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We Have The Receipts
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1 Love Is Blind S8: Pods & Sober High Thoughts with Courtney Revolution & Meg 1:06:00
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Happy Valentine’s Day! You know what that means: We have a brand new season of Love Is Blind to devour. Courtney Revolution (The Circle) joins host Chris Burns to delight in all of the pod romances and love triangles. Plus, Meg joins the podcast to debrief the Madison-Mason-Meg love triangle. Leave us a voice message at www.speakpipe.com/WeHaveTheReceipts Text us at (929) 487-3621 DM Chris @FatCarrieBradshaw on Instagram Follow We Have The Receipts wherever you listen, so you never miss an episode. Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts.…
Stretch Out Your Hands To Heal Part - Audio
Manage episode 357579888 series 138179
Контент предоставлен Bakersfield First Assembly. Весь контент подкастов, включая эпизоды, графику и описания подкастов, загружается и предоставляется непосредственно компанией Bakersfield First Assembly или ее партнером по платформе подкастов. Если вы считаете, что кто-то использует вашу работу, защищенную авторским правом, без вашего разрешения, вы можете выполнить процедуру, описанную здесь https://ru.player.fm/legal.
Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal 1. God stretches out His hand to DELIVER. 2. God stretches out His hand in LOVE. 3. God stretches out His hand to GUIDE. 4. God stretches out His hand to SAVE. Isaiah 45:11-12 (NIV) – [11] “This is what the Lord says—the Holy One of Israel, and its Maker: Concerning things to come, do you question me about my children, or give me orders about the work of my hands? [12] It is I who made the earth and created mankind upon it. My own HANDS STRETCHED OUT the heavens; I marshaled their starry hosts. 5. God stretches out His hand to CREATE. Isaiah 64:8 (NIV) – [8] Yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Romans 9:20-21 (NIV) – [20] But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? “Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’” [21] Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use? Genesis 1:27 (NIV) – [27] So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Ezekiel 25:15-17 (NIV) – [15] “This is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘Because the Philistines acted in vengeance and took revenge with malice in their hearts, and with ancient hostility sought to destroy Judah, [16] therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am about to STRETCH OUT MY HAND against the Philistines, and I will cut off the Kerethites and destroy those remaining along the coast. [17] I will carry out great vengeance on them and punish them in my wrath. Then they will know that I am the Lord, when I take vengeance on them.’” 6. God stretches out His hand to AVENGE. Romans 12:19 (NIV) – [19] Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. Deuteronomy 11:1-2 (NIV) – [1] Love the LORD your God and keep his requirements, his decrees, his laws and his commands always. [2] Remember today that your children were not the ones who saw and experienced the discipline of the LORD your God: his majesty, HIS MIGHTY HAND, HIS OUTSTRETCHED ARM. 7. God stretches out His hand to DISCIPLINE. Judges 3:1-4 (NIV) – [1] These are the nations the LORD left to test all those Israelites who had not experienced any of the wars in Canaan [2] (he did this only to teach warfare to the descendants of the Israelites who had not had previous battle experience): [3] the five rulers of the Philistines, all the Canaanites, the Sidonians, and the Hivites living in the Lebanon mountains from Mount Baal Hermon to Lebo Hamath. [4] They were left to test the Israelites to see whether they would obey the LORD's commands, which he had given their forefathers through Moses.
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183 эпизодов
Manage episode 357579888 series 138179
Контент предоставлен Bakersfield First Assembly. Весь контент подкастов, включая эпизоды, графику и описания подкастов, загружается и предоставляется непосредственно компанией Bakersfield First Assembly или ее партнером по платформе подкастов. Если вы считаете, что кто-то использует вашу работу, защищенную авторским правом, без вашего разрешения, вы можете выполнить процедуру, описанную здесь https://ru.player.fm/legal.
Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal 1. God stretches out His hand to DELIVER. 2. God stretches out His hand in LOVE. 3. God stretches out His hand to GUIDE. 4. God stretches out His hand to SAVE. Isaiah 45:11-12 (NIV) – [11] “This is what the Lord says—the Holy One of Israel, and its Maker: Concerning things to come, do you question me about my children, or give me orders about the work of my hands? [12] It is I who made the earth and created mankind upon it. My own HANDS STRETCHED OUT the heavens; I marshaled their starry hosts. 5. God stretches out His hand to CREATE. Isaiah 64:8 (NIV) – [8] Yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Romans 9:20-21 (NIV) – [20] But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? “Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’” [21] Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use? Genesis 1:27 (NIV) – [27] So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Ezekiel 25:15-17 (NIV) – [15] “This is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘Because the Philistines acted in vengeance and took revenge with malice in their hearts, and with ancient hostility sought to destroy Judah, [16] therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am about to STRETCH OUT MY HAND against the Philistines, and I will cut off the Kerethites and destroy those remaining along the coast. [17] I will carry out great vengeance on them and punish them in my wrath. Then they will know that I am the Lord, when I take vengeance on them.’” 6. God stretches out His hand to AVENGE. Romans 12:19 (NIV) – [19] Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. Deuteronomy 11:1-2 (NIV) – [1] Love the LORD your God and keep his requirements, his decrees, his laws and his commands always. [2] Remember today that your children were not the ones who saw and experienced the discipline of the LORD your God: his majesty, HIS MIGHTY HAND, HIS OUTSTRETCHED ARM. 7. God stretches out His hand to DISCIPLINE. Judges 3:1-4 (NIV) – [1] These are the nations the LORD left to test all those Israelites who had not experienced any of the wars in Canaan [2] (he did this only to teach warfare to the descendants of the Israelites who had not had previous battle experience): [3] the five rulers of the Philistines, all the Canaanites, the Sidonians, and the Hivites living in the Lebanon mountains from Mount Baal Hermon to Lebo Hamath. [4] They were left to test the Israelites to see whether they would obey the LORD's commands, which he had given their forefathers through Moses.
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183 эпизодов
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David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 1 Samuel 17: 45-46 (NIV)…
Bakersfield First Assembly
Luke 15:1-7 NIV 15 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” Psalm 23:4 NIV “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4 NLT “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” Ephesians 6:12 NIV “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”…
Romans 8:14-17
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Mark 4:35
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Acts 18 & 19
Acts 16 & 17
A Portrait of The Bread He spread a cloud for a covering, And fire to give light in the night. 40 The people asked, and He brought quail, And satisfied them with the bread of heaven. 41 He opened the rock, and water gushed out; It ran in the dry places like a river. Psalms 105:39-41 (John 6:26-27) "Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him." John 6:27 "Our fathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written, 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat.'” John 6:31 (NKJV) Because they did not believe in God, and did not trust in His salvation. 23 Yet He had commanded the clouds above, and opened the doors of heaven, 24 Had rained down manna on them to eat, and given them of the bread of heaven. 25 Men ate angels' food; He sent them food to the full. 26 He caused an east wind to blow in the heavens; and by His power He brought in the south wind. 27 He also rained meat on them like the dust, Feathered fowl like the sand of the seas; 28 And He let them fall in the midst of their camp, All around their dwellings. 29 So they ate and were well filled, For He gave them their own desire. Psalms 78:22-29 (NKJV) the tempter came to Him, he said, "If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread." 4 But He answered and said, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'" Matthew 4:3-4 Give us this day our daily bread. Matthew 6:11 Matthew 7:9 2. ...if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? "When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments did you take up?" They said to Him, "Twelve." 20 "Also, when I broke the seven for the four thousand, how many large baskets full of fragments did you take up?" And they said, "Seven." 21 So He said to them, "How is it you do not understand?" Mark 8:19-21 (NKJV) Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, 2 Corinthians 9:10 (NKJV) He answered and said, "It is not good to take the children's bread and throw it to the little dogs." Matthew 15:26 (NKJV) Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: 3 Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Psalms 103:2-3 "This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die. 51 "I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world." John 6:50-51 "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 17 For we, though many, are one bread and one body; for we all partake of that one bread. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17…
ACTS 15 & 16
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1 Finish Strong - Audio 1:00:56
1:00:56
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1. WE FINISH STRONG WHEN WE OVERCOME THE FEAR OF REJECTION! Timothy 1:7 “ For God has not given us a spirit of fear (fear is not God’s plan for your life!), but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (NKJV) I Peter 3:13-15 “And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake. You are blessed. And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled. But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who ask you a reason for the hope that is in you…” II. WE FINISH STRONG WHEN WE REMAIN CONVINCED IN SPITE OF THE UNKNOWN SHOW II TIMOTHY 1:12 (NKJV) i. “For this reason, I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed in and am persuaded that he is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that day.” Romans 8:38-39 “For I am persuaded that neither death or life, nor angels, nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come (the unknown), nor heights nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus”. Romans 8:31-32 asks us… “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He did not spare his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” 3- WE FINISH STRONG WHEN WE STAY CONNECTED TO “THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE” (JOHN 14:6) ""...Death is swallowed up in victory." "O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?" The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 15:54b–57). 4-FINISHING STRONG BY LEAVING A GODLY LEGACY “…I THE LORD YOUR GOD, AM A JEALOUS GOD, VISITING THE INIQUITY OF THE FATHERS UPON THE CHILDREN TO THE THIRD AND FOURTH GENERATION OF THOSE WHO HATE ME, BUT SHOW MERCY TO THOUSANDS, TO THOSE WHO LOVE ME AND KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS” (EXODUS 20:5-6 NKJV) “CHRIST HAS REDEEMED US FROM THE CURSE OF THE LAW, HAVING BECOME A CURSE FOR US (FOR IT IS WRITTEN, “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE”, THAT THE BLESSING OF ABRAHAM MIGHT COME UPON THE GENTILES IN CHRIST JESUS, THAT WE MIGHT RECEIVE THE PROMISE OF THE SPIRIT THROUGH FAITH.” Gal 3:13-14…
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FAMILY SUNDAY “Two people are better off than one for they can help each other succeed.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 Tob - good, pleasant, agreeable; a benefit or a welfare Genesis 1:4 “ And God saw that the light was good. Genesis 1:31 “And God looked over all that He had made, and he saw that it was very good.” Genesis 2:18 “Then the Lord said. ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.”…
Acts 9 & 10
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The Book of ACTS
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Job 42:7-17 (NIV) – [7] After the LORD had said these things to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “I am angry with you and your two friends, because you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has. [8] So now take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and sacrifice a burnt offering for yourselves. My servant Job will pray for you, and I will accept his prayer and not deal with you according to your folly. You have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has.” [9] So Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite did what the LORD told them; and the LORD accepted Job's prayer. [10] After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD made him prosperous again and gave him twice as much as he had before. [11] All his brothers and sisters and everyone who had known him before came and ate with him in his house. They comforted and consoled him over all the trouble the LORD had brought upon him, and each one gave him a piece of silver and a gold ring. [12] The LORD blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the first. He had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen and a thousand donkeys. [13] And he also had seven sons and three daughters. [14] The first daughter he named Jemimah, the second Keziah and the third Keren-Happuch. [15] Nowhere in all the land were there found women as beautiful as Job’s daughters, and their father granted them an inheritance along with their brothers. [16] After this, Job lived a hundred and forty years; he saw his children and their children to the fourth generation. [17] And so he died, old and full of years. The Way of Redemption 1. Repentance Job 19:13-14 (NIV) – [13] “(God) has alienated my brothers from me; my acquaintances are completely estranged from me. [14] My kinsmen have gone away; my friends have forgotten me.” 2. Restitution Luke 19:8-9 (NIV) – [8] But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” [9] Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 3. Reconciliation 4. Restoration Job 2:9 (NIV) – [9] His wife said to him, “Are you still holding on to your integrity? CURSE God and die!” Job 2:4-5 (NIV) – [4] “Skin for skin!” Satan replied. “A man will give all he has for his own life. [5] But stretch out your hand and strike his flesh and bones, and he will surely CURSE you to your face.”…
Acts 4:29-31 (NIV) – [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. [30] Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders THROUGH THE NAME OF YOUR HOLY SERVANT JESUS.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Stretch Our You Hand to Heal 1. We can ask for ANYTHING in the name of Jesus. 2. No other name brings salvation or healing but Jesus. 3. We can’t expect healing if we have not been with Jesus. 4. Miracles are not a competition. 5. You must know the person behind the name. Acts 19:13-16 (NIV) – [13] Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, “In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.” [14] Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. [15] [One day] the evil spirit answered them, “Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?” [16] Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding. Mark 14:51-52 (NIV) – [51] A young man, wearing nothing but a linen garment, was following Jesus. When they seized him, [52] he fled naked, leaving his garment behind. 1 John 4:4 (NIV) – [4] You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. Philippians 2:9-11 (NIV) – [9] Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, [10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, [11] and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 6. You must have a relationship with Jesus before you have a right to use His Name. Matthew 7:21-23 (NIV) – [21] “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ [23] Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” 7. What distinguishes a false prophet from a true one is obedience. Matthew 24:24 (NIV) – [24] For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect—if that were possible. 8. True miracles make people believe; false miracles make people deceived. 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 (NIV) – [9] The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, [10] and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.…
Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal Acts 4:29-31 (NIV) – [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. [30] Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders THROUGH THE NAME OF YOUR HOLY SERVANT JESUS.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. John 14:14 (NIV) – [14] You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. 1. We can ask for ANYTHING in the name of Jesus. Acts 4:12-13 (NIV) – [12] “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” [13] When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. 2. No other name brings salvation or healing but Jesus. 3. We can’t expect healing if we have not been with Jesus. Mark 9:38-41 (NIV) – [38] “Teacher,” said John, “we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.” [39] “Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “No one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, [40] for whoever is not against us is for us. [41] I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward. 4. Miracles are not a competition. Acts 3:6-8 (NIV) – [6] Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” [7] Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. [8] He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. John 5:6 (AMP) – [6] When Jesus noticed him lying there [helpless], knowing that he had already been a long time in that condition, He said to him, Do you want to become well? [Are you really in earnest about getting well?]…
The Book of Job Job Answers God Job 40:1-5 (NIV) – [41] The LORD said to Job: [2] “Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses God answer him!” [3] Then Job answered the LORD: [4] “I am unworthy—how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth. [5] I spoke once, but I have no answer — twice, but I will say no more.” Job 1:20-21 (NKJV) – [20] Then Job arose, tore his robe, and shaved his head; and he fell to the ground and worshiped. [21] And he said: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked shall I return there. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; Blessed be the name of the LORD.” Job 30:20-23 (NIV) – [20] “I cry out to you, O God, but you do not answer; I stand up, but you merely look at me. [21] You turn on me ruthlessly; with the might of your hand you attack me. [22] You snatch me up and drive me before the wind; you toss me about in the storm. [23] I know you will bring me down to death, to the place appointed for all the living.” 1. The longer God seems silent, the harder it is for us to trust Him. 2. When God speaks, we will be humbled. 3. When God speaks, we will be silenced. Matthew 22:41-46 (NIV) – [41] While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, [42] “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?” “The son of David,” they replied. [43] He said to them, “How is it then that David, speaking by the Spirit, calls him ‘Lord’? For he says, [44] “‘The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet.”’ [45] If then David calls him ‘Lord,’ how can he be his son?” [46] No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions. Proverbs 17:27-28 (TEV) – [27] Someone who is sure of himself does not talk all the time. People who stay calm have real insight. [28] After all, even a fool may be thought wise and intelligent if he stays quiet and keeps his mouth shut. James 1:19-20 (NIV) – [19] My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, [20] for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Job 40:6-8 (NIV) – [6] Then the LORD spoke to Job out of the storm: [7] “Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. [8] “Would you discredit my justice? Would you condemn me to justify yourself? 4. We condemn God to justify ourselves. Job 40:9-14 (NIV) – [9] “Do you have an arm like God’s, and can your voice thunder like his? [10] Then adorn yourself with glory and splendor, and clothe yourself in honor and majesty. [11] Unleash the fury of your wrath, look at every proud man and bring him low, [12] look at every proud man and humble him, crush the wicked where they stand. [13] Bury them all in the dust together; shroud their faces in the grave. [14] Then I myself will admit to you that your own right hand can save you.” Job 10:3 – (Job speaking to God) “Does it please you to oppress me, to spurn the work of your hands, while you smile on the schemes of the wicked?” Job 24:12 – (Job speaking of God) “The groans of the dying rise from the city, and the souls of the wounded cry out for help. But God charges no one with wrongdoing.” Matthew 7:1-5 (NIV) – [1] “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. [2] For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. [3] “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? [4] How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? [5] You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. 5. It is not our place to question God’s judgments.…
Acts 4:29-31 (NIV) – [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great BOLDNESS. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God BOLDLY. Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal 1. PRAYED UP “Prayer is not an escape from responsibility; it is our response to God’s ability. True prayer energizes us for service and battle.” (Wiersbe) 2. SHAKEN UP Luke 21:25-28 (NIV) – [25] “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. [26] Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. [27] At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. [28] When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 3. FILLED UP Acts 2:4 (NIV) – [4] All of them were FILLED with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Acts 4:8 (NIV) – [8] Then Peter, FILLED with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people!” Acts 9:17 (NIV) – [17] Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be FILLED with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 13:9 (NIV) – [9] Then Saul, who was also called Paul, FILLED with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said, “You are a child of the devil!” “It is our privilege to claim repeated infillings to make good our leakage and evaporation.” (F. B. Meyer) Isaiah 44:3 (NIV) – [3] For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring and my blessing on your descendants. 4. SPEAK UP Acts 4:15-18 – [15] So they ordered them to withdraw from the Sanhedrin and then conferred together. [16] “What are we going to do with these men?” they asked. “Everybody living in Jerusalem knows they have done an outstanding miracle, and we cannot deny it. [17] But to stop this thing from spreading any further among the people, we must warn these men to speak no longer to anyone in this name.” [18] Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. Acts 4:19-20 (NIV) – [19] But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. [20] For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”…
The Book of Job God Answers Job 38:1 (NIV) – [1] Then the LORD answered Job out of the storm. 1. God often speaks to us out of the storms of life. Job 38:2 (NIV) – [2] “Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge? Mark 11:27-33 (NIV) – [27] They arrived again in Jerusalem, and while Jesus was walking in the temple courts, the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders came to him. [28] “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you authority to do this?” [29] Jesus replied, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. [30] John’s baptism — was it from heaven, or from men? Tell me!” [31] They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ [32] But if we say, ‘From men’…" (They feared the people, for everyone held that John really was a prophet.) [33] So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.” 2. Our questioning God is often rooted in our unbelief and lack of trust. Romans 1:5 (NIV) – [5] Through him [Jesus Christ] and for his name’s sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. 3. God isn’t just looking for obedience; He is looking for obedience that comes from faith. “Darken” means to withhold light from, to hide, to obscure, to confuse. “Counsel” means the plans, purposes, and wisdom of God. 4. When we use human reasoning to define God, we distort the truth, and we darken His counsel. 5. We don’t just need more information ABOUT God; we need a greater revelation OF God. Job 38:3 (NIV) – [3] Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. 6. If we question God on our terms, then we’d better get ready to answer Him on His terms. Job 38:4 (NIV) – [4] “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. 7. When God speaks, we realize how very little we really know.…
Acts 4:29-31 (NIV) – [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great BOLDNESS. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God BOLDLY. 2023 Theme: Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal BOLDNESS (parrhesia [par-ray-SEE-ah]) means freedom of speech, plainness, openness, freedom in speaking; the absence of fear which accompanies freedom of speech. (Abbott-Smith Lexicon) 1. PRAYED UP “In the face of this recent persecution, the believers spontaneously joined in prayer to acknowledge God’s sovereign control. This appeal to the God of creation shows that God, who had power to create the universe, will have power over their enemies. Everything in heaven and earth is subject to God and his will.” (Life Application NT) “They did not ask for protection; they asked for power. They did not ask for fire from heaven to destroy the enemy but for power from heaven to preach the Word and heal the sick. Their great desire was for boldness in the face of opposition. The emphasis is on the hand of God at work in the life of the church, not the hand of man at work for God. Believing prayer releases God’s power and enables God’s hand to move.” (Wiersbe) 2. SHAKEN UP Isaiah 6:1-3 (NIV) – [1] In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. [2] Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. [3] And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” [4] At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. Matthew 27:50-55 (NIV) – [50] And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. [51] At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. [52] The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. [53] They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus’ resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many people. [54] When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!” Matthew 28:1-4 (NIV) – [1] After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. [2] There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. [3] His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. [4] The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. Acts 16:22-26 (NIV) – [22] The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten. [23] After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. [24] Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. [25] About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. [26] Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose. Hebrews 12:25-29 (NIV) – [25] See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven? [26] At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” [27] The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain. [28] Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, [29] for our “God is a consuming fire.” Luke 21:25-28 (NIV) – [25] “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. [26] Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. [27] At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. [28] When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 3. FILLED UP Acts 2:4 (NIV) – [4] All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. “It is our privilege to claim repeated infillings to make good our leakage and evaporation.” (F. B. Meyer) 4. SPEAK UP Acts 4:15-18 – [15] So they ordered them to withdraw from the Sanhedrin and then conferred together. [16] “What are we going to do with these men?” they asked. “Everybody living in Jerusalem knows they have done an outstanding miracle, and we cannot deny it. [17] But to stop this thing from spreading any further among the people, we must warn these men to speak no longer to anyone in this name.” [18] Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. Acts 4:19-20 (NIV) – [19] But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. [20] For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”…
