obeyed and by it glorified God.<br /> a. Abraham (Rom. <st1:time minute="20" hour="16">4:20</st1:time>); Paul (Phil. <st1:time minute="20" hour="13">1:20</st1:time>).<br /> 4. The truth is, Jesus Christ left us an example to fully obey every command of God, whether they be moral laws or just something God told us we should do.<br /> a. Obey your parents (Lk. <st1:time minute="51" hour="14">2:51</st1:time>; Eph. 6:2).<br /> b. Love your neighbor as self (His miracles; our response to their need Jas. 2:14ff)<br /> c. Be baptized (Matt. 3:17ff; - Acts <st1:time minute="38" hour="14">2:38</st1:time>; <st1:time minute="16" hour="22">22:16</st1:time>; 1 Pet. <st1:time minute="21" hour="15">3:21</st1:time>).<br /> d. Assemble in God’s house (He was found in the synagogue teaching and singing Hebrews <st1:time minute="12" hour="14">2:12</st1:time> - Heb. <st1:time minute="25" hour="10">10:25</st1:time>).<br /> e. Keeping pure (1 Jn. 3:5; 1 Cor. <st1:time minute="18" hour="18">6:18</st1:time>-20)<br /> • Sexual impurity doesn’t glorify God.<br /> • Unhealthy eating habits … alcohol & drugs … living to satisfy the flesh … doesn’t glorify God.<br /> • Your body is God’s TOOL … maintain it … for His glory.<br /> • Your body is God’s <st1:city><st1:place>TEMPLE</st1:place></st1:City> … respect it … for His glory.<br /> That’s why God gave you a body … so He would get all the glory.<br /> 4. Don’t think you can just get by by not breaking the moral laws and break every positive law God gave. Jesus Glorified God by his full obedience. We glorify God through our full obedience as well.<br /> 5. 1 Cor. <st1:time minute="31" hour="10">10:31</st1:time> Whatever you do, do all for the glory of the Lord.<br /> B. Next, Jesus Glorified God through works.<br /> 1. Jesus said, "I have glorified you, Father, on the earth, having accomplished the work, you have given me to do." (John 17:4) We can best glorify God by accomplishing His will in us for life.<br /> 2. Our works? Many scoff at works. (Matt. <st1:time minute="16" hour="17">5:16</st1:time> let your light shine)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> 3. Some men works tattle on their heart (Titus <st1:time minute="16" hour="13">1:16</st1:time> profess to know God but in works deny him).<br /> 4. The Corinthian church were failing miserably in spiritual works thus hindering the glorification God.<br /> a. They were divisive (1:10-13); doubtful of apostolic authority (chapters 2-4); harbors of sexual infidelity (chapter 5); court happy (6); fornicators (6); divorce happy (7); immature (8); complainers of those who received compensation for the Lord’s work (9); abusing the Lord’s Supper (11); jealous over spiritual gifts (12); failing in divine love (13); and doubting the resurrection (15). And in the mist of all this bad behavior Paul implores them to accept their responsibility - "Whatever you do, do it ALL for the glory of God."<br /> 5. We must see the church (people of God) as the medium by which God is glorified (Eph. <st1:time minute="21" hour="15">3:21</st1:time>). If the people do not live as to bring him glory then the glory of the Lord is gone from the church.<br /> 6. There is a story in the O.T. about two battles which <st1:country-region><st1:place>Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region> lost. The first loss was a set up. A prophet of God came to the current spiritual leadership and denounced them because the High Priest’ sons became evil. Their father had neglected his oversight in securing righteous judgment and righteous living for the next generation. So, God promise to end their ministration through death. In the second battle, (which was the fulfillment of this prophecy) the people thought that if they took the holy Ark of God into battle they would gain victory (use it as a good luck charm). What happened in this battle? Not only were they defeated, their spiritual leaders were killed, the Ark of God taken captive and their High Priest, Eli, died after hearing the <st1:state><st1:place>Ark</st1:place></st1:State> was captured (1 Sam. 2-4).<br />What happens after this event is a symbolic message to the following generations. Eli’s daughter-in-law, who, being pregnant, hears about her father-in-law and priestly husband’s death, goes into labor. It was a hard labor and she died during child birth. But before her death she named the baby boy Ichabod, which meant, the glory of the Lord had departed.<br />Today, quality spiritual lives are needed if God’s glory is to be revealed in his church. The church is the glory of the Lord today. We destroy that glory by having reckless attitudes toward holiness. By failing to pass on biblical spiritual values to the next generation we remove the glory of the Lord in his church. It is a indisputable and undeniable fact, that undisciplined behavior removes the glory of the Lord from his church. We become the modern Ichabod unless we fulfill our obligations as Christian parents, teachers, preachers and shepherds.<br /> 7. What a blessing it is to know that our works continue to glorify the living God!<br /> 8. 1 Cor. <st1:time minute="31" hour="10">10:31</st1:time> Whatever you do, do all for the glory of the Lord.<br />C. Third, Jesus Glorified God though sacrifice.<br /> 1. Col. 1:19-23 God gloried in the cross of Christ. And because Christ gloried in the cross, God honored his son (Phil. 2:8, 9).<br /> 2. Could it be that our struggles, our pain, our light affliction is nothing more than another way to bring glory to God.<br /> a. Consider the blind man - Jn. 9:3 through him the works of God was made manifest.<br /> b. Consider the leper - Lk. 17:14-16 our own physical frailty.<br /> c. Remember Lazarus - he waited for him to die - Jn. 11<br /> d. Peter’s death (Jn. <st1:time minute="18" hour="21">21:18</st1:time>, 19).<br /> e. Persecution (1 Pet. <st1:time minute="19" hour="14">2:19</st1:time>-23).<br /> 3. What do you think will happen …<br /> • When people see you put your trust in God, in your pain and suffering? God will be glorified.<br /> • When people see how God sees you through your trials and testing … meeting your needs? God will be glorified.<br /> • When people see your faith, in spite of your circumstances? God will be glorified.<br /> • What do you think happened when Lazarus walked out of that tomb? They witnessed the glory of God.<br /> • What do you think happened when the blind man came walking down the street without his white cane … greeting everybody? They witnessed the glory of God.<br /> 4. 2 Cor. 4:17 – “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;” Compared to the glory that you will give to God … compared to the glory that you will receive in Heaven … it’s but a “light affliction”. MAYBE … YOU have been selected by God (like Lazarus and the blind man) to display the glory of God!<br /> a. Are people strengthened because of your struggles? Do they see the glory of God in your trials?<br /> 5. 1 Cor. <st1:time minute="31" hour="10">10:31</st1:time> Whatever you do, do all for the glory of the Lord.<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />A. REMEMBER … It’s not about YOU. Your struggles and trials might be for God to display His glory through you. God might be using you to reflect His glory … as a “Son-reflector”. MAYBE … You have been selected to suffer for God’s glory. God will use whatever He chooses to reflect His glory … the universe … a beautiful sunset … your obedience, your works and your sacrifice.<br />B. So there you have it - the first word in Jn. 17 - GLORIFY.<br /> 1. Glorify God in your obedience<br /> 2. Glorify God in your works<br /> 3. Glorify God in your sacrifice.<br /> 4. 1 Cor. <st1:time minute="31" hour="10">10:31</st1:time> Whatever you do, do all for the glory of the Lord.<o:p></o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142197340329667732006-03-12T16:02:00.000-05:002006-03-12T16:02:20.333-05:00Evangelism Project<p class="MsoNormal">Recently I came across some evangelism material I had developed for a class and realized I wasn't doing what I had taught. As I review my mannerisms on our Great Commission I would like to ask each of you for your assistance in revitalizing this 'main thing' of our ministry. I feel that my evangelism has been from the pulpit rather than in the field. I know I must change this approach but have great difficulty in accomplishing it ALONE. I have tried to get some local preachers personally involved with the concept of working together by trading a day in each other's neighborhood - all to no avail - maybe they have the same problem I have - motivation.<br />Soooooo ... in light of this dilemma I and probably others out there of my 75 or so recipients of my 'weekly sermon' we should be able to talk this out and find out the keys to doing the Master's business more efficiently.<br />I am not looking at this moment - METHODOLOGIES because I have been through the 'Fisher's of Men,' 'OBS' and used Juel Miller programs. What I am asking us to do is to discover WHAT ARE THE BASICS? What do I do first in going? As the team must learn the basics - ball handling, tackling, and getting the first - first down, what are our basics? What do you do to psyche yourself up or begin that first conversation. As each of you respond I will post the gleanings and pass them on. If you choose not to help and are being somewhat successful in setting up studies or getting folk to attend - you are greatly hindering the gospel of Christ by not passing on what you know and what you do. As a child imitates his father or mother, we must imitate that which is working today. So I hope this will be well received not only as a personal plea but as a launching pad to help others in their respective work. So what do you consider to be the BASICS - boil it down.<br /><br />Below is a take from a book written for salespeople by Frank Bettger.<br />Rule #1<br />ENTHUSIASM, THE “SPARK PLUG” OF EVANGELISM Frank Bettger in 1907 played baseball for a Tri-state League in <st1:state><st1:place>Pennsylvania</st1:place></st1:State>. He was fired one day by the manager. When he asked why, his manager said, “Because you are lazy.” He continued, “You drag yourself around lake a veteran of 20 years. Why do you act that way if you are not lazy?” Frank responded, “Well, I’m so nervous and scared, that I want to hide my fear from the crowd... I hope that by taking it easy I’d get rid of my nervousness.” The manager said, “Frank, that will never work. When you leave here, for heaven sakes, wake yourself up, and put some life and enthusiasm into your work.” Frank went from $175.00 month to $25.00 a month. Though he didn’t feel very enthusiastic, he began to ACT enthusiastic. In three days an old ball player asked him, “What in the world are you doing in a rank bush-league like this?” Because Frank began to ACT enthusiastic and changed his role in life.<br />1. He got moved from that low rate team to a better league.<br />2. There he allowed his nervousness work for him.<br />3. His enthusiasm affected the other players and they too became enthusiastic.<br />4. During games of extreme heat or despite the score he played enthusiastically and left the field knowing he had done his very best that day.<br />The local newspapers started calling him “Pep” Bettger, the life of the team. In 10 days he went from $25.00 to $185.00 a month not because he could hit any better, throw better or had any more ability than his peers. He simply became enthusiastic about what he was doing! Not long before that he was playing for a pro team, the Saint Louis Cardinals.<br /> Other than truth presented in a loving way, ENTHUSIASM is by far the biggest selling tool you have in your evangelistic arsenal. Without enthusiasm your religious discussions is about a dead as last year’s turkey. So if you want to become enthusiastic about the gospel, ACT enthusiastic!<br /> Victory<br /> You are the man who used to boast<br /> That you’d achieve the uttermost,<br /> Some day.<br /><br /> You merely wished a show,<br /> To demonstrate how much you know<br /> And prove the distance you can go. . . .<br /><br /> Another year we’ve just passed through.<br /> What new ideas came to you?<br /> How many big things did you do?<br /><br /> Time. . .left twelve fresh months in your care<br /> How many of them did you share<br /> With opportunity and dare<br /> Again where you so often missed?<br /><br /> We do not find you on the list of Makers Good.<br /> Explain the fact!<br /> Ah no, ‘twas not the chance you lacked!<br /> As usual - you failed to act!<o:p></o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142197189068857462006-03-12T15:59:00.000-05:002006-03-12T15:59:49.083-05:002/5/06<p class="MsoNormal">The School of Preaching Lectures in Karns are fast approaching – March 5-8. The theme this year will be "Jesus the Master Teacher." For more info you may contact the church office at 865-691-7444. Everyone is welcome. You don't have to be a preacher to attend. Monday – Wednesday Sessions start at <st1:time minute="30" hour="8">8:30 a.m.</st1:time> and continue to <st1:time minute="0" hour="12">noon</st1:time> after which lunch is served at no cost. Sessions resume at <st1:time minute="30" hour="13">1:30</st1:time> and conclude with a question and answer forum around <st1:time minute="30" hour="16">4:30</st1:time>. Evening session begins with congregational singing at <st1:time minute="0" hour="19">7:00 pm</st1:time> with lesson at <st1:time minute="30" hour="19">7:30</st1:time>. The evening meeting closes at <st1:time minute="0" hour="9">9:00</st1:time>. Below is a sermon taken from the book, which will be available at the lectureship. This lecture is at no cost to the hearers.<br /><br />Trusting God when Dismayed by Darkness Clarence Deloach - <st1:place>E. Tenn.</st1:place> School of Preaching Lectures pp. 32-36<br /><br />I. Introduction<br />A. We read Job knowing the end of the story - Job didn’t know what was happening.<br /> 1. In chapt. 1 we find a great contest going on between God and Satan.<br /> 2. Satan had slandered the character of God and the integrity of his servant Job.<br />B. There are two kinds of trials (Jas. <st1:time minute="12" hour="13">1:12</st1:time>-16)<br /> 1. James describes one of them as TESTS - as one would try out a vehicle. These are sent of God to perfect and mature us. These cause us to stand (v. 12)<br /> 2. Then there is a TEMPTATION to sin. God does not solicit evil. Satan brings misery in one’s life to cause a man to stumble.<br /> 3. We may think it strange that a God who loves his children would permit such trials but God knows that each kind of trial has a purpose in our spiritual development. One causes us to stand the other to fall, One brings hope the other misery. As his children we need to know these things so we do not fail the tests which ever one we are under at the time.<br /> 4. Job said, “But he knows the way that I take: when He has tried me, I will come forth as gold” (<st1:time minute="10" hour="23">23:10</st1:time>).<br />C. As we look at the story of Job one thing stands out - Job was in the DARK.<br /> 1. He did not know like we do about the charge Satan had made before God (1:6)<br /> 2. He did not know he was the subject of conversation - he was in the dark!<br /> 3. Picture if you will waking up one morning and heading off to work to discover you have been fired, dejected, you come home to find your house had been broken into and all valuables taken, as you stand there in the cluttered mess a deputy arrives at your door and tells you the horrible<br />news that all your children were killed in a tragic automobile accident. After which you receive a call from your doctor telling you about some inconsistencies in your blood work.<br /> 4. It would make any person wonder, “Why me? What did I do?” That which would make the average person give up on God made Job closer to his God so he could discover the 'Why'.<br />D. Job wants to hear from God to tell him face-to-face what charges he has against him (10:1-3).<br /> 1. We must realize that strong persons can weaken in the faith (2 Cor. 4:8, 9).<br /> 2. We must never underestimate the power of strain and pressures which stalk us (Col. 3:2).<br /> 3. Even Jobs breach of patience was revealed for our learning - (God never whitewashes his servants).<br /><br />II. Though Jobs plight was dark, there were others who experience the dark night of the soul.<br />A. Habakkuk.<br /> 1. Here is a prophet who was appalled by the measure God took to correct his people.<br /> 2. He knew the wickedness of his people was great but could not understand why God would send a nation more wicked than <st1:country-region><st1:place>Judah</st1:place></st1:country-region> to chastise her for disobedience. It was a dark night of the soul. It was, as he saw it, a moral problem.<br /> 3. But God assured Habakkuk that the ‘just will live by his faith’ and that they must patiently wait for Jehovah’s work to be accomplished.<br />B. David had bouts of despair and darkness of soul. (Ps. 10:1; 13:1).<br /> 1. As he was being hunted by his enemies he asked, “I will say to God my Rock, why have you forgotten me? (Ps. 42:9) and see his tears (42:3).<br />C. Even Moses became so despondent that he asked God to take his life (Numb. 11:10ff). Elijah wished to die, Jeremiah came to a point of noting his tears as a river. Paul was even ‘despaired for his life’ and John the Baptist while being overcome with depression in jail mused if Jesus was really the Christ.<br />D. If great Bible characters experienced hopelessness of the soul, this darkness of despair, this blackness of night who are we to think that we are immune of such human emotions in the Christian age?<br /> 1. One may read of the great late president Abraham Lincoln having great bouts of depression. Even Winston Churchill, the great English Statesman was often smitten with depression calling it a “black dog that followed him around.” The spiritual reformist Martin Luther became so depressed that he went to his room and would not come out. His wife, Cathy, tried to coax him out, but he refused. She put on a black dress, black veil, and black gloves and went in his room dressed for a funeral. He asked, ‘Cathy who has died?’ She said, “Martin, God is dead.” He was shocked. “Cathy that is blasphemy!” “Yes,” she said “and it is blasphemy for you to be living as though He is dead.” That is what it took to get him up and out and living like God is alive. Afterwards, he wrote the great hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.”<br /><br />III. The cries of utter dispair were heard from the lips of the man of patience.<br />A. Have you found yourself saying something like this:<br /> 1. Job 6:2, 3, 11, 21; 7:3, 11.<br /> 2. In his perplexity and darkness he wanted answers but he had no one to represent him (<st1:time minute="32" hour="9">9:32</st1:time>, 33)<br /> 3. In 23:3, 4 he expressed his longing: Later in the same chapter, he expressed his futility in finding Him (23:8, 9).<br /><br />IV. Our Darkness can be turned to light because we have a mediator.<br />A. O. T. is made of three primary things:<br /> 1. Unexplained ceremonies.<br /> 2. Unsatisfied longings.<br /> 3. Unfulfilled prophecies.<br />B. In the N.T. things are different - we have a mediator.<br /> 1. W.T. Hamilton said, “If we know the Who we can understand the What.”<br /> 2. The story of Job reminds us that God’s delays are not God’s denials, and God is not merely for us, he will deliver us! We must remember the final outcome of Job's situation (42).<br />C. I suppose what needs to be asked, is, ‘Can you trust God when submerged in suffering, when forsaken by friends or dismayed by dark despair?’<br /> 1. The answer is, “Yes you can!” - If you take Job’s approach of faith and conviction, you may shut the slanderous mouth of your accuser, the Devil.<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />A. Isaiah encourages us once again by saying these words (50:10).<br />B. Are you walking in darkness? Trust in the Lord. Lean not unto your OWN understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him; and he will lift you up.<br />C. And as Job said in the ancient days -, “But he knows the way that I take: when He has tried me, I will come forth as gold” (<st1:time minute="10" hour="23">23:10</st1:time>).</p> <p class="MsoNormal">D. Let us, as Job, remain true to our integrity. We may say things that we regret but in all his misery he clung to his faith and his God. (Psa. 18:3).<o:p></o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142133274175115772006-03-11T22:08:00.000-05:002006-03-11T22:14:34.180-05:00Holy Spirit<p class="MsoNormal">It has been a good week. Nothing much happening. Please continue to pray<br />for our shepherd, Jim Terry, as he battles lymphoma. – <span class="st"><span name="st" id="st">Kirk</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="st"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />What do you know about the Holy Spirit?<span style=""> </span>So much superstition is held about him in our culture. It will be the purpose of this and following lessons to discuss some things we need to know about the H.S.<br />I. Views of H.S.<br />A. Pentecostal - Holy spirit gives gifts to empower Christians to work miracles and speak in tongues<br />B. Catholics - So ambiguous it leaves thought to direct and or indirect operation of H.S.<br />C. Seven Day Adventist & Branch Davidians, and New Agers, believe that the Holy Spirit is a feminine Motherly Being (sometimes referred to as Sophia).<br />D. In the belief of many non-Trinitarian religions Unitarians and Jehovah’s Witness, for instance — the Holy Spirit is God's spirit or God's active force, and not an actual person. In the Latter Day Saints the Holy Spirit is considered a third and individual member of the Godhead, a different being from the Father and the Son, having a body of spirit (whereas the Father and the Son are believed to be resurrected individuals having immortalized bodies of flesh and bone). The Living Church of God, teaches, "The Holy Spirit is the very essence, the mind, life and power of God. It is not a Being. The Spirit is inherent in the Father and the Son, and emanates from Them throughout the entire universe...”<br />E. Other observations:<br /> a. Many have claimed that the Holy Spirit has given them the power to: Cure diseases by laying on of hands with prayer Speak a foreign language that he or she had not learned before Hear God speaking which guides one directly or helps make decisions during crisis Expel evil spirits that are possessing a person Speak in a heavenly language unto God Prophesies Have visions Work various miracles<br /> b. The Holy Spirit is often depicted as a dove, based on the account of the Holy Spirit descending on Jesus in the form of a dove when He was baptized in the <st1:place>Jordan River</st1:place>. The book of Acts describes the Holy Spirit descending on the apostles at Pentecost in the form of a wind and tongues of fire resting over the apostles' heads. Based on the imagery in that account, the Holy Spirit is sometimes symbolized by a flame of fire. A-E Adapted from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Spirit" target="_blank" onclick="return top.js.OpenExtLink(window,event,this)">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki<wbr>/Holy_Spirit</a><br /><br />It is certain, that the only way to discover who or what the is the Holy Spirit we must consult the dictionary, the book of life, the only book that gives any truthful details concerning this topic.<br /><br />II. First let us discover that the Bible deals with the H.S. in a personal, masculine nature.<br />1. John. <st1:time minute="13" hour="16">16:13</st1:time> When he the spirit of truth is come.... seven personal pronouns are used in this one verse. Therefore the Bible does not describe him as a glorified “it” or a mystical “influence” nor “female.”<br />2. Also the Bible proclaims that he is ‘a person.’<br /> a. He speaks (Jn. <st1:time minute="13" hour="16">16:13</st1:time>; 1 Tim. 4:1).<br /> b. Testifies (Jn. <st1:time minute="26" hour="15">15:26</st1:time>).<br /> c. Teaches and stirs the memory (Jn. <st1:time minute="26" hour="14">14:26</st1:time>).<br /> d. Guides (Jn. <st1:time minute="13" hour="16">16:13</st1:time>).<br /> e. Leads and forbids (Acts 16:6, 7)<br /> f. And searches (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="10" hour="14">2:10</st1:time>).<br /> g. Though he is not a person like you or me - confined to matter and time, he is described as a being that has personality as a person of the earth would have. <span style=""> </span>Fire influences one to come toward it when cold or run when too close ... Odor also influences. It repels or attracts. An optical illusion may mystify, yet none of these can guide, teach or testify of itself or about another. Only sentient beings of conscience can do such.<br />3. To further verify the fact that he is a person lets discover these attributes about him.<br /> a. He has a mind (Rom. <st1:time minute="27" hour="8">8:27</st1:time>).<br /> b. He possesses knowledge (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="11" hour="14">2:11</st1:time>).<br /> c. He has affection (Rom. <st1:time minute="30" hour="15">15:30</st1:time>).<br /> d. He has a will (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="11" hour="12">12:11</st1:time>).<br /> e. He possesses goodness (Neh. <st1:time minute="20" hour="9">9:20</st1:time>).<br />4. Finally to comprehend his person, the Book tells this about Him.<br /> a. He can be grieved (Eph. <st1:time minute="30" hour="16">4:30</st1:time>; Isa. 63:10).<br /> b. Lied to (Acts 5:3).<br /> c. Insulted (Heb. <st1:time minute="29" hour="10">10:29</st1:time>).<br /> d. Blasphemed (Matt. <st1:time minute="31" hour="12">12:31</st1:time>, 32).<br /> e. Resisted (Acts <st1:time minute="51" hour="19">7:51</st1:time>).