The Book of Job “The Question of the Ages—Why?” Holding onto Hope 1. Hope distinguishes us from those who don’t know God. 2. Hope requires us to wait patiently. 3. Hope is future, faith is now. 4. Against all hope, true hope still believes. 5. Hope is the result of perseverance in the midst of suffering. “Hope” (tiqVAH) literally means a cord, a rope, a line; figuratively, it means hope, expectation, anticipation. (The Complete Word Study Dictionary) Psalms 62:5-6 (NIV) – [5] Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my HOPE comes from him. [6] He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. Joshua 2:17-21 (NIV) – [17] The men said to her, “This oath you made us swear will not be binding on us [18] unless, when we enter the land, you have tied this scarlet CORD in the window through which you let us down, and unless you have brought your father and mother, your brothers and all your family into your house. [19] If anyone goes outside your house into the street, his blood will be on his own head; we will not be responsible. As for anyone who is in the house with you, his blood will be on our head if a hand is laid on him. [20] But if you tell what we are doing, we will be released from the oath you made us swear.” [21] “Agreed,” she replied. “Let it be as you say.” So she sent them away and they departed. And she tied the scarlet CORD in the window. 6. Our hope is Jesus, our scarlet cord of salvation. Job 19:25-27 (NIV) – [25] I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. [26] And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; [27] I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me! 7. Hope is found in knowing that our Redeemer lives and is coming again. Titus 2:11-14 (NIV) – [11] For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, [13] while we wait for the blessed HOPE—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, [14] who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.…
Bakersfield First Assembly
Luke 23:50-54 (NIV) – [50] Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, [51] who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea and he was waiting for the kingdom of God. [52] Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body. [53] Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. [54] It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin. Luke 24:1-6 (NIV) – [1] On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. [2] They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, [3] but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. [4] While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. [5] In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? [6] He is not here; he has risen! Empty Cross + Empty Tomb = Full Life John 10:10 (NIV) – [10] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Full (perissos) means overflow, beyond measure, superabundant in quantity or superior in quality, exceedingly abundantly above. (Strong’s) John 10:10 (MSG) – [10] A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of. Matthew 14:20-21 (NIV) – [20] They all ate and were SATISFIED, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were LEFT OVER. 1. A life full of satisfaction Luke 6:45 (NIV) – [45] The good man brings good things out of the GOOD stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the OVERFLOW of his heart his mouth speaks. 2. A life full of goodness Romans 5:15 (NIV) – [15] But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the GRACE of the one man, Jesus Christ, OVERFLOW to the many! 3. A life full of grace Romans 15:13 (NIV) – [13] May the God of HOPE fill you with all JOY and PEACE as you trust in him, so that you may OVERFLOW with HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit. 4. A life full of hope, joy, and peace 2 Corinthians 1:5 (NIV) – [5] For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our COMFORT OVERFLOWS. 5. A life full of comfort 2 Corinthians 3:8 (NIV) – [9] If the ministry that condemns men is glorious, HOW MUCH MORE glorious is the ministry that brings RIGHTEOUSNESS! 6. A life full of righteousness 2 Corinthians 4:15 (NIV) – [15] All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause THANKSGIVING to OVERFLOW to the glory of God. 7. A life full of thanksgiving 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV) – [8] And God is able to make all GRACE ABOUND to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 8. A life full of grace Philippians 4:12-13 (NIV) – [12] I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have PLENTY. I have learned the secret of being CONTENT in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in PLENTY or in want. [13] I can do everything through him who gives me strength. 9. A life full of contentment 1 Thessalonians 3:12 (NIV) – [12] May the Lord make your LOVE increase and OVERFLOW for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 10. A life full of love…
Matthew 21:4-5 (NIV) – [4] This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: [5] “Say to the Daughter of Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’” Zechariah 9:9 (NIV) – [9] Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. 1. Jesus is king. Matthew 27:11 (NIV) – [11] Meanwhile Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” “Yes, it is as you say,” Jesus replied. John 18:36 (NIV) – [36] Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.” 2. Jesus is righteous. Righteous means just, lawful, straight; righteousness is exhibited only through conformity to standards set out in the word of God. (Theological Wordbook of the OT) Psalms 145:17 (NIV) – [17] The Lord is RIGHTEOUS in all his ways and loving toward all he has made. Genesis 6:9 (NIV) – [9] This is the account of Noah. Noah was a RIGHTEOUS man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God. Psalms 146:7-8 (NIV) – [7] The Lord sets prisoners free, [8] the Lord gives sight to the blind, the Lord lifts up those who are bowed down, the Lord loves the RIGHTEOUS. 3. Jesus brings salvation. Acts 4:12 (NIV) – [12] SALVATION is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be SAVED. 2 Corinthians 6:1-2 (NIV) – [1] As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. [2] For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of SALVATION I helped you.” I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of SALVATION. Romans 10:9 (NIV) – [9] If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be SAVED. 4. Jesus is gentle. Gentle means lowly, humble, poor, distressed. 2 Corinthians 8:9 (NIV) – [9] For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) – [28] “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am GENTLE and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” “Meek. Humble. Gentle. Jesus is not trigger-happy. Not harsh, reactionary, easily exasperated. He is the most understanding person in the universe. The posture most natural to him is not a pointed finger but open arms.” (Dane Ortlund, Gentle and Lowly) 5. Jesus has come. John 1:10-12 (NLT) – [10] [Jesus] came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. [11] He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. [12] But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 6. Jesus is coming. Acts 1:9-11 (NIV) – [9] After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. [10] They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. [11] “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 (NLT) – [13] And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. [14] For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died. [15] We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died. [16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died will rise from their graves. [17] Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. [18] So encourage each other with these words. “In the ancient Near East, rulers commonly rode donkeys if they came in peace but they rode horses into war. This verse gives one reason the Israelites should rejoice: the coming of the King. (Thomas Constable) Revelation 19:11-16 (NIV) – [11] I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. [12] His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. [13] He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. [14] The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. [15] Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. [16] On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. “The triumphal entry of Jesus riding into Jerusalem was predicted here more than 500 years before it happened. Just as this prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus came to earth, so the prophecies of his second coming are just as certain to come true. We are to be ready for his return, for he is coming!” (Life Application Bible)…
Acts 4:29-31 (NIV) – [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great BOLDNESS. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God BOLDLY. 2023 Theme: Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal “The apostles prayed not for divine vengeance but that God would hear the threats that had been leveled against them. The believers did not pray that God would remove the threats, take away the possibility of persecution, or even protect them. Instead, they prayed that God would give the believers, his servants, great boldness in their preaching.” (Life Application NT) BOLDNESS (parrhesia) means freedom of speech, plainness, openness, freedom in speaking; the absence of fear which accompanies freedom of speech. (Abbott-Smith Lexicon) Acts 9:27-28 (NLT) – [27] Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and told them how Saul had seen the Lord on the way to Damascus and how the Lord had spoken to Saul. He also told them that Saul had preached BOLDLY in the name of Jesus in Damascus. [28] So Saul stayed with the apostles and went all around Jerusalem with them, preaching BOLDLY in the name of the Lord. 1. Boldness in Preaching Jeremiah 20:8-9 (NIV) – [8] Whenever I speak, I cry out proclaiming violence and destruction. So the word of the LORD has brought me insult and reproach all day long. [9] But if I say, “I will not mention him or speak any more in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot. Acts 14:3 (NLT) – [3] But the apostles stayed there a long time, preaching BOLDLY about the grace of the Lord. And the Lord proved their message was true by giving them power to do miraculous signs and wonders. 2. Boldness in Power Acts 18:24-26 (NLT) – [24] Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos, an eloquent speaker who knew the Scriptures well, had arrived in Ephesus from Alexandria in Egypt. [25] He had been taught the way of the Lord, and he taught others about Jesus with an enthusiastic spirit and with accuracy. However, he knew only about John’s baptism. [26] When Priscilla and Aquila heard him preaching BOLDLY in the synagogue, they took him aside and explained the way of God even more accurately. 3. Boldness with Accuracy 2 Corinthians 3:12 (NIV) – [12] Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very BOLD. 4. Boldness in Hope Titus 2:11-13 (NIV) – [11] For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, [13] while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.…
Acts 4:29-31 (NIV) – [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal 1. God stretches out His hand to DELIVER. 2. God stretches out His hand in LOVE. 3. God stretches out His hand to GUIDE. “So many of people’s problems come from trying to control things outside of their control, and when they try, the lose control of themselves.” (Drs. Cloud and Townsend) 4. God stretches out His hand to SAVE. 5. God stretches out His hand to CREATE. 6. God stretches out His hand to AVENGE. 7. God stretches out His hand to DISCIPLINE. Matthew 14:29-32 (NKJV) – [29] So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. [30] But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” [31] And immediately Jesus STRETCHED OUT HIS HAND and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” [32] And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 8. God stretches out His hand against FEAR. Exodus 9:15-16 (NIV) – [15] For by now I could have STRETCHED OUT MY HAND and struck you and your people with a plague that would have wiped you off the earth. [16] But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth. 9. God stretches out His hand for a PURPOSE. Isaiah 14:26 (NIV) – [26] This is the plan determined for the whole world; this is the HAND STRETCHED OUT over all nations. [27] For the LORD Almighty has purposed, and who can thwart him? HIS HAND IS STRETCHED OUT, and who can turn it back? 10. God stretches out His hand with a PLAN. Mark 3:3-6 (NIV) – [3] Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.” [4] Then Jesus asked [the Pharisees], “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. [5] He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. [6] Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus. 11. God stretches out His hand to RESTORE. Restore (apokathistemi) [ap-ok-ath-is'-tay-mee] means to restore to a former condition of health; to put back in the original condition. “German theologian Jürgen Moltmann points out that miracles are not an interruption of the natural order but the restoration of the natural order. We are so used to a fallen world that sickness, disease, pain, and death seem natural. In fact, they are the interruption.” (Dane C. Ortlund, Gentle and Lowly) “The restoration of the crippled hand demonstrates the new, superior order of salvation which is present in the coming of Jesus, the dawn of the eschatological time of salvation which restores to the sabbath commandment its profound significance: restoration of human beings in their integrity as part of God's creation.” (Exegetical Dictionary of the NT)…
The Book of Job “The Question of the Ages—Why?” The Power of Pain 1. Pain can sensitize us to the suffering of others. 2. Pain can make us narcissistic. "Forgiveness must be given, but trust must also be earned." Titus 3:10 (NIV) – [10] Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. Matthew 3:7-8 (NIV) – [7] But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? [8] Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” Acts 26:20 (NIV) – [20] First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles also, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds. Matthew 18:15-17 (NIV) – [15] “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. [16] But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ [17] If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector. Job 16:15-17 (NIV) – [15] I have sewed sackcloth over my skin and buried my brow in the dust. [16] My face is red with weeping, deep shadows ring my eyes; [17] yet my hands have been free of violence and my prayer is pure. 3. Pain can purify our prayers. Lamentations 2:19 (NIV) – [19] Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at the head of every street. 1 Samuel 1:13-16 (NIV) – [13] Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk [14] and said to her, “How long will you keep on getting drunk? Get rid of your wine.” [15] “Not so, my lord,” Hannah replied, “I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the LORD. [16] Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief.” Job 16:18 (NIV) – [18] O earth, do not cover my blood; may my cry never be laid to rest! 4. Pain wants to be heard. Philippians 4:8 (NIV) – [8] Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Job 16:19-21 (NIV) – [19] Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high. [20] My intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God; [21] on behalf of a man he pleads with God as a man pleads for his friend. 5. Pain can reveal our true intercessor, Jesus. Hebrews 7:23-25 (NIV) – [23] Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; [24] but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. [25] Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Job 16:22 (NIV) – [22] “Only a few years will pass before I go on the journey of no return. 6. Pain can lead to fatalism. Romans 8:18 (NIV) – [18] I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV) – [16] Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. [17] For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. [18] So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 7. Pain will be permanently alleviated in heaven.…
Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal 1. God stretches out His hand to DELIVER. 2. God stretches out His hand in LOVE. 3. God stretches out His hand to GUIDE. 4. God stretches out His hand to SAVE. Isaiah 45:11-12 (NIV) – [11] “This is what the Lord says—the Holy One of Israel, and its Maker: Concerning things to come, do you question me about my children, or give me orders about the work of my hands? [12] It is I who made the earth and created mankind upon it. My own HANDS STRETCHED OUT the heavens; I marshaled their starry hosts. 5. God stretches out His hand to CREATE. Isaiah 64:8 (NIV) – [8] Yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Romans 9:20-21 (NIV) – [20] But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? “Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’” [21] Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use? Genesis 1:27 (NIV) – [27] So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Ezekiel 25:15-17 (NIV) – [15] “This is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘Because the Philistines acted in vengeance and took revenge with malice in their hearts, and with ancient hostility sought to destroy Judah, [16] therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am about to STRETCH OUT MY HAND against the Philistines, and I will cut off the Kerethites and destroy those remaining along the coast. [17] I will carry out great vengeance on them and punish them in my wrath. Then they will know that I am the Lord, when I take vengeance on them.’” 6. God stretches out His hand to AVENGE. Romans 12:19 (NIV) – [19] Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. Deuteronomy 11:1-2 (NIV) – [1] Love the LORD your God and keep his requirements, his decrees, his laws and his commands always. [2] Remember today that your children were not the ones who saw and experienced the discipline of the LORD your God: his majesty, HIS MIGHTY HAND, HIS OUTSTRETCHED ARM. 7. God stretches out His hand to DISCIPLINE. Judges 3:1-4 (NIV) – [1] These are the nations the LORD left to test all those Israelites who had not experienced any of the wars in Canaan [2] (he did this only to teach warfare to the descendants of the Israelites who had not had previous battle experience): [3] the five rulers of the Philistines, all the Canaanites, the Sidonians, and the Hivites living in the Lebanon mountains from Mount Baal Hermon to Lebo Hamath. [4] They were left to test the Israelites to see whether they would obey the LORD's commands, which he had given their forefathers through Moses.…
Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal “The hand of God is the symbol of his power: its being upon one denotes favor or punishment.” (Easton’s Bible Dictionary) 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 (MSG) – [26] Take a good look, friends, at who you were when you got called into this life. I don’t see many of “the brightest and the best” among you, not many influential, not many from high-society families. [27] Isn’t it obvious that God deliberately chose men and women that the culture overlooks and exploits and abuses, [28] chose these “nobodies” to expose the hollow pretensions of the “somebodies”? [29] That makes it quite clear that none of you can get by with blowing your own horn before God. [30] Everything that we have—right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start—comes from God by way of Jesus Christ. [31] That’s why we have the saying, “If you’re going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God.” Exodus 7:5 (NIV) – [5] “And the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord when I stretch out my hand against Egypt and bring the Israelites out of it.” 1. God stretches out His hand to DELIVER. Exodus 15:12-13 (NIV) – [12] “You stretched out your right hand and the earth swallowed them. [13] In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling. “The hand of God, and especially the right hand, is also understood as a place of salvation, refuge, and protection. It is the favored position.” (Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology). 2. God stretches out His hand to LOVE. “This was written… for those of us who know God loves us but suspect we have deeply disappointed him. Who have told others of the love of Christ yet wonder if—as for us—he harbors mild resentment.” (Dane Ortlund, Gentle and Lowly) 3. God stretches out His hand to GUIDE. Psalms 138:7 (NIV) – [7] Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me. 4. God stretches out His hand to SAVE. Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV) – [17] The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.”…
The Book of Job “The Question of the Ages—Why?” Though He Slay Me, Yet Will I Trust Him Bildad the Shuhite Zophar the Naamathite “Every lie we buy into about ourselves is rooted in what we believe about God.” Jennie Allen, Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts 1. Our standing with God is directly related to how we treat other people. 2. God does not need to defend Himself to us. 3. God does not need us to defend Him to others. Job 13:13-19 (NIV) – [13] “Keep silent and let me speak; then let come to me what may. [14] Why do I put myself in jeopardy and take my life in my hands? [15] Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely defend my ways to his face. [16] Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance, for no godless man would dare come before him! [17] Listen carefully to my words; let your ears take in what I say. [18] Now that I have prepared my case, I know I will be vindicated. [19] Can anyone bring charges against me? If so, I will be silent and die. Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) – [6] And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Romans 4:3-4 (NIV) – [3] What does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” [4] Now when a man works, his wages are not credited to him as a gift, but as an obligation. [5] However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness. 4. Faith is foremost and pleases God most. Job 13:20-27 (NIV) – [20] “Only grant me these two things, O God, and then I will not hide from you: [21] Withdraw your hand far from me, and stop frightening me with your terrors. [22] Then summon me and I will answer, or let me speak, and you reply. [23] How many wrongs and sins have I committed? Show me my offense and my sin. [24] Why do you hide your face and consider me your enemy? [25] Will you torment a windblown leaf? Will you chase after dry chaff? [26] For you write down bitter things against me and make me inherit the sins of my youth. [27] You fasten my feet in shackles; you keep close watch on all my paths by putting marks on the soles of my feet. 28 So man wastes away like something rotten, like a garment eaten by moths.” 5. The greatest evidence of faith is not found in getting what we want, but in continuing to trust God when we DON’T get what we want.…
Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great BOLDNESS. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND TO HEAL and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God BOLDLY. 2023 Theme: Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal 1. God is sovereign. SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD - “A theological term which refers to the unlimited power of God, who has sovereign control over the affairs of nature and history (Isaiah 45:9-19; Romans 8:18-39). The Bible declares that God is working out His sovereign plan of redemption for the world and that the conclusion is certain.” (Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary) 2. God’s predestination is based upon His foreknowledge. 3. God sovereignly chose us. 4. God is sovereign, but we also have free will. Acts 9:15-16 (NIV) – [15] But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. [16] I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” 5. God sovereignly heals us. “While the book of Proverbs clearly shows the importance of human responsibility and choice, this proverb recognizes that outcomes are determined by God’s sovereign providence. Proverbs makes no attempt to resolve the tension between the two ideas. Both human responsibility and God’s sovereignty are affirmed, and the mystery of their interaction is allowed to remain. (The Apologetics Study Bible) Proverbs 16:1 (NIV) – [1] To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue. 1. God sovereignly has the final word. Proverbs 16:2 (NIV) – [2] All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD. 2. God sovereignly weighs our motives. 1 Chronicles 28:9 (NIV) – [9] “And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every MOTIVE behind the thoughts. If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever. Proverbs 16:3 (NIV) – [3] Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. 3. God sovereignly brings success. Deuteronomy 8:17-18 (NLT) – [17] “He did all this so you would never say to yourself, ‘I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy.’ [18] Remember the Lord your God. He is the one who gives you power to be SUCCESSFUL, in order to fulfill the covenant he confirmed to your ancestors with an oath. Proverbs 16:4 (NIV) – [4] The LORD works out everything for his own ends—even the wicked for a day of disaster. 4. God sovereignly uses even the wicked. Exodus 9:15-16 (NIV) – [15] “For by now I could have stretched out my hand and struck you and your people with a plague that would have wiped you off the earth. [16] But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” Proverbs 16:5 (NIV) – [5] The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished. 5. God sovereignly punishes the proud. 1 Peter 5:5-6 (NIV) – [5] Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” [6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Proverbs 16:6 (NIV) – [6] Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the LORD a man avoids evil. 6. God sovereignly forgives our sin. Micah 7:18-19 (NIV) – [18] Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. [19] You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea. Proverbs 16:7 (NIV) – [7] When a man’s ways are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him. 7. God sovereignly brings peace with our enemies. Proverbs 16:8 (NIV) – [8] Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice. 8. God sovereignly makes us satisfied with righteousness. Proverbs 16:9 (NIV) – [9] In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. 9. God sovereignly determines our steps.…
Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great BOLDNESS. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND TO HEAL and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God BOLDLY. 2023 Theme: Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal Acts 4:27-28 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] THEY DID WHAT YOUR POWER AND WILL HAD DECIDED BEFOREHAND SHOULD HAPPEN. “While it seemed that Satan had gotten the upper hand when the Son of God was crucified on the cross, in reality everything occurred according to God’s eternal will and plan. The believers declared that God is the sovereign Lord of all events; he rules history to fulfill his purpose. What his will determines, his power carries out. No army, government, or council can stand in God’s way.” (Life Application NT) “Just as God’s sovereign power and will had decided beforehand that Christ should be opposed, so now Peter and John prayed for God’s power to be manifested in… the supernatural ability to heal and to perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of Jesus.” (Bible Knowledge Commentary) 1. God is sovereign. Acts 4:28 (NAS) – [28] …to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose PREDESTINED to occur. Proorizo means to predetermine, to foreordain, to predestine, to decide ahead of time. Romans 8:29-30 (NIV) – [29] For those God foreknew he also PREDESTINED to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. [30] And those he PREDESTINED, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. 2. God’s predestination is based upon His foreknowledge. Ephesians 1:4-6 (NIV) – [4] For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love [5] he PREDESTINED us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— [6] to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 3. God sovereignly chose us. John 15:16 (NIV) – [16] You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. 4. God is sovereign, but we also have free will. Ephesians 1:11-12 (NIV) – [11] In him we were also chosen, having been PREDESTINED according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, [12] in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. 5. God sovereignly heals us.…
Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great BOLDNESS. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND TO HEAL and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God BOLDLY. Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal 5. “Marpe’” means a medicine or cure or remedy. Proverbs 14:30 (AMP) – [30] A calm and undisturbed mind and heart are the life and HEALTH of the body, but envy, jealousy, and wrath are like rottenness of the bones. Malachi 4:2 (NIV) – [2] But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with HEALING in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall. 6. “Raphah” means healer, physician; to thoroughly make whole; to cure, to repair, to restore. Exodus 15:26 (NIV) – [26] He said, “If you listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who HEALS you.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV) – [14] If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will HEAL their land. Psalms 103:2-3 (NIV) – [2] Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits — [3] who forgives all your sins and HEALS all your diseases… Psalms 147:3 (NIV) – [3] He HEALS (raphah) the brokenhearted and BINDS UP (chabash) their wounds. Isaiah 53:5 (NKJV) – [5] But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are HEALED. 7.“Riphuwth” means health, healing; it refers to a process of restoration and refreshment to a person that brings healing; in context, the fear of the Lord is the healing balm. Proverbs 3:7-8 (NIV) – [7] Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. [8] This will bring HEALTH to your body and nourishment to your bones. Proverbs 3:7-8 (KJV) – [7] Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. [8] It shall be HEALTH to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. 8. “Shalom” means completeness, soundness, health, prosperity; peace, quiet, tranquility, contentment, wellness, safety. Psalms 4:7-8 (NIV) – [7] You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound. [8] I will lie down and sleep in PEACE, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Isaiah 26:3 (NIV) – [3] You will keep in PERFECT PEACE him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) – [11] “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to PROSPER you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 33:6 (NIV) – [6] “Nevertheless, I will bring HEALTH (aruwkah) and HEALING (marpe) to it; I will HEAL (raphah) my people and will let them enjoy abundant PEACE (shalom) and security.”…
Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great BOLDNESS. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND TO HEAL and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God BOLDLY. Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal “The people of Old Testament times tended to think of sickness as punishment for sin. This concept is explored fully in the Book of Job. But Jesus was firmly convinced that His Father’s purpose for humankind was health, wholeness, and salvation. He did not teach that disease was a punishment sent by God. And while He was always concerned to heal the sick in body, He also paid close attention to the mind and the spirit of those who suffered.” (Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary) 1. “Aruwkah” means health, healing of a wound, or restoration; the new flesh that grows at the wounded spot. Isaiah 58:8 (NIV) – [8] Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your HEALING will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Jeremiah 30:17 (NIV) – [17] “But I will restore you to HEALTH and heal your wounds,” declares the Lord,” because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares.” 2. “Chabash” means saddle, bind up, girded, govern, restrain, healer, bandage; to wrap firmly, especially a turban, compress, or saddle. Numbers 22:21 (NIV) – [21] Balaam got up in the morning, SADDLED his donkey and went with the princes of Moab. Psalms 147:1-4 (NIV) – [1] Praise the Lord. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him! [2] The Lord builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the exiles of Israel. [3] He heals the brokenhearted and BINDS UP their wounds. [4] He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name. 3. “Yeshuw’ah” means salvation, help, deliverance, victory, health, save, saving, welfare, aid 2 Chronicles 20:17 (NIV) – [17] “You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the DELIVERANCE the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.” Psalms 42:5-6 (NLT) – [5] Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my SAVIOR and [6] my God! Psalms 67:1-2 (KJV) – [1] God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; Selah. [2] That thy way may be known upon earth, thy SAVING HEALTH among all nations. 4. “Kehah” means a healing, a cure, a quenching, a dulling, a lessening, alleviation. Nahum 3:18-19 (NIV) – [18] O king of Assyria, your shepherds slumber; your nobles lie down to rest. Your people are scattered on the mountains with no one to gather them. [19] Nothing can HEAL your wound; your injury is fatal. Everyone who hears the news about you claps his hands at your fall, for who has not felt your endless cruelty?…
The Book of Job “The Question of the Ages—Why?” Lesson 12c: On the Defensive 1. Job defends himself by challenging God. a. If we accuse God of not caring, it is evidence that we don’t know God very well. b. Never allow your difficult circumstances to discredit the character of God in your heart. c. Sometimes, we see ourselves as more fair and more just than God. 2. Job defends himself by insulting his friends. a. Just because you say something honest does not mean it was the right thing to say. b. We are to speak the truth but speak it in love. c. Criticism is rooted in our opinion; truthfulness is rooted in God’s Word. James 3:9-11 (NIV) – [9] With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. [10] Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. [11] Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 3. Job defends himself by idolizing his integrity. Job 6:28-30 (NIV) – [28] “But now be so kind as to look at me. Would I lie to your face? [29] Relent, do not be unjust; reconsider, for my integrity is at stake. [30] Is there any wickedness on my lips? Can my mouth not discern malice? Job 27:5 (NIV) – [5] I will never admit you are in the right; till I die, I will not deny my integrity. Job 2:9 (NIV) – [9] His wife said to him, “Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!” a. Anything that we hold higher than God is an idol, even if it is something good. Numbers 21:9 (NIV) – [9] So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, he lived. 2 Kings 18:4 (NIV) – [4] [Zechariah] removed the high places, smashed the sacred stones and cut down the Asherah poles. He broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had been burning incense to it. Judges 8:27 (NIV) – [27] Gideon made the gold into an ephod, which he placed in Ophrah, his town. All Israel prostituted themselves by worshiping it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and his family. b. When we question the way God works in our lives, we say we know better than Him. Isaiah 55:8-9 (NIV) – [8] “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. [9] “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9 (MSG) – [8] “I don’t think the way you think. The way you work isn’t the way I work.” GOD’s Decree. [9] “For as the sky soars high above earth, so the way I work surpasses the way you work, and the way I think is beyond the way you think.…
Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great BOLDNESS. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND TO HEAL and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God BOLDLY. 2023 Theme: Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal - God heals medically. - God heals miraculously. - God heals heavenly. “[God] chooses to bring health to persons sick physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The Bible not only tells of people’s spiritual status but is also concerned about their physical condition. This concern appears in the emphasis on healing, particularly in the ministry of Jesus and in the early church. Nearly one-fifth of the Gospels report Jesus’ miracles and the discussions they occasioned. The gospels record fourteen distinct instances of physical and mental healing.” (Holman Bible Dictionary) 1. “Iasis” (noun) or “iamai” (verb) means the process, mode, or act of healing, curing, or remedying; to renew or to make whole, complete, or well; to cause something to change to an earlier, correct, or appropriate state. Luke 13:31-32 (ESV) – [31] At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” [32] And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform CURES today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course.’” Luke 6:17-19 (NIV) – [17] He went down with them and stood on a level place. A large crowd of his disciples was there and a great number of people from all over Judea, from Jerusalem, and from the coast of Tyre and Sidon, [18] who had come to hear him and to be HEALED of their diseases. Those troubled by evil spirits were CURED, [19] and the people all tried to touch him, because power was coming from him and HEALING them all. 2. “Therapeia” (noun) or “therapeuo” (verb) means to care for or medically treat the sick; to wait upon, minister to, render voluntary service; to cause someone to recover or to restore to health. Matthew 4:23-24 (NIV) – [23] Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and HEALING every disease and sickness among the people. [24] News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he HEALED them. Matthew 10:5-9 (NIV) – [5] These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. [6] Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. [7] As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.’ [8] HEAL the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.” 3. “Iama” (noun) is the means of healing; the capacity to cause someone to become healed or cured; medicine. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 (NIV) – [7] Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. [8] To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, [9] to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of HEALING by that one Spirit, [10] to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. [11] All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines. 1 Corinthians 12:28 (NIV) – [28] And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of HEALING, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues. 4. “Sozo” (verb) means to save or rescue from peril, injury, or suffering; to deliver, protect, or make whole; to make well, heal, restore to health; to cause someone to experience divine salvation. Matthew 9:20-22 (NIV) – [20] Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. [21] She said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be HEALED.” [22] Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has HEALED you.” And the woman was HEALED from that moment. Luke 7:36-39 (NIV) – [36] Now one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, so he went to the Pharisee's house and reclined at the table. [37] When a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, [38] and as she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. [39] When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is — that she is a sinner.” Luke 7:48-50 – [48] Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” [49] The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” [50] Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has SAVED you; go in peace.”…
The Book of Job “The Question of the Ages—Why?” Lesson 12b: On the Defensive 1. Job defends himself by challenging God. a. If we accuse God of not caring, it is evidence that we don’t know God very well. b. Never allow your difficult circumstances to discredit the character of God in your heart. c. Sometimes, we see ourselves as more fair and more just than God. 2. Job defends himself by insulting his friends. Job 6:14-27 (NIV) – [14] “A despairing man should have the devotion of his friends, even though he forsakes the fear of the Almighty. [15] But my brothers are as undependable as intermittent streams, as the streams that overflow [16] when darkened by thawing ice and swollen with melting snow, [17] but that cease to flow in the dry season, and in the heat vanish from their channels. [18] Caravans turn aside from their routes; they go up into the wasteland and perish. [19] The caravans of Tema look for water, the traveling merchants of Sheba look in hope. [20] They are distressed, because they had been confident; they arrive there, only to be disappointed. [21] Now you too have proved to be of no help; you see something dreadful and are afraid. [22] Have I ever said, ‘Give something on my behalf, pay a ransom for me from your wealth, [23] deliver me from the hand of the enemy, ransom me from the clutches of the ruthless’? [24] Teach me, and I will be quiet; show me where I have been wrong. [25] How painful are honest words! But what do your arguments prove? [26] Do you mean to correct what I say, and treat the words of a despairing man as wind? [27] You would even cast lots for the fatherless and barter away your friend. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV) – [9] Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: [10] If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! [11] Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? [12] Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Proverbs 27:6 (KJV) – [6] Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. a. Just because you say something honest does not mean it was the right thing to say. b. We are to speak the truth but speak it in love. c. Criticism is rooted in our opinion; truthfulness is rooted in God’s Word. 1 Peter 2:21-23 (NIV) – [21] To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. [22] “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” [23] When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.…
The Book of Job “The Question of the Ages—Why?” Lesson 12: On the Defensive 1. Job defends himself by challenging God. Job 6:1-13 (NIV) – [1] Then Job replied: [2] “If only my anguish could be weighed and all my misery be placed on the scales! [3] It would surely outweigh the sand of the seas—no wonder my words have been impetuous. [4] The arrows of the Almighty are in me, my spirit drinks in their poison; God’s terrors are marshaled against me. [5] Does a wild donkey bray when it has grass, or an ox bellow when it has fodder? [6] Is tasteless food eaten without salt, or is there flavor in the white of an egg? [7] I refuse to touch it; such food makes me ill. [8] Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant what I hope for, [9] that God would be willing to crush me, to let loose his hand and cut me off! [10] Then I would still have this consolation—my joy in unrelenting pain—that I had not denied the words of the Holy One. [11] What strength do I have, that I should still hope? What prospects, that I should be patient? [12] Do I have the strength of stone? Is my flesh bronze? [13] Do I have any power to help myself, now that success has been driven from me?” “At times God puts us through the discipline of darkness to teach us to heed Him… watch where God puts you into darkness, and when you are there keep your mouth shut. Are you in the dark just now in your circumstances, or in your life with God? Then remain quiet. If you open your mouth in the dark, you will talk in the wrong mood: darkness is the time to listen.” –Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest a. If we accuse God of not caring, it is evidence that we don’t know God very well. b. Never allow your difficult circumstances to discredit the character of God in your heart. Numbers 11:15 (NIV) – [15] “If this is how you are going to treat me, put me to death right now—if I have found favor in your eyes—and do not let me face my own ruin.” 1 Kings 19:3-4 (NIV) – [3] Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, [4] while he himself went a day’s journey into the desert. He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, LORD,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” Jonah 4:8 (NIV) – [8] When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah’s head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, “It would be better for me to die than to live.” c. Sometimes, we see ourselves as more fair and more just than God. Galatians 6:9 (NIV) – [9] Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.…
Proverbs 29:18 (NAS) – [18] Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, but happy is he who keeps the law. Proverbs 29:18 (AMP) – [18] Where there is no vision [no redemptive revelation of God], the people perish; but he who keeps the law [of God, which includes that of man] — blessed (happy, fortunate, and enviable) is he. Acts 2:42-47 (NIV) – [42] They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. [43] Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. [44] All the believers were TOGETHER and had everything in common. [45] Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. [46] Every day they continued to meet TOGETHER in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate TOGETHER with glad and sincere hearts, [47] praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Our Vision: “Loving and Living Life Together in Jesus” Our Theme: BETTER TOGETHER Acts 4:27-31 (NIV) – [27] “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. [28] They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. [29] Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great BOLDNESS. [30] STRETCH OUT YOUR HAND TO HEAL and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” [31] After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God BOLDLY. 2023 Theme: Stretch Out Your Hand to Heal…
Proverbs 3:5-6
Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promises.” Isaiah 9:6-7 “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!” Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.” Deuteronomy 31:8 “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will never fail or abandon you.” Romans 8:28 “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.” Matthew 11:28 “Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Philippians 4:19 “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” Isaiah 53:5 “But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by his wounds we are healed.” 1 John 1:9 “But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” Isaiah 40:31 “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”…
The Story Behind the Story Luke 1:5-25 (NIV) – [5] In the time of Herod king of Judea… Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV) – [4] But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. 1. God’s timing is always perfect. Luke 1:5-7 (NIV) – …there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah; his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron. [6] Both of them were upright in the sight of God, observing all the Lord's commandments and regulations blamelessly. [7] But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren; and they were both well along in years. 2. The fullness of time comes to fruition to those who remain faithful. Luke 1:8-13 (NIV) – [8] Once when Zechariah’s division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God, [9] he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to go into the temple of the Lord and burn incense. [10] And when the time for the burning of incense came, all the assembled worshipers were praying outside. [11] Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. [12] When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. [13] But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John. 3. You have not been chosen by chance; you have been chosen by God! Luke 1:14-17 (NIV) – [14] He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, [15] for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth. [16] Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. [17] And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” 4. The fulfillment of God’s promises are always better than what we even expect. 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV) – [9] No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.” 5. God is still looking to make ready a people prepared for Him. Luke 12:35-38 (NIV) – [35] “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, [36] like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. [37] It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. I tell you the truth, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. [38] It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the second or third watch of the night. Luke 1:18-20 (NIV) – [18] Zechariah asked the angel, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.” [19] The angel answered, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. [20] And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their proper time.” Luke 1:18 (MSG) – [18] Zachariah said to the angel, “Do you expect me to believe this? I’m an old man and my wife is an old woman.” (The Message Bible) 6. Is it possible that we are still praying but no longer believing? James 1:5-8 (NIV) – [5] If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. [6] But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. [7] That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; [8] he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. Luke 1:21-25 (NIV) – [21] Meanwhile, the people were waiting for Zechariah and wondering why he stayed so long in the temple. [22] When he came out, he could not speak to them. They realized he had seen a vision in the temple, for he kept making signs to them but remained unable to speak. [23] When his time of service was completed, he returned home. [24] After this his wife Elizabeth became pregnant and for five months remained in seclusion. [25] “The Lord has done this for me,” she said. “In these days he has shown his favor and taken away my disgrace among the people.” 7. Jesus came to take away our shame. Isaiah 61:7 (NIV) – [7] Instead of their shame my people will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs.…
The Book of Job The Question of the Ages—Why? Knowledge without Wisdom 1. Calling on God should be our first resort, not our last. 2. Wrong assumptions about God lead to wrong conclusions about life. Job 5:8-16 (NIV) – [8] “But if it were I, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before him. [9] He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted. [10] He bestows rain on the earth; he sends water upon the countryside. [11] The lowly he sets on high, and those who mourn are lifted to safety. [12] He thwarts the plans of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success. [13] He catches the wise in their craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are swept away. [14] Darkness comes upon them in the daytime; at noon they grope as in the night. [15] He saves the needy from the sword in their mouth; he saves them from the clutches of the powerful. [16] So the poor have hope, and injustice shuts its mouth.” 3. Knowledge without experience does not equal wisdom. Job 42:1-3 (NIV) – [1] Then Job replied to the LORD: [2] “I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. [3] [You asked,] ‘Who is this that obscures my counsel without knowledge?’ Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know. 4. God knows everything I know, but I don’t know everything God knows. Job 5:17-26 (NIV) – [17] “Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. [18] For he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands also heal. [19] From six calamities he will rescue you; in seven no harm will befall you. [20] In famine he will ransom you from death, and in battle from the stroke of the sword. [21] You will be protected from the lash of the tongue, and need not fear when destruction comes. [22] You will laugh at destruction and famine, and need not fear the beasts of the earth.[23] For you will have a covenant with the stones of the field, and the wild animals will be at peace with you. [24] You will know that your tent is secure; you will take stock of your property and find nothing missing. [25] You will know that your children will be many, and your descendants like the grass of the earth. [26] You will come to the grave in full vigor, like sheaves gathered in season. Hebrews 12:4-6 (NIV) – [4] In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. [5] And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, [6] because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.” 5. God disciplines sin, but not all hardship is due to sin. John 16:33 (NIV) – [33] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (AMP) – [33] I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] 6. What we want are guarantees; what we need is grace. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (NIV) – [7] To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. [8] Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. [9] But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. [10] That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. Job 5:24-25 (NIV) – “[24] You will know that your tent is secure; you will take stock of your property and find nothing missing. [25] You will know that your children will be many, and your descendants like the grass of the earth.” Job 5:24-25 (MSG) – [24] You’ll know that your place on earth is safe, you’ll look over your goods and find nothing amiss. [25] You’ll see your children grow up, your family lovely and lissome as orchard grass. Job 5:27 (NIV) – [27] “We have examined this, and it is true. So hear it and apply it to yourself.” 7. Truth misapplied is a lie. James 1:5 (NIV) – [5] If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.…