<br /> f. Only such treatment can happen to a conscience sentient being - not a force.<br />5. He is identified as a divine person - having all the attributes of divinity.<br /> a. He is eternal (Heb. <st1:time minute="14" hour="9">9:14</st1:time>).<br /> b. He is omniscient (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="10" hour="14">2:10</st1:time>, 11).<br /> c. He is omnipresent (Psa. 139:7-12).<br />6. Finally we will examine his activity.<br /> a. Had a part in creation (Gen. 1:2).<br /> b. Has a part in salvation<br /> 1) By delivering the word to man (Jn. 16:13; 1 Pet. 1:10-12; 2 Pet. 1:20, 21).<br /> 2) Confirming the original teaching through miracles (Mk. <st1:time minute="20" hour="16">16:20</st1:time>).<br /> 3. By opening the hearts by convicting preaching (Acts <st1:time minute="37" hour="14">2:37</st1:time>)<br /> 4) By regenerating man through obedience to the word (Tit. 3:5).<br /> 5) To assert to the pagan world that the church is that body of people whom he loves and saves by calling attention to it through the gifts he gave (1 Cor. 12:4-11). 1-6 as found in “The Holy Spirit: Questions Often Asked” by Wendell Winkler.<br /><br />7. What’s the point?<br /> a. We live in a society which is religiously ignorant concerning the Holy Spirit. They have assumed that he manifests himself through feelings of euphoria or ecstatic emotions. What most do not know, is, emotions are manufactured. Sound and variable lighting situations causes the human emotions to fluctuate. For example - Theater - greater experience in a battle scene with ITHX surround sound. <st1:city><st1:place>Erie</st1:place></st1:City> music or low lighting situations brings panic. Glowing sun or a shot of wide open spaces affect a calming sensation. There are those in the religious field who know how to manipulate the emotions of their audience to the point that someone might think they are ‘getting the Spirit’ when actually they have been psyche up. I’ve been to Amway meetings and left those meetings like I could sell the world. I never sold a product (except to myself). Most of what is termed as H.S. worship can be observed at the local concert hall. Waving of hands, lighting of lights, clapping, swaying, dancing are all emotional outlets the fleshly minded practice.<br /><br />Now before we throw out the baby with the bath water lets understand something. Worship is emotional. Singing is emotional. Praying can be emotional. Lord’s Supper can be emotional. Preaching may be emotional. But ‘spirit led’ worship is worship which follows the instruction of the Spirit of God not the emotions of man and we need to distinguish the difference.<br /><br />If the persona of the Holy Spirit be in you, you will act like he does - HOLY, READY TO TEACH, KNOWING THE WILL OF GOD, POSSESS OODNESS AND INFLUENCING OTHERS TO RESPOND TO THE GOSPEL - NOT BECOMING RIGHTENED.<span style=""> </span>How unfortunate that those who supposedly possess the Holy Spirit on Sunday live like the devil on Monday. If it be the case that the H.S. operates as they claim then they are held chargeable to God for such callousness on their part. By their behavior the Holy Spirit would be telling me that you can ‘feel’ religion, you just don’t have to practice it (and that’s not found in this Book)!<br /><br />I know one who is filled with the Spirit - I see it in their behavior, their Christian activity, their contribution, their service to the church or their fellowman.<br /><br />What about us? If the Holy Spirit be in us, what does that tell our neighbors? This is why we must walk in the spirit and not after the flesh fulfilling the lust thereof.<br /><br />I know the spiritual charlatan - he claims - come get your miracle today, as if that’s what church time is all about. Let me razzle-dazzle you with hocus-pocus hand waving and slapping people on the head. Where do you read about that in the Bible? Let me holler and shout and shed tears then tell you I need to raise a certain amount of money or else I’m going to die because God has given me deadline. Charlatans are not just in the mega churches either. He has raped and pillaged rural <st1:country-region><st1:place>America</st1:place></st1:country-region>. But wait, that’s not all, now the Holy Spirit is coming to you via Woman. And who can argue with that? We are warned the devil transforms himself into an angel of light. Beware least anyone of you depart from the faith.<o:p></o:p></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1142132864917799212006-03-11T22:06:00.000-05:002006-03-11T22:07:44.930-05:00Productive Christians<p class="MsoNormal">It has been a mild winter thus far for <st1:place>East Tennessee</st1:place>. There has been no accumulation of snow on the valley floor this season. We may be looking at another wet spring and dry summer. Our young people are planning to go to the Challenge Youth Conference that will be held at Gatlinburg, Feb. 3 -5th. I was told it was set up to offset 'Winter fest' by our progressive brethren. If you have comment on this activity please inform. Hope your week has been very prosperous - <span class="st"><span name="st" id="st">Kirk</span></span><br /><br /><b>John 15 </b><br />Five ways to Become a Productive Christian<br />THE SHORT OF IT:<br />1. abide v. 4, 5a, 10, 14<br />2. bear fruit 2, 5b, 6, 8, 16<br />3. Promote love, receive J-O-Y 9-13<br />4. be ready to suffer 18-25<br />5. rely on the teaching of the spirit 3, 7, 15b, 26, 27<br /><br />When these things are done - you remain on the vine and produce much fruit.<br /><br />THE LONG OF IT:<br />Five ways to Become a Productive Christian<br />John 15<br />INTRODUCTION<br />A. Many books are written about becoming productive business people.<br /> 1. They give disciplines on the value of positive thinking, purpose, planning and becoming pro-active.<br />B. Our text centers around things which would make a Christian become productive.<br /> 1. Being productive comes from a combination of exercising several activities.<br /> a. As a body builder works out the entire body - so Christians must exercise all their spiritual muscles to become productive for the cause of Christ.<br />C. The text breaks down easily for us to examine these ideas:<br /> 1. To become a productive Christian, one first must abide in the Christ.<br /> 2. To become a productive Christian one must bear fruit for Christ.<br /> 3. To become a productive Christian one must promote love for the cause of Christ.<br /> 4. To become a productive Christian one must be willing to suffer for the name of Christ.<br /> 5. To become a productive Christian one must submit to the teaching of Christ.<br /><br />I. To become a productive Christian, one first must abide in the Christ v. 4, 5a, 10, 14<br />A. One may easily see three things involved in the principle of abiding.<br /> 1. DEPENDENCY V. 4, 5a cannot bear and cannot do anything<span style=""> </span>without his<br />consent.<br /> a. Can’t build on own property until you get a building permit. (wise/foolish builder)<br /> 2. INTEGRITY V. 10 Conditional love? “If”<br /> a. Be a person of spiritual integrity and abide in his love (2 Jn. v. 9)<br /> 3. PRODUCTIVITY 5a, 14 the master has expectations - “do whatever I say”<br /> a. Pure religion demands action (Jas. <st1:time minute="27" hour="13">1:27</st1:time>) The Lord is proud that you<br />believe in him -now do something about it (1 Cor. <st1:time minute="58" hour="15">15:58</st1:time>).<br /> 4. The grape cannot be produced apart from the vine, the grape will grow and prosper while it remains on the vine, and the grape will become useful as it delivers its tasty fruit into the hands of the harvester. - So it is with a Christian. Abide in Christ!<br />To become a productive Christian one must abide in the Christ...then naturally he will...<br />II. Bear fruit 2, 5b, 6, 8, 16<br />A. How does he bear fruit?<br /> 1. Purposefully 2, 16 Go forth from baptism with the intent to do the master’s work.<br /> 2. Objectively 5b 8 MUCH FRUIT rule of self replication multiplied.<br /> a. Take an active Christian who tries to multiply himself, those whom he adds, multiplies<br /> 1+1=2+2=4+4=8+8=16+16=32+32=64<wbr>+64=128.......<br /> b. Numbers isn’t everything, but what would happen to a branch that produced no grapes? - They’re called suckers and are pruned.<br /> 3. Respectfully 6, 2 What motivation - fire move a person<br />To become a productive Christian, a qualification to remain on the vine, one must bear fruit for Christ.<br /><br />III. Thirdly, if one is to become a productive Christian he must Promote love 9-13.<br />A. J-O-Y- principle<br /> 1. Jesus, first - Comply to the law (rules) of divine love 10<br /> 2. Others, second - When responsive to the rules - joy abounds 11<br /> 3. Yourself, last - Love never hurts when it is given from the heart v. 13.<br />B. Love is the advertisement which sells Christ to others (Jn. <st1:time minute="35" hour="13">13:35</st1:time>).<br /> 1. Love is seen not felt or heard. It is witnessed by the kind acts we bestow upon our fellow man whether it be our mates, children, brethren, fellowman.<br /> 2. You cannot give something away which you do not possess.<span style=""> </span>To become a productive Christian one must promote love for the cause of Christ. And love sometimes is hard that is why....<br /><br />IV. To become a productive Christian one must be ready to suffer 18-25.<br />A. Three steps in suffering<br /> 1. Flee - worldly pleasures v. 19<br /> 2. Follow - v. 20 leave an example - No pain, no gain<br /> 3. Fight - though many will not believe, some will - suffer for those whom you saved.<br />B. Suffering brings peace. Peace to the practitioner and the benefactor.<br />Rick Warren described a way to make peace go through out the world<br /> 1. Plant faith (Rom. <st1:time minute="14" hour="10">10:14</st1:time>, 15).<br /> 2. Equip leaders (Zech. 10:2; Prov. <st1:time minute="12" hour="16">16:12</st1:time>).<br /> 3. Assist the poor (Prov. 28:27)<br /> 4. Care for the sick (Good Samaritan)<br /> 5. Educate the next generation (Jud. 2:9-11 2nd Generation after Joshua turned idolatrous)<span style=""> </span>(As found in Ladies Home Journal, Dec. 2005 pp. 27, 28)<br />To become a productive Christian one must be willing to suffer for the name of Christ.<br /><br />V. Finally, To become a productive Christian rely on the teaching of the spirit 3, 7, 15b, 26, 27<br />A. Man mixes two species to create a new subspecies<br /> 1. Lyger - lion/tiger, mule - donkey/horse, hybrid bass - largemouth/striper)<br />B. Religiously speaking, some men do the same.<br /> 1. No such thing as a Hybrid Christian.<br /> a. Teaching of SBC cannot mix with teaching of Jesus and produce ‘just a Christian.’ Teaching of Methodist discipline cannot mix with teaching of Jesus and produce ‘just a Christian.’<br /> b. Teaching of any orthodox, Protestant, or far eastern faith cannot mix with the teaching of Jesus and produce ‘just a Christian.’<br /> 2. To whose authority do you subscribe - religious hierarchy or ‘thus says the Lord.’<br />C. His rod and staff - descriptions of the ‘word of truth’ – comforts Psalm 23<br /> 1. “This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you will meditate on it, day and night so that you may be careful to do, for then you will make your ways prosperous and then you will have good success.” (Joshua. 1:8)<br /> 2. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly with all wisdom, teaching<br />and admonishing one another (Col. 3:16). To become a productive Christian one must submit to the teaching of Christ.<br /><br />CONCLUSION-<br />Abide in his truth; bear fruits of the spirit; love as one ought; suffer for his cause and keep the ordinances - When this is done - you remain on the vine and produce much fruit.<br /><br />Are you almost dried up and ready to be cut off?</p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1140643512928612372006-02-22T16:24:00.000-05:002006-02-22T16:25:12.956-05:00A Call to FastThis week I will be calling our congregation to a period of fasting for forty days.<br /><br />Now that I have your attention.....<br /><br />Below are three outlines which are almost verbatim copies of Mark Copeland's exegesis on the subject as found at executableoutlines.com (topical sermons).<br /><br />After review of this and biblical readings I have come to the understanding that such a spiritual activity may be engaged in service for God in the 21st century. Perhaps you may come to the same conclusion as me. Of course I am not of the persuasion to make this activity a 'test of fellowship' with anyone.<br /><br /> We have an elder (45 yrs old) who is undergoing chemotherapy for lymphoma. He is desperately needed for the continuation of the growth of the leadership here. The family within the past year has lost the Father, and the oldest Son both to heart attacks. I feel another loss would be more than they could bear. Please if you are of this persuasion (fasting) you put Jim Terry on your prayer list and us as a congregation (Asbury) so we may go forth. Thank You - Kirk White<br /><br /><br /><br />REMEMBER, THIS IS THREE LESSONS<br /><br />"FASTING" Fasting In The Old Testament<br />INTRODUCTION<br />1. In a culture where the landscape is dotted with shrines to the "GOLDEN ARCHES" and an assortment of "PIZZA TEMPLES", fasting seems out of place, out of step with the times - Richard Foster, The Celebration Of Discipline, p. 47<br />2. As I begin to deal with subject like fasting, I do so with some hesitation for several reasons:<br /> a. It is a very EMOTIONAL and VOLATILE subject<br /> 1) Views about fasting usually go to extremes<br /> a) "Some have exalted religious fasting beyond all Scripture and reason, and others have utterly disregarded it." -- JOHN WESLEY<br /> b) Some consider fasting unnecessary, undesirable, and therefore to be ignored<br /> c) Others think fasting is to be bound as a matter of faith (like baptism)<br /> 2) It touches upon a matter very personal to us: FOOD!<br /> a) Many people are very dependent upon food 1/ Not just for survival<br />2/ But for dealing with anxiety, depression, boredom, etc. 3/ Rather than eating to live, they live to eat<br /> b) It is like preaching on gluttony or smoking, it often touches on raw nerves<br /> b. It is an UNTRADITIONAL subject<br /> 1) You rarely hear sermons on this subject<br /> 2) One person found in his research that not a single book was published on fasting among some brethren from 1861 to 1954<br />3. But the Scriptures have so much to say about fasting...<br /> a. The list of Biblical persons who fasted becomes a "Who's Who" of Scripture:<br /> 1) Moses the lawgiver 2) David the king 3) Elijah the prophet 4) Esther the queen<br /> 5) Daniel the seer 6) Anna the prophetess 7) Jesus the Son Of God 8) Paul the apostle -- Richard Foster, p.48, ibid.<br /> b. There is more teaching in the NT on fasting than repentance and confession!<br /> c. Jesus taught more on fasting than on baptism and the Lord's Supper!<br />4. What would account for this almost total disregard for a subject so frequently mentioned in Scripture?<br /> a. FIRST, fasting has developed a bad reputation as a result of the excessive ascetic practices of the Middle Ages - Foster, ibid.<br /> b. SECOND, many have simply concluded that fasting was a Jewish custom, of no vlue or need in the Christian age<br /> c. THIRD, we have been convinced through constant propaganda that if we do not have three large meals each day, with several snacks in between, we are on the verge of starvation (we eat, not because we NEED to eat. but because it's TIME to eat) - Foster, ibid.<br />5. Because the Bible has so much to say about fasting, it is only right that we consider what it says. As we do so, I have several REQUESTS:<br /> a. Please withhold judgment until you have heard all the material - cf.Pr 18:13<br /> 1) Let's be "EXPLORERS" and not "ENGINEERS" with the Bible<br /> 2) I.e., explore and follow what is there instead of rearranging what is there to fit our designs<br /> b. Don't be hasty in drawing conclusions or applying what you hear - cf. Pr 14:29<br /> c. If you have any additional information, questions or viewpoints, please feel free to share them with me - cf. Pr 11:14<br />[In this lesson, then, we shall take a look at "Fasting In The Old Testament", beginning with... ]<br /><br />I. OCCASIONS OF FASTING IN THE OLD TESTAMENT<br />A. THE "DAY OF ATONEMENT"...<br /> 1. Lev 16:29-31; 23:26-32; Num 29:7<br /> 2. This was the only fast commanded by the Law, to be observed on the tenth day of the seventh month<br /> 3. Though not called "fasting", the phrase "afflicting one's soul" was understood to refer to fasting<br /> a. Cf. Ps 69:10 ("chastened my soul with fasting") b. Cf. Ac 27:9 (where the term "Fast" refers to the Day of Atonement)<br /> 4. The use of the phrase "afflict one's soul" to refer to fasting suggests a PURPOSE of fasting:<br /> a. To have an affect on the SOUL (not particularly the body)<br /> b. The goal of such affliction or chastening we shall notice later<br />B. OTHER FASTS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT... -- People often fasted without specific commandment in time of distress; some were communal affairs while others were acts of the private individual<br /> 1. THEY FASTED IN WAR, OR AT THE THREAT OF IT<br /> a. Israel fasted at Bethel in the war against the Benjamites - Judg 20:26<br /> b. Also at Mizpah in the Philistine war 1 Sam 7:6<br /> 2. THEY FASTED WHEN LOVED ONES WERE SICK<br /> a. David fasted and wept for his son while the boy was ill - 2 Sam12:16-23<br /> b. The psalmist also mentions fasting for his enemies - Ps 35:11-13<br /> 3. THEY FASTED WHEN LOVED ONES DIED<br /> a. The men of Jabesh-gilead fasted seven days for Saul - 1 Sa 31:13; 1Chron 10:12<br /> b. David and the people fasted for Saul and Jonathan - 2 Sa 1:12<br /> 4. THEY FASTED WHEN THEY SOUGHT GOD'S FORGIVENESS<br /> a. Moses fasted forty days because of the sin of Israel - Deu 9:15-18<br /> b. Ahab fasted to be forgiven - 1 Ki 21:17-29<br /> c. Nineveh fasted at the preaching of Jonah - Jonah 3:4-10<br /> d. Daniel fasted as he confessed the sins of Israel - Da 9:3-5<br /> e. The general fast at the communal reading of the Law by Ezra was an act of penitence - Neh 9:1-3<br /> 5. THEY FASTED WHEN FACED WITH IMPENDING DANGER a. Jehoshaphat fasted when threatened by Edom - 2 Chron 20:3 b. Ezra led a fast when seeking the favor of God toward his return from exile (a journey fraught with danger) - Ez 8:21 c. Nehemiah fasted when he heard of the state of Jerusalem - Neh 1:4 d. The Jews fasted when they heard that Haman had obtained the king's decree against them - Esth 4:3 e. Esther and Mordecai fasted before she went before the king - Esth 4:16<br /> 6. THEY SET UP FASTS TO COMMEMORATE CERTAIN CALAMITIES -- During and after the Exile special fasts were observed on the days the calamities had befallen Jerusalem<br /> a. The tenth of the fifth month was the burning of the Temple - Jer 52:12,13<br /> b. The second day of the seventh month was the murder of Gedaliah - 2 Ki 25:23-95; Jer 41:1ff<br /> c. On the tenth day of the tenth month was the beginning of the siege of Jerusalem - 2 Ki 25:1<br /> d. On the ninth day of the fourth was its fall - 2 Ki 25:3,4<br />II. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT FASTING IN THE OLD TESTAMENT<br />A. THE PURPOSE OF FASTING...<br /> 1. Some fasting was a natural reaction to grief over the loss of a loved one (like the men of Jabesh-gilead and David)<br /> 2. But more often, fasting was done to purposely:<br /> a. "afflict the soul" - Lev 23:26-32<br /> b. "chasten the soul" - Ps 69:10<br /> 3. The purpose of such affliction or chastening was to "humble" the soul (Ps 35:13), and not for any affect it might have on the body<br /> 4. Evidently, they felt that by so humbling themselves they would more likely incur God's favor - cf. Ezra 8:21-23; Is 57:15; 66:1-2<br /> 5. So they would fast when they needed:<br /> a. Forgiveness for sin (Moses, Ahab, Daniel) b. Their loved ones restored to health (David) c. Protection from danger (Ezra) d. Deliverance from their enemies (the Israelites)<br /> 6. Because they were seeking God's favor, FASTING WOULD ALMOST ALWAYS BE ACCOMPANIED WITH PRAYER<br />B. THE NATURE OF FASTING...<br /> 1. The NORMAL means of fasting involved ABSTAINING FROM ALL FOOD BUT NOT WATER<br /> 2. Sometimes the fast was but PARTIAL - a restriction of diet but not total abstention - cf. Da 10:2-3<br /> 3. On rare occasions there was the ABSOLUTE fast<br /> a. As in the case of the people of Nineveh, who also included the animals in their fast - cf. Jonah 3:5-10<br /> b. As in the case of Queen Esther - Esth 4:16 (cf. Paul, Ac 9:9)<br /> c. The absolute fasts of Moses and Elijah must have had divine assistance - Deu 9:9; 1 Ki 19:8<br />C. THE LENGTH OF FASTS...<br /> 1. A fast was often for ONE DAY, from sunrise to sunset, and after sundown food would be taken - Judg 20:26; 1 Sam 14:24; 2 Sam 1:12; 3:35<br /> 2. A fast might be for ONE NIGHT - Dan 6:18<br /> 3. The fast of Esther continued for THREE DAYS, day and night, which seems to have been a special case - Esth 4:16<br /> 4. At the burial of Saul, the fast by Jabesh-Gilead was SEVEN DAYS - 1Sam 31:13; 1 Chron 10:12<br /> 5. David fasted SEVEN DAYS when his child was ill - 2 Sam 12: 16-18<br /> 6. The longest fasts recorded in Scripture were the FORTY DAY fasts by Moses, Elijah, and Jesus - Exod 34:28; Deut 9:9; 1 Ki 19:8; Mt 4:2; Lk 4:2<br />D. WARNINGS CONCERNING FASTING...<br /> 1. Fasting CAN EASILY TURN INTO AN EXTERNAL SHOW AND CEREMONIAL<br /> RITUALISM; when it did, the prophets spoke out against it<br /> 2. The most vigorous attack against such fasting is made in Isaiah 58<br /> a. The people complained that they had fasted and God had not seen -Isa 58:3a<br /> b. They had not been fasting for the right reason (to be heard by God)- Isa 58:3b-4<br /> c. In contrast to simply an external display of bowing one's head like a bulrush and spreading sackcloth and ashes, the Lord would rather they:<br /> 1) Loose the bonds of wickedness 2) Let the oppressed go free 3) Share bread with the hungry 4) Bring the poor into one's house 5) Cover the naked --Then they should be heard in their prayers - Isa 58:6-9<br /> d. I.e. fasting without true repentance defeats the purpose of fasting: to have your prayers heard by the Lord!<br /> 3. The same point was made about the ceremonial fasts that had been added by the Israelites to commemorate certain occasions - Zech 7:1-14<br /> a. The people wanted to know if they should fast on the special occasions as they had done - Zech 7:1-3<br /> b. The Lord responded that the fasts had not be done for Him - Zech 7:4-6<br /> c. They should have instead done the will of the Lord - Zech 7:7-10<br /> d. But because they did not, the fasting in the past was of no value - Zech 7:11-14<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />1. At this point we have not tried to establish whether fasting is for Christians today<br />2. Rather, we have just considered the practice of fasting as found in the O.T., to have a better understanding of why people of God fasted<br />3. What have we learned?<br /> a. Only one fast was specifically commanded in the O.T. (The Day Of Atonement)<br /> b. But people often fasted when they wanted God to hear their prayers<br /> 1) The purpose of the fast was to humble themselves by "afflicting their souls"<br /> 2) Believing such humiliation would be pleasing in God's sight (and it often was)<br /> c. However, fasting was fruitless...<br /> 1) When it was done for the wrong reason<br /> 2) When it was done without true repentance<br /> d. We have also seen that there were no set principles concerning the length or nature of fasting<br />4. In our next lesson, we shall look at fasting as found in the New Testament<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Fasting In The New Testament<br />INTRODUCTION<br />1. In our last lesson we examined the subject of Fasting in the Old Testament.<br />2. Here is what we found:<br /> a. Only one fast was specifically commanded in the 0. T. (on the Day of Atonement)<br /> b. But people often fasted when they wanted God to hear their prayers:<br /> 1) In times of war or at the threat of it 2) When loved ones were sick<br />3) When seeking God's forgiveness 4) When faced with impending danger 5) When seeking God's will.<br /> c. The purpose of such fasting: 1) To humble themselves by "afflicting their souls"<br /> 2) Believing that such humiliation would be pleasing in God's sight (and it often was)<br /> d. However, fasting was fruitless when: 1) It was gone ceremonially 2) It was done without true repentance<br /> e. There were also no set principles governing the length or nature of fasting<br />3. We shall now examine "Fasting In The New Testament", as taught and exemplified by: a. Jesus b. His church c. The apostle Paul ...in an effort to determine whether Christians can or should fast today! [We begin by considering...]<br />I. FASTING IN THE LIFE OF JESUS<br />A. JESUS FASTED FORTY DAYS IN THE WILDERNESS - Mt 4:1-9; Lk 4:1-2<br /> 1. He was led into the wilderness "to be tempted" (Mt)<br /> 2. He was "tempted for forty days by the devil" (Lk)<br /> 3. "in those days He ate nothing" (Lk) -- Throughout this forty day period of temptation, Jesus felt it appropriate to fast<br />B. JESUS TAUGHT ON FASTING IN HIS "SERMON ON THE MOUNT" - Mt 6:16-18<br /> 1. Jesus said "when", not "if"; assuming his disciples WOULD fast<br /> 2. When done properly a person would be rewarded by the Father...