Galatians 4:1-7 NLT 4 Think of it this way. If a father dies and leaves an inheritance for his young children, those children are not much better off than slaves until they grow up, even though they actually own everything their father had. 2 They have to obey their guardians until they reach whatever age their father set. 3 And that’s the way it was with us before Christ came. We were like children; we were slaves to the basic spiritual principles[a] of this world. 4 But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. 5 God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children.[b] 6 And because we[c] are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.”[d] 7 Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child.[e] And since you are his child, God has made you his heir. Adoption Definition: the action or fact of legally taking another's child and bringing it up as one's own, or the fact of being adopted Galatians 4:4-5 4 But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. Point #1: God Choses to Adopt You Ephesians 1:5 NLT 5 God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. Romans 8:23 23 And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children,[a] including the new bodies he has promised us. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44 42 It is the same way with the resurrection of the dead. Our earthly bodies are planted in the ground when we die, but they will be raised to live forever. 43 Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. 44 They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44 Point #2 Adoption is Full Inheritance Point #3 Adoption is a Choice Galatians 4:6-7 says, and because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.” Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you, his heir. Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” 1 John 3:1 says, See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know Him.…
Bakersfield First Assembly
3:5-6 Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) – [5] Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. In All Your Ways Acknowledge Him Ways (derek) means path, road, highway, distance, journey; manner, conduct, condition, destiny. (Vine’s Expository Dictionary) “The word may refer to a physical path or road or to a journey along a road. However, this word is most often used metaphorically to refer to the pathways of one’s life, suggesting the pattern of life.” (Complete Word Study Dictionary) Deuteronomy 8:6-7 (NIV) – [6] Observe the commands of the LORD your God, walking in his WAYS and revering him. [7] For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land… 1. To find our way in life, we must walk in God’s ways. Proverbs 14:12 (NIV) – [12] There is a WAY that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. 2. Our ways are not God’s ways. Isaiah 55:8 (NIV) – [8] “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your WAYS my WAYS,” declares the Lord. Isaiah 30:20-21 (NIV) – [20] Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. [21] Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the WAY; walk in it.” 3. The LORD’s discipline helps us walk in His ways. “God keeps His promises when we obey His precepts, because our obedience prepares us to receive and enjoy what He has planned for us… ‘He shall direct your paths’ is the promise, but the fulfillment of that promise is predicated on our obedience to the Lord. We must trust Him with all our heart and obey Him in all our ways.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 4. Obedience to God keeps us on the right path. Acknowledge (yada’) means to know, to learn, to perceive, to discern, to experience, to confess, to consider, to know people relationally, to know how, to be skillful, to be made known, to make oneself known, to make to know. (Complete Word Study Dictionary) “The simple meaning, to know, is its most common translation out of the eight hundred or more uses. One of the primary uses means to know relationally and experientially.” (Complete Word Study Dictionary) 5. It is not enough to know about God; we must know God personally. “Essentially, yada’ means to know by observing and reflecting (thinking), and to know by experiencing.” (Vine's Expository Dictionary) 6. In all our ways of life, there is an opportunity to know God. Jeremiah 24:5-7 (NIV) – [5] “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘Like these good figs, I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Babylonians. [6] My eyes will watch over them for their good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them. [7] I will give them a heart to KNOW me, that I am the Lord. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.’” 7. God will give us a new heart to know Him. Jeremiah 31:33-34 (NIV) – [33 “This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. [34] No longer will a man teach his neighbor, or a man his brother, saying, ‘KNOW the Lord,’ because they will all KNOW me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.” 8. We can know Jesus in the good and the bad. Philippians 3:10-11 (NIV) – [10] I want to KNOW Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, [11] and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.…
With Friends Like These… 1. The words of Job’s friends are accurately recorded, but their words may not be accurate to the truth. 2. Eliphaz is immediately defensive. 3. Some study theology to KNOW God; others study theology to CONTROL God. Job 4:3-6 (NLT) – [3] “In the past you have encouraged many people; you have strengthened those who were weak. [4] Your words have supported those who were falling; you encouraged those with shaky knees. [5] But now when trouble strikes, you lose heart. You are terrified when it touches you. [6] Doesn’t your reverence for God give you confidence? Doesn’t your life of integrity give you hope?” 4. Eliphaz rebukes Job. 5. Our hope should never be in our righteousness but in God’s mercy. Titus 3:3-7 (NIV) – [3] At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. [4] But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, [5] he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. [6] He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, [6] whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, [7] so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. Titus 2:11-14 (NIV) – [11] For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, [13] while we wait for the blessed hope-the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, [14] who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. Job 4:7-9 (NIV) – [7] “Consider now: Who, being innocent, has ever perished? Where were the upright ever destroyed? [8] As I have observed, those who plow evil and those who sow trouble reap it. [9] At the breath of God they are destroyed; at the blast of his anger they perish. 6. Eliphaz pontificates about God. Galatians 6:7-8 (NIV) – [7] Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. [8] The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 7. Current circumstances are not always an indicator of past transgressions. Job 4:12-21 (NIV) – [12] “A word was secretly brought to me, my ears caught a whisper of it. [13] Amid disquieting dreams in the night, when deep sleep falls on men, [14] fear and trembling seized me and made all my bones shake. [15] A spirit glided past my face, and the hair on my body stood on end. [16] It stopped, but I could not tell what it was. A form stood before my eyes, and I heard a hushed voice: [17] ‘Can a mortal be more righteous than God? Can a man be more pure than his Maker? [18] If God places no trust in his servants, if he charges his angels with error, [19] how much more those who live in houses of clay, whose foundations are in the dust, who are crushed more readily than a moth! [20] Between dawn and dusk they are broken to pieces; unnoticed, they perish forever. [21] Are not the cords of their tent pulled up, so that they die without wisdom?’ 8. Eliphaz speaks for Satan. 1 John 4:1-3 (NIV) – [1] Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. [2] This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, [3] but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. 9. Not every voice we hear is from God. 10. God will never contradict His Word or His character.…
3:5-6 Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) – [5] Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. 1. It is prideful to make plans without God. Lean not on Your Own Understanding 2. We cannot support ourselves with our own understanding. 3. We are not to rely on our own understanding. 2 Chronicles 14:11 (NJKV) – [11] And Asa cried out to the Lord his God, and said, “Lord, it is nothing for You to help, whether with many or with those who have no power; help us, O Lord our God, for we REST on You, and in Your name we go against this multitude. O Lord, You are our God; do not let man prevail against You!” “If we don’t live in peace, rest and security, it’s because we haven’t yet learned to trust in our heavenly Father. We’re uncertain of His ability to take care of us and unsure of His desire to do so.” (Deborah Kern, Learning to Trust God) 4. We won’t find rest in our own understanding. Proverbs 28:26 (NIV) – [26] He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe. “God has given His Word to guide in every detail of life so our sanctification might be by the truth. It is therefore inexcusable to lean on our own poor finite intelligence.” (Ironside Commentaries) Understanding (bee-NAW) means insight, discernment, wisdom, knowledge, and meaning. 5. Leaning on our own understanding leads to overthinking things. “The evidence that overthinking is bad for you now is vast and overwhelming. If you are someone plagued by ruminations, you are unlikely to become happier before you can break that habit. I will go so far as to say if you are an overthinker, one of the secrets to your happiness is the ability to allay obsessive overthinking, to reinterpret and redirect your negative thoughts into more neutral or optimistic ones.” (Psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky) 6. God alone understands everything perfectly. Job 28:20, 23 (NIV) – [20] “Where then does wisdom come from? Where does UNDERSTANDING dwell? [23] God UNDERSTANDS the way to it and he alone knows where it dwells.” “God has graciously endowed human beings with the ability of understanding and comprehension, but this faculty is not infallible, and, therefore, we are to ask God for guidance at all times.” (The Complete Word Study Dictionary) 7. God’s understanding is always greater than our own. Isaiah 55:8-9 (NIV) – [8] “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. [9] “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9 (MSG) – [8] “I don’t think the way you think. The way you work isn’t the way I work.” GOD’s Decree. [9] “For as the sky soars high above earth, so the way I work surpasses the way you work, and the way I think is beyond the way you think.…
The Book of Job: With Friends Like These… 1. The words of Job’s friends are accurately recorded, but their words may not be accurate to the truth. Job 42:7 (NIV) – [7] “After the LORD had said these things to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite, "I am angry with you and your two friends, because you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has.” Job 4:1 (NIV) – [1] Then Eliphaz the Temanite replied: Genesis 36:10-11 (NIV) – [10] These are the names of Esau's sons: Eliphaz, the son of Esau's wife Adah, and Reuel, the son of Esau's wife Basemath. [11] The sons of Eliphaz: Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam and Kenaz. Jeremiah 49:20 (NIV) – [20] Therefore, hear what the LORD has planned against Edom, what he has purposed against those who live in Teman: The young of the flock will be dragged away; he will completely destroy their pasture because of them. Jeremiah 49:7 (NIV) – [7] Concerning Edom: This is what the LORD Almighty says: “Is there no longer wisdom in Teman? Has counsel perished from the prudent? Has their wisdom decayed?” Job 4:2 (NIV) – [2] “If someone ventures a word with you, will you be impatient? But who can keep from speaking? 2. Eliphaz is immediately defensive. 3. Some study theology to KNOW God; others study theology to CONTROL God. “We are nearly always longing for an easy religion, easy to understand and easy to follow; a religion with no mystery, no insoluble problems, no snags; a religion that would allow us to escape from our miserably human condition; a religion in which contact with God spares us all strife, all uncertainty, all suffering and all doubt; in short, a religion without the Cross.” –Swiss Psychologist, Paul Tournier, Reflections Job 4:3-6 (NLT) – [3] “In the past you have encouraged many people; you have strengthened those who were weak. [4] Your words have supported those who were falling; you encouraged those with shaky knees. [5] But now when trouble strikes, you lose heart. You are terrified when it touches you. [6] Doesn’t your reverence for God give you confidence? Doesn’t your life of integrity give you hope?” 4. Eliphaz rebukes Job. 5. Our hope should never be in our righteousness but in God’s mercy. Titus 3:3-7 (NIV) – [3] At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. [4] But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, [5] he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. [6] He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, [6] whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, [7] so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. Titus 2:11-14 (NIV) – [11] For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, [13] while we wait for the blessed hope-the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, [14] who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.…
3-5-6 Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) – [5] Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. 1. It is prideful to make plans without God. James 4:13-16 (NIV) – [13] Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” [14] Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. [15] Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” [16] As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. Trust with God as the goal or object means to regard him as the source of wisdom and power in all things and therefore worthy of your entire confidence. The act of trusting is sometimes expressed figuratively as “putting your heart in the hands of” or “laying your liver on someone.” (UBS Old Testament Handbook Series) Lean not on Your Own Understanding Lean (shaan) means to support oneself, to rely on, to rest. 2 Samuel 1:6 (BBE) – [6] And the young man said, I came by chance to Mount Gilboa, and I saw Saul SUPPORTING HIMSELF on his spear; and the war-carriages and horsemen overtook him. 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 (NLT) – [3] We are human, but we don't wage war as humans do. [4] We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. 2. We cannot support ourselves with our own understanding. “The danger, of course, is that we lean on our own understanding and thereby miss God’s will. This warning doesn’t suggest that God’s children turn off their brains and ignore their intelligence and common sense. It simply cautions us not to depend on our own wisdom and experience or the wisdom and experience of others.” (Wiersbe) Isaiah 31:1 (NIV) – [1] Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who RELY on horses, who trust in the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or seek help from the Lord. 3. We are not to rely on our own understanding. 2 Chronicles 14:11 (NJKV) – [11] And Asa cried out to the Lord his God, and said, “Lord, it is nothing for You to help, whether with many or with those who have no power; help us, O Lord our God, for we REST on You, and in Your name we go against this multitude. O Lord, You are our God; do not let man prevail against You!”…
Bakersfield First Assembly
3-5-6 Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) – [5] Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. “Trust is our gift back to God, and he finds it so enchanting that Jesus died for love of it.” (Brennan Manning, Ruthless Trust) With All Your Heart Heart (leb) is used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything. (Strong’s Concordance) “According to the Bible, the heart is the center not only of spiritual activity, but of all the operations of human life. ‘Heart’ and ‘soul’ are often used interchangeably.” (Easton’s Bible Dictionary) All (kol) means each, every, all, everything, the whole, entire. It has an inclusive meaning of all or every one of something. (Complete Word Study Dictionary) 1. Seek the LORD with all your heart. Deuteronomy 4:25-26, 29 (NIV) – [25] After you have had children and grandchildren and have lived in the land a long time—if you then become corrupt and make any kind of idol, doing evil in the eyes of the LORD your God and provoking him to anger, [26] I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you this day that you will quickly perish from the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess. You will not live there long but will certainly be destroyed… [29] But if from there you SEEK the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with ALL YOUR HEART and with all your soul. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) – [11] For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV) – [13] “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” 2. Love the LORD with all your heart. Deuteronomy 6:5 (NIV) – [5] “LOVE the LORD your God with ALL YOUR HEART and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Mark 12:30 (NIV) – [30] “LOVE the Lord your God with ALL YOUR HEART and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” 3. Serve the LORD with all your heart. 1 Samuel 8:6-7 (NIV) – [6] But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the LORD. [7] And the LORD told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.” 1 Samuel 12:24 (NIV) – [24] But be sure to fear the LORD and SERVE him faithfully with ALL YOUR HEART; consider what great things he has done for you. 4. Obey the LORD with all your heart. Deuteronomy 30:6-10 (NIV) – [6] The LORD your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with ALL YOUR HEART and with all your soul, and live. [7] The LORD your God will put all these curses on your enemies who hate and persecute you. [8] You will again OBEY the LORD and follow all his commands I am giving you today. [9] Then the LORD your God will make you most prosperous in all the work of your hands and in the fruit of your womb, the young of your livestock and the crops of your land. The LORD will again delight in you and make you prosperous, just as he delighted in your fathers, [10] if you OBEY the LORD your God and keep his commands and decrees that are written in this Book of the Law and turn to the LORD your God with ALL YOUR HEART and with all your soul. “One way we glorify God is by our obedience to him, our refusing to believe we know best and instead trusting that his way is the way of life.” (Dane Ortlund, Gentle and Lowly) 5. Return to the LORD with all your heart. Joel 2:12-13 (NIV) – [12] “Even now,” declares the LORD, “RETURN to me with ALL YOUR HEART, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” [13] Rend your heart and not your garments. RETURN to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity. 6. Rejoice in the LORD with all your heart. Zephaniah 3:14-15 (NIV) – [14] Sing, O Daughter of Zion; shout aloud, O Israel! Be glad and REJOICE with ALL YOUR HEART, O Daughter of Jerusalem! [15] The LORD has taken away your punishment, he has turned back your enemy. The LORD, the King of Israel, is with you; never again will you fear any harm. 7. Work unto the LORD with all your heart. Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV) – [23] Whatever you do, WORK at it with ALL YOUR HEART, as working for the Lord, not for men, [24] since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.…
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) – [5] Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. Trust (batach) means to hie (to go quickly or in haste) for refuge; to be confident or sure; to be bold or secure; to confide in. (Multiple Sources) Jeremiah 17:5-6 (NIV) – [5] This is what the Lord says: “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who depends on flesh for his strength and whose heart turns away from the Lord. [6] He will be like a bush in the wastelands; he will not see prosperity when it comes. He will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives. 1. Do not trust in man. “…God indicated that a person who trusts in man for protection is cursed because his heart has turned away from God. Instead of prospering, he will wither away like a desert bush. God would make him as unfruitful as the barren salt land around the Dead Sea, unable to support life.” (Bible Knowledge Commentary) Proverbs 11:28 (NIV) – [28] Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf. 2. Do not trust in riches. “Riches are uncertain and therefore not worthy of trust. Our confidence should be in the living God who gives us richly all things to enjoy. The righteous, that is, those whose trust is in the Lord, will flourish with life and vitality like foliage.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary) “To have money is not wrong, but to trust in it is, (cf. 1 Timothy 6:9-10), because it and its owners are transitory. But the righteous, trusting in the Lord, flourish like a green leaf.” (Bible Knowledge Commentary) 1 Timothy 6:9-10 (NIV) – [9] People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. [10] For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. Psalms 146:3-4 (NIV) – [3] Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal men, who cannot save. [4] When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing. 3. Do not trust in politicians. “[The Lord] then warned against placing trust in human officials. They will die and their plans will perish with them. At death the spirit separates from the body, which returns to dust. Therefore, it is foolish to put too much hope in what people can do.” (Constable’s Notes) “The psalmist portrays powerful people as inadequate saviors, making false promises they cannot deliver… God, not the government, is the hope of the needy…” (Life Application Bible) Proverbs 28:26 (NIV) – [26] He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe. 4. Do not trust in yourself. “For many people, the rugged individualist is a hero. We admire the bold, self-directed men and women who know what they want and fight for it. They are self-reliant, neither giving nor asking advice. What a contrast to God’s way. A person can’t know the future or predict the consequences of his or her choices with certainty. And so the totally self-reliant person is doomed to failure. The wise person depends on God.” (Life Application Bible) Fool (keciyl) means dull, sluggish, obstinate, or thickheaded; it refers not to mental deficiency, but to a propensity to make wrong choices. (Theological Wordbook of the OT) Isaiah 42:17 (NIV) – [17] But those who trust in idols, who say to images, “You are our gods,” will be turned back in utter shame. 5. Do not trust in idols. Colossians 3:5-6 (NIV) – [5] Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. [6] Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. Ezekiel 33:13 (NIV) – [13] If I tell the righteous man that he will surely live, but then he trusts in his righteousness and does evil, none of the righteous things he has done will be remembered; he will die for the evil he has done. 6. Do not trust in your past righteousness. “Past good deeds will not save a person who decides to turn to a life of sin. Some people think that if they do enough good deeds, they can hold on to the sins they don't want to give up. But it's useless to try to be good in some areas so you can be deliberately bad in others. God wants wholehearted love and obedience.” Life Application Bible) Isaiah 31:1 (NIV) – [1] Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel, or seek help from the Lord. 7. Do not trust in Egypt. Deuteronomy 17:16 (NIV) – [16] The king, moreover, must not acquire great numbers of horses for himself or make the people return to Egypt to get more of them, for the Lord has told you, “You are not to go back that way again.” “After the Exodus, Egypt becomes a negative symbol in two ways. On the one hand, Egypt represents bondage and oppression. Israel’s servitude is mentioned on a number of occasions in the legal corpus as a reminder not to forget that experience of abuse… Egypt embodies the political and military temptation to turn to idolatrous superpowers instead of to Yahweh in times of acute national crisis. Several prophetic texts denounce this lack of faith.” (Dictionary of Biblical Imagery)…
Job 3:11-26 (NIV) – [11] “Why did I not perish at birth, and die as I came from the womb? [12] Why were there knees to receive me and breasts that I might be nursed? [13] For now I would be lying down in peace; I would be asleep and at rest [14] with kings and counselors of the earth, who built for themselves places now lying in ruins, [15] with rulers who had gold, who filled their houses with silver. [16] Or why was I not hidden in the ground like a stillborn child, like an infant who never saw the light of day? [17] There the wicked cease from turmoil, and there the weary are at rest. [18] Captives also enjoy their ease; they no longer hear the slave driver’s shout. [19] The small and the great are there, and the slave is freed from his master. [20] Why is light given to those in misery, and life to the bitter of soul, [21] to those who long for death that does not come, who search for it more than for hidden treasure, [22] who are filled with gladness and rejoice when they reach the grave? [23] Why is life given to a man whose way is hidden, whom God has hedged in? [24] For sighing comes to me instead of food; my groans pour out like water. [25] What I feared has come upon me; what I dreaded has happened to me. [26] I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil.” Bitterness of the Soul Bitterness (marah) means strong feelings of hurt, hatred, and resentment toward someone from a sense of being injured or offended; it is the result of prolonged, unresolved anger or disappointment. Hebrews 12:15 (NIV) – [15] See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. 1. Only we can allow bitterness into our souls. 2. Bitterness can be the cause of complaining. 3. Bitterness is expressed in envy. 4. Feelings of injustice is a root of bitterness. Ezekiel 27:31 (NIV) – [31] They will shave their heads because of you and will put on sackcloth. They will weep over you with anguish of soul and with bitter mourning. 5. Unresolved grief can give way to bitterness. Ruth 1:20-21 (NIV) – [20] “Don’t call me Naomi,” she told them. “Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. [21] I went away full, but the LORD has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? The LORD has afflicted me; the Almighty has brought misfortune upon me.” 6. Bitterness often blames God. Job 6:4 (NIV) – [4] The arrows of the Almighty are in me, my spirit drinks in their poison; God’s terrors are marshaled against me.…