<br /> a. Suggesting that fasting was like prayer and giving alms<br /> b. I.e., an act of righteousness done to please the Father -- Fasting appears to have a place in the righteousness expected of those who would be citizens of the kingdom of heaven<br />C. WHEN QUESTIONED BY JOHN'S DISCIPLES - Mt 9:14-17 (Mk 2:18-20; Lk 5:33-39)<br /> 1. Jesus described a time when his disciples would fast<br /> 2. But it is inappropriate to fast when the occasion does not call for it -- Fasting would have a place in the disciples' lives, but only on appropriate occasions (not as a ceremonial rite)<br />D. THE COMBINED POWER OF PRAYER AND FASTING - Mt 17:14-21 (Mk 9: 14-29)<br /> 1. There are times when faith alone is not enough<br /> 2. At these times prayer joined with fasting is necessary -- Fasting joined with prayer may accomplish things which normal faith may not [Now let's take a look at...]<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />II. FASTING IN THE LORD'S CHURCH<br />A. THE CHURCH AT ANTIOCH - Ac 13:1-3<br /> 1. They were fasting as a group while ministering to the Lord<br /> 2. They fasted and prayed in preparation to sending out Barnabas and Saul -- Fasting, when accompanied with prayer, can done as a group when involved in serving the Lord<br />B. THE CHURCHES IN GALATIA - Ac 14:21-23<br /> 1. Again, an example of fasting and prayer as a group; this time, in conjunction with the serious task of appointing elders<br /> 2. Notice that this was done "in every church"<br /> a. Not just in one or two churches<br /> b. Not just in what might be consider "Jewish" churches where fasting might be considered "just a Jewish custom" -- Again, fasting can be a group activity in the work of a local church [Now let's examine...]<br />III. FASTING IN THE MINISTRY OF THE APOSTLE PAUL<br />A. FASTING WAS A MARK OF HIS MINISTRY...<br /> 1. We have already noticed where he fasted with several churches<br /> 2. But notice also:<br /> a. 2 Co 6:4-10 (cf. verse 5) b. 2 Co 11:23-28 (cf. verse 27 where fasting is mentioned separately from normal hunger and thirst) -- In both of these passages, Paul mentioned fasting as a mark of his ministry and of his good standing as a minister of Christ!<br />B. HE ALSO TAUGHT THAT FASTING MIGHT HAVE A PLACE IN THE LIVES OF OTHERS<br /><br /> 1. Cf. 1 Co 7:5 2. The only time husbands and wives may deprive one another is when by consent they devote themselves to fasting and prayer for a specific period of time<br />CONCLUSION<br />1. Though not actually Christians at the time, we also have other examples of those who fasted and were blessed by God...<br /> a. Anna - Lk 2:36-38 b. Saul - Ac 9:9 c. Cornelius - Ac 10:30-31 2.<br />2. As a summary, then, here is what we have seen in this study:<br /> a. That our Lord fasted in time of temptation<br /> b. That He taught His disciples about fasting on several occasions<br /> c. That He foretold of a time in which His disciples would fast<br /> d. That there are times when the combination of fasting and prayer might be more efficacious than prayer alone<br /> e. That the early church fasted in their service to the Lord<br /> f. That Paul regarded fasting as a mark of his ministry<br /> g. That prayer and fasting often go hand in hand, utilized whenever there was a strong desire for God's blessing and guidance -- In view of such things, I can only conclude that fast does indeed have a place in the lives of Christians today In our next lesson on this subject, we will consider some thoughts concerning the WHY, WHEN, and HOW of fasting, as found in the New Testament.<br /><br />"FASTING" Fasting By Christians Today<br />INTRODUCTION<br />1. Our two previous lessons enlightened us on the subject of fasting as found in the Bible.<br />2. In this final lesson, we shall directly address the questions that brought up this subject: "Should Christians fast today, and if so, why? When would they do it, and how?"<br />I. SHOULD CHRISTIANS FAST TODAY?<br />A. YES! BECAUSE OF THE TEACHINGS OF JESUS...<br /> 1. He assumed his disciples would fast ("when," not "if") - Mt 6:16-17; Mt 9:14-15<br /> 2. He taught His disciples...<br /> a. How to fast so as to incur God's favor - Mt 6:16-18<br /> b. That when done properly, fasting WOULD incur God's good favor - Mt 6:18b<br /> c. Fasting should be done only when the occasion properly calls for it Mt 9:14-17<br /> d. Prayer joined with fasting might be needed - Mt 17:20-21<br />B. YES! BECAUSE WE HAVE EXAMPLES OF THE CHURCH FASTING...<br /> 1. The brethren at Antioch - Ac 13:1-3<br /> a. Fasting in their service to Lord b. Fasting and praying when they send out Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey<br /> 2. The churches in Galatia - Ac 14:21-23<br /> a. There was fasting in every church; and appointing elders to watch over the flock<br />C. YES! BECAUSE PAUL FASTED AS A MINISTER OF CHRIST...<br /> 1. He listed fasting among those things which proved him as a minister of Jesus Christ<br /> - 2 Co 11:23-28<br /> 2. Are we not commanded to imitate him, even as he imitated Christ? - 1 Co 11:1 (and they both fasted in their service to God!)[At the very least, we can say that it would not be inappropriate for Christians to fast today. Unless there are medical reasons not to fast, we have very good examples to motivate us to utilize fasting in our service to the Lord!]<br />II. WHY SHOULD CHRISTIANS FAST?<br />A. PEOPLE FAST TODAY FOR VARIOUS REASONS...<br /> 1. Some purposefully, for health reasons. Some without thinking, in times of grief and sorrow. Others, in an effort to gain some kind of self-control -- But these are not the reasons Christian should fast in their service to God - cf. Co 2:20-23<br />B. CHRISTIANS SHOULD FAST, FOR THERE ARE TIMES WHEN WE ARE NEED OF DIVINE HELP...<br /> 1. This is consistent with the majority of fasting in the O.T.; they fasted...<br /> a. In times of war or at the threat of it (Israel) b. When loved ones were sick (David) c. When<br /> seeking God's forgiveness (Ahab, Daniel) d. When seeking God's protection (Ezra)<br /> 2. This is consistent with the examples of fasting in the N.T.; they fasted...<br /> a. When dealing with temptations (Jesus) b. When serving the Lord (Antioch) c. When beginning<br /> a work for the Lord (Antioch) d. When selecting and appointing elders (Galatia)<br />3. Such fasting is should be done in conjunction with prayer<br /> a. For fasting, when done properly...<br /> 1) Humbles the soul - Ps 35:13 2) Chastens the soul - Ps 69:10<br /> b. And the prayers of a humble person are more likely to be heard! - cf. Ezra 8:21-23<br />III. WHEN SHOULD CHRISTIANS FAST?<br />A. WHENEVER OCCASIONS REQUIRING DIVINE HELP SHOULD ARISE...<br /> 1. These may be occasions on an individual level<br /> a. When faced with difficult temptations<br /> b. When faced with the serious illness of a loved one<br /> 2. These occasions might be on a congregational level<br /> a. As when appointing elders<br /> b. As when sending out missionaries<br />B. WHATEVER OCCASIONS CALL FOR PERSISTENT PRAYERS MIGHT CALL FOR FASTING JOINED WITH PRAYER...<br /> 1. Are we not taught that God is more likely to answer our prayers if we are persistent? - cf. Lk 18:1-8<br /> 2. And also if we fast in the proper manner? - Mt 6:17-18<br />IV. HOW SHOULD CHRISTIANS FAST?<br />A. NOT TO BE SEEN OF MEN...<br /> 1. Cf. Mt 6:16-18<br /> 2. Whether fasting as individuals or with others, it is important that we not do it for "show"<br />B. NOT AS SOME REGULAR RITUAL...<br /> 1. Cf. Mt 9:14-17<br /> 2. It should be done only when the occasion calls for it<br /> 3. Such as situations where you would be spending much time in prayer<br />C. NOT WITHOUT TRUE REPENTANCE...<br /> 1. Cf. Isa 58:3-9 It is of no avail if not accompanied with penitent obedience<br />D. SOME PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS...<br /> 1. Don't go out and fast just because it sounds like a neat thing to do<br /> a. Take the subject seriously b. Fast only when the occasion is a serious one<br /> c. One in which you desperately desire God's help<br /> 2. If you have never fasted before...<br /> a. Start slow, fasting only for brief periods of time b. End slow, gradually breaking your fast with fresh fruits and vegetables in small amounts<br />3. Fast when you have time to spend in prayerful meditation<br /> a. Remember the purpose for fasting b. To humble oneself in God's sight<br /> c. To seek favorable answer to prayer for some important plea<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />1. There is probably much more that could be said on the subject of fasting<br />2. But I hope that this is enough to stimulate our thinking on a subject which has often been neglected in both study and practice<br />3. As with any subject, the Word of God is the last word, and I hope that this study has shed some light on what His Word says on the subject of fasting<br />1. Here is what I propose, with the approval of the elders here, they have given me the green light to call the church to a fast upon the behalf of Jim and his family.<br /> a. Offer reasons why - why start with him? One may live without hand, not head. Each member is important, but sometimes your preacher has not developed or is not aware of things of divine assistance until he matures himself. We are not saying that others are of less significance that Jim, just that as all good things begin, we must begin as one, with one mind and one purpose. If you choose to include in your fast others which are just as in need as him - please do so. If you feel someone is not living up to their spiritual expectations of the body - pray intently for them as well. Go to your directory and write down beside every member the blessing you feel they need and pray for that.<br />2. As with anything we do for the Lord there must be some kind of order to this proclamation<br /> a. I am asking you to sign up for a forty day fast. We will not all fast for forty days rather one person at a time will fast unto the Lord for forty days.The sheet in the foyer is to be taken home and brought back with the names of those in your family who will participate. For those who will volunteer, you will be given a guideline on how to proceed with the fast with some general thoughts and instructions about proceeding to do this ministering unto the Lord. I will set up a roster at home and call and ask if such and such a time will be convenient for you to exercise your fast on a certain date.<br />3. Just because you do not sign up does not make you less spiritual than others. We are not making this mandatory. We are not going to make this issue a test of fellowship, but I feel I have presented enough evidence to practice this service and given enough reason to motivate you to rise to the call. There may be obvious reasons why you couldn't perform this task. God knows and God understands your condition and in the end that is all that matters.roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1140642460902171552006-02-22T16:00:00.000-05:002006-02-22T16:07:40.910-05:00Revitalizing PrayerThe holidaze is over. Time to write 2005 and scratch through it several times on important papers till March. All is looking good for this newyear. Generally speaking my house is healthy, not too wealthy, and could be a little wiser so we have something to look forward to. Hope your year will be a great success for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. - Kirk<br /><br />Revitalizing Prayer<br />Jn. 14:12-24<br />The short of it:<br /> 1. The joy to REQUEST 12 - 14.<br /> 2. The blessing to RECEIVE 16, 17.<br /> 3. The duty to RESPOND 15, 21a, 24.<br /> 4. The opportunity for God to REVEAL himself 20, 21b.<br /> 5. The pleasure of him taking up RESIDENCE within us 23.<br />The long version:<br />Revitalizing Prayer<br />Jn. 14:12-24<br />Introduction<br />A. Definition of Revitalize<br /> 1. Webster: To bring back after a decline. - Examp. Inner City Projects; Corporate Mergers; Marriage seminars. One may make a quick connect to the word REVIVAL.<br />B. Could it be the case that we need to revitalize our prayer life.<br /> 1. Not only is it commanded - “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17). It’s what spiritual minded people do - “When you pray....” (Matt. 6:5).<br />C. A lack of prayer ties the hands of God and holds back showers of blessings.<br /> 1. Psa. 81:10 “Open mouth wide...”<br /> a. How many things are not received because we simply failed to ask?<br />D. Perhaps we have been taught “too well” not to abuse the privilege of prayer to the point that we fail to pray as we ought.<br /> 1. James 4 - Christians were praying to heap it upon their lusts.<br /> 2. Matt. 6:5ff - to be seen and heard of men.<br /> 3. Lk. 18:10ff - without humility<br /> 4. These and many other “rules of engagement” must not be used as “suppressers of the heart.” (Phil. 4:6) “Let your prayers be KNOWN unto God.”<br />E. Today I wish to examine five ways to revitalize, renew, bring back, our prayer life.<br /> 1. The joy to REQUEST 12 - 14.<br /> 2. The blessing to RECEIVE 16, 17.<br /> 3. The duty to RESPOND 15, 21a, 24.<br /> 4. The opportunity for God to REVEAL himself 20, 21b.<br /> 5. The pleasure of him taking up RESIDENCE within us 23.<br />I. A child of God must count it a joy to MAKE REQUEST to a CAN DO God 14:12 - 14.<br />A. If Jesus said you can do greater works than him we must be working for a “can do” God.<br /> 1. The works Jesus did were actions which pointed the people to God.<br /> a. There was just one Jesus, who fed 5,000 - universally, the church may feed thousands daily.<br /> b. He was but one voice - Today there are millions of voices working the works of God.<br /> c. Therefore since we work for a “can do” God - together we are doing greater works than Jesus - therefore......<br />B. Ask - make request - don’t be shy (Matt. 7:7, 8).<br /> 1. The very words; ask, seek and knock seem to suggest an ever increasing intensity in prayer.<br /> 2. Every father wants his children to come to him for whatever they need. Our heavenly Father wants us to ask Him for anything we need. There is no prayer request too big to ask the Father. Your heavenly Father is waiting for you to ask because He’s waiting to do what you need Him to do. 2 Chronicles 16:9 says, “The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him.” Where we see an obstacle, He sees an opportunity to show Himself strong. Where we see an impossibility, God sees a chance to show that what is impossible with man is possible with Him. There is nothing that we can’t ask because there is nothing He can’t do.<br /> 3. Do you think that walking on the dry bed of the Red Sea, or the Jordan river would prompt you to ask for great things? Would being fed bread from heaven or quail from the earth cause you to ask the desire of your heart? Could it be that if we watched the walls of Jericho fall flat, the sun standing still, or Lazarus coming forth from the tomb this would stir desire in our weary spirit to ask more frequently? If these are just stories to you, then of course not! But if you believe in these events....Ephesians 3:20 then what you ask is really nothing. God is above what we can ask or think. The only thing that we can’t ask is what we can’t think.<br />C. Preacher, you want me to ask anything?<br /> 1. Anything that brings glory to God - absolutely! v. 13b Rom. 8:27, 28 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” v. 28 and we know - called according to his purpose.<br /><br />How an individual approaches God and what that individual is willing to ask for reveals how he or she views God. Revitalize your requests because we serve a ‘can do’ God.<br /><br />II. Which leads us to know... What a blessing it is to RECEIVE that for which we’ve made request 14:16, 17.<br />A. Though the apostles did not request it, they received what they needed most - future direction.<br /> 1. The text would naturally be interpreted that since Jesus was communicating to the 11 (Judas being absent) this Helper, Comforter, Paraclete would be given with a specific mission in mind - To continue to dispense truth to the apostles.<br /> 2. Since it is not in man to direct his footsteps (Jerm. 10:23), and because every man thinks he is right in his own heart (Prov. 14:12), it became the mission of the Holy Spirit to guide the apostles into all truth (Jn. 16:13).<br /> 3. After receiving His instruction and making a written record, you and I may be guided into all truth today as we read and live that which is written (2 Tim. 3:16, 17).<br /> 4. Direction for righteousness and heaven is what man needs most.<br />“Things” are not.<br />B. FOR WHAT ARE YOU ASKING? Lk. 11:13.<br /> 1. Jesus stands ready to give you the Holy Spirit if you ask.<br /> 2. Since the purpose of the Holy Spirit is to guide one into all truth, should not that be our request - to be guided into all truth?<br /> a. Many are asking to perform miracles, see signs, speak in tongues - what man needs to seek is the truth - “buy the truth and sell it not” (Prov. 23:23).<br />C. God is longing to give gifts (Luke 11:1-13) Midnight friend of importunity (5-8)<br /> 1. Importunate – troublesomely urgent: overly persistent in request of demand. (Pressing, burning, clamant, clamorous, crying, imperative, insistent, instant, urgent). Importunity is not asking repeatedly. Importunity is having the nerve just to ask in the first place. In John 11:41-42, Jesus tells us that we don’t have to beg for everything.<br /> a. Our grandpuppy (Springier Spaniel) comes over and stares at you while you eat. He doesn’t lick, harass, or get in your face, he just sits until his longing look is satisfied with a morsel. Though he never says a word, he expectantly looks for satisfaction because he knows the nature of the owners and the love his grandparents have for him. Importunity is not asking repeatedly. It is having the nerve to ask initially, then maintaining a stand to wait for God to drop down his blessing. Importunity looks for opportunity to ask. Importunity has the guts, the gall, and the gump to ask what most people won’t ask. Importunity knows how to ask, seek, and knock. “Wait on the Lord and he will bring it to pass” (Psa. 37:5).<br />D. The message should be clear - first seek truth, then receive the blessings.<br /><br />It is such a joy to make our requests made known to God, It is a wonderful blessing to receive that which we ask. Which brings us to our next important step in revitalizing our prayer life -<br /><br />III. Each one of us have a duty to RESPOND to the instruction of God v15, 21a, 24.<br />A. The eye of the Lord is upon the righteous and his ear open to their prayer, but his face is against those who do evil (1 Pet. 3:12).<br /> 1. Herein lies the problem with most prayers - unfaithfulness.<br /> 2. Love requires duty - Jesus understood duty - the cross proved that.<br /> 3. Obedience requires sacrifice and service - If you love - KEEP.<br />B. Keep the commandments does not mean to love them from afar, but to write them upon your heart and mind then putting them into practice (Heb. 8:10).<br />C. Rebellious lives ties the hands of God and stops up the windows of heaven.<br /> 1. Repentance and obedience is the key to revitalizing your prayer life.<br />When this is done.....<br />IV. God is given the opportunity to REVEAL himself to you v. 18, 20, 21b.<br />A. The manifestation of God is not seen:<br /> 1. On a grill cheese sandwich sold on Ebay and many other false illusions.<br /> 2. God is manifested to us each time our prayers are answered whether His response is, “Yes” or “No.”<br /> 3. Man may look to the beauty of the earth and say, “I see God manifested in the face of a flower or the aura of the sunset.” Another may exclaim, “I see God manifesting himself in the wonders of the heavens, the stars, planets, galaxies.” Yet another may say, “Every time you see a new born baby, you know God is revealing himself.”<br /> 4. God manifested himself by his son Jesus (Col. 1:15). All these created things cannot love you like God does. Even your own child may turn against you, but never the savior (Matt. 28:20). Every time you see the cross you see God and know he desires to reveal himself unto you. See past the wood, look beyond the anguish, behold the love of God as he sent the only one who can redeem you and me from our sins. Herein is love, not that we love him, but “he first loved us” (1 Jn. 4:19).<br /> 5. Every time we pray, and each time he answers he is revealing himself more and more. Look back in your life and see how God has revealed himself to you by the prayers you’ve prayed and the answers you’ve received.<br /> 6. So if any man is in Christ, seek those things which are above (Col. 3:2).<br /> 7. To get into Christ one must respond to his commands (Gal. 3:27).<br />When this happens........<br />V. God takes the pleasure to take up RESIDENCE in us v. 23 This alone should cause us to revitalize our prayer life.<br />A. Now Paul wrote that Christ may dwell in your heart by faith (Eph.3:17).<br /> 1. The mystery which has been hidden from ages and generations has been revealed in the saints - Christ in you, the hope of glory! (Col. 1:26, 27)<br /> 2. This hope was given on the day we obeyed the gospel and by that baptism, we received the gift of the holy spirit (Acts 2:38) which will never leave us orphaned so long as we walk after the spirit and not according to the flesh (Gal. 5:16; Rom. 8).<br />B. One may say, “Well I don’t feel God/Christ/Sprit in me.”<br /> 1. Its not about feeling. Do you feel your mother or father in you? Well then will you deny that they are your parents? Do you not have habitual traits of your parents?<br /> 2. Then we know God is in us when we deny the pleasures of the flesh and do that which we normally wouldn’t do because the Holy Spirit has taught us to deny ungodliness and worldly lust as we study him daily. Christ dwells in our hearts by faith. Recall the latter words of Eph. 3:20 - according to the power that works in us. - That power is that which the gospel has done for us in redeeming us from all ungodliness. That power is the faith we have which prompts us into godly action when the flesh pitches a temper tantrum when we deny it devilish pleasures.<br /> 3. Its not about feelings - its about behavior. But isn’t it true... one has never felt better who is going about doing good.<br /> 4. Knowing that the divine presence of God takes up residence with us should help us revitalize our prayer life.<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />1. There is a great joy to make our REQUEST known unto God.<br /> a. Together, we can do greater works than Christ. I’ve never raised the dead, but I have brought congregations back to life. You may never have healed one who was sick, but if you opened their eyes to the gospel you have cured a sin sick soul.<br /> b. We serve a ‘can do’ God. Let’s pray like he can.<br />2. What a blessing it is to RECEIVE gifts from God.<br /> a. Especially the Holy Spirit, the word of truth. Let the words of this Book guide you to receive that which you so desperately need - Salvation, comfort, hope.<br />3. Remember, to revitalize our prayer life there is a duty to RESPOND.<br /> a. Love and Keep the commands. You can’t live like a sinner and die like a saint.<br />4. Every time you pray, he has the opportunity to REVEAL more and more of himself to you. Therefore, pray more and more so you may get to know God better.<br />5. Take pleasure in the truth that he RESIDES in us.<br /> a. For this reason, I bow the knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family of heaven and earth is named. That he might grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might, through his Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your heart by faith, that you being rooted and grounded in love.....(Eph. 3:14-21)<br /> b. The greatest man standing is the one not afraid to fall on his knees.<br /><br />Haven’t you ever wanted to take your food back to the counter of a fast-food restaurant, and point to the picture on the overhead menu, and asked, “Can I have one that looks like that?” Sometimes we get the one which was smushed, reheated, and generally unappealing.<br />At those places, many times we get LESS than what we ask for.<br /><br />The stories in the Bible reveal that GOD GIVES MAN MORE THAN HE ASKS FOR. Wonder what we would get if we would only ask more?roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1140642003012521762006-02-22T15:57:00.000-05:002006-02-22T16:00:03.030-05:00Rise and Fall of ManyFeas and naughty dogs to everyone. May your day be scratchy and bright<br />and may you keep your nose out of the cold so it dosen't turn red.<br />I do hope all my friends and family will have a safe and delightful holiday. However you celeberate it, please enjoy your family! Kirk<br /><br />The short of it: The Rise and Fall of Many Lk. 2:28-35<br />I. Intro:<br /> A. Many great things have been said concerning the birth of Christ.<br /> B. Text discusses some encouraging and disturbing information.<br /> C. Lesson will deal with the prophecy concerning the 'rising and falling<br />of many.'<br />II. There is a great need to choose sides.<br /> A. Joshuah said,<br /> B. Jesus said,<br /> C. Apostles said,<br />III. Great rewards for those who choose wisely.<br />IV. Those who fallen against the Christ.<br /> A. Religious leaders during the life of Christ<br /> B. False prophets<br /> C. Discontented brethren<br /> D. Evil rulers<br /> E. Theories<br />V. Those who have risen with the Christ<br /> A. Restoration plea<br /> B. Those who trust in the authorative word of God.<br /> C. Those who have died properly<br /><br />The Long of it:<br /><br />Rise and Fall of Many<br />Lk. 2:21-35<br />I. Introduction<br />Christmas. Christians are sometimes perplexed as how to celebrate. Go with the Santa Clause concept - you are secular. Go with religious - not commanded. Get in the middle you feel hypocritical. We know not the day Christ was born, We do not know if Mary rode a donkey to the inn. We do not know how many wise men there were. We do know the wise men did not visit Christ at the manger, no drummer boy played him a tune and a statue of Santa clause and his reindeer were not stationed outside the stable. We are not here to discuss how you celebrate or not celebrate this day. I pray that we have come to worship God because he gave us the privilege to do so. While we are here let us make good use of our time together as we drink today from the pure waters of life.