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) – [5] Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. Trust (batach) means to hie (to go quickly or in haste) for refuge; to be confident or sure; to be bold or secure; to confide in. (Multiple Sources) 1. Trust in the LORD instills confidence. 2. Trust in the LORD inspires hope. 3. Trust in the LORD requires waiting. 4. Trust in the LORD removes shame. 5. Trust in the LORD overcomes fear. 6. Trust in the LORD brings blessing. Proverbs 16:20 (NIV) – [20] Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and BLESSED is he who TRUSTS in the Lord. Psalms 84:10-12 (NIV) – [10] Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. [11] For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. [12] O LORD Almighty, BLESSED is the man who TRUSTS in you. 7. Trust in the LORD requires surrender. The word translated “trust” in verse 5 means “to lie helpless, facedown.” It pictures a servant waiting for the master’s command in readiness to obey, or a defeated soldier yielding himself to the conquering general. (Wiersbe Commentary) Psalms 31:14-15 (NIV) – [14] But I TRUST in you, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.” [15] My times are in your hands… 8. Trust in the LORD’s unfailing love. …the cause for hope is not in one’s merit with God or in some sort of “tit-for-tat” arrangement, but only because of God’s [unfailing love], his unswerving loyalty, his gracious kindness. (Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament) Psalms 13:5-6 (NIV) – [5] But I TRUST in your UNFAILING LOVE; my heart rejoices in your salvation. [6] I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me. 9. Trust in the LORD answers prayer. 1 Chronicles 5:20 (NIV) – [20] They were helped in fighting them, and God handed the Hagrites and all their allies over to them, because they cried out to him during the battle. He answered their prayers, because they TRUSTED in him. 10. Trust in the LORD brings peace. Isaiah 26:3-4 (NIV) – [3] You will keep in perfect PEACE him whose mind is steadfast, because he TRUSTS in you. [4] TRUST in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal.…
The Book of Job “The Question of the Ages—Why?” Job 3:11-26 (NIV) – [11] “Why did I not perish at birth, and die as I came from the womb? [12] Why were there knees to receive me and breasts that I might be nursed? [13] For now I would be lying down in peace; I would be asleep and at rest [14] with kings and counselors of the earth, who built for themselves places now lying in ruins, [15] with rulers who had gold, who filled their houses with silver. [16] Or why was I not hidden in the ground like a stillborn child, like an infant who never saw the light of day? [17] There the wicked cease from turmoil, and there the weary are at rest. [18] Captives also enjoy their ease; they no longer hear the slave driver’s shout. [19] The small and the great are there, and the slave is freed from his master. [20] Why is light given to those in misery, and life to the bitter of soul, [21] to those who long for death that does not come, who search for it more than for hidden treasure, [22] who are filled with gladness and rejoice when they reach the grave? [23] Why is life given to a man whose way is hidden, whom God has hedged in? [24] For sighing comes to me instead of food; my groans pour out like water. [25] What I feared has come upon me; what I dreaded has happened to me. [26] I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil.” Bitterness of the Soul Bitterness (marah) means strong feelings of hurt, hatred, and resentment toward someone from a sense of being injured or offended; it is the result of prolonged, unresolved anger or disappointment. Job 3:20 (NIV) – [20] Why is light given to those in misery, and life to the bitter of soul… 1. Only we can allow bitterness into our souls. Job 7:11 (NIV) – [11] “Therefore I will not keep silent; I will speak out in the anguish of my spirit, I will complain in the bitterness of my soul. Job 10:1 (NIV) – [1] “I loathe my very life; therefore I will give free rein to my complaint and speak out in the bitterness of my soul. 2. Bitterness can be the cause of complaining. Job 21:23-25 (NIV) – [23] One man dies in full vigor, completely secure and at ease, [24] his body well nourished, his bones rich with marrow. [25] Another man dies in bitterness of soul, never having enjoyed anything good. 3. Bitterness is expressed in envy. Job 27:2 (NIV) – [2] “As surely as God lives, who has denied me justice, the Almighty, who has made me taste bitterness of soul… 4. Feelings of injustice is a root of bitterness. Ezekiel 27:31 (NIV) – [31] They will shave their heads because of you and will put on sackcloth. They will weep over you with anguish of soul and with bitter mourning. 5. Unresolved grief can give way to bitterness.…
3-5-6 TRUST in the LORD Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) – [5] Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. 1. Trust in the LORD instills confidence. Trust (batach) means to hie (to go quickly or in haste) for refuge; to be confident or sure; to be bold or secure; to confide in. (Multiple Sources) Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NIV) – [7] “But blessed is the man who TRUSTS in the Lord, whose CONFIDENCE is in him. [8] He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” 2. Trust in the LORD inspires hope. “The man who believes God is he who having received a revelation from Him, realizes it, and accepts it as true. The man who trusts God is he who casts all his hopes for the present and future on God.” (Synonyms of the Old Testament) Romans 15:13 (NIV) – [13] May the God of HOPE fill you with all joy and peace as you TRUST in him, so that you may overflow with HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit. 3. Trust in the LORD requires waiting. Psalms 33:20-22 (NIV) – [20] We WAIT in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. [21] In him our hearts rejoice, for we TRUST in his holy name. [22] May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you. Psalms 40:1-3 (NIV) – [1] I WAITED patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. [2] 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. [3] He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their TRUST in the Lord. 4. Trust in the LORD removes shame. Psalms 25:1-3 (NIV) – [1] To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; [2] in you I TRUST, O my God. Do not let me be put to SHAME, nor let my enemies triumph over me. [3] No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to SHAME, but they will be put to SHAME who are treacherous without excuse. 5. Trust in the LORD overcomes fear. Isaiah 12:2 (NIV) – [2] Surely God is my salvation; I will TRUST and not be AFRAID. The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. Psalms 56:3-4 (NIV) – [3] When I am AFRAID, I will TRUST in you. [4] In God, whose word I praise, in God I TRUST; I will not be AFRAID. What can mortal man do to me?…
SEEK FIRST Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV) – [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not WORRY about your life… [33] …But SEEK FIRST his kingdom and his RIGHTEOUSNESS and all these things will be given to you as well. Winning Against Worry -Seek His Face -Seek His Kingdom -Seek His Righteousness Righteousness (dikaiosune) means integrity, virtue, purity of life, uprightness; correctness in thinking, feeling, and acting: (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon) 1. Righteousness is from God. 2. Righteousness is a gift. 3. Righteousness is by faith. 4. Righteousness must be pursued. 2 Timothy 2:22 (NIV) – [22] Flee the evil desires of youth, and PURSUE RIGHTEOUSNESS, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 5. Righteousness is imputed. “The word ‘imputation,’ according to the Scriptural usage, denotes an attributing of something to a person, or a charging of one with anything, or a setting of something to one’s account.” (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia) Philemon 18 (NIV) – [18] If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. God accounts or transfers the righteousness of Christ to those who trust in Him. We do not become righteous because of our inherent goodness; God sees us as righteous because of our identification by faith with His Son. (Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary) 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV) – [21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the RIGHTEOUSNESS of God. 6. Righteousness is sown and reaped. Hosea 10:12-13 (NIV) – [12] Sow for yourselves RIGHTEOUSNESS, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers RIGHTEOUSNESS on you. [13] But you have planted wickedness, you have reaped evil, you have eaten the fruit of deception. Because you have depended on your own strength and on your many warriors. Proverbs 11:18 (NIV) – [18] The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows RIGHTEOUSNESS reaps a sure reward. 7. Righteousness results in peace. James 3:18 (NIV) – [18] Peacemakers who sow in PEACE raise a harvest of RIGHTEOUSNESS. Isaiah 32:17 (NIV) – [17] The fruit of RIGHTEOUSNESS will be PEACE; the effect of RIGHTEOUSNESS will be quietness and confidence forever. 8. Righteousness will be rewarded. 1 Samuel 26:23 (NIV) – [23] The LORD REWARDS every man for his RIGHTEOUSNESS and faithfulness. Psalms 18:24 (NIV) – [24] The LORD has REWARDED me according to my RIGHTEOUSNESS, according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.…
Bakersfield First Assembly
SEEK FIRST Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV) – [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not WORRY about your life… 33] But SEEK FIRST his kingdom and his righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well. HOW TO OVERCOME WORRY: -Seek First His Face -Seek First His Kingdom -Seek First His Righteousness Seek (zeteo) means to strive after, to desire, to look for, to strive to find, to try to gain, to aim for; to inquire, to ask; to investigate, to study, to consider; to seek in order to find out by thinking, meditating, and reasoning. Isaiah 64:6 (NIV) – [6] All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our RIGHTEOUS acts are like filthy rags… Righteousness (dikaiosune) means integrity, virtue, purity of life, uprightness, correctness in thinking, feeling, and acting: (Thayer's Greek Lexicon) 1 John 3:7 (NIV) – [7] Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. 1. Righteousness is from God. Psalms 119:137-138 (NIV) – [137] Righteous are you, O LORD, and your laws are right. [138] The statutes you have laid down are righteous; they are fully trustworthy. Romans 3:10 (NIV) – [10] As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one.” Romans 3:22-23 (NIV) – [22] This RIGHTEOUSNESS FROM GOD comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. 2. Righteousness is a gift. Romans 5:17 (NIV) – [17] For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the GIFT of RIGHTEOUSNESS reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. 3. Righteousness is by faith. Romans 1:17 (NIV) – [17] For in the gospel a RIGHTEOUSNESS from God is revealed, a RIGHTEOUSNESS that is by FAITH from first to last, just as it is written: “The RIGHTEOUS will live by faith.” 4. Righteousness is pursued. 2 Timothy 2:22 (NIV) – [22] Flee the evil desires of youth, and PURSUE RIGHTEOUSNESS, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 5. Righteousness is imputed. Philemon 18 (NIV) – [18] If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. God accounts or transfers the righteousness of Christ to those who trust in Him. We do not become righteous because of our inherent goodness; God sees us as righteous because of our identification by faith with His Son. (Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary) 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV) – [21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.…
The Question of the Ages—Why? The Darkness of Depression & Despair Job 3:1-10 (NIV) – [1] After this, Job opened his mouth and cursed the day of his birth. [2] He said: [3] “May the day of my birth perish, and the night it was said, ‘A boy is born!’ [4] That day—may it turn to darkness; may God above not care about it; may no light shine upon it. [5] May darkness and deep shadow claim it once more; may a cloud settle over it; may blackness overwhelm its light. [6] That night—may thick darkness seize it; may it not be included among the days of the year nor be entered in any of the months. [7] May that night be barren; may no shout of joy be heard in it. [8] May those who curse days curse that day, those who are ready to rouse Leviathan. [9] May its morning stars become dark; may it wait for daylight in vain and not see the first rays of dawn, [10] for it did not shut the doors of the womb on me to hide trouble from my eyes. 1. Depression and despair affect what we say. a. When Job spoke immediately after his loss, he was full of faith. b. However, when Job speaks now, his tone has dramatically changed. 2. Depression and despair can distort our perspective. a. Job’s feelings have affected his faith. b. It is not necessarily a sin to pour out your heart. c. God can handle our honest feelings as long as we still revere Him. 3. Despair can cause us to show contempt for our lives. 4. Depression and despair bring a deep darkness to the soul. a. It can be a spiritual oppression, demonic in origin. b. Some depression is psychological, some physiological, but some is also spiritual. c. Praise and worship are a remedy for spiritual depression. Isaiah 61:3 (NIV) – [3] and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. d. Spiritual warfare is another remedy against spiritual depression and despair. Ephesians 6:10-13, 18 (NIV) – [10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand… [18] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. 5. Depression and despair must be resisted to be overcome. a. Despair is something we can’t surrender to; we must fight it in the spirit. b. We fight it through worship, through taking our stand, by putting on the armor of God, speaking God’s Word and by praying in the Spirit. 6. Depression and despair can lead to hopelessness. a. Hope sustains us when all else has failed us. Romans 5:3-5 (NIV) – [3] Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; [4] perseverance, character; and character, hope. [5] And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Romans 4:18 (NIV) – [18] Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” b. The way to keep from losing all hope is to keep believing. 7. Depression and despair blind us to all the good we have in life. a. Life without problems is not real life. b. Peace in life comes not through an absence of suffering, but through an acceptance of God’s will for your life. c. While we would prefer to avoid trouble, often times it is trouble that brings us closer to God. 2 Corinthians 1:8-11 (NIV) – [8] We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. [9] Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. [10] He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, [11] as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many. 8. Depression and despair are the result of relying on ourselves and trusting in our own understanding. 9. Depression and despair can drive one into isolation, which is the opposite of what they need…
cts 2:42-47 (NIV) – [42] They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. [43] Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. [44] All the believers were TOGETHER and had everything in common. [45] Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. [46] Every day they continued to meet TOGETHER in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate TOGETHER with glad and sincere hearts, [47] praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. o Christianity is a Team Sport Motto: "better TOGETHER" Vision: "Living and Loving Life TOGETHER in Jesus" 1. Worship Together Matthew 18:19-20 (NIV) – [19] “Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. [20] For where two or three come TOGETHER in my name, there am I with them.” Acts 1:14 (NIV) – [14] The disciples] all joined TOGETHER constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. Acts 2:1-4 (NIV) – [1] When the day of Pentecost came, they were all TOGETHER in one place. [2] Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. [3] They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. [4] All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. 2. Fellowship Together Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV) – [24] And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. [25] Let us not give up meeting TOGETHER, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. 1 John 1:3 (NIV) – [3] We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have FELLOWSHIP with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 3. Serve Together Ephesians 2:21-22 (NIV) – [21] In him the whole building is joined TOGETHER and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. [22] And in him you too are being built TOGETHER to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Ephesians 4:15-16 (NLT) – [15] Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. [16] He makes the whole body fit TOGETHER perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.…
The 96/15 Challenge - WELCOME the LORD with Worship - WAIT upon the LORD and Listen - Read the WORD of God - Release your WORRIES to Jesus Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV) – [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not WORRY about your life… [33] But SEEK FIRST his kingdom 1. The Kingdom of God is ETERNAL. 2. The Kingdom of God is CONDITIONAL. a. Repentance b. Change c. Humility d. Being Born Again e. Doing God’s Will 3. The Kingdom of God is NEAR. 4. The Kingdom of God is INTERNAL. Luke 17:20-21 (AMP) – [20] Asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He replied to them by saying, The kingdom of God does not come with signs to be observed or with visible display, [21] Nor will people say, Look! Here [it is]! or, See, [it is] there! For behold, the kingdom of God is within you [in your hearts] and among you [surrounding you]. “The Pharisees asked when God’s Kingdom would come, not knowing that it had already arrived. The Kingdom of God is not like an earthly kingdom with geographical boundaries. Instead, it begins with the work of God’s Spirit in people’s lives and in relationships. We must resist looking to institutions or programs for evidence of the progress of God’s Kingdom. Instead, we should look for what God is doing in people’s hearts.” (Life Application Bible Notes) Romans 14:17 (NIV) – [17] For the KINGDOM of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. “Not the EXTERNALS, but the ETERNALS must be first in our lives: righteousness, peace, and joy. Where do they come from? The Holy Spirit of God at work in our lives. If each believer would yield to the Spirit and major in a godly life, we would not have Christians fighting with each other over minor matters. Spiritual priorities are essential to harmony in the church.” (Wiersbe Commentary) 5. The Kingdom of God is POWERFUL. 1 Corinthians 4:18-20 (NIV) – [18] Some of you have become arrogant, as if I were not coming to you. [19] But I will come to you very soon, if the Lord is willing, and then I will find out not only how these arrogant people are talking, but what power they have. [20] For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. “After all, it is power that counts, for the kingdom of God is not concerned principally with words but with action. It does not consist of profession, but of reality.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary) 6. The Kingdom of God is UNSHAKABLE. Hebrews 12:26-29 (NLT) – [26] When God spoke from Mount Sinai his voice shook the earth, but now he makes another promise: “Once again I will shake not only the earth but the heavens also.” [27] This means that all of creation will be shaken and removed, so that only unshakable things will remain. [28] Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. [29] For our God is a devouring fire. 7. The Kingdom of God is INHERITED. Matthew 25:31-34 (NIV) – [31] “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. [32] All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. [33] He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. [34] “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.’” “Rewards in the kingdom of heaven are given to those who serve without thought of reward. There is no hint of merit here, for God gives out of grace, not debt.” (NIV Study Bible Notes)…
The Book of Job The Question of the Ages—Why? The ULTIMATE Test of Integrity Job 2:7 (NIV) – [7] So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. [8] Then Job took a piece of broken pottery and scraped himself with it as he sat among the ashes. [9] His wife said to him, “Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die! [10] He replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” In all this, Job did not sin in what he said. 1. Satan has the power to inflict people with sickness and disease. 2. Health problems will truly test our integrity. 3. Marriage will test our integrity. a. The trials of life will test a marriage relationship. b. Job’s wife commands him to just curse God and die. c. Her statement is very revealing about her own relationship and belief about God. d. Job’s wife reacts out of her own pain. e. When Job needed his wife the most, she is not able to be there for him. Job 19:17 (NLT) – [17] My breath is repulsive to my wife. I am rejected by my own family. f. Now Job felt totally alone. 4. Our integrity is tested in how much we are willing to accept from God. a. Job’s faith is absolutely amazing; he is willing to accept both good and bad from God. b. Job has incredible faith in God, though his view of God may be a little distorted. 5. The ULTIMATE test of integrity is that when all is said and done, we have not sinned in what we say.…
SEEK FIRST The 96/15 Challenge - WELCOME the LORD with Worship - WAIT upon the LORD and Listen - Read the WORD of God - Release your WORRIES to Jesus Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV) – [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not WORRY about your life… [33] But SEEK FIRST his kingdom… “Jesus’ followers must settle the question of priorities and make the Kingdom of God their primary concern. To do that, we must consistently honor and represent the Kingdom. Then the way we deal with family, friends, work, leisure, etc., will all be transformed. What is most important to you? People, objects, goals, money, pleasure, and other desires all compete for priority. Any of these can quickly bump God out of first place if you don’t actively choose to give him first place in every area of life.” (Life Application NT) Matthew 6:9-10 (NIV) – [9] “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, [10] your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. “The Kingdom of God belongs to the present as well as the future… [it is] the rule, the reign, the government of God in this age in the hearts and lives of those who yield themselves to Him, and in the next age over all the world. (George Ladd, Gospel of the Kingdom) Psalms 45:6 (NIV) – [6] Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your KINGDOM. Daniel 7:13-14 (NIV) – [13] “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. [14] He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his KINGDOM is one that will never be destroyed. Matthew 25:34 (NIV) – [34] “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the KINGDOM prepared for you since the creation of the world. Revelation 11:15 (NIV) – [15] The seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, which said: “The KINGDOM of the world has become the KINGDOM of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign for ever and ever.” 2. The Kingdom of God is conditional. a. Repentance Matthew 4:17 (NIV) – 17] From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the KINGDOM of heaven is near.” b. Change Matthew 18:3-4 (NIV) – [3] And he said: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the KINGDOM of heaven. [4] Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the KINGDOM of heaven. c. Humility d. Being Born Again John 3:3 (NIV) – [3] In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” e. Doing God’s Will Matthew 7:21 (NIV) – [21] “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the KINGDOM of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 3. The Kingdom of God is near. Luke 21:29 (NIV) – [29] He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. [30] When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. [31] Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the KINGDOM of God is near. 4. The Kingdom of God is internal. Luke 17:20-21 (NIV) – [20] Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the KINGDOM of God would come, Jesus replied, “The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, [21] nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the KINGDOM of God is within you.” Romans 14:17 (NIV) – [17] For the KINGDOM of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 5. The Kingdom of God is powerful. Matthew 11:12 (NIV) – [12] From the days of John the Baptist until now, the KINGDOM of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it. Matthew 16:19 (NIV) – [19] I will give you the keys of the KINGDOM of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” 1 Corinthians 4:20 (NIV) – [20] For the KINGDOM of God is not a matter of talk but of power. 6. The Kingdom of God is invincible. Daniel 2:44 (NIV) – [44] “In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever. Hebrews 12:28 (NIV) – [28] Therefore, since we are receiving a KINGDOM that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 7. The Kingdom of God is inherited. Matthew 25:34 (NIV) – [34] “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV) – [19] The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; [20] idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions [21] and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. Matthew 5:3 (NIV) – [3] “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the KINGDOM of heaven.…
The Book of Job The Question of the Ages—Why? The ULTIMATE Test of Integrity Job 2:7 (NIV) – [7] So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. [8] Then Job took a piece of broken pottery and scraped himself with it as he sat among the ashes. [9] His wife said to him, “Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die! [10] He replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” In all this, Job did not sin in what he said. 1. Satan has the power to inflict people with sickness and disease. a. We know from other places in Scripture that Satan in the source of some sickness and disease. b. Sometimes, there is a connection between sickness and sin. c. Through the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus, we have the promise of divine healing. d. We are to pray for sick people to be healed. e. Sometimes sickness is the result of Satan, sometimes sin, and other times just the result of living in a fallen world. f. Ultimately, all sickness and disease will be done away with forever in heaven. 2. Health problems will truly test our integrity. a. Job was struck with a terrible disease. b. It can be difficult to maintain your integrity when you are severely suffering from such pain and sickness. 3. Marriage will test our integrity. a. The trials of life will test a marriage relationship. b. Job’s wife commands him to just curse God and die. c. Her statement is very revealing about her own relationship and belief about God. Job 1:11 (NIV) – [11] But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely CURSE you to your face.” Job 2:5 (NIV) – [5] But stretch out your hand and strike his flesh and bones, and he will surely CURSE you to your face.” Job 2:9 (NIV) – [9] His wife said to him, “Are you still holding on to your integrity? CURSE God and die!” d. Job’s wife reacts out of her own pain. e. When Job needed his wife the most, she is not able to be there for him. Job 19:17 (NLT) – [17] My breath is repulsive to my wife. I am rejected by my own family. f. Now Job felt totally alone. 4. Our integrity is tested in how much we are willing to accept from God. a. Job’s faith is absolutely amazing; he is willing to accept both good and bad from God. b. Job has incredible faith in God, though his view of God may be a little distorted. 5. The ULTIMATE test of integrity is that when all is said and done, we have not sinned.…
Seek First Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV) – [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not WORRY about your life… [33] But SEEK FIRST his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Luke 10:38-42 (NIV) – [38] As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. [39] She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. [40] But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” [41] “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are WORRIED and upset about many things, [42] but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” The Cure for Worry 1. Welcome Him in. “Welcomed” (hupedexato) means kindly received; she received him in a friendly manner, under her roof; and entertained him hospitably.” (Adam Clarke's Commentary) Luke 19:6 (NIV) – [6] Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. “Consider Martha’s situation. She received Jesus into her home and then neglected Him as she prepared an elaborate meal that He did not need! Certainly, a meal was in order, but what we do with Christ is far more important than what we do for Christ.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 2. Sit at His feet. “Mary of Bethany is seen three times in the gospel record, and on each occasion, she is in the same place: at the feet of Jesus. She sat at His feet and listened to His Word (Lk 10:39), fell at His feet and shared her woe (Jn 11:32), and came to His feet and poured out her worship (Jn 12:3).” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) Psalms 46:10 (NIV) – [10] “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalms 46:10 (NAS) – [10] “Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Matthew 6:6 (NJKV) – [6] But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. “It is vitally important that we spend time ‘at the feet of Jesus’ every single day, letting Him share His Word with us. The most important part of the Christian life is the part that only God sees. Unless we meet Christ personally and privately each day, we will soon end up like Martha: busy but not blessed. (Weirsbe Bible Commentary) 3. Listen to His Word. Isaiah 48:18 (NLT) – [18] Oh, that you had listened to my commands! Then you would have had peace flowing like a gentle river and righteousness rolling over you like waves in the sea. “While the Master does appreciate all that we undertake for Him, He knows that our first need is to sit at His feet and learn His will; then in our tasks we shall be calm and peaceful and kindly, and at last our service may attain the perfectness of that of Mary when in a later scene she poured upon the feet of Jesus the ointment, the perfume of which still fills the world.” (Charles R. Erdman) 4. One thing is needed. Psalms 27:4 (NIV) – [4] One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. “Jesus was telling Martha that the ‘one thing’ that Mary had ‘chosen’ was more important than the ‘many things’ Martha had chosen to do. The implication was that Martha should listen more and labor less. The ‘good part’ that Mary would not lose, was the blessing that comes to those who pay attention to the teachings of Jesus with an attitude of dependence on Him. (Thomas Constable’s Notes) 5. Choose the better. “Our Lord prizes our affection above our service. Service may be tainted with pride and self-importance. Occupation with Himself is the one thing needful, that good part which will not be taken away.” (Believer’s Commentary)…
Bakersfield First Assembly
eek First Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV) – [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not WORRY about your life… [33] But SEEK FIRST his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Luke 10:38-42 (NIV) – [38] As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. [39] She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. [40] But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” [41] “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are WORRIED and upset about many things, [42] but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42 (AMP) – [38] Now while they were on their way, it occurred that Jesus entered a certain village, and a woman named Martha received and welcomed Him into her house. [39] And she had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and was listening to His teaching. [40] But Martha [overly occupied and too busy] was distracted with much serving; and she came up to Him and said, Lord, is it nothing to You that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me [to lend a hand and do her part along with me]! [41] But the Lord replied to her by saying, Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; [42] There is need of only one or but a few things. Mary has chosen the good portion [that which is to her advantage], which shall not be taken away from her. The Cause of Worry, Part 2 1. Being overly occupied 2. Being too busy 3. Becoming distracted 4. Feeling overwhelmed by overcommitments “Jesus did not come alone—he had twelve disciples with him who all needed to have their feet washed, to be made comfortable, and to have a meal prepared for them. A respectable hostess in the ancient world would extend all of these courtesies to his or her guests. The impression here, however, is that Martha was overdoing it. She wanted something extra special for the Master, but she let herself get to the point where she was worrying, overworked, and unable to enjoy these guests. In attempting to serve Jesus, she did not understand or attend to Jesus’ reason for being there.” (Life Application NT) 5. Thinking God doesn’t care 6. Feelings of unfairness Luke 10:40 (NLT) – [40] But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, "Lord, doesn't it seem UNFAIR to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me." Psalms 37:1 (NIV) – [1] Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong. 7. The need to control Mark 3:20-21 (NIV) – [20] Then Jesus entered a house, and again a crowd gathered, so that he and his disciples were not even able to eat. [21] When his family heard about this, they went to take charge of him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.” “If we want greater happiness in life, it’s time to reevaluate what’s ruling our life. Is it power and the quest for control over people and things, or is it love?” (Leslie Vernick, Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy) 8. A habit of overthinking “The evidence that overthinking is bad for you now is vast and overwhelming. If you are someone plagued by ruminations, you are unlikely to become happier before you can break that habit. I will go so far as to say if you are an overthinker, one of the secrets to your happiness is the ability to allay obsessive overthinking, to reinterpret and redirect your negative thoughts into more neutral or optimistic ones. I have found that truly happy people have the capacity to distract and absorb themselves in activities that divert their energies and attention away from dark or anxious ruminations.” (Psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky, The How of Happiness) Psalms 73:2-3, 16 (NIV) – [2] But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. [3] For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked… [16] When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me… 9. Becoming anxious Worry (merimnao) means anxious care, troubled; to think earnestly upon, to be cumbered with many cares; to have an anxious concern based on apprehension about POSSIBLE danger or misfortune; to have a distracting care, perpetually uneasy. 10. Being troubled Troubled (thorubazo) means “to be bothered or distracted or disturbed;” it comes from a root word (thoruboo) meaning “to make a noise or uproar, be turbulent; a loud and ostentatious lamentation or wailing; to throw into confusion.” Mark 5:38-40 (NIV) – [38] When they came to the home of the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. [39] He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” 40 But they laughed at him.…
The Book of Job The Question of the Ages—Why? The Test of Integrity Job 2:1-6 (NIV) – [1] On another day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them to present himself before him. [2] And the LORD said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the LORD, “From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it.” [3] Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. And he still maintains his integrity, though you incited me against him to ruin him without any reason.” [4] “Skin for skin!” Satan replied. “A man will give all he has for his own life. [5] But stretch out your hand and strike his flesh and bones, and he will surely curse you to your face.” [6] The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, then, he is in your hands; but you must spare his life.” 1. For integrity to be proven it must be tested. 2. The true test of integrity is not when it benefits you to have it, but when it costs you to keep it. a. The fact that Job had not lost his integrity though he had lost everything else is the evidence of true integrity. b. Incite (cuwth) means to entice, to mislead, to alure, to instigate. 1 Samuel 26:17-19 (NIV) – [17] Saul recognized David’s voice and said, “Is that your voice, David my son?” David replied, “Yes it is, my lord the king.” [18] And he added, “Why is my lord pursuing his servant? What have I done, and what wrong am I guilty of? [19] Now let my lord the king listen to his servant’s words. If the Lord has INCITED you against me, then may he accept an offering…” 1 Chronicles 21:1-2 (NIV) – [21] Satan rose up against Israel and INCITED David to take a census of Israel. 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 – Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort. 3. One purpose of suffering is to learn patient endurance. Revelation 14:9-12 (NIV) – [9] A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: “If anyone worships the beast and his image and receives his mark on the forehead or on the hand, [10] he, too, will drink of the wine of God’s fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. He will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. [11] And the smoke of their torment rises for ever and ever. There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and his image, or for anyone who receives the mark of his name.” [12] This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God’s commandments and remain faithful to Jesus. 4. Satan is out to prove that our integrity is based solely upon the good things God does for us. 5. The tests of life are evidence of God’s confidence in us to pass them.…
The Book of Job The Question of the Ages—Why? The Test of Integrity Job 2:1-6 (NIV) – [1] On another day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them to present himself before him. [2] And the LORD said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the LORD, “From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it.” [3] Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. And he still maintains his integrity, though you incited me against him to ruin him without any reason.” [4] “Skin for skin!” Satan replied. “A man will give all he has for his own life. [5] But stretch out your hand and strike his flesh and bones, and he will surely curse you to your face.” [6] The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, then, he is in your hands; but you must spare his life.” 1. For integrity to be proven it must be tested. a. Integrity (tummah) means completeness, fullness, innocence, simplicity; that which is ethically sound. b. Integrity is the quality or state of being complete; unbroken condition; wholeness; the quality or state of being of sound moral principles; uprightness, honesty, and sincerity. (Webster’s) Job 27:5 (NIV) – [5] I will never admit you are in the right; till I die, I will not deny my INTEGRITY. c. Maintain (chazaq) means to strengthen, to prevail, to harden, to be strong, to be courageous, to be firm, to be resolute. Proverbs 11:3 (NIV) – [3] The INTEGRITY of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. 2. The true test of integrity is not when it benefits you to have it, but when it costs you to keep it. a. The fact that Job had not lost his integrity though he had lost everything else is the evidence of true integrity. b. Incite (cuwth) means to entice, to mislead, to alure, to instigate. 1 Samuel 26:17-19 (NIV) – [17] Saul recognized David’s voice and said, “Is that your voice, David my son?” David replied, “Yes it is, my lord the king.” [18] And he added, “Why is my lord pursuing his servant? What have I done, and what wrong am I guilty of? [19] Now let my lord the king listen to his servant’s words. If the Lord has INCITED you against me, then may he accept an offering…” 1 Chronicles 21:1-2 (NIV) – [21] Satan rose up against Israel and INCITED David to take a census of Israel. 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 – Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort. 3. One purpose of suffering is to learn patient endurance. Revelation 14:9-12 (NIV) – [9] A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: “If anyone worships the beast and his image and receives his mark on the forehead or on the hand, [10] he, too, will drink of the wine of God’s fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. He will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. [11] And the smoke of their torment rises for ever and ever. There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and his image, or for anyone who receives the mark of his name.” [12] This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God’s commandments and remain faithful to Jesus. 4. Satan is out to prove that our integrity is based solely upon the good things God does for us. 5. The tests of life are evidence of God’s confidence in us to pass them.…
Seek First Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV) – [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not WORRY about your life… [33] But SEEK FIRST his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Luke 10:38-42 (NIV) – [38] As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. [39] She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. [40] But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” [41] “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are WORRIED and upset about many things, [42] but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42 (AMP) – [38] Now while they were on their way, it occurred that Jesus entered a certain village, and a woman named Martha received and welcomed Him into her house. [39] And she had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and was listening to His teaching. [40] But Martha [overly occupied and too busy] was distracted with much serving; and she came up to Him and said, Lord, is it nothing to You that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me [to lend a hand and do her part along with me]! [41] But the Lord replied to her by saying, Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; [42] There is need of only one or but a few things. Mary has chosen the good portion [that which is to her advantage], which shall not be taken away from her. Worry (merimnao) means anxious care, troubled; to think earnestly upon, to be cumbered with many cares; to have an anxious concern based on apprehension about POSSIBLE danger or misfortune; to have a distracting care, perpetually uneasy. THE CAUSE OF WORRY 1. Being overly occupied Luke 10:38 (TM) – [38] As they continued their travel, Jesus entered a village. A woman by the name of Martha welcomed him and made him feel quite at home. 2. Being too busy “Whenever demands exceed abilities, stress is bound to follow. Multitasking is especially stressful when the tasks are important, as they often are on the job. The brain responds to impossible demands by pumping out adrenaline and other stress hormones that put a person ‘on edge.’ These hormones provide a quick burst of energy, but energy won't make multitasking easier… Over time, the stress of multitasking may even become dangerous. A steady flow of stress hormones can strain the body and threaten health.” (David Meyer, PhD, professor of psychology, cognition and perception, University of Michigan) “Our work ethic demands that we always be busy doing something. Doing nothing has a bad rap… So we are caught, then, between the body’s need for rest and society’s need to keep us busy.” (Hart, The Anxiety Cure) 3. Becoming distracted Distracted (perispao) means to drag all around; to draw different ways at the same time, hence, to distract with cares and responsibilities. 4. Feeling overwhelmed by overcommitments Matthew 5:33-37 (NIV) – [33] “Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.’ [34] But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne; [35] or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. [36] And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. [37] Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. “In other words, if we say yes to God or anyone else when we really mean no, we move into a position of compliance. And that is the same as lying. Our lips say yes, but our hearts (and often our half-hearted actions) say no... Say yes to the best, and sometimes you may need to say no to the good. (Cloud & Townsend, Boundaries) 5. Thinking God doesn’t care Mark 4:37-38 (NIV) – [37] A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. [38] Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”…
The Book of Job The Question of the Ages—Why? “Most, if not all of us, have a contractual agreement with God. The fact that he hasn’t signed it doesn’t keep us from believing it. I pledge to be a good, decent person, and in return God will… save my child, …heal my wife, …protect my job, or… (fill in the blank). Only fair, right? Yet when God fails to meet our bottom-line expectations, we are left spinning in a tornado of questions. Is he good at all? Is God angry at me? Stumped? Overworked? Is his power limited? His authority restricted? Did the devil outwit him? When life isn’t good, what are we to think about God? Where is he in all this?” (Lucado, Max. You’ll Get Through This) When Tragedy Strikes, How Should We Respond? Job 1:20-22 (NIV) – [20] At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship [21] and said: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.” [22] In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing. 1. Job grieves. 2. Job worships. 3. Job surrenders. a. Job believes God caused his loss. b. And yet he worships the very one he believes took everything away. Wow! c. Job’s falling down in worship is a sign of surrender and acceptance to the sovereign will of God. d. Job acknowledged that he came into this world empty-handed and will leave it the same way. e. It is true that the Lord gives, for ALL the good in our lives come from Him. f. God even shows kindness to the wicked. g. While Job’s acceptance of the will of God is commendable, he is mistaken as to the identity of the one who has taken away these things from him. h. In this case, God is the one who gave, but Satan is the one who took away. i. Satan is a liar and a thief. John 8:44 (NIV) – [44] “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 10:10 (NIV) – [10] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Ephesians 6:10-12 (NIV) – [10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. j. God did not cause Job’s loss, but He did allow it. k. God has the right to give, and God has the right to take away. 4. Job blesses. a. Though Job’s life seemed CURSED by the LORD, he still chose to BLESS the LORD. Job 1:21 (AMP) – [21] And said, Naked (without possessions) came I [into this world] from my mother's womb, and naked (without possessions) shall I depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed (praised and magnified in worship) be the name of the Lord! b. Blessed (barak) means to kneel, salute, or greet; the verb derives from the noun knee and perhaps suggests the bending of the knee in blessing. (The Complete Word Study Dictionary) c. Blessing signifies not only the act of a superior to an inferior, but also the expression of grateful praise proceeding from the inferior and ascending to the superior. (Synonyms of the Old Testament) d. One of the greatest weapons we have against Satan is to praise, and to worship, and to bless God. e. The best way we can turn the tables on the enemy is to bless God instead of doubt Him. f. Through his confession of faith, Job recognizes that God’s sovereign hand is at work; that is why he can bless God. g. We are not at the mercy of evil men, for even if they should do us harm, our God will use it for our good. 5. Job doesn’t sin. a. God never does wrong. Deuteronomy 32:4 (NIV) – [4] He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he. Job 34:10 (NIV) – [10] “So listen to me, you men of understanding. Far be it from God to do evil, from the Almighty to do wrong. Psalms 92:15 (NIV) – [15] “The Lord is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.” b. Therefore, it is a sin to charge God with wrongdoing.…
Seek First 2 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV) – [14] if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and SEEK MY FACE and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:11-22 (NIV) – [11] When Solomon had finished the temple of the LORD and the royal palace, and had succeeded in carrying out all he had in mind to do in the temple of the LORD and in his own palace, [12] the LORD appeared to him at night and said: “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a temple for sacrifices. [13] When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, [14] if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and SEEK MY FACE and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. [15] Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. [16] I have chosen and consecrated this temple so that my Name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there. [17] As for you, if you walk before me as David your father did, and do all I command, and observe my decrees and laws, [18] I will establish your royal throne, as I covenanted with David your father when I said, ‘You shall never fail to have a man to rule over Israel.’ [19] But if you turn away and forsake the decrees and commands I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them, [20] then I will uproot Israel from my land, which I have given them, and will reject this temple I have consecrated for my Name. I will make it a byword and an object of ridicule among all peoples. [21] And though this temple is now so imposing, all Who pass by will be appalled and say, ‘Why has the LORD done such a thing to this land and to this temple?’ [22] People will answer, ‘Because they have forsaken the LORD, the God of their fathers, who brought them out of Egypt, and have embraced other gods, worshiping and serving them—that is why he brought all this disaster on them.’” Psalms 33:10-12 (NIV) – [10] The LORD foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. [11] But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. [12] Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance. Seek (baqash) means to search out by any method, specifically in worship or prayer, to strive after. (Strong’s Concordance) 2 Chronicles 7:14 (AMP) – [14] If My people, who are called by My name, shall humble themselves, pray, SEEK, CRAVE, AND REQUIRE OF NECESSITY MY FACE and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land. Face (paniym) means person or presence; most of the time this word occurs in a figurative, idiomatic phrase. Face can be a substitute for the entire person or it can be a reflection of the person’s mood or attitude. (The Complete Word Study Dictionary) “Seek His Face” means to search out and strive after the person and presence and favor of God in worship and prayer. 1 Chronicles 16:10-11 (NIV) – [10] Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. [11] Look to the LORD and his STRENGTH; SEEK HIS FACE always. 1. Seek His face for strength. Psalms 24:3-6 (NIV) – [3] Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? [4] He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false. [5] He will receive BLESSING from the LORD and VINDICATION from God his Savior. [6] Such is the generation of those who seek him, who SEEK YOUR FACE, O God of Jacob. 2. Seek His face for blessing. 3. Seek His face for vindication. Psalms 17:1-2 (NIV) – [1] Hear, O LORD, my righteous plea; listen to my cry. Give ear to my prayer—it does not rise from deceitful lips. [2] May my vindication come from you; may your eyes see what is right. Psalms 105:3-5 (NIV) – [3] Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. [4] Look to the LORD and his strength; SEEK HIS FACE always. [5] Remember the wonders he has done, his MIRACLES, and the judgments he pronounced, 4. Seek His face for miracles. Psalms 27:7 (NIV) – [7] Hear my voice when I call, O LORD; be MERCIFUL to me and answer me. [8] My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, LORD, I will seek. 5. Seek His face for mercy.…
The Book of Job: “The Question of the Ages—Why?” Lesson 4c: When Tragedy Strikes, How Should We Respond? Job 1:20-22 (NIV) – [20] At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship [21] and said: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.” [22] In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing. 1. Job grieves. 2. Job worships. 3. Job surrenders. a. Job believes God caused his loss. b. And yet he worships the very one he believes took everything away. Wow! c. Job’s falling down in worship is a sign of surrender and acceptance to the sovereign will of God. d. Job acknowledged that he came into this world empty-handed and will leave it the same way. 1 Timothy 6:7 (NIV) – [7] For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. e. It is true that the Lord gives, for ALL the good in our lives come from Him. James 1:17 (NIV) – [17] Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. f. God even shows kindness to the wicked. Matthew 5:45 (NIV) – [45] He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. g. While Job’s acceptance of the will of God is commendable, he is mistaken as to the identity of the one who has taken away these things from him. Romans 11:29 (AMP) – [29] For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable. [He never withdraws them when once they are given, and He does not change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call.] Hosea 6:1 (NIV) – [1] “Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds.” Hebrews 12:5-6 (NIV) – [5] And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, [6] because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.” h. In this case, God is the one who gave, but Satan is the one who took away. i. Satan is a liar and a thief. John 8:44 (NIV) – [44] “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 10:10 (NIV) – [10] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Ephesians 6:10-12 (NIV) – [10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. j. God did not cause Job’s loss, but He did allow it. k. God has the right to give, and God has the right to take away.…