<br />A. Many wonderful things were said concerning the birth of Christ.<br /> 1. Gabriel - Called, Emanuel, the son of the Highest, kingdom never end, save/sin.<br /> 2. Angels - Singing, ‘peace on earth good will to men.’<br /> 3. Wise men - King of the Jews.<br /> 4. Shepherds - reported angels proclaiming him as Christ the Lord.<br />B. Here in Lk. 2:28-35 Simeon disclosed the blessed and disturbing news.<br /> 1. All nations would rejoice in this child v. 32.<br /> 2. But, there would be great division in the world over him v. 34.<br /> 3. You will suffer soul wrenching sorrow v. 35.<br />C. This lesson will center around v. 34 - “This child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be spoken against.”<br /> 1. This lesson will reveal some of the realities of this prophecy by noting those who fell against Christ and those who rose up with Christ.<br />II. The Bible has always implied a need for you and me to choose sides.<br />A. From days of Old (Josh 24:15)<br />B. Jesus (Lk. 14:28) count the cost.<br />C. Apostles (Acts 5:29) obey God rather than men.<br />III. Ready rewards to those who choose wisely.<br />A. Listed in who’s who among people of faith (Heb. 11).<br />B. Blessing in this life and that to come (Lk. 18:30).<br />IV. Historical Perspective on Those Who Oppose Christ.<br />A. Religious leaders during the life of Christ (Matt. 27:39-43).<br />B. False Prophets (Matt. 24:11).<br /> 1. Some who proclaimed themselves the ‘New Messiah’ by acts of war on Rome.<br /> 2. Far eastern religions.<br /> 3. Islam - Muhammad, At first the infidels were those who were idolatrous, he soon turned against Christianity also.<br /> a. More recently, in a December 8, 2001 Worldnet Daily article by Art Moore, it was reported that more than 50,000 Christians in the Central Sulawesi province town of Tentena were in imminent danger of attack by a paramilitary group called Laskar Jihad, a group whose goal is the total elimination of Christians from the region. According to Voice of the Martyrs, an organization that reports on Christian persecution, At least 600 homes and six churches in Tentena were burned during attacks in November of 2001, and 15,000 Christians were forced to flee. In Indonesia Laskar Jihad waged a violent campaign against Christians in neighboring Maluku province where at least 9,000 Christians have been killed since 1999. This religious cleansing can be found in all areas of the world where Islam has rooted itself. The quest for an Islamic world, taken by force if need be, still continues today, all in the name of Allah, and as taught and practiced by the prophet Muhammad.<br /> 4. Reverend Sun Moon, Jim Jones, David Koresh, Johnny Applewhite, et. al..<br />C. Discontented brethren (Acts 20:30).<br /> 1. Alexander, Hymaneaus, Diothrophes.<br /> 2. 1 Tim. 1:6; 5:15; 2 Tim. 2:2-4.<br />D. Evil Rulers (Acts 4:26).<br /> 1. Nero and other Roman Emperors.<br /> 2. Fascism & Communism.<br /> 3. Modern political terrorist.<br />E. Theories (2 Pet. 3:4).<br /> 1. Evolution<br /> 2. Form Criticism<br /> a. Bible is not preserved well enough to be the Word of God.<br /> b. There are supposed contradictions.<br /> c. Apostles borrowed from ‘mystery religions’ to create Christianity.<br /> 3. Eccumentalism - all going to heaven, different denominations/religions take you there.<br />V. Those in Christ will overcome.<br />A. Restoration plea. - not a theory but advocated throughout Scripture.<br /> 1. Josiah (2 Chron. 34).<br /> 2. Jerm. 6:16 Restore ye the old paths.<br /> 3. Gal. 6:1 Restore such a one to repentance.<br />B. Seeker who puts their trust in the authoritative word of God will always rise to the top.<br />C. A proper death, gives birth to a glorious resurrection (Rom. 6:1-7).<br /> 1. Will you not raise Christ up in your heart? If so, you and I must die to our personal pleasures and submit to his will.<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br />A. Why put faith in things which will make you fall?<br /> 1. Religions which oppose the Christ, Prophets who denounce his dietyship; Brethren who advocate change to ‘fit in’ with the rest of religions; theories which confuse, weaken, and destroy faith.<br />B. Be raised up so you may walk in newness of life.<br /> 1. Which category of people do you walk with this hour?roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1140404451246578422006-02-19T22:00:00.000-05:002006-02-19T22:00:51.266-05:00Show Us the FatherJust a cold rain here in the Tennesse Valley. Snow and Ice is falling upon the mountains. Thankfully, our house is warm. Hope your week will be filled with great spiritual experiences.<br /><br />Show us the Father<br />Basic Points:<br />We may see the face of God by looking into the face of Jesus.<br />1. He is like that Door (10:9) – An inviting portal to find rest.<br />2. He is that pathway (14:6) – A pleasant well traveled road.<br />3. He is Bread (6:47) – Warm, tasteful, satisfying, the Great Provider.<br />4. He is that Shepherd on a hill (10:11) – Who is watching our every move, our protector.<br />5. He is the Light (8:12) – No monster hidden by the darkness.<br />6. He is the Vine (15:1) – One who desires direct contact with his creation.<br />7. He is the source of Life (11:25) – Our hope of a resurrection.<br /><br />Show Us The Father : full text<br />Jn. 14:8, 9<br />Introduction:<br />A. Let’s play fill in the blank for a few moments:<br /> 1. My favorite color is .................... I could eat ................... all day long. If I only had one vacation in my life, I would go to ....................... I’d give anything to meet ..............<br /> 2. In the Chicago Tribune Magazine actor Kyle Chandler was asked a series of finish-the-sentence questions. One question was, "I'd give anything to meet .........."<br />Chandler answered, "God Almighty. I'd like to share my favorite meal with him, and I'd let him do all the talking."<br />B. We all would like to meet God face to face (and one day we will).<br /> 1. Scripture reveal that is impossible to look God in the eye and live (Exod. 33:20).<br /> 2. However God has not hid himself from man.<br /> a. To the ancients he appeared through angels (Gen. 18; Judg. 6:22); by dreams (Gen. 28); by fire (Exod. 3); by cloud (Exod. 13); by a glowing form called the “glory of the Lord” (Exod. 40: 24) and through visions (Isa. 6, Rev 1).<br />C. What John wanted his reader to recognize is, that, it is through Jesus we might gain insight to the appearance of God.<br /> 1. Jesus said, “God is a spirit” (Jn. 4:24); yet if you wish to see God, just look at me (Jn. 14:9).<br /> a. Even Paul noted we may see God through Christ (Col. 1:15).<br />D. I would like to present God in familiar term by which Jesus described himself.<br /> 1. Is it not possible to get to know someone though you have never seen them?<br /> a. Biographies; stories passed down through generations about family members.<br /> 2. The Bible is the biography of God. It tells us in human terms what he is like. Some love him, others despise, regardless, we are not left clueless.<br /> 3. It is my task this hour to draw upon the canvas of your heart the image of God.<br /> 4. I will draw him as I would:<br /> a. A door; or a path, a piece of bread, a shepherd on a hill, flaming torch lighting a dungeon, a great vine stretching for miles, and a garden of Eden, abundant of life.<br /> b. I pray each of these terms will bring us into focus a real divine being.<br />III. The images explained:<br />A. Jesus said in Jn. 10:7-10 that he was the door.<br /> 1. Doors by design are made for acceptable subjects to gain access to the building.<br /> a. One who enters by any other means is considered a threat and worthy of prosecution.<br /> 2. Are not doors representative of places which we frequent?<br /> a. A drunk may frequent a place which doors lead him to a bar. A lustful man, a door which leads him to a bed. A spiritual man, doors which give access to a room to worship.<br /> 3. We all enter a familiar door to a place we call “home.” What does yours look like?<br /> a. When we see it we delight to open it for on the other side our cherished ones anxiously wait to greet us.<br /> b. When we touch its handle it brings relief to us for we know inside rest awaits us.<br /> c. This door represents the place I belong. It is the place from where I depart and where I return time after time.<br /> 4. Jesus pictures God like a door.<br /> a. Not something frightening, but inviting. Not something we would fear to open but something we would love to pass through.<br /> b. We may picture him as a giant door as a gate to an ancient city. If we have the key, the shape of a cross (which is obedience to his truth), we may enter and find security.<br /> c. His door remains unlocked with the exception of one class of people - fools who do not prepare (Matt. 25:1ff).<br /> 5. Visualizing God as a door lets me know that I am invited to come and see him.<br />B. Another object Jesus uses to illustrate God is - “the way” or for clarification, a path (Jn. 14:6)<br /> 1. There are paths or roads in which we are very familiar.<br /> a. As a child I would forge through the woods to my aunt’s house by means of a well traveled path.<br /> 2. There are paths which are not well known, but marked, such as a nature park.<br /> 3. Then there are paths which may require a map. In our great Smoky Mountains, there is a path which leads from Maine to Georgia called the Appalachian Trail, a path which is 2,175 long.<br /> 4. The path which may describe God is one that is not all too unfamiliar (Acts 17:27).<br /> a. Most know the basics of good morals. In America, most understand Christian principles.<br /> b. It’s not that we don’t really know the path, its that we don’t like to stay on the path as we are tempted by other trails which appear to have a short cut or an easier way of passage (Matt. 7:13, 14).<br /> 5. Illustrating God by means of a path simply implies that there is safe passage through this hostile world if we continue to walk upon it (Psa.23:4 paths of right).<br />C. Next, Jesus illustrates God as bread (Jn. 6:47).<br /> 1. There are so many varieties of bread which one may consume, but only one really satisfies.<br /> 2. Bread is something you smell, handle, taste, appealing. My mother’s table was never absent of bread. It is the staple of life.<br /> 3. God, being pictured as bread indicates he is needed, good, satisfying. He is one whom we may feast upon and never tire.<br /> 4. In his book entitled God’s Psychiatry, Charles Allen tells this story: As World War II was drawing to a close, the Allied armies gathered up many hungry orphans. They were placed in camps where they were well-fed. Despite excellent care, they slept poorly. They seemed nervous and afraid. Finally, a psychologist came up with the solution. Each child was given a piece of bread to hold after he was put to bed. This particular piece of bread was just to be held—not eaten. The piece of bread produced wonderful results. The children went to bed knowing instinctively they would have food to eat the next day. That guarantee gave the children a restful and contented sleep.<br /> 5. God is always near, always available, always ready to fill our emptiness, or restlessness our fears and anxieties. All we need to do is to take him with us wherever we go.<br />D. Again Jesus illustrates the face of God by way of shepherding (Jn.10:11-14).<br /> 1. The Psalmist aptly describes God as Shepherd (Psa. 23).<br /> a. A Great Overseer who provides the sheep every need, food, water, direction, healing, protection, rest.<br /> 2. Shepherds were not all that popular - so it is with God.<br /> 3. Shepherds were brave, enduring harsh climate, often alone.<br /> 4. Can you see God upon his hill, looking over us in duty and love?<br />E. Another illustration Jesus uses to show us God is Light (Jn. 8:12; 1 Jn. 1:5).<br /> 1. Revisit the darkest place you have ever been (closet, cave) now turn on a light - that’s God! No one in their right mind prefers darkness.<br /> a. I recall as a youth hating to find the bathroom light out.<br /> 2. Hell is described as a place of outer darkness (Matt. 25:30) while heaven is portrayed as a city set on a hill, well lit, having the glory of God in its mist, where there is neither the need of sun or moon (Rev. 21, 22).<br /> 3. All life needs light to survive, therefore every person needs God.<br /> 4. Light brings warmth, reveals beauty, beacons weary travelers, exposes danger.<br /> 5. Since God is described as light, then he is no monster. He exists for our help. He is a being worthy of welcoming in our heart to give us true light so we in turn may become the light of the world. As many may bathe in the sun, may we all bathe in the light of God’s love.<br />F. Again, Jesus describes the face of God to us through the imagery of a vine (Jn. 15:1ff).<br /> 1. What is being illustrated is the trunk of grape vine. From it comes forth branches which in turn bears the fruit. Now the branches cannot bear fruit apart from the vine and the vine can be of no purpose unless the branches abide on the vine.<br /> 2. That pictures God as a being that needs contact with his creation.<br /> 3. If you are not in contact with God it is because of two reasons:<br /> a. Either we are not attached to the at all to the Vine, or;<br /> b. Our attachment to the Vine has in some way been blocked, so that the sap isn’t flowing into us (spiritual blood clot).<br /> 4. Seeing God as the vine helps me understand my relationship to him.<br /> a. I need pruning - things which would prohibit my spiritual development must be severed. Things which may harm me physically needs to be removed.<br /> b. He needs my production - my efforts to preserve the knowledge of Him in others.<br /> 5. This imagery helps us cast aside the idea that God has no use for me and I no use for him. It sustains me when I am alone. For the Christian is never alone when he is “in Christ.”<br />G. Finally, Jesus identifies the face of God as life (Jn. 11:25).<br /> 1. Behold the spring - glow of summer - the change of fall - the sleep of winter. As long as the world stands these will never cease to be (Gen.8:22). Herein lies a promise of perpetual life.<br /> 2. The question man asks is (Job. 14:14) if a man dies, shall he live again?<br /> 3. Though there was limited information on this subject in the O.T., Through Christ all men may know that whether one dies in his spring (youth) or fall of life, he will live.<br /> 4. When the angel rolled the stone away he not only let Christ out, but he let man in. Man observed the carefully folded head wrap, the visitation of the angels, the confrontation to see the scars, and the ascension into the clouds. This leave no room for doubt that all of the human family will rise one day.<br /> 5. If a man be in Christ he will rise to eternal peace, if a man rejects the Christ, he is hopeless and doomed to a devil’s hell.<br /> 6. As you look about you, in whatever season that is upon us, life is abundant. Animals, foul, fish, children. In this we see the face of God because God is life eternal. Though all creatures will die in their own time, God has promised one species, the human family, that they will live again. It is that promise of living forever that motivates one to live for him while it is called ‘today’ for we may never know if tomorrow will ever come.<br /> 7. It is revealed that Satan brought forth death upon man. Man fears death and instinctively should fear the devil. God brought life into existence and can continue it forever. See the face of God by observing life.<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br /><br />Remember the question I asked earlier, “Is it not possible to get to know someone though you have never seen them?” and I answered, “Yes” through biographies and made mention that the Bible is the biography of God?<br /><br />Max Lucado retells a story about a man finding love without ever seeing the face of his lover.<br />John Blanchard stood up from the bench, straightened his Army uniform and studied the crowd of people making their way through Grand Central Station. He looked for the girl whose heart he knew, but whose face he didn't, the girl with the rose.<br />His interest in her had begun thirteen months before in a Florida library. Taking a book off the shelf he found himself intrigued, not with the words of the book, but with the notes penciled in the margin. The soft handwriting reflected a thoughtful soul and insightful mind. In the front of the book, he discovered the previous owner's name, Miss Hollis Maynell.<br />With time and effort, he located her address. She lived in New York City. He wrote her a letter introducing himself and inviting her to correspond. The next day he was shipped overseas for service in World War II. During the next year and one month the two grew to know each other through the mail. Each letter was a seed falling on a fertile heart. A romance was budding. Blanchard requested a photograph, but she refused. She felt that if he really cared, it wouldn't matter what she looked like. When the day finally came for him to return from Europe, they scheduled their first meeting—7:00 P.M. at the Grand Central in New York. "You'll recognize me," she wrote, "by the red rose I'll be wearing on my lapel." So at 7:00 he was in the station looking for a girl whose heart he loved, but whose face he'd never seen. I'll let Mr. Blanchard tell you what happened.<br />A young woman was coming toward me, her figure long and slim. Her blonde hair lay back in curls from her delicate ears; her eyes were as blue as flowers. Her lips and chin had a gentle firmness, and in her pale green suit she was like springtime come alive. I started toward her, entirely forgetting to notice that she was not wearing a rose. As I moved, a small provocative smile turned her lips. "Going my way, sailor?" she murmured. Almost uncontrollably I made one step closer to her, and then I saw Hollis Maynell.<br />She was standing almost directly behind the girl. A woman well past 40, she had graying hair tucked under a worn hat. She was more than plump, her thick-ankled feet thrust into low-heeled shoes. The girl in the green suit was quickly walking away. I felt as though I was split in two. So keen was my desire to follow her, and yet so deep was my longing for the woman whose spirit had truly companioned and upheld mine. And there she stood. Her pale, plump face was gentle and sensible, her gray eyes had a warm and kindly twinkle. I did not hesitate. My fingers gripped the small worn blue leather copy of the book that was to identify me to her. This would not be love, but it would be something precious, something perhaps even better than love, a friendship for which I had been and must ever be grateful.<br />I squared my shoulders and saluted and held out the book to the woman, even though while I spoke I felt choked by the bitterness of my disappointment. "I'm Lieutenant John Blanchard, and you must be Miss Maynell. I am so glad you could meet me; may I take you to dinner?" The woman's face broadened into a tolerant smile. "I don't know what this is about, son," she answered, "but the young lady in die green suit who just went by, she begged me to wear this rose on my coat. And she said if you were to ask me out to dinner, I should tell you that she is waiting for you in the big restaurant across the street. She said it was some kind of test!" '<br /><br />We may see the face of God by looking into the face of Jesus.<br />1. He is like that Door (10:9) – An inviting portal to find rest.<br />2. He is that pathway (14:6) – A pleasant well traveled road.<br />3. He is Bread (6:47) – Warm, tasteful, satisfying, the Great Provider.<br />4. He is that Shepherd on a hill (10:11) – Who is watching our every move, our protector.<br />5. He is the Light (8:12) – No monster hidden by the darkness.<br />6. He is the Vine (15:1) – One who desires direct contact with his creation.<br />7. He is the source of Life (11:25) – Our hope of a resurrection. Can you see God now?roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1140403733829332722006-02-19T21:38:00.000-05:002006-02-19T21:48:53.833-05:00Discovering heavenIt's been a great week so far. I am about ready for the holidays to be over. Hope you have a great week - Kirk<br /><br />Five words to discover the way to heaven:<br />Short Outline: Jn. 14:2b, 3 "I go to prepare for you, and if I go to prepare a place for you I will come again and receive you unto myself that where I am there you may be also."<br />1. Go<br />2. Ready<br />3. Return<br />4. Recive<br />5. Reunion<br /><br />Full Text:<br />The Way To Heaven<br />Jn. 14:1-6<br />Introduction<br />A. It was the hour of Darkness (13:30).<br /> 1. Judas had went out to barter for the capture of Jesus. - This brought sadness.<br /> 2. Peter gives his sacrificial “I will die for you “ speech, thinking that would change Jesus’ mind about leaving (13:37). Jesus responded by telling him that he would fail before daybreak. - This brought distress.<br /> 3. The anxiety of the disciples may be summed up like this, “If you are going to leave and Peter can’t hold up under pressure, what are we going to do?” Now we see them deeply troubled.<br />B. The word ‘troubled’ (Greek - tarasso) means to agitate, to roil like water.<br /> 1. You may have seen a terrazzo floor which is made of tiny pieces of stone. The stone is all jumbled up with no particular pattern. This was the disciples heart. They were terrified, their hearts had that sinking feeling you get when you hear about some terrible news.<br />C. It was in the mist of this agitation, this turmoil, Jesus spoke one of the most cherished statements of all time.<br /> 1. It is read by people who are extremely depressed about the condition of the world, it is read by or to loved ones who are near death, it is read and discussed by gospel preachers at funerals everywhere.<br /> 2. It is that prized cache of words which offer comfort and hope to troubled people.<br /> 3. Quote passage.<br />D. Our study today will center around vs. 2b, 3 in “Discovering the Way to Heaven.”<br /> 1. There are five words which qualify what it took Jesus to bring the hope of heaven to our troubled hearts.<br /><br />I. Go - 14:2b<br />A. This word implies a purpose and a destination.<br /> 1. No one goes anywhere without having a reason to travel or a place to reach.<br /> 2. Jesus said, “I go” to a place - Calvary! I have a destination - Right hand of God.<br />B. Christian, the way to heaven requires us to GO!<br /> 1. Go to your Bible to receive instruction (2 Tim. 2:15).<br /> 2. Go to the water to receive forgiveness and the Holy Spirit.<br /> a. That’s where the first Christians were commanded to go (Acts 2:38,47).<br /> b. That’s where the Samaritans were commanded to go (Acts 8:12).<br /> c. That’s where the Ethopian Treasurer as commanded to go (Acts 8:36-38).<br /> d. That’s where Saul of Tarsus was commanded to go (Acts 9:18; 22:16).<br /> e. That’s where Cornelius was commanded to go (Acts 10:48).<br /> f. That’s where Lydia was commanded to go (Acts 16:15).<br /> g. That’s where the Philipian Jailer was commanded to go (Acts 16:32, 33).<br /> I. NOW THERE’S a lot of folk who attempt to discredit this activity but it is a divine order. We must go to the water for remission (Acts 2:38); for washing away sin (Acts 22:16) and for regeneration and salvation (Titus 3:5; 1 Pet. 3:21) having faith in the blood of Christ that it will do what he said it would perform.<br /> 3. Afterward, if a Christian wishes to discover the way to heaven he must go to church (Heb. 10:25).<br /> 4. Discovering the way to heaven means that the Christian must Go.<br />II. Prepare or Ready v. 3<br />A. Jesus readied a place for us.<br /> 1. The dwelling places were already in tact “In my Father’s house are many...”<br /> 2. Jesus readied a place for us by:<br /> a. Preparing his body (Heb. 10:5, 10).<br /> b. Preparing his apostles (Lk. 24:45ff) through knowledge.<br /> c. Preparing his church for service (Matt 23:23). Formalism is a sham.<br />B. Dear Christian, if you want to discover the way to heaven, you must ready yourself.<br /> 1. Why go to scripture if you are only going to argue with what it says. Why go to the water if you are not planning to follow. Why go to church if you do not plan to ready yourself for service?<br /> 2. Since Jesus has been portrayed as the greatest servant of all time who do we think we are when we hear and do not listen, see and do not act, pray and do not serve.<br /> 3. The house of God is a place of EMPLOYMENT not enjoyment!<br /> 4. Phil. 2:12 tells the Christian servant to WORK or continue doing things which need to be done for spiritual growth and development of the kingdom of God. Work not to earn but because you are indebted.<br /> 5. Ready yourself in your godliness, holiness, manner of living. Ready yourself in your duties of attendance, prayer, and washing the saint’s feet. Ready yourself in showing others the way (Matt. 28:20). Prepare now to go to heaven, you can’t live like a sinner and die like a saint.<br />III. Return<br />A. Jesus promised to come again.<br /> 1. To go without returning seems so futile (this is what atheist believe).<br /> 2. To return without a purpose is just as lame (2 Thess. 1:7-9; Jn. 5:28, 29).<br />B. Christian man or woman, boy or girl, if you want to discover heaven you too must return.<br /> 1. Return frequently to your Bible classes, worship times and church work activities, and so much the more as you see day drawing near (Heb. 10:25).