Seek First Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV) – [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life... [33] But SEEK FIRST his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. [34] Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. 1. Believers are to be seekers. Seek (zeteo) means to strive after, to desire, to look for, to strive to find, to try to gain, to aim for; to inquire, to ask; to investigate, to study, to consider; to seek in order to find out by thinking, meditating, and reasoning. Acts 17:27 (NIV) [27] God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 2. We are to seek with the proper priority. Isaiah 55:6 (NIV) – [6] Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. “The text says you are to seek God’s kingdom first, that is, ‘above all else.’ In other words, God’s kingdom should be ‘your primary concern’ or ‘the thing you should be concerned with before anything else.’” (UBS NT Handbook) 3. What we seek determines how much we worry. Worry (merimnao) means anxious care, troubled; to think earnestly upon, to be cumbered with many cares; to have an anxious concern based on apprehension about possible danger or misfortune; to have a distracting care, perpetually uneasy. “Someone has said that the average person is crucifying himself between two thieves: the regrets of yesterday and the worries about tomorrow.” (Weirsbe Commentary) Mark 4:18-19 (NIV) – [18] “Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; [19] but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.” 4. We must seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. “In summary it may be recalled that ‘the kingdom of God’ refers primarily to God’s kingly rule, while ‘righteousness’ is the doing of what God requires and of what pleases him.” (UBS NT Handbook) Luke 17:20-21 (NIV) – [20] Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, [21] nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is within you.” 5. If we don’t seek our wants, God will meet our needs. “The Lord, therefore, makes a covenant with His followers. He says, in effect, ‘If you will put God's interests first in your life, I will guarantee your future needs. If you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, then I will see that you never lack the necessities of life.’” (Believer’s Bible Commentary) Matthew 6:24 (NIV) – [24] “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” “This is God’s ‘social security’ program. The believer’s responsibility is to live for the Lord, trusting God for the future with unshakable confidence that He will provide. One’s job is simply a means of providing for current needs; everything above this is invested in the work of the Lord. We are called to live one day at a time: tomorrow can worry about its own things.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary)…
The Book of Job: “The Question of the Ages—Why?” Lesson 4b: When Tragedy Strikes, How Should We Respond? Job 1:20-22 (NIV) – [20] At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship [21] and said: “Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.” [22] In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing. 1. Job grieves. 2. Job worships. a. Job falls down and worships God. b. Worship (shachah) means to bow down, to prostrate oneself, to crouch, to fall down, to humbly beseech, to do reverence, to worship. (Complete Word Study Dictionary) Exodus 4:29-31 (NIV) – [29] Moses and Aaron brought together all the elders of the Israelites, [30] and Aaron told them everything the Lord had said to Moses. He also performed the signs before the people, [31] and they believed. And when they heard that the Lord was concerned about them and had seen their misery, they bowed down and worshiped. c. Worship may seem like the most unnatural, insincere and unrealistic response to tragedy, but it is the best response. d. Job could worship God after these tragedies because worshipping God was Job’s custom. Psalms 95:6-7 (NIV) – [6] Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; [7] for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. e. Worship during crisis is the greatest expression of faith. Hebrews 11:36-39 (NIV) – [36] Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison. [37] They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated—[38] the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground. [39] These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. f. Worship isn’t about a PLACE of worship; it is all about an ATTITUDE of worship. John 4:21-24 (NIV) – [21] Jesus declared, “Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. [22] You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. [23] For a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. [24] God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.” g. God is not just seeking WORSHIP; He is seeking WORSHIPERS.…
Send. Me. Isaiah 6:1-8 (NIV) – [1] In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. [2] Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. [3] And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” [4] At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. [5] “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty.” [6] Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. [7] With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.” [8] Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” 1. Calling “The nation needed the Lord, and the Lord wanted a servant to minister to the people. Isaiah volunteered to be that servant. He did not discuss his call with the Lord, as did Moses and Jeremiah but accepted the appointment and made himself available to his Master.” (Wiersbe) Ephesians 4:1 (NLT) – [1] Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. 2. Confession 1 John 1:9 (NKJV) – [9] If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Romans 10:9-11 (NIV) – [9] That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. James 5:14 (NIV) – [16] Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. “A seraph peels off from his flight path around the throne, diving straight for Isaiah. He’s holding a burning coal that he took from the altar with tongs, but not because it is hot. After all, a seraph himself is a burning one. He took this coal with tongs because it is a holy thing. It belongs to the place of sacrifice and atonement and forgiveness. But this holy thing touches Isaiah’s dirty mouth, and it does not hurt him, it heals him. What we must see, in the context of the whole Bible, is that this burning coal symbolizes the finished work of Christ on the cross.” (Ortlund) “Isaiah only acknowledged his hopeless condition—he did not plead with God or make vows to God—and God then went into action. Confession must precede cleansing.” (Constable) 3. Cleansing Leviticus 16:11-12 (NIV) – [11] Aaron shall bring the bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household, and he is to slaughter the bull for his own sin offering. [12] He is to take a censer full of burning coals from the altar before the LORD and two handfuls of finely ground fragrant incense and take them behind the curtain. “When Isaiah’s lips were touched with a live burning coal, however, he was told that his sins were forgiven. It wasn’t the coal that cleansed him, but God. In response, Isaiah submitted himself entirely to God’s service. No matter how difficult his task would be, he said, ‘Lord, I’ll go! Send me.’ The painful cleansing process was necessary before Isaiah could fulfill the task to which God was calling him. Before we accept God's call to speak for him to those around us, we must be cleansed as Isaiah was, confessing our sins and submitting to God’s control. Letting God purify us may be painful, but we must be purified so that we can truly represent God, who is pure and holy.” (Life Application Bible) “Fire, in its symbolic use, is also spoken of as purifying—the emblem of a healing process effected upon the spiritual natures of persons in covenant with God.” (New Unger’s Bible Dictionary) Leviticus 6:12-13 (NIV) – [12] The fire on the altar must be kept burning; it must not go out. Every morning the priest is to add firewood and arrange the burnt offering on the fire and burn the fat of the fellowship offerings on it. [13] The fire must be kept burning on the altar continuously; it must not go out. 4. Conversion “God’s purging agent touched Isaiah’s mouth, and the angelic messenger assured the prophet that he had been completely cleansed of his uncleanness. We might call this Isaiah’s conversion experience.” (Constable) 5. Consecration “Consecration refers to persons or things being separated to or belonging to God. They are holy or sacred. They are set apart for the service of God.” (Holman Bible Dictionary) Leviticus 20:7-8 (NIV) – [7] “Consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am the LORD your God. [8] Keep my decrees and follow them. I am the LORD, who makes you holy.” 6. Commissioning “The vision produced deep conviction of sin in the prophet, then brought him to the place of confession. This was immediately followed by cleansing. Only then did Isaiah hear the call of the LORD. He quickly consecrated himself to the Lord and was given his commission.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary) Numbers 27:18-20 (NIV) – [18] So the LORD said to Moses, “Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit, and lay your hand on him. [19] Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly and commission him in their presence. [20] Give him some of your authority so the whole Israelite community will obey him.…
he Book of Job: The Question of the Ages—Why? When Tragedy Strikes, How Should We Respond? Job 1:20-22 (NIV) – [20] At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship [21] and said: “Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.” [22] In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing. 1. Job grieves. a. Job tears his robe and shaves his head. b. This is the customary sign of intense mourning and grief for people of that day. Genesis 37:29, 34 (NIV) – [29] When Reuben returned to the cistern and saw that Joseph was not there, he tore his clothes… [34] Then Jacob tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and mourned for his son many days. Micah 1:16 (NIV) – [16] Shave your heads in mourning for the children in whom you delight; make yourselves as bald as the vulture, for they will go from you into exile. c. The process of grief is God’s gift of healing through tragedy. Ecclesiastes 7:3 (NIV) – [3] Sorrow is better than laughter, because a sad face is good for the heart. Ecclesiastes 7:3 (NLT) – [3] Sorrow is better than laughter, for sadness has a refining influence on us. Ecclesiastes 7:3 (MSG) – [3] Crying is better than laughing. It blotches the face, but it scours the heart. d. We grieve without losing hope. 1 Thessalonians 4:13 (NIV) – [13] Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. Lamentations 3:19-23 (NIV) – [19] I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. [20] I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. [21] Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: [22] Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. [23] They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. e. We are comforted to comfort others. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV) – [3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2. Job worships. a. Job falls down and worships God. b. Worship (shachah) means to bow down, to prostrate oneself, to crouch, to fall down, to humbly beseech, to do reverence, to worship. (Complete Word Study Dictionary) c. Worship may seem like the most unnatural, insincere and unrealistic response to tragedy, but it is the best response. d. Job could worship God after these tragedies because worshipping God was Job’s custom. e. Worship during crisis is the greatest expression of faith. John 4:21-24 (NIV) – [21] Jesus declared, “Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. [22] You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. [23] For a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. [24] God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.” f. Worship isn’t about a place of worship; it is all about an attitude of worship.…
Send. Me. Isaiah 6:1-8 (NIV) – [1] In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. [2] Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. [3] And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” [4] At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. [5] “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty.” 1. His holiness reveals the high places in our hearts. 2. His holiness exposes our unholiness. 3. His holiness provokes a response of woe. 4. His holiness uncovers our uncleanness. “The teaching about uncleanness springs from the concept of God’s holiness. Freedom from uncleanness and guilt is possible through God’s gracious work. Holiness within, purity of heart, is possible through the exercise of faith in Christ’s redemption and obedience to His word of truth.” (Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary) Isaiah 35:8 (NIV) – [8] And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not journey on it; it will be for those who walk in that Way; wicked fools will not go about on it. “Before we can minister to others, we must permit God to minister to us. Before we pronounce ‘woe’ upon others, we must sincerely say, ‘Woe is me!’ Isaiah's conviction led to confession, and confession led to cleansing.” (Wiersbe Commentary) 5. His holiness inspires personal repentance. “The sight of a holy God and the sound of the holy hymn of worship brought great conviction to Isaiah’s heart, and he confessed that he was a sinner. Unclean lips are caused by an unclean heart (Mt 12:34-35). Isaiah cried out to be cleansed inwardly (Ps 51:10), and God met his need.” (Weirsbe Commentary) 6. His holiness inspires corporate repentance. Daniel 9:20 (NIV) – [20] While I was speaking and praying, confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel and making my request to the LORD my God for his holy hill— Jonah 3:4-5 (NIV) – [4] On the first day, Jonah started into the city. He proclaimed: “Forty more days and Nineveh will be overturned.” [5] The Ninevites believed God. They declared a fast, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. 7. His holiness enables us to see the LORD. Hebrews 12:14 (NIV) – [14] Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. “In a time when moral and spiritual decay had peaked, it was important for Isaiah to see God in his holiness. Holiness means ‘morally perfect, pure, and set apart from all sin.’ We also need to discover God’s holiness.” (Life Application Bible)…
The Book of Job: “The Question of the Ages—Why?” When Tragedy Strikes Job 1:13-19 (NIV) – [13] One day when Job’s sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, [14] a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, [15] and the Sabeans attacked and carried them off. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” [16] While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The fire of God fell from the sky and burned up the sheep and the servants, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” [17] While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and carried them off. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” [18] While he was still speaking, yet another messenger came and said, “Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, [19] when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” 1. Financial Loss #1 – the loss of oxen, donkeys, and servants (vv. 13-15) a. This is an attack by man – the Sabeans. 1) The Sabeans were nomadic marauders descended from Sheba, a grandson of Abraham. (Genesis 25:3) 2) They eventually settled in the southernmost part of the Arabian Peninsula and became a wealthy nation. 3) During Solomon’s reign, he was visited by the Queen of Sheba. b. This is a crime of robbery and murder. c. KEY POINT – Satan uses people to cause evil and accomplish his sinister plans. 2. Financial Loss #2 – the loss of sheep and servants (v. 16) a. This is a disaster of nature – fire from the sky. b. “The fire of God” is inaccurately named, for we know that this disaster is not from God, but from Satan. c. KEY POINT – Satan does have the ability to use nature to cause harm and accomplish his sinister plans. d. However, God has greater power: Mark 4:35-41 (NIV) – [35] That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” [36] Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. [37] A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. [38] Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” [39] He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. [40] He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” [41] They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” 3. Financial Loss #3 – the loss of camels and servants (v. 17) a. This is another attack by man – the Chaldeans. b. They were a nomadic people from the northeast and were Mesopotamians. c. They later became the Babylonian Empire. d. KEY POINT – Financial loss will expose our hearts and reveal to us where our treasure is. Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV) – [19] Jesus said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” 4. Personal Loss – the loss of children (vv. 18-19) a. This is another disaster of nature. b. Up to now, all of Job’s losses have been financial in nature; now his loss will be personal on the largest scale imaginable. c. Job’s kids were partying again and it’s during one of these parties that disaster strikes. Deuteronomy 24:16 (NIV) – [16] Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor children put to death for their fathers; each is to die for his own sin. Ezekiel 18:20 (NIV) – [20] The soul who sins is the one who will die. The son will not share the guilt of the father, nor will the father share the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous man will be credited to him, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against him. Matthew 18:5-6 (NIV) – [5] “And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. [6] But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” d. KEY POINT – God is not to blame for our tragedies, but He will use them for our good and for His glory.…
Send. Me. Isaiah 6:1-8 (NIV) – [1] In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. [2] Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. [3] And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” [4] At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. [5] “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty.” 2 Kings 15:32-35 (NIV) – [32] In the second year of Pekah son of Remaliah king of Israel, Jotham son of Uzziah king of Judah began to reign. [33] He was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years. His mother’s name was Jerusha daughter of Zadok. [34] He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Uzziah had done. [35] The high places, however, were not removed; the people continued to offer sacrifices and burn incense there. Jotham rebuilt the Upper Gate of the temple of the LORD. “A high place was an elevated site, usually found on the top of a mountain or hill; most high places were Canaanite places of pagan worship… When the Israelites came into the land of Canaan, they were ordered to destroy the high places of the people who lived in the land lest the Israelites be tempted to worship the Canaanite false gods and accept their immoral behavior.” (Holman Bible Dictionary) 1 Kings 15:14 (NIV) – [14] Although he did not remove the high places, Asa’s heart was fully committed to the LORD all his life. 2 Chronicles 20:32-33 (NIV) – [32] [Jehoshaphat] walked in the ways of his father Asa and did not stray from them; he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD. [33] The high places, however, were not removed, and the people still had not set their hearts on the God of their fathers. James 1:13-15 (NIV) – [13] When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; [14] but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. [15] Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. 1. His holiness reveals the high places in our hearts. Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV) – [22] You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; [23] to be made new in the attitude of your minds; [24] and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. 1 Kings 12:26-27, 31 (NIV) – [26] Jeroboam thought to himself, “The kingdom will now likely revert to the house of David. [27] If these people go up to offer sacrifices at the temple of the LORD in Jerusalem, they will again give their allegiance to their lord, Rehoboam king of Judah. They will kill me and return to King Rehoboam.” [31] Jeroboam built shrines on high places and appointed priests from all sorts of people, even though they were not Levites. 2 Kings 21:1-3 (NIV) – [1] Manasseh was twelve years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-five years. His mother's name was Hephzibah. [2] He did evil in the eyes of the LORD, following the detestable practices of the nations the LORD had driven out before the Israelites. [3] He rebuilt the high places his father Hezekiah had destroyed; he also erected altars to Baal and made an Asherah pole, as Ahab king of Israel had done. He bowed down to all the starry hosts and worshiped them. 2. His holiness exposes our unholiness. “Seeing the Lord and listening to the praise of the angels, Isaiah realized that he was sinful before God, with no hope of measuring up to God’s standard of holiness.” (Life Application Bible) 3. His holiness provokes a response of woe. Woe (oy) means a passionate cry of grief or despair; alas. (Theological Word Book) Isaiah 3:11 (NIV) – [11] Woe to the wicked! Disaster is upon them! They will be paid back for what their hands have done. Ruin (damah) means to cease, to cut off, to destroy, to silence, to perish, to be undone. Hosea 4:6 (NIV) – [6] My people are DESTROYED from lack of knowledge. 4. His holiness inspires our repentance. "The sight of a holy God and the sound of the holy hymn of worship brought great conviction to Isaiah's heart, and he confessed that he was a sinner. Unclean lips are caused by an unclean heart (Mt 12:34-35). Isaiah cried out to be cleansed inwardly (Ps 51:10), and God met his need.” (Weirsbe Commentary) 5. His holiness enables us to see Him. Hebrews 12:14 (NLT) – [14] Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. “In a time when moral and spiritual decay had peaked, it was important for Isaiah to see God in his holiness. Holiness means ‘morally perfect, pure, and set apart from all sin.’ We also need to discover God’s holiness.” (Life Application Bible)…
Send. Me. Isaiah 6:1-8 (NIV) – [1] In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. [2] Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. [3] And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” [4] At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. “Cherubim function primarily as guards or attendants to the divine throne. Seraphim appear only in Isaiah's vision and there attend God’s throne and voice praises.” (Holman Bible Dictionary). Genesis 3:24 (NIV) – [24] After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden CHERUBIM and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life. Psalms 99:1 (NIV) – [1] The LORD reigns, let the nations tremble; he sits enthroned between the CHERUBIM, let the earth shake. “Only here are the seraphim mentioned in Scripture. The Hebrew word means ‘to burn’ and relates these creatures to the holiness of God. This is why they repeat, ‘Holy, holy, holy’ before the throne of God. Some students think that the seraphim are the ‘living creatures’ described in Revelation 4:6-9.” (Wiersbe Commentary) Revelation 4:6-9 (NIV) – [6] Also before the throne there was what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal. In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. [7] The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. [8] Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stop saying: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.” [9] Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, 1. We worship along with angels. 2. We must be holy. “Holiness is moral and ethical wholeness or perfection; freedom from moral evil. Holiness is one of the essential elements of God’s nature required of His people. Holiness may also be rendered ‘sanctification’ or ‘godliness.’ The word holy denotes that which is ‘sanctified’ or ‘set apart’ for divine service.” (Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary) Hebrews 12:14 (NIV) – [14] Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be HOLY; without HOLINESS no one will see the Lord. 1 Peter 1:15 (NIV) – [15] But just as he who called you is HOLY, so be HOLY in all you do; [16] for it is written: “Be HOLY, because I am HOLY.” “Holiness in the highest sense belongs to God and to Christians as consecrated to God’s service, and in so far as they are conformed in all things to the will of God. Personal holiness is a work of gradual development.” (Easton's Bible Dictionary) 3. We need to see His glory. “Glory” (kabod) literally means a heaviness or weightiness; figuratively, it represents the unchanging and manifest beauty, splendor, honor, and majesty of God. “The Hebrew word translated glory connotes weightiness, substance, and reality. It is not the flimsy, ephemeral quality we often associate with the English term glory. It is more the idea of royal grandeur.” (NLT Study Bible) Exodus 40:34-35 (NIV) – [34] Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the GLORY of the LORD filled the tabernacle. [35] Moses could not enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled upon it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. John 1:14 (NIV) – [14] The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his GLORY, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (NIV) – [17] Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. [18] And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's GLORY, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing GLORY, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 4. There will be shaking. Hebrews 12:25-29 (NIV) – [25] See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven? [26] At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” [27] The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain. [28] Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, [29] for our “God is a consuming fire.” 5. Where there’s smoke… Exodus 19:17-19 (NIV) – [17] Then Moses led the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. [18] Mount Sinai was covered with SMOKE, because the LORD descended on it in fire. The SMOKE billowed up from it like SMOKE from a furnace, the whole mountain trembled violently, [19] and the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder. Then Moses spoke and the voice of God answered him. Revelation 15:7-8 (NIV) – [7] Then one of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels seven golden bowls filled with the wrath of God, who lives for ever and ever. [8] And the temple was filled with SMOKE from the glory of God and from his power, and no one could enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were completed.…