<br /> 2. Return to your prayer life, your study habits, your spiritual labors.<br /> 3. Return to your brother who has asked forgiveness and forgive from your heart.<br /> 4. Return to the Shepherd and Bishop of your soul if you are wandering in sin (Jerm. 3:22 Return you backsliding children and I will heal). What joy will be had, like the shepherd who found his sheep, the woman who recovered her jewelry, or the father who welcomed his errant child: So joy will be made in heaven (Lk. 15).<br />IV. Receive<br />A. Jesus to helps us discover the way to heaven, by his willingness to receive all who come.<br /> 1. On earth he was known as the friend of the tax man and the sinner (Mk. 2:15).<br /> 2. His primary mission was to the lost house of Israel, but other sheep he had in mind (Jn. 10:16).<br /> 3. Though he will receive anyone, they must be willing to repent and follow (Jn. 15:14). You may come just as you are, but don’t remain just as you were (Mt. 16:24ff).<br />B. My fellow soldiers of Christ, we too must receive some things in discovering the way to heaven.<br /> 1. Receive the teachings and admonition of Christ.<br /> a. To argue with a stop sign does not change its meaning. People want ‘Jesus in their heart’ with no rules or expectations. Jesus did not come to make men religious, he came to make them religiously correct. Some worshipped idols, others, who knew the truth only put on a show.<br /> b. Cain substituted, Pharaoh hardened his heart, Korah rebelled, Jehoiakim cut it up, Pharisees doctored it up, Alexander and Hymaneaus made shipwreck of them.<br /> 2. Receive the teaching of his apostles and ministers.<br /> a. That which is written in black and white is just as binding as that written in red.<br /> b. To maintain purity of doctrine we must remind men to preach the same things everywhere in every church (1 Cor. 4:17; 1 Cor. 1:10ff).<br /> 3. To discover the way to heaven we must receive forgiveness the Bible way not by traditions of men.<br /> a. Salvation is not by dreams, visions or near death experiences. Salvation is not by just living a good moral life, but by hearing and obeying the word of God (Rom. 10:17; Lk. 13:3, 5; Acts 8:37; 22:16).<br />V. Reunion (go, ready, return, receive, reunion)<br />A. “Where I am, there you will be also,” places us INSIDE the Beautiful Gate!<br /> 1. Heavenly scenes, as revealed by John, puts ‘God in our mist’ (Rev.21:3).<br /> 2. Today, Christ Jesus may dwell in our hearts by faith (Eph. 3:17), but there we will be able to sit down with him face to face (Rev. 3:21).<br />B. As dear children of God, we must believe in this great reunion.<br /> 1. If we don’t we might loose our first love (Rev. 2:4).<br /> 2. If we don’t we might become factious (1 Cor. 6).<br /> 3. The resurrection of Jesus should place desire in the heart of man.<br /> a. We desire to be with the one we love here on earth. This is my greatest joy during the holidays.<br /> b. If we desire to be with loved ones, should we not desire to be with Jesus! It is he who saved us and intercedes for us.<br /> c. When we get to heaven who is the first person we should seek out? And though we may long to see those who have passed on before us, let us be noble enough to desire to see Jesus and worship him throughout all eternity!<br /> 4. Discover the way to heaven by anticipating that great reunion between you and your God!<br /><br />CONCLUSION:<br />A. Troubles: Someone wrote, “If you could kick the person responsible for most of your troubles in the backside, you wouldn't be able to sit down for two weeks.”<br />Bits and Pieces, December 1990.<br /> 1. Sure we are troubled and will have many more troubles but let not your heart be troubled because:<br />B Jesus has shown us the way to heaven:<br /> 1. He would go through life with purpose - to prepare a body for a perfect sacrifice and a place where he could intercede for you and me.<br /> 2. He readied us to enter those mansions fair by giving the apostles the instructions they needed and by dying on the cross.<br /> 3. He promised to return with a purpose - judge.<br /> 4. He will receive all who choose to repent and follow.<br /> 5. Because he has this strong desire to be host to you in the great reunion feast.<br />C. Will we not discover the way to heaven?<br /> 1. Will we not go to the scriptures for truth then go to the water and church?<br /> 2. Will we not ready ourselves to service?<br /> 3. Will we not return to our tasks we have left behind, our brother who has offended, the Shepherd and Bishop of our soul?<br /> 4. We can discover heaven if we will receive his teaching, his apostles instructions, and their plan of salvation.<br /> 5. Is it your desire to be reunited with God? Love and live for him daily.roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1140403066116823552006-02-19T21:36:00.000-05:002006-02-19T21:37:46.133-05:00As I Love YouIts nice and crisp this morning - 28 degrees. We have had some snow on<br />the mountains. Mt. Leconte received 8 inches last week. They are hinting<br />snow fluries in the valley this weekend. In this lesson I took a<br />different approach to the normal view of Jn. 13:34, 35 as I pondered on<br />the phrase "As I have loved you." I tried to imagine how Jesus<br />demonstrated his love for the twelve and tried to make application.<br />Prehaps you can come up with some better ideas but here they are. I have<br />given a brief outline then the full thoughts on the points I made following. Hope your Sunday will be a joy filled Son day. Kirk<br /><br />Quick outline:<br />I. Introduction<br />A. Christianity is based upon the principle of love.<br />B. We know the commands, we talk a good talk; but what a challenge it is to commit ourselves to these earth changing ideals<br />C. Today we will examine why we must love one another and note some ways Jesus demonstrated his love for his disciples and ways which we can mitate that.<br />II. There is a Great Need to Love One another.<br />A. How can Jesus command us to feel love?<br />B. We need to love one another because:<br />III. When we love one another as we ought....<br />A. We contribute to world peace.<br />B. We contribute to family peace (Eph. 5).<br />C. We are known in the community as being “peacemakers” (Matt. 5).<br />D. We are known as being children of God (1 Jn. 4:7), and God is known to be “love.”<br />IV. Jesus Taught, “Love as I have Loved You.”<br />A. The word “new” (Greek; neos) has two meanings.<br />B. The kind of Love Jesus want us to have is not about feelings, it’s about action.<br />C. So lets turn our attention to the way Jesus loved his disciples and make some applications.<br /> 1. He had a mobilizing love not a paralyzing one.<br /> 2. He had a kind of love which calms one during their crisis.<br /> 3. He had a providential love.<br /> 4. He had a love that took nothing from them except their time and heart.<br /> 5. He had a love that was sacrificial, giving spiritual gifts to men.<br /><br />Here are the details:<br /><br />As I Love You<br />Jn. 13:31-35<br />I. Introduction<br />A. Christianity is based upon the principle of love.<br /> 1. Love neighbor as self.<br /> 2. Lend without expecting return.<br /> 3. Help carry someone’s load not just one mile but two.<br /> 4. Pray for your enemy and do good to them.<br />B. We know the commands, we talk a good talk; but what a challenge it is to commit ourselves to these earth changing ideals.<br /> 1. Think of a food that makes you gag. You can’t force yourself to like it.......<br /> 2. But if your survival depended upon it - you’d eat it.<br /> 3. Jesus commanded us to love one another! A command is not a suggestion. A command is not a request. A command is an order! This is one of the positive commands of Jesus. Do it because he knows what’s best for us! Jesus commanded us to love one another!<br />C. Today we will examine why we must love one another and note some ways Jesus demonstrated his love for his disciples in which we can imitate toward one another.<br /><br />II. There is a Great Need to Love One another.<br />A. How can Jesus command us to feel love?<br /> 1. If I couldn’t even make myself like a reutabegar, how in the world can I make myself feel love for every person? Especially since there are a lot of people in the world who are not very likable, much less lovable. The world is filled with jerky, creepy, weird people! The world is filled with mean, ugly, hateful people! The world is filled with people with whom I disagree on many issues - from politics to theology to nose rings. There are a lot of people in the world who are not very likable, much less lovable. But Jesus told us to love one another. But Why?<br />B. We need to love one another because:<br /> 1. Satan has filled the world with abuse and hatred.<br /> a. Abuse of innocent children, women and those less capable of wise investments.<br /> b. Hatred by prejudice, nationality, race, religion, politics, power and greed.<br /> 2. If the world does not see kindness, compassion, hospitality in action it grows cold.<br /> 3. If the world does not see the children of God at peace, the world will be at war.<br />III. When we love one another as we ought....<br />A. We contribute to world peace.<br />B. We contribute to family peace (Eph. 5).<br />C. We are known in the community as being “peacemakers” (Matt. 5).<br />D. We are known as being children of God (1 Jn. 4:7), and God is known to be “love.”<br /><br />As we look at our text it tells us that.....<br /><br />IV. Jesus Taught, “Love as I have Loved You.”<br />A. The word “new” (Greek; neos) has two meanings.<br /> 1. One may use it in the context of something which is recent, off the assembly line, like a house which has just been built or the purchase of new clothes.<br /> 2. Another way new is expressed, is, “as in form or design.” That which is novel, distinct, like the new hybrid vehicles or fusion powered engines.<br /> 3. It is the latter which Jesus anticipates us to employ one toward another.<br /> 4. The love he describes is new in kind, in form or design.<br /> 5. Gary Chapman, in his book The Five Love Languages relates the results of studies of the “falling in love” phenomenon.<br /> a. The researchers set out to determine how long people maintain the intense “in love” feelings when they “fall in love.” Any guesses on how long? The researchers discovered that the “in love” feeling is intense for about two years. A slow trickle of adrenaline is released for about 30 months, then for some undetermined reason it automatically shuts off.<br />B. The kind of Love Jesus want us to have is not about feelings, it’s about action.<br /> 1. How many of you in your role as parents ever done things for your children that you didn’t really want to do? Diaper changing, eating at odd hours, chauffeuring, letting them date.<br /> 2. One of the greatest temptations on earth is to reduce godly love to human terms -- to talk love instead of living it. Love is something you do! It is duty in action. Words are cheap (unless you hire a lawyer) it's easy to talk love.<br /> 3. A comic strip depicted a young man declaring his undying love for his girl friend: "I love you with all my heart," he said, "I love you more than life itself; my love would move mountains and change the course of mighty rivers for you," he says fervently. To all this, in the second frame, his girlfriend replies, "Can you come over Saturday and help me clean the junk out of my garage?" In the final frame the guy looks up and says, "I hate people who take advantage."<br /> 4. The rule for us all is perfectly simple. Do not waste time bothering whether you "love" your neighbor; respond as if you do. As soon as we practice this, we learn one of the great secrets Jesus is trying to teach. When you are behaving as if you loved someone, you will presently come to love them.<br /> 5. If you injure someone you dislike, you will find yourself disliking him more. If you do him a good turn, you will find yourself disliking him less.<br />There is however one exception. If you do him a good turn, not to please God and obey the law of love, but to show him what a fine forgiving chap you are, and to put him in your debt, and then sit down to wait for his "gratitude," you will probably be disappointed....<br />C. So lets turn our attention to the way Jesus loved his disciples and make some applications.<br /> 1. He had a love which mobilized them (Jn. 6:5-10). The 12 saw the multitude as too much for them to handle. Jesus taught them that if they organized, they could handle much more than what they thought they could, providing they kept him in the mix of things.<br /> a. So we should have a love for one another which mobilizes not paralyzes. A love which is pro-active not reactive. A love that just doesn’t see the need but fills the need. It does the church little good to practice handing out goodies to the neighborhood without empowering them to become more than a beggar. (During this holiday season, you may have heard about the rewards program? You earn points by doing community service then you may select various gifts based upon the points you have earned). We want to mobilize people not paralyze them.<br /> 2. He had a love which calmed them (Mk. 4:36-41) - Peace be still. He could calm the forces which raged against them or strengthen their heart when forces opposed them (Acts 5:29).<br /> a. Too many times we are brutally cruel in our response to crisis others face. Everyone has a phobia. Some crisis are very real; “I lost my job.” Others appear less significant; “my boyfriend of two weeks broke up with me.” What may seem like a summer shower to us may to our brother seem like a tornado.<br /> b. A elderly Christian man and his wife were in a hurry one Sunday to meet family after services. They had only a short window of opportunity to see this family member due to the great distance they had to travel to see them. As he cross the church parking lot, a young boy, unaware of the urgency called out to godly man for some chit chat. Patiently the Christian man listened to the boy’s weekly highlights as if he was the only person in the world. If the couple had much time with their family that day, I do not know. But what that man did to that boy and others who knew what was going on has left a standing impression for generations to come. - Love is patient, is kind, is not self serving (1 Cor. 13). A crisis becomes greater if no man share in his conflict.<br /> 3. He had a provisional love (Mark 6:7-11). Jesus never lets his laborer go unrequited.<br /> a. Our provisional care extends to those who preach, the widows and orphans in need, and our fellow man who has fallen on hard times. This love lends, hoping nothing in return so we may be the children of the Highest (Lk. 6:35).<br /> 4. He had a saving love (Matt. 14:25-31). A few steps on faith, one step in doubt yet the compassionate Jesus spared his life. Why let a good man drown because of one false move?<br /> a. Herein lies a colossal challenge - to rescue the perishing time and time again. Like a starfish which as been washed ashore but is tossed back into the sea may be swept again tomorrow back onto the sand. How many times shall I forgive my brother? As many times as you can help him back into the sea.<br /> 5. He had a love which never took anything from them except their time and their heart (Matt. 19:27-29).<br /> a. You love your freedom? Pay taxes. You love to do your own thing? Prepare for the consequences. You love God? Expect blessings - not financial freedom but blessings. Loving one another as we ought means when the unexpected happens we should be Christian brethren who help replace the loss and discomfort; who heals and nurtures the wounded; who visit when imprisoned by despair. We should be people who owes no man but to love him more and more (Rom. 13:8).<br /> 6. Finally we see Jesus having a love which was sacrificial (Jn. 15:13). But not only did he lay his life down, he left gifts for us to be filled with all the fullness of Christ (Eph. 4:7, 8, 11-13).<br /> a. A man may die for his country simply because he believes in that‘cause’ for which he is fighting. Then a man may give his life in service to his fellow man because he wants what is best for others. Jesus wants us to have heaven. We will never earn it.<br />Likewise, we should love one another in helping them get to heaven because that is what we want for them. Share the love, and that is what you will get for yourself. When Jesus died he left gifts for men - What gift will you leave for your fellow man? How to be a good parent, how to face personal tragedy with unwavering faith, how to be patient with the needy, how to give liberally, how to save souls, how to .... you fill in the blank. Loving our brethren as Jesus love his disciples will help us fill in the blank.<br /><br />CONCLUSION:<br />A. A new commandment - love in action - not merely in words or emotions.<br />B. We need to love because this world becomes a very hostile place without it.<br />C. We want to love as Jesus love his disciples -<br /> a. Have a mobilizing love not a paralyzing one.<br /> b. Have a kind of love which calms one during their crisis.<br /> c. Have a love that provides for our brother’s need.<br /> d. Have a love that will not take nothing from another except their timeand heart.<br /> e. Have a love that is sacrificial, giving spiritual gifts to men.<br /> After I leave for worlds unknown - what will I leave behind?roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1140391993489032872006-02-19T18:32:00.000-05:002006-02-19T18:33:13.513-05:00Don't Loose HopeHere it is - make it a better one. Brrr.. its cold --- Yeah!<br /><br />Lk. 13:10-17 The text in Luke gives three reasons why there is hope for me.<br />I. Jesus Notices And Cares About My Pain. That’s why there’s hope for me.<br />II. Jesus Is Powerful Enough To Heal My Affliction. That’s why there’s hope for me.<br />III. Jesus Will Explain That Satan, Not God, Is The Cause of All Misery We Encounter. Therefore, I can hope in God. Truth be told, there are probably many here this hour dealing with unresolved hurt. Pain in their lives over something that is still lingering to this very day. Maybe it is the loss of a loved one. Perhaps a broken relationship. Possibly a failure in the workplace, or a moral indiscretion in your life, or simply letting someone down. It could be you’ve recently received some bad news. Whatever be the case, one thing is certain—unless hurts are dealt with, they will haunt you for the rest of your life. When we let the hurt linger, we open the door to resentment—resentment toward others, ourselves, even God. And often, instead of dealing with the hurt immediately, we have the tendency to hide it away, ignore it, and try to never deal with it. What is likely to happen is that we begin that process we begin that hour to live lives of regret, resentment, and remorse - spiritual collapse.<br /><br />The problem comes when we try and resolve hurts and disappointments in ways other than God intended. Some people try and resolve their pain in tangible things. Sometimes it’s alcohol, cigarettes, drugs. Sometimes it is in shopping—you know, go on a shopping binge. It could be that, it’s a cleaning binge. You know, you get so mad, you’ve just gotta clean something. Or maybe it’s a drive, or a golf outing, or all kinds of different things. (some of which are not wrong in and of themselves) But when you try and substitute your own method of resolving hurts, painful disappointments, you will never resolve them, only postpone them.<br /><br />Read Luke 13:10-17<br /><br />Bum Phillips, professional football coach once made the comment, "There are two types of coaches in the NFL: them that have been fired, and them that are gonna be fired." His statements applies to our topic today as well. There are two types of people in the world. Those who have been hurt, and those who will be hurt. We can’t escape it. Neither can we avoid it. At some time or another, we’ll all get damaged. When you make a commitment to follow Christ, you don’t receive an exemption from receiving demonic devilish damage. Source www.sermonnotes.com “Hope For Those Who Hurt” by Steve May.<br /><br />Even though all of us will experience hurts, sometimes very deep hurts, in life, we do not have to lose hope. And hope is a recurrent melody throughout the Bible. When Eve lost Able, hope of righteousness was revived in Seth. When the world became corrupt, hope for man was reestablished through Noah. When it appeared all humanity had fallen again into the clutches of paganism and idolatry, hope was found in the faith of Abraham and promises given to him which offered not only him hope, but the entire race of humankind until the end of the world. When Abraham’s descendants seemed to be forgotten in a foreign land, hope came about through a man called Moses, who reminded us that there was one coming after him who was greater than he. When it appeared that the cause of deliverance was lost, hope was manifested in the parting of the Red Sea. Even after the conquest of the land of Promise, and every man doing that which was right in his own eyes, God offered hope by protecting his future through Judges, kings and divine intervention. When his people faltered on their part of the divine contract, (you obey I’ll bless) the holy spirit offered hope, through the prophets, to those in captivity promising to return the faithful remnant to the land which was promised. And after 400 years of silence, hope was revived when they heard ‘a voice in the wilderness’ preaching, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his path straight.” After all the miracles, teachings, and divine activity, man betrayed and killed the Hope of glory. But you can’t kill divine hope. Hope ascended in no less than three days as a mighty angel rolled the stone away and the Son of God came forth to sit on the right hand of God where he intercedes for you and me this very hour giving us hope. Jesus offers hope to the hurting. May we all be encouraged this hour - regardless of our seemingly hopeless situation, God knows how to offer HOPE!<br /><br />The text in Luke gives three reasons why there is hope for me.<br />I. Jesus Notices And Cares About My Pain. That’s why there’s hope for me.<br />II. Jesus Is Powerful Enough To Heal My Affliction. That’s why there’s hope for me.<br />III. Jesus Will Explain That Satan, Not God, Is The Cause of All Misery We Encounter. Therefore, I can hope in God.<br /><br />Before I begin to explain and expound these three reasons as they are found in our Scripture text today, I want to briefly explain this woman’s condition. In verse 11 the Bible says that she was crippled, bent over and could not straighten up at all and that she had been this way for eighteen years.<br /><br />Medically, this disease is probably what physician’s today would call Marie-Strümpell Disease, a fusion of the spinal bones. Early in the course of the disease, sufferers often find that the pain is relieved somewhat when they lean forward. So they often go through the day leaning slightly forward, and gradually their spine begins to fuse. The more they lean, in order to relieve the pain, the greater the angle, until a patient might be bent almost double, as the lady in our story. Source: Healing the Woman with a Bent Back by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson www.jesuswalk.com<br /><br />What a terrible disease! Wreaking havoc on every aspect of her life: physically, emotionally, financially, spiritually, etc. Her hurts and bondage is symbolic of all of our hurts and needs. We are doubled over by our pain, disappointments, and grieved by our sins. The way Jesus responded to her dilemma is the way we can expect Him to respond to ours.<br /><br />There is hope for me because…<br /><br />I. Jesus Notices And Cares About My Pain. Verses 10-12 One of the first things I want you to observe in these verses is that Jesus was not indifferent to the hurt, pain and despair which this woman was experiencing. She did not go unnoticed by Jesus. He has an eye for the hurting. He noticed and called to her even though there is no record that she ever approached him. He reached out to her in the midst of her pain because He is aware and concerned with her hurts as well as all of our struggles.<br /><br />This was not a typical way to conduct the synagogue service! Jesus response to her was not socially expected or even accepted. Women in that culture were generally thought little of and usually ignored. Why then did Jesus take notice of her and make a point to respond to her need immediately and publicly? Is it not because Jesus notices and cares about people in pain! He has great compassion on those who are burdened, depressed, overwhelmed, and often ignored by people in general.<br /><br />Yes, Jesus cares for all people but those who were hurting always seemed to receive special attention and responses from Him. In New Testament times women, lepers, prostitutes, tax collectors, and widows were the most oppressed, ignored, hurting, and hopeless of people yet these are the very people to whom Jesus ministered most often and most powerfully. Why? It is just his nature: Jesus Notices And Cares for Hurting People.<br /><br />You do not ever need to think that Jesus is unaware of your situation or unmoved by your tears (Psa. 56:8). If he numbered every hair on my head he knows every tear which has fallen from my eye. Jesus is not indifferent to your pain. Some people have an erroneous idea that God does not take personal and emotional interest in us petty humans. This just isn’t the truth. Jesus expressed compassion for the hurting on numerous occasions and He is the perfect expression of God the Father. Through His life we know that God cares deeply for hurting people. You may not understand many things that you are going through or why your prayers appear to be unheard but you can be confident that God notices and cares about your pain. Even when Paul was in great distress he could offer hope to the troubled Corinthian church - 2 Cor. 1:3-4. God doesn’t just have compassion, He designed compassion. God doesn’t just comfort us; HE IS COMFORT.<br /><br />Since we have a Lord who notices the hurting and has compassion on the burdened, we have the responsibility to do the same! We should not be indifferent to the hurting or unresponsive to the sorrowful and troubled. Hurting people should not be an afterthought in our prayers or our daily lives rather they should be our first priority. Verses 14,15<br /><br />In these two verses we see that Jesus rebuked those who ignored people in despair. This religious leader was more focused on religious rules and maintaining the order of service than in ministering to hurting people. He had no joy, no praise, and no relief at this woman’s healing. Jesus was greatly angered by this uncaring, indifferent response. There is a message for us in this text. Jesus is saying, you can have your praise and worship, teachings, and communion and still be lost. Never forget that hurting people matter to God. Make sure you reach out to them. This religious leader basically said to this woman and to the crowd that now is not the time or the place for healing but to comeback at another time. What hypocrisy! She has been this way for eighteen years! You wouldn’t let your animal go without water one day because of religious tradition or scruples why should this "daughter of Abraham", an Israelite, wait another moment? Jesus expects hurting people to be the priority. Jesus cares for the hurting and He insists that we do so also.<br /><br />Illustration: Six young men were slated to compete against one another in Seattle, Washington. The event was the hundred-yard dash. The men lined up, waited for the starting gun and took off in a sprint. About halfway down the track the man in front stumbled and fell, skinning his hands and knees. The other five men stopped and helped him up. After they brushed him off they decided to finish the race together, holding hands. None of the judges could tell who won the blue ribbon; none of them could see through their tears. No one in the stands that day would ever forget this demonstration of compassion. As the race ended the crowd stood and cheered for 10 minutes. These young men were competing in the Special Olympics; and they showed that they cared more for a hurting friend than for winning a race. There is hope for you if you are hurting today because God does not leave you behind in the race of life. He is not indifferent to your pain and the brethren here are not indifferent to your anxieties and wish to help.<br /><br />II. Now let’s notice that Jesus Is Powerful Enough To Heal Hurting People. 12,13 That’s why I can have hope. Jesus’ compassion would be nice but of limited comfort and encouragement if that is all that He can offer us. If the only thing Jesus can do is sympathize with us then we are still hopeless. The good news is that Jesus is not only compassionate but He is also powerful! He can heal your hurts; He can lose your bondage’s, and He can change your situation.<br /><br />As we see in this story, there is no situation, no matter how bad that is too great for Jesus. This was the worst kind of medical condition. A medical condition that to this day does not have a cure. Yet this did not pose a problem for Jesus. She had also been in this situation a long, long time but again that was not a problem for Jesus. I want you to understand that nothing you are going through or ever will go through is beyond the power of Jesus Christ to heal and restore if you work with him on his terms.<br /><br />You may have suffered for many years as this woman did but you can still be hopeful. There is hope because there is Jesus. He set this woman free from her infirmity and He can set you free from yours also. Never ever give up hope! No matter what type of problem, hurt, or bondage you may be facing you can be hopeful because... Jesus Is Powerful Enough To Heal Hurting People.<br /><br />If you are physically sick - He can heal you. A man was dying from cancer. The preacher came to visit and asked him, “How are you today.” The man looked into the eyes of the preacher and said, “I’m almost well.” If your marriage is troubled - He can restore it. If your ministry is a mess - He can repair it. There is nothing beyond the power of Jesus Christ. I know some of you may have been hurting for a long time and you have lost hope. I know some of you no longer really expect Jesus to intervene in your situation or need. I need you to look at this story and renew your faith and expectations. Let your faith be strengthened by God’s word. Keep your hopes up because Jesus still heals the hurting. I’ve been to too many hospitals and came back rejoicing because Jesus heals. I rejoice everytime I hear about new procedures which can extend life. Don’t tell me that man is doing this on his own. Man can’t do anything without God permitting it to happen. Jesus is powerful, yea powerful beyond the abilities of man. And when I hear, “There is nothing we can do,” and a person rises from their bed whole, I again am caused to hope in God who can raise the living and the dead!<br /><br />Psalm 40:1-3 “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see in fear and put their trust in the Lord.”<br /><br />There are Christians today who no longer pray for healing because they have lost their faith and don’t think God can heal. There are Christians today whose marriages are failing yet they have no real expectation for Jesus to restore their marriage because they think it is too late. There are people who have quit serving in ministry out of discouragement because they think their situation is beyond God’s help. Our thinking needs to change if it is like this. We should never lose hope because… Jesus Is Powerful Enough To Heal Hurting People. I thus far have taught you, and you’ve been good listeners - that - Jesus Notices And Cares About My Pain. That’s why there’s hope for me. And, Jesus Is Powerful Enough To Heal My Affliction. That’s why there’s hope for me. Now let’s change gears and see that:<br /><br />III. Jesus Will Explain, Satan, Not God, Is The Cause of All Misery We Encounter. Therefore, I can hope in God. Verses 15,16<br /><br />People frequently ask: Why is God putting me through this? Why did God give me cancer? Why did God take my child? Why is God breaking apart my family? Why did it have to be me that got laid off. Many times people assume that God must be behind all of our hurting and that there must be some mysterious divine plan in all of this. How can we have hope if we believe that God is the cause of our hurting? You can’t!<br /><br />Fortunately there is hope for our hurting because Jesus explains that our discomfort is not God’s doing! He clearly says, “Satan (not God) has kept (this women) bound for eighteen long years.” (Vs. 16) In verse 11 Luke also explicitly notes that an evil spirit caused this woman’s physical infirmity.<br /><br />Freud has taught us to blame our parents for all the bad behavior we encounter. I guess this ideology has passed on to some Christians. It is wrong to blame Father God for all of the bad things in life. The Bible teaches us that Satan is the one who brought pain, suffering and sorrow into the world through sin. God created everything good!<br /><br />Look at the ministry of Jesus. Much of his ministry was spent healing and easing the suffering of people. Jesus looked upon death and diseases as intruders and aliens in God’s world.<br /><br />The next time something really bad happens to you, don’t be so sure to blame God for that. It might be worth asking “Could this be the work of Satan against me?” Source: STRUGGLING WITH SUFFERING by Mark A. Scott<br /><br />Having said that, I want to emphasize that in the majority of cases the Bible tells us that Satan is directly or indirectly the explanation for the troubles, pains, and hurts of this world. This is good news and reason for those who are hurting to have hope because it means that God is not against us rather He is for us. There is reason to hope because Jesus is greater than Satan. As John explains, “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world” 1 Jn. 4:4. There is hope for the hurting because… Jesus Explains That Satan, Not God, Is The Cause of Hurting People.<br /><br />It was a balmy October afternoon in 1982. Badger Stadium in Madison Wisconsin was packed. That day there were more than 60,000 die-hard University of Wisconsin football fans watching their team take on the Michigan State Spartans. It didn’t take long to determine who the better team was. Michigan State was moping up the field with the Badgers. But what seemed odd was that even as the score became increasingly lopsided, there were bursts of applause and shouts of joy from the Wisconsin fans. How could they cheer when their team was getting trounced so decisively? It turns out that 70 miles away the Milwaukee Brewers were beating the St. Louis Cardinals in game 3 of the 1982 World Series. Many of the fans in the stands were listening to portable radios and responding to what was going on in another game, in another sport, in another place.<br /><br />There is something to be said for being plugged into what is going on elsewhere. Sometimes, the things that are going on where you are have become extremely difficult. It may do us well, that during these stressful moments we get plugged into what is going on elsewhere. No matter how difficult or even desperate our situation seems, Paul says we can face it with hope. (Read 1 Cor. 15:14-19)<br />1. Our hope keeps us from settling for the things of this world. Isn’t it strange, that the only thing said about Methuselah is that he lived to be 969 years old. If all we want to do is live with out living for God we have no hope.<br />TIM BOND: A philosopher of earlier in this century, Bertrand Russell was an outspoken atheist. He even wrote a book called Why I Am Not A Christian. When Russell was 81 years old, he was interviewed on a British Broadcasting Corporation radio talk show. The interviewer asked him what he had to hang onto when death was obviously so close. Russell responded, "I have nothing to hang onto but grim, unyielding despair." What an honest yet hopeless response. You see, when you live only for this life, when you invest your life in the flesh, when you think that this is all there is, you can’t help but live in despair. We must be tuned in elsewhere during our pain and misery.<br />2. This kind of hope turns our eyes away from our pain to God’s glory. I have taught us that Jesus Notices And Cares for Hurting People, that he is powerful enough to heal our hurt and that Satan is the cause of all pain, sorrow and misery in this world. What we must do now is “tune in elsewhere” during our painful moments. We must strive to find a way to give God glory in the mist of our misery. Job did - Paul did - Jesus did - we can too.<br /><br />A little girl had to pass every day by a cemetery to go home. When asked if she was afraid, she said, “No, my home is just on the other side.” Jesus cares when we hurt, we must care for those who hurt. Jesus is powerful enough to heal us when we hurt. We must believe and live like he can. So let’s not settle for the things this world has to offer, let us be tuned in elsewhere so when we do hurt we can find a way to turn our eyes away from our pain to God’s glory and the glory God has prepared for the Christian.<br />Are you a Christian?...roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1140391074857774172006-02-19T18:10:00.000-05:002006-02-19T18:17:54.880-05:00Selling Jesus Out - Betrayed!Today we will consider these points of interest about Judas:<br /> 1. Did Judas have a choice?<br /> 2. How did Judas get to the point of selling him out?<br /> 3. The result of selling Jesus out.<br /> 4. Jesus will never sell you out.<br />The colors of fall has been great. Too bad they don't hang around very long. Hope your work is progressing nicely. All is well in Ktown. Here is a story you may want to relay to young people who are moving out on their own. A girl (18) rents with several others and invited a minor over night. While sleeping, two of the minors had sex. The girl (16) goes home and claims that the other guest (11) raped her. This situation could be messy if they pursue a facilitation case on the 18 year old renter. Take care - Kirk<br /><br />Selling Jesus Out - Betrayed!<br />Jn. 13:18-30<br />I. Introduction<br />A. Bible prophecies, regardless how splendid or how disturbing they may be, are always true<br />1. Whether they discuss the glory of the coming Messiah, his peaceable kingdom and the dawning of a new age or whether they describe the destruction of a nation, the judgment of God coming upon a people or even the death of the only Son of God - because it is inspired, God breathed, it WILL come to pass.<br />2. Bible prophecies point us to the reality that the Messiah would be ‘sold out’ by a familiar friend (Psa. 41:9; Matt. 26:47-50). It not only told us that he would be ‘sold out’ but for what price would be paid for doing this dastardly deed (Zech. 11:12, 13; Matt. 26:14-16). Do you want to receive a faith lift? Then do not let your fingers do the walking through the pages of the Koran; pages of Carl Sagan (atheist); pages of Shirley McClain (New Age); the pages of astrology; some self help guru or some prayer book. If you want your faith lifted as high as the heavens and become as strong as the currents in the sea, one can always go study Bible prophecies and return enlightened, encouraged and strengthened in the inner man.<br />B. Today we will consider these points of interest about Judas:<br />1. Did Judas have a choice?<br />2. How did Judas get to the point of selling him out?<br />3. The result of selling Jesus out.<br />4. Jesus will never sell you out.<br />II. Did Judas have a Choice in the matter?<br />A. The concept of predestination infers that Judas could no more do righteousness than a dummy could talk. This doctrine implies that the God who created us has predestined every move every word, every action of a person before they were even born. So if you wanted to be saved, you could not be, and, if you wanted to be lost and God wanted you saved, you could not resist. The Bible tells me I have a choice - (Josh. 24:15); That I must search (Phil. 2:12); That I can choose to harden my heart (Heb. 3:12ff)<br />B. Did Judas have a choice? Yes, as much as you and I do today. Richard Pfiel wrote, “Can we know something will occur, can we even predict it to happen, without our causing it? And the answer is yes. We do it all the time. For instance, advertising. The reason why companies will shell out $1 to $2 million for a 30 to 60 second spot during the Superbowl is because they know with absolute certainty sales will go up 12 to 15 percent. When they flash a picture of a Coke can at a ball game, they know that 15 seconds after the flash of the picture, 2000 people will get up in the stadium and go get a Coke. It is predictable, but did anyone cause those 2000 people to get up, to open their wallets and buy the Coke? No. It was predictable. It was predicted by 50% of the people that Tennessee would lose to Notre Dame. Now you might have predicted it. They might have let you down, again, but did you in predicting it, cause the loss? The Fraternal Order of Police will tell you before every holiday, a certain number of people will loose their life. Many will, but did the police cause it to happen? Absolutely not. Insurance companies know exactly how many people per 10,000 will die in any age group. And what happens every year? The same number of people die in each age group. It is predictable, it occurs, but did the insurance companies cause it? Many times I look at human behavior and predict possible outcomes and many times they happen. Did I cause that marriage to survive or be destroyed? Did I help that<br />child become evil or person hate the church. No. If we, as human beings can predict these things by our finite wisdom, how much more can an all-wise God who knows us and observes all of life, be able to observe something, predict it, have it occur and he never caused it? Though the scripture foretold the betrayal of Christ, it never mentioned the person by name. Though Christ selected the 12 he knew that any one of them possessed the potential to betray him because scripture cannot be broken, prophecies which are of God cannot fail. Each apostle made the choice to serve or deny on their own. Judas freely chose to sell out the Christ.<br />III. Since such be the case, How then did Judas to get to the point of selling Jesus out? He did not get there because a lack of opportunity to know and do better. He sat in the presence of Jesus, he heard the same voice the other 11 heard every day, he watched the same miracles, saw the perfect lifestyle Jesus lived. So what made his heart grow cold? James May:<br />A. First, We will notice he had not left the desires of this world behind like all the other disciples (Matt. 6:33 seek first; 16:24ff deny self). Greed was a motivation in his life and it is really spelled in John 12:6 when Mary anointed the feet of Jesus. Because he had such a love for money and the things that it could buy it became the root of evil in him. If money is one of the things that led Judas to sell his savior out, then it would tell us that money has the ability to cause us to sell out our savior as well. Its amazing what people will to do for money. People are willing to eat worms for money. In fact, there is a book written called Are You Normal About Money? What surprised the author is the length to which people go for money: 21% will wolf down a worm for $300, 59% would shave their heads for $10,000, and 60% will commit adultery for $1,000,000. How many saints of God has gone after the American dream and have become spiritually bankrupt. Remember the seed which fell among the thorns (Lk. 8:14)? What is a man profited if he gains the whole world.... Judas followed Jesus for what he could get out of him. He had not left the desires of the world. That’s one reason that led him in selling him out. What of you? Me?<br />B. Secondly he could sell Jesus out because, he committed Jesus to his life but he never committed his life to Jesus, and there is a difference. One you want Jesus to serve you, the other you want to serve Jesus. A lot of people commit Jesus to their life, meaning they are willing to follow Jesus as long as it improves their lives, fits in with their values, fits in with their morals, fits in with their social views, fits in with their political views but, if Jesus has a claim on these things, it is surprising how many people opt out. Have you committed Jesus to your life or have you committed your life to Jesus? Because when you give your life to Jesus, what you are saying is that Lord, I am tired of leading my life, in fact I have led it and it is not working. I want you to take leadership of my life and I want to learn. Teach me what I should believe, how I should live, what the values and purpose of my life are. Lord, spill that into my life and I accept it. Whatever you say, I accept it. I accept it as your disciple. Judas could sell out Jesus because he had not committed his life to Jesus. It is the same for you and me today. Psa. 37:5 “Commit thy way unto the Lord and he will bring it to pass.”<br />C. Third, Judas could sell Jesus out because his thoughts were not on Jesus nor on the work which he called them to do. Judas knew all the right moves, the right words, the right way to smile, the right way to pray, the right way to dress – in short, he had all the appearances on the outside of being a great man of faith, but his heart was far from him. Sacrifice is good for others not me. Taking care of the burdened is a good work of the church but don’t ask me to get involved. Going into all the world to preach is fine for missionaries but don’t expect me to get religiously involved with my coworker or neighbor. Are our thoughts his and his work mine? If not, before we know it, we could sell out Jesus too.<br />D. Finally, Judas got to the point of selling Jesus out because he made the same mistake that so many of us make right now. He forgot that Jesus is God and that God knows all things, eve the very thoughts of your mind and the intent of your heart (Heb. 4:12). He knows your motive for doing whatever you do. He knows your selfishness. He knows your fears. He knows your doubts. He knows what you love and what you hate. He knows how this sermon will affect you. Kevin Smith: One meaning of betrayal is "To be false or disloyal to".. Or in modern day terms, "To front or stunt." Judas was disloyal to Jesus! He had to be frontin’ and stuntin’ the whole time. He was putting on a facade (like veneering on furniture) to get close to Jesus! Some people think they can get away with their frontin’ & stuntin’ before other members. Whether the elder or other spiritually minded Christians can see through your acts, God sees and don’t you forget it. We know that God looks not on outward appearances (1 Sam.16:7). When we forget that God is God and think we can outsmart, even fool the divine being, we too are on the road to selling out his son.<br />III. Now briefly, lets notice the result of selling Jesus out.<br />A. Matthew 27:3-5, One who sells Jesus out, will feel guilty v. 3. Judas attempted to relieve his conscience by returning the money. Its like words you speak in anger, once spoken, you can never take them back. Its like hurting the one you love, once you do, you can never relieve their anguish. If we will observe, Judas tried to free his guilty conscience on his own terms. He was in no position to bargain. He was merely a pawn the Jews used to get what they wanted. Listen young folk, some people are users. They’ll seduce you by fair words and pretenses just to get you cuss, to smoke dope, sleep with them. So you do. Then you go to church Sunday feeling all dirty because you’ve broken your promise to yourself and to your God. We all feel burdened when we sin. Big or little it matters not, sin is sin. Satan wants us to sell out Jesus on his terms of morality. When we do, we feel guilty. We can’t get rid of the guilt on our terms.<br />B. Judas, when he saw that Jesus was condemned, was filled with, remorse. Remorse is a powerful thing, when you’ve been had by Satan. It can change you or break you. Simon the sorcerer was remorseful that he attempted to purchase the gift of the holy spirit and asked for forgiveness and prayer (Acts 8). Judas went and hung himself. Sometimes we do not realize the full consequences of our actions. A night of lust can turn into a life of burden (ask King David if I’m right on this); zealous positions we take, religious or politically may determine how far I may go in life or at least how people relate to me for the rest of my life. Anxiety about how the world looks at us may make a man destroy much good. Could have Judas repented? Yes. But how could he face those whom he betrayed? It was more than he could bear. So it is with some sins we toy with. For some, they have caused so much harm to the church their pride will never permit them to return. Paul teaches us to walk worthy of the vocation we have been called to practice (Eph. 4:1). Be warned, remorse never saved Judas, it only destroyed him. Live a life so remorse will not eat you up! Learn to ask God for forgiveness. It doesn’t matter if anyone else forgives you God can. If your heart is right, and actions pure, God will.<br />C. Acts 1:18-19 tells us that those who sell our Jesus, God will cause them to desecrate themselves. For Judas, his body decomposed openly. Scriptures told us who buried Jesus, but it never mentioned who buried Judas. Point is, God will not permit one who sells out his Son for their own pleasure in this life to get any glory. Yes, they sing the glory of Charles Darwin. They giggle over the likes of Heidi Flice. They applaud those who have decided to ‘come out.’ They give awards to those who push the ‘entertainment envelope.’ But there will come a day when all will know that God despises those who sell out his son. Who betray him with teaching of vulgarity, lifestyles of hypocrisy, and religion of permissiveness (Rev. 21:8) and he will appoint them to an eternity of desecration and destruction.<br />IV. But we must close on a positive note, Though man may sell out Jesus, Jesus will never sell us out.<br />A. Lam. 3:21-23<br />B. How many years had he waited for his people to repent. How many warnings did he give before he brought calamity upon them? The word ‘mercy’ occurs 282 times in the NKJV. This should tell us something about the patience of God. Satan troubles us on every side. He is constantly trying to get the Christian to ‘sell out’ their savior, to go their own way, to abandon the faith. Sometimes we stumble, sometimes we have a major breakdown. Thanks be to God who tells us that Jesus is always seeking his child as a Shepherd who loves his sheep which went astray.<br />CONCLUSION:<br />John Stott says this: When the choice is seen for what it is, a choice between the creator and creature, between the glorious personal God and the miserable thing called money, between worship and idolatry, it seems inconceivable that anyone could make the wrong choice, and yet it happens over and over again and it happened in Judas’ own life. What is sad about Judas’ life is that he had such potential of being a dynamic man of God, but he chose not to because he gave Jesus his life and not his life to Jesus and, as a result, the pursuit of happiness took a greater part of his life and it robbed him of his soul. Remember what we said about predictions. Just because we predict something has the potential to happen, it does not mean that we made it happen. I predict that one of us will sell out Christ soon. It may not be today or tomorrow for I don’t know the time or the circumstances that will cause us to do such to Jesus. But I am convinced that most definitely before this week is over, someone will fall right into the devil’s hands, make a deal with the devil, and sell out the Christ. How do we sell him out? Just like Judas did, by not leaving the desires of the world behind, by permitting Jesus to be committed to us, but never committed to him; by not letting his thoughts be on Christ or his purpose in our life; and by frontin’ and stuntin’ our way through religion. In a nutshell, I think we might sum it up by saying that Judas moved a little father away from Christ every day he lived. Don’t let this happen to you! Judas tried to buy back the relationship that he once had with Jesus but once he completely sold out to Satan there was no turning back for him. Judas died in that state of betrayal! May it never be named once among us. Please, if this message has placed a burden upon your heart turn back to Jesus in repentance before it’s too late. The closing verse of our text says, “and it was dark.” Right now would be a great time to recall the story of the prodigal son. He sold out completely to the world, but he came to his senses. May that story, as told by Jesus, motivate us to realize we have such a loving and forgiving God that all who have sold out his son can return and find rest for a weary conscience.roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1140386903185753402006-02-19T17:07:00.000-05:002006-02-19T17:21:35.170-05:00The Un-pearched "I Am"This lesson details some feet which Jesus washed and how we are capable<br />to do the same and in the mean time creating some "Upper room<br />experiences."<br /><br />The Un-preached “I Am”<br />Jn. 13:1-17<br />I. Introduction<br />A. In the Gospel of John, one can easily find seven “I Am” statements regarding the character of Christ. We are familiar with: “I Am - the bread of life; the light of the world; the door of the sheep; the good Shepherd; the resurrection and the life; the way, truth and the life; and the true vine.”<br />B. But here in John 13 one will discover an often overlooked “I Am” statement. I will keep you in suspense for a while. But for now...as we have come to look at the last days of Jesus we find him in the upper room desiring to eat the Passover meal with his disciples.<br />C. The Passover was the earliest and most important religious festivals in all Jewish history.<br />It commemorated the night in which they were delivered by God from Egyptian captivity.<br /><script><!-- D(["mb","(fermented) were to be set outside the house all that week (Exod 12:15).<br />So, when Jesus took bread and fruit of the vine as recorded in Matt.<br />26:26ff (to initiate his own supper in remembrance of his death and<br />resurrection) the elements were not regular loaf bread or wine. In time,<br />this festival grew into fifty days of celebration, (seven Sabbaths plus<br />one day) with the final day of observance called “Pentecost” (Acts 2:1).<br />It always fell on the first day of their week, the day following the<br />Sabbath.<br />D. We find Jesus and his disciples having secured a place to eat the<br />Passover.<br />Reclining at the table, already having eaten a meal (which was not the<br />passover proper for Jesus was in the tomb the day Passover was to be<br />eaten), Jesus gets up and performs a service for his disciples which none<br />of them will ever forget - he washes their feet. After doing so he asks<br />them why they thought he would do such a menial task as washing feet? His<br />answer is so simple, a little child could understand - I do it because I<br />am your Lord and Master. If I can, you can also.<br />E. So here we have the great unnoticed “I Am” statement as found in John<br />13:13 “I am your Lord and Master.” By him being our Lord and Master it<br />should help us to wash one another’s feet.<br /><br />II. Those who have not made Jesus Lord and Master are incapable of<br />washing feet:<br />A. Arrogant, prejudiced, boastful Such were the unbelieving Jews, the<br />Diothrophes who lusted after control in the church.<br />B. Rich, worldly, self-centered. Such as the one who was unkind to<br />Lazarus and those James spoke of in chapter 2 of his book.<br />C. The careless, lazy, procrastinators are guilty also. These are granted<br />the title of being “worse than an infidel.” If you don’t take care of<br />your personal family, how much worse is it to be accused of not taking<br />",1] ); //--></script>Each household was required to kill a lamb and sprinkle its blood above and around the door frame. By so doing, the angel of death, which God sent forth upon the Egyptians for Pharaoh’s rebellion, would pass over their home sparing the life of the first born son (Exod. 12). The Jews were to honor this day on the fourteenth day of Nissan. They used the lunar calendar, which contains 14 months. This is why “Easter” comes at varying times of the spring for us. The food they were to eat were the roasted lamb that was slain and bitter herbs. The first time they ate of it they were to eat standing with their sandals on and prepared to leave. The following times, as they eat of the meal, they were instructed to tell the story to their children reminding them of God’s deliverance. It was a memorial feast. Since it was observed on a high Sabbath, all things which were leaven (fermented) were to be set outside the house all that week (Exod 12:15).<br />So, when Jesus took bread and fruit of the vine as recorded in Matt. 26:26ff (to initiate his own supper in remembrance of his death and resurrection) the elements were not regular loaf bread or wine. In time, this festival grew into fifty days of celebration, (seven Sabbaths plus one day) with the final day of observance called “Pentecost” (Acts 2:1).<br />It always fell on the first day of their week, the day following the Sabbath.<br />D. We find Jesus and his disciples having secured a place to eat the Passover.<br />Reclining at the table, already having eaten a meal (which was not the passover proper for Jesus was in the tomb the day Passover was to be eaten), Jesus gets up and performs a service for his disciples which none of them will ever forget - he washes their feet. After doing so he asks<br />them why they thought he would do such a menial task as washing feet? His answer is so simple, a little child could understand - I do it because I am your Lord and Master. If I can, you can also.<br />E. So here we have the great unnoticed “I Am” statement as found in John 13:13 “I am your Lord and Master.” By him being our Lord and Master it should help us to wash one another’s feet.<br /><br />II. Those who have not made Jesus Lord and Master are incapable of washing feet:<br />A. Arrogant, prejudiced, boastful Such were the unbelieving Jews, the Diothrophes who lusted after control in the church.<br />B. Rich, worldly, self-centered. Such as the one who was unkind toLazarus and those James spoke of in chapter 2 of his book.<br /><script><!-- D(["mb","care of your church family?<br />III. Getting our “Want to” fixed.<br />A. We all agree that the aged, sick, homeless need their feet washed<br />(ministered to). But I am not sure that this is the meaning Jesus wants<br />us to get out of his illustration.<br />See the disciples needed to get their “want to” fixed.<br />B. Just days earlier the mother of James and John had asked Jesus if<br />their sons could take over after he left (Matt. 20:21ff) The other ten<br />were enraged over this, “going over their heads” fiasco. So here they<br />were, reclined around the table, and miffed at one another. (You ever ate<br />a meal when the family was at odds?) It was an all time low in their<br />life; the death of Jesus was eminent, and thinking they would be left<br />without a leader had made them start looking out for themselves. Jesus<br />needed to adjust their attitude. So he started with their feet.<br />C. As Jesus moved about that room, I’d like for us to consider what kind<br />of feet he washed.<br />Radicals - James & John. Men who were politically motivated. Men who<br />called down fire to consume unbelievers (Lk. 9:51ff).<br />Liberals - Levi. He threw Jesus a party and invited many sinners (Lk.<br />5:29ff).<br />Pure in heart - Nathaniel (Jn. 1:45ff).<br />Unpredictable - Peter who was impulsive, impetuous<br />Self serving - Judas<br />Doubters - Philip - When he found the boy with 5 loaves and 2 fish he<br />asked, “what is that among so many?” (Jn. 6:9)<br />Skeptical - Thomas - Unless I see the scars....<br />Unthoughtful - every one of them. Someone should have done the customary<br />thing to do (wash feet) when guest arrive.<br />Regardless who they were inside, Jesus showed them they could master<br />their emotions and feelings toward one another by remembering to WHOM<br />they belonged. He was their Lord and Master. When we start remembering to<br />whom we belong we will begin to wash one another’s feet regardless who we<br />",1] ); //--></script>C. The careless, lazy, procrastinators are guilty also. These are granted the title of being “worse than an infidel.” If you don’t take care of your personal family, how much worse is it to be accused of not taking care of your church family?<br />III. Getting our “Want to” fixed.<br />A. We all agree that the aged, sick, homeless need their feet washed (ministered to). But I am not sure that this is the meaning Jesus wants us to get out of his illustration.<br />See the disciples needed to get their “want to” fixed.<br />B. Just days earlier the mother of James and John had asked Jesus if their sons could take over after he left (Matt. 20:21ff) The other ten were enraged over this, “going over their heads” fiasco. So here they were, reclined around the table, and miffed at one another. (You ever ate<br />a meal when the family was at odds?) It was an all time low in their life; the death of Jesus was eminent, and thinking they would be left without a leader had made them start looking out for themselves. Jesus needed to adjust their attitude. So he started with their feet.<br />C. As Jesus moved about that room, I’d like for us to consider what kind of feet he washed.<br />Radicals - James & John. Men who were politically motivated. Men who called down fire to consume unbelievers (Lk. 9:51ff).<br />Liberals - Levi. He threw Jesus a party and invited many sinners (Lk. 5:29ff).<br />Pure in heart - Nathaniel (Jn. 1:45ff).<br />Unpredictable - Peter who was impulsive, impetuous<br />Self serving - Judas<br />Doubters - Philip - When he found the boy with 5 loaves and 2 fish he asked, “what is that among so many?” (Jn. 6:9)<br />Skeptical - Thomas - Unless I see the scars....<br />Unthoughtful - every one of them. Someone should have done the customary thing to do (wash feet) when guest arrive.<br /><script><!-- D(["mb","are.<br />“You call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. If I then,<br />your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; you also ought to wash one<br />another’s feet.”<br />IV. Our responsibility to wash each other’s feet.<br />A. Illustration: An old Wild West fort is about to be attacked. The wily<br />old general sends for his trusty Indian scout. "You must use all your<br />thirty years of skill in trying to estimate the sort of raiders we are up<br />against here."<br />The trusty Indian scout lies down and puts his ear to the ground. "Heap<br />large war party," he says, "maybe three hundred braves, four chiefs, two<br />on black stallions, two on white stallions. All have war paint. Many many<br />guns. Medicine man also with them."<br />"Good grief!" exclaims the general. "You can tell all of that just by<br />listening to the ground?"<br />"No," replies the Indian, "I can see under the gate."<br />Don’t you think it is time for some of us just to look under the gate?<br />I feel the message is clear. We in corporate America have a tendency to<br />committee something to death. A problem arises in our nation and a<br />committee is formed to address the need. All that money, all that<br />energy, all that time spent on figuring out how to go about solving the<br />problem and what happens - after the committee meets time and again,<br />nothing is done so another committee is formed to investigate why the<br />first committee did not accomplish its tasks. (That’s our tax dollars at<br />work folks.) But is it much different among God’s people?<br />We know about a need and so we do things which are sincere but really<br />doesn\'t help. A card is nice, what needs to be done is vacuuming. A<br />cheery face is good, what needs done is the gutters cleaned out. A phone<br />call is good, what needs done is moping, washing, cooking, mowing, leaf<br />raking, grocery shopping. We say, “But I don’t like them very much.”<br />",1] ); //--></script>Regardless who they were inside, Jesus showed them they could master their emotions and feelings toward one another by remembering to WHOM they belonged. He was their Lord and Master. When we start remembering to whom we belong we will begin to wash one another’s feet regardless who we are. “You call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. If I then,<br />your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; you also ought to wash one another’s feet.”<br /><br />IV. Our responsibility to wash each other’s feet.<br />A. Illustration: An old Wild West fort is about to be attacked. The wily old general sends for his trusty Indian scout. "You must use all your thirty years of skill in trying to estimate the sort of raiders we are up against here." The trusty Indian scout lies down and puts his ear to the ground. "Heap large war party," he says, "maybe three hundred braves, four chiefs, two on black stallions, two on <span id="st" name="st" class="st0">white</span> stallions. All have war paint. Many many guns. Medicine man also with them." "Good grief!" exclaims the general. "You can tell all of that just by listening to the ground?" "No," replies the Indian, "I can see under the gate." Don’t you think it is time for some of us just to look under the gate? I feel the message is clear. We in corporate America have a tendency to committee something to death. A problem arises in our nation and a committee is formed to address the need. All that money, all that energy, all that time spent on figuring out how to go about solving the problem and what happens - after the committee meets time and again, nothing is done so another committee is formed to investigate why the first committee did not accomplish its tasks. (That’s our tax dollars at work folks.) But is it much different among God’s people?<br />We know about a need and so we do things which are sincere but really doesn't help. A card is nice, what needs to be done is vacuuming. A cheery face is good, what needs done is the gutters cleaned out. A phone call is good, what needs done is moping, washing, cooking, mowing, leaf<br /><script><!-- D(["mb","We must get our “want to” fixed. If Jesus is our Lord and Master we can<br />and we will.<br />B. Who’s feet will we wash?<br />RADICAL - Pious religious church supporter who’s views are very straight<br />and narrow and sometimes caustic to our ears. If Jesus could wash the<br />feet of the “sons of thunder” (Mk. 3:17; Lk. 9:51-56) we too must humble<br />ourselves to do good for those whom we consider holding radical<br />positions. Remember it was John who became the “apostle of Love.”<br />LIBERAL - Since our Lord and Master sends forth rain on the just and<br />unjust, should we not as well do good for them who have yet spiritually<br />matured into a full grown man? It is unfortunate that some of the finest<br />people I know hold erroneous views about the unborn, cohabitation;<br />drinking, gambling, modesty and so on. But if Jesus is my Lord and<br />Master, them too I shall serve, “Till we all come to the unity of the<br />faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God to the measure of the<br />stature of the fullness of Christ” (Eph. 4:13).<br />PURE IN HEART - These are always the best to serve. They are always<br />appreciative, kind and most likely not to be critical of our labor. But<br />remember the Christian is not called to serve only the good but those who<br />we may consider ‘chief sinners’ (Gal. 6:2).<br />UNPREDICTABLE - Only one thing is predictable - most people are<br />unpredictable. Things change. Body chemistry changes with time. Hardships<br />of life can cause one to become calloused. Bad marriages turns the sweet<br />to bitter. Temptations and weakness causes man to stumble. To serve the<br />unpredictable means you have an unlimited measure of forgiveness. If the<br />cause of Christ was to go forth, the disciples needed to forgive one<br />another “seven times seventy” (Matt. 18:22). The bad attitudes they held<br />toward each other would destroy future growth of the church of Christ<br />(Rom. 16:16). If the church of our Lord and Master is to go forth we too<br />",1] ); //--></script>raking, grocery shopping. We say, “But I don’t like them very much.” We must get our “want to” fixed. If Jesus is our Lord and Master we can and we will.<br />B. Who’s feet will we wash?<br />RADICAL - Pious religious church supporter who’s views are very straight and narrow and sometimes caustic to our ears. If Jesus could wash the feet of the “sons of thunder” (Mk. 3:17; Lk. 9:51-56) we too must humble ourselves to do good for those whom we consider holding radical positions. Remember it was John who became the “apostle of Love.”<br />LIBERAL - Since our Lord and Master sends forth rain on the just and unjust, should we not as well do good for them who have yet spiritually matured into a full grown man? It is unfortunate that some of the finest people I know hold erroneous views about the unborn, cohabitation;<br />drinking, gambling, modesty and so on. But if Jesus is my Lord and Master, them too I shall serve, “Till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Eph. 4:13).<br />PURE IN HEART - These are always the best to serve. They are always appreciative, kind and most likely not to be critical of our labor. But remember the Christian is not called to serve only the good but those who we may consider ‘chief sinners’ (Gal. 6:2).<br /><script><!-- D(["mb","must practice true forgiveness.<br />SELF SERVING - Do Judas’ exist in the church today? You betcha! Some do<br />not even realize they are the modern Judas of our culture. They want<br />things their way in business meetings. They constantly complain about how<br />church work is done. They gripe about the leadership. They may not hold<br />the money bag but they don’t give as they have been prospered. Their<br />hands are arthritic when it comes to real church work. Their back is<br />degenerated when it comes to bearing one another’s burdens. Their lips<br />are paralyzed when it comes to evangelism. Their heart is hard when it<br />comes to love. For them, church is not about spiritual growth, rather,<br />“What does it have to offer me and my kids.” Now if our Lord and Master<br />washed the feet of Judas back then, I should count it an honor as well to<br />serve the unthankful. It is times like these that I am most Christlike<br />(Lk. 6:27-36).<br />DOUBTERS & SKEPTICAL - Have you ever had those ideas that just seemed to<br />be great. They would really get something accomplished for the church but<br />the doubters and the skeptical deflated your balloon. After blowing up so<br />many balloons, it gets kinda trite to attempt to breath life into<br />something which would rather be flat. Doubters and skeptical Christians<br />do make the church very unattractive. Christ did things which drew<br />attention to himself. He had to if the message of life were to be heard.<br />Grant it we are not in the partying business. The church is not about<br />building gymnasiums or providing a place for thrill seekers. Someone<br />said, “Find one thing to do and do it well and your church will grow.” If<br />it is ministry to the homeless or runaways do it well. If it is housing<br />the family of those in hospitals, do it well. If it is ministering to the<br />nursing home, do it well. If it is college campus ministry, do it well.<br />“Whatever you do, do with your might. Things done by halves, aren’t ever<br />",1] ); //--></script>UNPREDICTABLE - Only one thing is predictable - most people are unpredictable. Things change. Body chemistry changes with time. Hardships of life can cause one to become calloused. Bad marriages turns the sweet to bitter. Temptations and weakness causes man to stumble. To serve the unpredictable means you have an unlimited measure of forgiveness. If the cause of Christ was to go forth, the disciples needed to forgive one another “seven times seventy” (Matt. 18:22). The bad attitudes they held toward each other would destroy future growth of the church of Christ (Rom. 16:16). If the church of our Lord and Master is to go forth we too must practice true forgiveness.<br />SELF SERVING - Do Judas’ exist in the church today? You betcha! Some do not even realize they are the modern Judas of our culture. They want things their way in business meetings. They constantly complain about how church work is done. They gripe about the leadership. They may not hold the money bag but they don’t give as they have been prospered. Their<br />hands are arthritic when it comes to real church work. Their back is degenerated when it comes to bearing one another’s burdens. Their lips are paralyzed when it comes to evangelism. Their heart is hard when it comes to love. For them, church is not about spiritual growth, rather,<br />“What does it have to offer me and my kids.” Now if our Lord and Master washed the feet of Judas back then, I should count it an honor as well to serve the unthankful. It is times like these that I am most Christlike (Lk. 6:27-36).<br /><script><!-- D(["mb","done right.” What would our Lord and Master do to draw people into his<br />kingdom? We all can assume what he would NOT do - but what pray tell what<br />WOULD he do? (Phil. 4:8).<br />UNTHOUGHTFUL - It’s sad to see folk who know to meet a need and won’t,<br />but it is unspeakable to know Christians who don’t even see the need<br />when it is right before their eyes. We should be people who are capable<br />to recognize a need and communicate that need to someone if we aren’t<br />personally able to do anything about it. Some tasks I cannot do. This is<br />why inspiration called the church: the Body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:13ff) if<br />all were ears where would be the vision. If Jesus is Lord and Master of<br />our life we will take those off road adventures in thoughtfulness like he<br />did such as the widow at Nain, or the Blind man as he was fleeing a<br />stoning (Jn. 9). Someone called acts like these, “Random acts of<br />kindness.”<br />You can’t act this way if you are incapable of seeing the need,<br />unthoughtful.<br /><br />V. Creating “upper room” experiences.<br />A. As we think of this event in the upper room, we must struggle with<br />what was going on in the mind of the disciples. It was a difficult and<br />awkward situation for all of them (remember Peter’s reaction?).<br />Though I don’t know what was going on in each of their minds as Jesus<br />(whom they called Lord and Master) became their slave, but I am positive<br />that this event was replayed over and over in their minds as long as they<br />lived.<br />B. When we read this story we are challenged to create positive lifelong<br />memories between one another. What steps, what service, what actions do<br />we take in impressing upon our church family that we really care for one<br />another and we want to work together for the growth of Christ and his<br />church?<br />Perhaps we should be about creating some “Upper room experiences” to last<br />a life time in our children and each other’s life.<br />",1] ); //--></script>DOUBTERS & SKEPTICAL - Have you ever had those ideas that just seemed to be great. They would really get something accomplished for the church but the doubters and the skeptical deflated your balloon. After blowing up so many balloons, it gets kinda trite to attempt to breath life into something which would rather be flat. Doubters and skeptical Christians do make the church very unattractive. Christ did things which drew attention to himself. He had to if the message of life were to be heard. Grant it we are not in the partying business. The church is not about building gymnasiums or providing a place for thrill seekers. Someone said, “Find one thing to do and do it well and your church will grow.” If it is ministry to the homeless or runaways do it well. If it is housing the family of those in hospitals, do it well. If it is ministering to the nursing home, do it well. If it is college campus ministry, do it well. “Whatever you do, do with your might. Things done by halves, aren’t ever done right.” What would our Lord and Master do to draw people into his kingdom? We all can assume what he would NOT do - but what pray tell what WOULD he do? (Phil. 4:8).<br />UNTHOUGHTFUL - It’s sad to see folk who know to meet a need and won’t, but it isunspeakable to know Christians who don’t even see the need when it is right before their eyes. We should be people who are capable to recognize a need and communicate that need to someone if we aren’t personally able to do anything about it. Some tasks I cannot do. This is<br />why inspiration called the church: the Body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:13ff) if all were ears where would be the vision. If Jesus is Lord and Master of our life we will take those off road adventures in thoughtfulness like he did such as the widow at Nain, or the Blind man as he was fleeing a stoning (Jn. 9). Someone called acts like these, “Random acts of kindness.” You can’t act this way if you are incapable of seeing the need, unthoughtful.<br /><br />V. Creating “upper room” experiences.<br />A. As we think of this event in the upper room, we must struggle with what was going on in the mind of the disciples. It was a difficult and awkward situation for all of them (remember Peter’s reaction?). Though I don’t know what was going on in each of their minds as Jesus (whom they called Lord and Master) became their slave, but I am positive that this event was replayed over and over in their minds as long as they lived.<br />B. When we read this story we are challenged to create positive lifelong memories between one another. What steps, what service, what actions do we take in impressing upon our church family that we really care for one another and we want to work together for the growth of Christ and his church? Perhaps we should be about creating some “Upper room experiences” to last<br />a life time in our children and each other’s life.<br /><script><!-- D(["mb","<br />CONCLUSION:<br />Do you recall Jesus asking them in v. 12, “Do you know what I have done<br />to you?” It seems apparent that we must all take these words to heart in<br />a very personal manner.<br />Do you know what Jesus has done for you? - He being your Lord and Master<br />became your servant. He emptied himself of heaven’s glory and embraced<br />flesh like a man so he may know first hand what you struggle with. He<br />kept himself pure, undefiled so we may be made clean. You and I may go a<br />day, even a week without sinning, but he a lifetime - what a struggle<br />that must have been. He did it so when he was smitten, bruised, and<br />beaten we might be made whole. By the stripes upon his back we were<br />healed, by the cross we are saved.<br /><br />Now recall Jesus teaching on the judgment in Matthew 25. There he said,<br />“In as much as you did it unto the least of these, my brethren, you have<br />done it unto me.” The God of the Towel, asks us to become towel bearers,<br />feet washers, slaves one to another in the fear of the Lord. Regardless<br />who we are, what our attitudes may be, how radical, liberal, self-serving<br />our brother may be, let us get our “want to” fixed so we may make some<br />great “Upper room experiences” in the lives of one another. Truly you<br />desire to hear, “Well done thy good and faithful SERVANT.”<br />Have you made Jesus your Lord and Master?<br />Are you following his example?<br />Are we washing one another’s feet?<br />",0] ); //--></script><br />CONCLUSION:<br />Do you recall Jesus asking them in v. 12, “Do you know what I have done to you?” It seems apparent that we must all take these words to heart in a very personal manner. Do you know what Jesus has done for you? - He being your Lord and Master became your servant. He emptied himself of heaven’s glory and embraced flesh like a man so he may know first hand what you struggle with. He kept himself pure, undefiled so we may be made clean. You and I may go a day, even a week without sinning, but he a lifetime - what a struggle that must have been. He did it so when he was smitten, bruised, and beaten we might be made whole. By the stripes upon his back we werehealed, by the cross we are saved. Now recall Jesus teaching on the judgment in Matthew 25. There he said, “In as much as you did it unto the least of these, my brethren, you have done it unto me.” The God of the Towel, asks us to become towel bearers, feet washers, slaves one to another in the fear of the Lord. Regardless who we are, what our attitudes may be, how radical, liberal, self-serving our brother may be, let us get our “want to” fixed so we may make some great “Upper room experiences” in the lives of one another. Truly you desire to hear, “Well done thy good and faithful SERVANT.” Have you made Jesus your Lord and Master? Are you following his example? Are we washing one another’s feet?roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1130450771144144792005-10-27T18:03:00.000-04:002005-10-27T18:06:11.163-04:00What do you think?<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">What do you think, Evolution or Creation?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The majority of the “scientifically educated” community believes in theories such as the “Big Bang Theory” and “</span><st1:city><st1:place><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Darwin</span></st1:place></st1:City><span style="font-size: 16pt;">’s Theory on Evolution”. But what is a Theory?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">To Explain a Theory you first have to realize the pattern those ‘scientists’ have to go through before it becomes a Theory.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The first step is a simple thought, idea, or opinion about something.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The second step is called a thesis and a thesis is a proposition to be proved or advanced without proof.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The last and final step is a Theory which is defined as a plausible or scientifically acceptable general principle or body of principles offered to explain phenomena.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Did you notice that not one of these steps must involve truth? It doesn’t have to be true to be accepted as a Theory, but yet they enforce teaching the theories of evolution in school.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Now do you really want to teach someone something if you don’t know if it’s true?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Just because a group of people acclaim it to be fact does that mean its true? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">If so then we are all in a great deal of trouble because the world has already ended over a hundred times.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">So does it really matter what you think?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">It really matters what you know.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Do you know what really matters?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">In this life and the next?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">So how do you really know if something is true or not?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Some people think that the bible is made up, how can you prove them wrong?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Well truth is told, you can’t always tell someone that they are wrong, sometimes they just have to find that out for themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">But have you ever stopped to think about it?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">What if Heaven & Hell didn’t exist?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">What if God didn’t create the universe?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Well every time I ask myself if God didn’t create the universe then who did? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">And if there isn’t a Heaven or a Hell why would we be put on earth? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Why did he save Noah? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Why did he save the Jews? <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Why did he send his only son to die for our sins?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">The scriptures tell all, the scriptures say why God saved Noah in Genesis Chapter six, why he saved the Jews in Exodus Chapter three, and why he sent his only son to die for our sins in Romans Chapter three.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Still some say after reading the scriptures, that if they can’t touch it, see it, or taste it they don’t believe it.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">So here is what you do for them, take them out to eat to a sit down restaurant have them order their food, and when the waiter or waitress comes out with their food ask them.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Is there a chef?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">If they say yes, then ask them how they know, because they didn’t see them, they didn’t touch them and they defiantly didn’t taste them.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">And then they might say well I can just go in to the kitchen and see them.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Then say well you can do the same with God.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">First you have to know what to do and then you have to do it.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">It’s that simple.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">First you have to hear the word of God<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Then you have to believe the word of God<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Next you have to obey God’s will which is to repent of your sins and be baptized for the remission of your sins.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Then walk the Christian life and you will eventually see God.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Some might still say,<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">“Well I would have the chef come to me.” <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">“God won’t come to me.”<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Have you ever made a chef at a restaurant come out of the kitchen?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Would you really want to be responsible for no one else being served but your self?<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">I would strongly suggest that you don’t make the chef mad who is making your food.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Would you really want God to stop what he is doing and come down to talk to you so you could believe him?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">And what would it take for you to believe him?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">I don’t think most people would be for a simple, “Hello, I’m God.”<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">What does it take you to know God?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">What does it take you to believe God?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">What does it take for you to obey God?<o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1130450443275846422005-10-27T17:58:00.000-04:002005-10-27T18:11:19.583-04:00Humble yourself<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">In Matthew 19:21-</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">Jesus was not asking a lot from this individual, just like he doesn’t ask much of individuals today. However he asks that he humbled himself. This is one thing that individuals today still have a problem with.</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">However</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">In Matthew 19:23-24</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. “And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the <st1:place><st1:placetype>kingdom</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename>God</st1:placename></st1:place>.”</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">We all know that not all rich people rightfully inherited their riches. Greed is one thing that can make any person not enter the <st1:place><st1:placetype>kingdom</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename>God</st1:placename></st1:place>.</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">Matthew 19:25-26 </span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">When His disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord. Most would say that is easier said than done. However if you think about it. It all makes sense. You don’t have to be rich in order to be saved.</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">Now I am not a Mathematician, however I can understand a simple concept. That forever will always be greater than anything less than forever. We are not made to stay on earth forever. And we are not tempted forever. We only have to face these temptations and sins while we are on earth.</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana; color: rgb(255, 255, 102);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);font-size:130%;" >It is your decision whether or not you want to be saved. It is your decision if you want to humble yourself in the sight of the lord. But just remember that He who humbles himself self in the sight of the Lord will be forever praised. Jesus knew that it would not be an easy task to do. But with God all things are possible.</span> </p>roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9526432.post-1128862066635240892005-10-09T08:47:00.000-04:002005-10-09T08:52:45.066-04:00The Five Triumphal Entries of Jesus<p>Jn. 12:12-19<p>Thanks to:Bruce Gottesche, Jeremy James, & James Chandler in theirsermon ideas as found at <a href="http://sermoncentral.com/">Sermoncentral.com</a><p><br /><br />Introduction<br /><p>A. Our texts depicts a significant event in the life of Christ -Triumphal entry into Jerusalem.<br /><p>B. Do you know there are four other such significant processions in whichwe may refer to as Triumphal Entries of Jesus?<br />1. His entry into the world.<br />2. His entry into one’s heart.<br />3. His entry into our country, city or community.<br />4. His reentry to earth delivering the church back to God and destroyingthe wicked.<br />5. His final entry with the saints through the portals of heaven.<br /><p><br />C. For a few moments let us examine together the five ‘Triumphal’ entriesof Jesus.I. His triumphal entry into the world Lk. 2:8-14.<br />A. The announcement of Jesus’ birth must have been an awesome andfrightening event. 1. The night sky lights up, an angel appears, then a host of angelssings.<br />B. Satan is about to be conquered! A savior is born! Peace now reigns inthe hearts of men.<br />C. In this event we begin to understand the Greatness of God and of HisGrace Toward Us.<br />1. His love for the human family is far beyond our comprehension (Jn.3:16).<br />2. His wiliness to risk personal loss for his creatures gone astray(image placeholder)(Phi. 2:5ff) boggles our mind.<br />3. One can almost see the tears in Paul’s eyes as he writes...(1 Tim.1:15).<br />4. Without his entry into the world God would not be as great as heclaims to be, God would not be as gracious as his messengers claimed!What a wonderful day it was when Jesus entered the world!II. Now his second triumphal entry is personal in nature, ‘His entry intothe heart.’A. Without Jesus we are:<br />1. Eph. 2:12 foreigners, strangers, hopeless, godless, Christless,worldly - empty.<br />2. There is nothing good in us (Rom. 3:12). We have abused ourselveswith personal vanities - narcotics, sex, riches, power, beauty.<br />3. When we see God’s grace, in light of our sin, we understand the depthof our need. We will appreciate His mercy and grace in a way we have notappreciated it before.<br />4. Without Jesus I am walking in darkness, child of the devil, doomed tohell.B. But in Jesus, when he makes his triumphal march into my heart Ibecome:<br />1. 1 Cor. 6:11 cleansed, sanctified, justified, a new creation,redeemed, loved, saved.<br />2. I am given a new name - Christian; a new relationship -Son/daughter; a new family - church; a new purpose - glorify his name.<br /><p><br />Benjamin Reaves tells a story about a boy who’s mother died when he wasjust a child. His father, in trying to be both mom and dad, had planned apicnic. The boy had never been on a picnic, so they made their plans,fixed the lunch, and packed the car. Then it was time to go to bed, for(image placeholder)the picnic was the next day. He just couldn’t sleep. He tossed and heturned, but the excitement got to him. Finally, he got out of bed, raninto the room where his father had already fallen asleep, and shook him.His father woke up and saw his son. He said to him, "What are you doingup?" "What’s the matter?"The boy said, "I can’t sleep."The father asked, "Why can’t you sleep?"In answering the boy said, "Daddy, I’m excited about tomorrow."His father replied, "Well, Son, I’m sure you are, and it’s going to be agreat day, but it won’t be great if we don’t get some sleep. So why don’tyou just run down the hall, get back in bed, and get a good night’srest."So the boy trudged off down the hall to his room and got to bed. Beforelong, sleep came--to the father, that is. It wasn’t long thereafter thatthe little boy was back pushing and shoving his father, and his fatheropened his eyes. Harsh words almost blurted out until he saw theexpression on the boy’s face. The father asked, "What’s the matter now?"The boy said, "Daddy, I just want to thank you for tomorrow.""Living Expectantly" Preaching Today<br /><br />3. When you and I stop and think of where we were when the Father foundus, when we consider the means that He used to draw us to Himself, whenwe think about what life would have been like without Him, we can’t helpbut be moved to gratitude. And when we think about what is in store foreveryone who believes, when we think about the glory of standing in thecrowd in Heaven to praise our gracious Lord, when we think about that daywhen we will no longer hunger or thirst, when all dangers will beabolished, where the living water is our refreshment and all our tearsdried, when we think about that day when the Shepherd will lead us, we(image placeholder)too will find ourselves lifting the Palm Branches to sing Hosanna.I hope we find ourselves swept up in the wonder of anticipation of thatday and we too will say, "Father, I just want to thank you for tomorrow.”<br /><br />4. If you have not let Jesus march triumphantly into your heart andseized control of your life, you can do that today. His grace and mercyhas given you that opportunity this hour. Don’t let the moment passwithout acting upon what you know is the right thing to do.<br /><br />III. The third great triumphal entry of Jesus is when a country, city, ora community welcomes his presence. John 12.A. There were several groups waiting for Jesus in Jerusalem as is in ourcommunity.<br />1. The Critics- At Jerusalem it was the religious leaders. They hated Jesus. They saw him as a threat to their control. They wanted nothingmore than to kill him. It wasn’t that they just wanted him dead, theywanted him gone, forgotten.<br />a. Not much has changed. Our community is full of critics. They wanthim not just dead, but gone forgotten. Remove him from government,school, work place. Accept him as just a great teacher, not God in theflesh. He must not be realized as the only way to heaven. You see, He isa threat for them. Because of him they cannot teach evolution withoutcontention, gay activism without reprimand, pro-choice without conflict,open marriage without rebuttal as well as a host of freedoms the humanistworld advocates.<br />b. There are critics in the church espousing spiritualism instead ofholiness, attendance rather than service, tolerance rather than truth.<br />2. The Curious- They actually have some interest in Jesus. The whole(image placeholder)city was stirred and asked- Who is this man? They wanted miracles, theywanted freak shows. People will always gather to see a show.<br />a. Want a crowd, start a fire. Want a crowd- start protesting. It isn’tthat the crowd really cares about any cause, they just want to see ashow. They were the ones, who when Jesus called them to follow him, theyhad excuses- I have to bury my family member, I have to go take care ofsome business, I have married a wife.<br />B. But there are those in the crowd who we identify as ‘The concerned.’<br />1. When I read this story it causes me to think of parades. I canremember being a spectator at so many parades (in front of the TV).Thanksgiving Day parades were the best. Sure the floats were gorgeous andthe clowns funny. But all came to see only one man. My older brotherwould tell me “Look, look, here he comes”....then the TV would zoom inon the man - Santa Clause. Yes! Christmas couldn’t be far off now.<br />2. The ‘concerned’ lives for an audience of one.<br />3. While the crowds become fickle and shortly begin to cry “Crucify Him”the concerned stand their ground and promote his cause. They representthe faithful, the steadfast, the unmovable, those who abound. They laborand wait like the farmer for the early and latter rains. They keep theirlamps burning and extra oil in their backpack.<br />4. You see, we cannot live for the opinions of others. Opinions changelike the weather. Belief systems alter to appease the unstable, careless,unrighteous. Jesus is the same yesterday today, yea forever. Regardlesshow man wishes to interpret scripture, his doctrines never change. Thepurpose of the church hasn’t changed in 2000 years. The reason for(image placeholder)baptism has not altered since the beginning of the church. The manner ofChristian living has never been revised or updated to fit currentphilosophies.<br />5. The concerned does not live for the audience and opinions of others.We live for the audience of one. Jesus Christ.<br />6. Some loved Jesus, some hated Him, that didn’t change who he was. a. They wanted Jesus to be an earthy king and ruler. In fact earlier,crowds had tried to take him by force and make him their king. Otherswere convinced he was Satan in the flesh. Public opinion did not changehow Jesus lived, or who Jesus was. BECAUSE JESUS WAS LIVING FOR ANAUDIENCE OF ONE, his Father.<br />7. Some will love us, some will hate us, that doesn’t change who we are.It shouldn’t change how we live. If all the world goes crooked, don’tcrook with it. If we are living for an audience of one, then we canhandle criticism without it killing us. When we lay down to sleep atnight, it is not man’s opinion of us that matters, but God’s opinion.<br />8. Let Jesus march victoriously into our country, city or by keepingourselves unspotted from the world.IV. Now let us turn our attention to his triumphal reentry to earth Rev.19:11-21.A. For some this will be a glorious day, for others a heart stoppingevent.B. This is the day he gathers his elect and delivers them to the Father(1 Cor. 15:24-26).<br />1. On that day all kings shall relinquish rule, all superpowers willturn over their authority, even death, hell and the grave will ceasetheir horrible dominance over the world. Jesus will returned, and that to(image placeholder)judge. Let us be found watching least when he comes on the earth, hefinds no faith.V. His final victorious entry is when all the saints assemble and go withhim through the gates of heaven (Rev. 7: 9-17).A. This a picture of hope.<br />1. It gives us strength. It keeps us focused and will help us keepgoing.B. It is a picture of purpose. 1. It is tough to keep running is you don’t see a purpose. In fact, Ihave heard that one of the most devastating punishments in aconcentration camp is when the captors make their prisoners domeaningless labor. They might have them move a pile of rock from one spotto the next . . . and then back. It is labor without a purpose andeventually it eats away at a persons willingness to go on.<br />2. Life can be like that. We face obstacle after obstacle.We get through one operation and another is waiting.We pay off one debt and another makes its claim on our life.We get one child healthy and the other gets sickWe cross off one item from our "To Do" list and add three othersWe survive one crisis and another wave of trouble washes over us<br />3. I have always wondered why people run in marathons. Most know theyhave no chance of winning. During the race they encounter cramps, theybattle exhaustion, and at time dehydration. They spend months punishingthemselves and depriving themselves in preparation for this longexhausting journey. Why? I am told that it is because of the joy andsatisfaction that comes when you cross that finish line. It is not thewinning . . . .it is the surviving and conquering that brings joy.<br />4. So there is running the race that is set before us. It’s not just to(image placeholder)run to encourage others to run, it is to win the prize, the high callingof Christ Jesus - Heaven!<br />5. Yes! When we march through those gates with Jesus, we will be on theOther Side of Our Struggles!<br /><br />CONCLUSION<br /><br />1. I frequently forget that there is life beyond Matt. 25 - judgmentscene.<br /><br />2. Now I see a parade and I’m marching in it. I am following the one whomarched into this world with intent to save it, I permitted him to marchinto my heart taking control of my life. Now I am helping him march intoour community by the work I do for I know one day he will reenter theatmosphere at any given moment to assemble me and all the saints in ournew body so we may follow him right through the gate waving our palmbranches, crying “Hosanna, blessed is he that comes in the name of theLord!”<br /><br />3. Will you be in that procession? Will you be in that final triumphalmarch?<br /><br />4. Don’t follow the world and be handed a shovel and pick for the coalsof fire you will have to stoke for the Devil. Give your heart to Jesusand he will put a branch of peace in your hand, a robe of righteousnesson your back, a joyful spring in your step, and merry mirth in your song as you go through the pearly gates leaping and shouting for joy for theone who loved you and washed you in his blood.roothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04664603467253797947noreply@blogger.com