The Question of the Ages—Why? Who’s in Charge, Here? Part 2 Job 1:6-12 (NIV) – [6] One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. [7] The LORD said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the LORD, “From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it.” [8] Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” [9] “Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. [10] “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. [11] But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” [12] The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.” Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD. 1. Satan has access to God. (v.6) Zechariah 1:10-11 (NIV) – [10] Then the man standing among the myrtle trees explained, “They are the ones the Lord has sent to go throughout the earth.” [11] And they reported to the angel of the Lord, who was standing among the myrtle trees, “We have gone throughout the earth and found the whole world at rest and in peace.” Genesis 6:1-4 (NIV) – [1] When men began to increase in number on the earth and daughters were born to them, [2] the sons of God saw that the daughters of men were beautiful, and they married any of them they chose. [3] Then the LORD said, “My Spirit will not contend with man forever, for he is mortal; his days will be a hundred and twenty years.” [4] The Nephilim were on the earth in those days—and also afterward—when the sons of God went to the daughters of men and had children by them. They were the heroes of old, men of renown. Numbers 13:33 (NIV) – [33] “We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.” 2. Satan has free reign on the earth. (v.7) Colossians 1:12-14 (NIV) – [12] giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. [13] For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, [14] in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. 3. God presents Job to Satan as a challenge. (v.8) 4. Satan charges that Job’s love is conditional. (v.9-11) a. Just as humanity was convinced that God’s blessing was conditional upon one’s good deeds, so Satan was convinced that Job’s obedience was based solely upon God’s protection and provision. John 6:26 (NIV) – [26] Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill.” b. God places hedges around His people for protection from Satan and from ourselves. Hosea 2:6 (AMP) – [6] Therefore, behold, I [the Lord God] will hedge up her way [even yours, O Israel] with thorns; and I will build a wall against her that she shall not find her paths. c. The LORD blesses the work of our hands. Deuteronomy 2:7 (NIV) – [7] The LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast desert. These forty years the LORD your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything. Psalms 90:17 (NIV) – [17] May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands. d. Satan’s assertion is that in the absence of God’s blessing, Job will quickly resort to cursing. 5. God releases Job into Satan’s hands with limits. (v.12) a. God did not strike Job directly but gave Satan the authority to do whatever he willed. b. Even still, God, in his sovereignty, set limits. c. Though God did not directly cause Job’s suffering, He allowed it to happen, and this is the root of our problem of trying to understand why. d. Satan is limited and under God’s supreme authority.…
Send. Me. Hebrews 11:36-38 (NIV) – [36] Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison. [37] They were stoned; THEY WERE SAWED IN TWO; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— [38] the world was not worthy of them. Isaiah 6:1 (NIV) – [1] In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. 1. Isaiah saw the Lord Jesus. “In the year that King Uzziah died, Isaiah had a vision of the King of kings. We learn from John 12:39-41 that the King he saw was none other than the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary) John 12:39-41 (NIV) – [39] For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere: [40] “He has blinded their eyes and deadened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn—and I would heal them.” [41] Isaiah said this because he saw Jesus’ glory and spoke about him. 2. Jesus is on the throne. Psalms 47:7-8 (NIV) – [7] For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise. [8] God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne. Revelation 21:5-7 (NIV) – [5] He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” [6] He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life. [7] He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son. 3. Jesus is high and exalted. Philippians 2:5-11 (NIV) – [5] Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: [6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, [7] but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. [8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! [9] Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, [10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, [11] and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 4. We are His temple. “…a vision of God represented as an Eastern monarch, attended by seraphim as His ministers of state (1Ki 22:19), and with a robe and flowing train (a badge of dignity in the East), which filled the temple.” (Jamieson, Fausset, Brown) Revelation 1:12-18 (NIV) – [12] I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, [13] and among the lampstands was someone “like a son of man,” dressed in a ROBE reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. [14] His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. [15] His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. [16] In his right hand he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. [17] When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. [18] I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.” 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (NIV) – [16] Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you? [17] If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God's temple is sacred, and you are that temple. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV) – [19] Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; [20] you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.…
Series Title: The Question of the Ages—Why? Lesson Title: Who’s in Charge, Here? Job 1:6-12 (NIV) – [6] One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. [7] The LORD said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the LORD, “From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it.” [8] Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” [9] “Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. [10] “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. [11] But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” [12] The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.” Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD. 1. Satan has access to God. (v.6) a. The angels regularly present themselves before the Lord. b. Satan’s presence before God is not an odd occurrence. Revelation 12:9-10 (NIV) – [9] The great dragon was hurled down-that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him. [10] Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.” 2. Satan has free reign on the earth. (v.7) a. God immediately recognized Satan’s identity. b. God in His omnipotence summoned Satan and he doesn’t even know it. c. Since the fall of Adam and Eve, the earth is Satan’s dominion. Matthew 4:8-9 (NIV) – [8] Again, the devil took him (Jesus) to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. [9] “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” d. Satan and his fallen angels are an occupying force on the earth. e. The Kingdom of God is a revolutionary army. 3. God presents Job to Satan as a challenge. (v.8) a. It is God who first broaches the subject of Job. b. God reiterates Job’s character qualities, and He is pleased. c. Though Job’s friends would accuse him of sin, God had already declared him blameless. d. Though suffering has been promised, many times we don’t think we are deserving of any kind of suffering. 1 Peter 4:12-13 (NIV) – [12] Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. [13] But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:12-13 (AMP) – [12] Beloved, do not be amazed and bewildered at the fiery ordeal which is taking place to test your quality, as though something strange (unusual and alien to you and your position) were befalling you. [13] But insofar as you are sharing Christ’s sufferings, rejoice, so that when His glory [full of radiance and splendor] is revealed, you may also rejoice with triumph [exultantly]. 4. Satan charges that Job’s love is conditional. (v.9-11) a. Just as humanity was convinced that God’s blessing was conditional upon one’s good deeds, so Satan was convinced that Job’s love was based solely upon God’s protection and provision. John 6:26 (NIV) – [26] Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill.” b. God does indeed place hedges of protection around His people and does indeed bless the work of their hands. c. Satan’s assertion is that in the absence of God’s blessing, Job will quickly resort to cursing. 5. God releases Job into Satan’s hands with limits. (v.12) a. God did not strike Job directly but gave Satan the authority to do whatever he willed. b. Even still, God, in his sovereignty, set limits. c. Though God did not directly cause Job’s suffering, He allowed it to happen, and this is the root of our problem of understanding why. d. Satan is limited and under God’s supreme authority.…
Send. Me. The Perils of Power 2 Chronicles 26:3-5, 16-23 (NIV) – [3] Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years. His mother’s name was Jecoliah; she was from Jerusalem. [4] He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Amaziah had done. [5] He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success… [16] But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the LORD his God, and entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. [17] Azariah the priest with eighty other courageous priests of the LORD followed him in. [18] They confronted him and said, “It is not right for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to the LORD. That is for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who have been consecrated to burn incense. Leave the sanctuary, for you have been unfaithful; and you will not be honored by the LORD God.” [19] Uzziah, who had a censer in his hand ready to burn incense, became angry. While he was raging at the priests in their presence before the incense altar in the LORD’s temple, leprosy broke out on his forehead. [20] When Azariah the chief priest and all the other priests looked at him, they saw that he had leprosy on his forehead, so they hurried him out. Indeed, he himself was eager to leave, because the LORD had afflicted him. [21] King Uzziah had leprosy until the day he died. He lived in a separate house—leprous, and excluded from the temple of the LORD. Jotham his son had charge of the palace and governed the people of the land. [22] The other events of Uzziah’s reign, from beginning to end, are recorded by the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz. [23] Uzziah rested with his fathers and was buried near them in a field for burial that belonged to the kings, for people said, “He had leprosy.” And Jotham his son succeeded him as king. 1. Pride Ezekiel 28:14,17 (NIV) – [14] You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for so I ordained you. You were on the holy mount of God; you walked among the fiery stones… [17] Your heart became PROUD on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor. So I threw you to the earth; I made a spectacle of you before kings. “This daring and wicked act is in both records traced to the intoxicating influence of overweening pride and vanity.” (Jamieson, Fausset, Brown) “There’s no question that Uzziah was an illustrious king whose name was known far and wide, but what the Lord did for him should have produced humility and not pride…” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 2. Downfall Proverbs 16:18 (NIV) – [18] Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. “How consistently in the pages of history we are taught the perils of prosperity. Man depending upon God is ever independent of all else. In the moment when the heart begins to feel independent of God in its own strength, the strength fails; and unless there be repentance ruin is inevitable. The last years of the reign, so glorious in its beginnings, were years of suffering and sadness.” (Exposition of the Whole Bible) 3. Unfaithfulness “When people have power, they often think they can live above the law. But even rulers are subject to God, as Uzziah discovered. No matter what your position in society, God expects you to honor, worship, and obey him.” (Life Application Bible) 4. Conflict “…Uzziah wanted to serve as both king and priest. In the Old Testament economy, the Lord separated the kings and priests, and while a priest could become a prophet (Ezekiel, Zechariah, John the Baptist), no prophet or king could become a priest… Instead, [Uzziah] convinced himself that he deserved to be a priest as well as a king.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 5. Rage Isaiah 30:30 (NIV) – [30] The Lord will cause men to hear his majestic voice and will make them see his arm coming down with RAGING ANGER and consuming fire, with cloudburst, thunderstorm and hail. Jonah 1:15 (NIV) – [15] Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the RAGING sea grew calm. 6. Separation “Being a leper, the king couldn’t appear in public or even live in the palace. He was quarantined in an isolated house while his son Jotham ruled the land as coregent. When Uzziah died, he was buried in the royal cemetery, but apparently not in the tombs of the kings.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 7. Exclusion “[Uzziah] had a wonderful beginning but a tragic ending, and this is a warning to us that we be on guard and pray that the Lord will help us to end well. A good beginning is no guarantee of a successful ending, and the sin of unholy ambition has ruined more than one servant of the Lord.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary)…
The Question of the Ages—Why? Why Job? Job 1:1-5 (NIV) – [1] In the land of Uz there lived a man whose name was Job. This man was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil. [2] He had seven sons and three daughters, [3] and he owned seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred yoke of oxen and five hundred donkeys, and had a large number of servants. He was the greatest man among all the people of the East. [4] His sons used to take turns holding feasts in their homes, and they would invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them. [5] When a period of feasting had run its course, Job would send and have them purified. Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, “Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” This was Job’s regular custom. 1. The Background of Job a. Job may be the first written book of the Bible. b. The author of Job is unknown. c. Job lived likely before the birth of Abraham. d. The location of Uz is uncertain. (Genesis 10:23; Lamentations 4:21) e. The prevailing doctrine of the day was retribution theology. 2. The Character of Job a. Job was blameless. b. Job was upright. c. Job feared God. d. Job shunned evil. 3. The Blessing of Job a. Job had the perfect family. b. Job had great wealth. c. Job had great power. d. Job had great fear. 4. The Faith of Job a. Job was fervent in his faith. b. Job was consistent in his faith. c. Job was uncertain in his faith.…
Send. Me. The Secret to Success Isaiah 6:1-8 (NIV) – [1] In the year that King Uzziah died… 2 Chronicles 26:3-5, 16-23 (NIV) – [3] Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years… [4] He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Amaziah had done. [5] He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success… 1. God defines success. Success (tsaleach) means to push forward, to rush, to break out, to prosper, to make progress, to come mightily, to advance, to press through. Psalms 1:1-3 (NIV) – [1] Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. [2] But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. [3] He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does PROSPERS. Joshua 1:8 (NIV) – [8] Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be PROSPEROUS and successful. 2. Do what is right in the eyes of the LORD. Judges 21:25 (NLT) – [25] In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes. 1 Kings 11:38 (NIV) – [38] If you do whatever I command you and walk in my ways and do what is right in my eyes by keeping my statutes and commands, as David my servant did, I will be with you. I will build you a dynasty as enduring as the one I built for David and will give Israel to you. 3. Make it generational. Psalms 71:17-18 (NIV) – [17] Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. [18] Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come. 4. Seek the LORD. Isaiah 55:6 (NIV) – [6] Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Acts 17:26-27 (NIV) – [26] From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. [27] God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 5. Be willing to receive instruction. Proverbs 16:20-21 (NIV) – [20] Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD. [21] The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction. 6. Fear God. “Fear of God also lies at the heart of successful living in the world. Wisdom literature makes it clear that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, a fear equated with the ‘knowledge of the Holy One.’ To fear God is to know him and to know him is to fear him. Such healthy fear enables one to praise God to enjoy benefits and blessings at his hand, to rest in peace and security, and to experience length of days. But fear of God also produces fear of wrath and judgment in those who do not know him or who refuse to serve him. There are, thus, two sides of the fear of the Lord—that which produces awe, reverence, and obedience, and that which causes one to cower in dread and terror in anticipation of his displeasure.” (Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology) 7. God gives success. Deuteronomy 8:17-18 (NIV) – [17] You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” [18] But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.…
Galatians 6:11-18 (NIV) – [11] See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand! [12] Those who want to make a good impression outwardly are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. [13] Not even those who are circumcised obey the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your flesh. [14] May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. [15] Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation. [16] Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule, even to the Israel of God. [17] Finally, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. [18] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen. I. Paul’s Signature A. The first part of the letter may have been dictated by a scribe. B. Paul uses his own handwriting to authenticate the letter, as he did on other occasions. C. The “large letters” may indicate the theory that Paul had problems with his eyesight, or it may have been to emphasize the points he is about to make. II. Paul’s Warning A. The true reasons for the Judaizers’ emphasis on circumcision: 1. They wanted to impress people. 2. They were fearful of persecution. 3. They wanted to boast about their own righteousness. B. These three vices will always try to lure a believer into compromise: 1. The praise of man 2. The fear of man 3. The pride of man C. The ulterior motive for their overemphasis on circumcision: 1. They wanted to boast. 2. To “fit in” with the culture, they compromised the grace of God. 3. May our only boast be in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross for our sins. 4. Through the death of Jesus, the world in us has been crucified and we have been crucified to the world. III. Paul’s Marks A. The main argument of the Judaizers: 1. They claimed circumcision was a prerequisite for salvation. a. External changes alone count for nothing. b. It is the transformation of the heart that matters and results in genuine change. c. Outward circumcision alone was never what God intended, even in the Old Testament, but circumcision of the heart. (Deuteronomy 10:16; 30:6; Jeremiah 4:4) Deuteronomy 10:16 (NIV) – [16] Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and do not be stiff-necked any longer. Deuteronomy 30:6 (NIV) – [6] The LORD your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live. Jeremiah 4:4 (NIV) – [4] Circumcise yourselves to the LORD, circumcise your hearts, you men of Judah and people of Jerusalem, or my wrath will break out and burn like fire because of the evil you have done—burn with no one to quench it. 2. There is no need for an outward physical religious symbol to prove one’s salvation. 3. The greatest evidence is a changed life. (2 Corinthians 5:17) 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) – [17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! B. This is what God promises: 1. His peace and mercy to all who accept salvation by grace and continue walking in it. 2. This promise is especially true for the Jewish people, who are still God’s chosen. (Romans 11) C. Paul bore the marks of Jesus: 1. Marks (stigmata) means a mark carved in or branded upon the body of slaves or cattle in order to identify their owners. 2. In English, stigma is defined as a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person. 3. Paul had suffered greatly for his commitment to the message of the grace of Jesus and had the scars to prove it. (2 Corinthians 6:4-6; 11:23-28) 2 Corinthians 6:3-5 (NIV) – [3] We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. [4] Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; [5] in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger. 2 Corinthians 11:23-28 (NIV) – [23] Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. [24] Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. [25] Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, [26] I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. [27] I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. [28] Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. 4. Paul’s marks identified who owned him—Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 7:23) 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV) – [19] Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; [20] you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 7:23 (NIV) – [23] You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. 5. When we become Christians, we become slaves to God. (Romans 6:16-18, 20-22) Romans 6:16-18, 20-22 (NIV) – [16] Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? [17] But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. [18] You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness… [20] When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. [21] What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! [22] But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. 6. In the Tribulation, the Beast will require every person to have his mark. Revelation 13:16-18 (NIV) – [16] He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark (charagma) on his right hand or on his forehead, [17] so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name. [18] This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man’s number. His number is 666. 7. These marks of Jesus on Paul’s body proved his authority as an apostle. 8. Therefore, those who would continue to trouble him after seeing these marks would prove they really weren’t true believers. 9. Paul often opened and concluded his letters with a blessing of grace.…
The Hands of Jesus The Hands that Hold Everything John 3:31-36 (NIV) – [31] “The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. [32] He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. [33] The man who has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. [34] For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. [35] The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. [36] Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him.” “John’s statement revealed his attitude about Christ’s superiority and preeminence over him… Christ’s heavenly origin gives him superiority over every person.” (Life Application NT Commentary) John 16:28 (NIV) – [28] “I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.” John 6:46 (NIV) – [46] “No one has seen the Father except the one who is from God; only he has seen the Father.” 1. He holds heaven is in His hands. Hebrews 1:10 (NIV) – [10] He also says, “In the beginning, O Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands.” Romans 3:3-4 (NIV) – [3] What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God’s faithfulness? [4] Not at all! Let God be true, and every man a liar. As it is written: “So that you may be proved right when you speak and prevail when you judge.” John 3:11 (NIV) – [11] I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. “…John was looking at mankind in general and simply stating that the Savior’s teachings were rejected by the majority. Jesus was the One who came down from heaven, but comparatively few were willing to listen to Him.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary) 2. He holds the truth in His hands. John 14:10, 14 (NIV) – [10] “Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work… [24] He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. “All of God’s former messengers received a limited ‘measure’ of God’s ‘Spirit.’ The Spirit came on the Old Testament prophets only for limited times and purposes. However, God gave His Spirit to Jesus without limit. This guaranteed the truth of Jesus’ words.” (Thomas L. Constable’s Notes) 3. He holds the gift of the Spirit in His Hands. Luke 3:16 (NIV) – [16] John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.” Acts 1:4-5 (NIV) – [4] On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. [5] For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 3:16-17 (NIV) – [16] As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. [17] And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” 4. He holds love in His hands. John 13:3 (NIV) – [3] Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God. 5. He holds the universe together in His hands. Colossians 1:15-17 (NIV) – [15] He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. [16] For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. [17] He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 6. He holds you together in His hands. Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV) – [18] Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19] Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 7. He holds all authority in His hands.…
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Bakersfield First Assembly
The Hands of Jesus The Hands that are Scarred John 20:24-29 (NIV) – [24] Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. [25] So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his HANDS and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.” [26] A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” [27] Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my HANDS. Reach out your HAND and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” [28] Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” [29] Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” “Who was Thomas’ twin? We do not know, but sometimes you and I feel as if we might be his twin! How often we have refused to believe and have insisted that God prove Himself to us!” (Bible Exposition Commentary) 1. Doubting Thomas is our identical twin. John 11:16 (NIV) – [16] Then Thomas (called Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” “Why was Thomas not with the other disciples when they met on the evening of Resurrection Day? Was he so disappointed that he did not want to be with his friends? But when we are discouraged and defeated, we need our friends all the more! Solitude only feeds discouragement and helps it grow into self-pity, which is even worse.” (Bible Exposition Commentary) 2. Doubt is due to self-pity. John 20:21-22 (NIV) – [21] Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” [22] And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” 3. Doubt demands proof. “Consistent with his character elsewhere in the Gospel, Thomas was skeptical toward his friends’ report about seeing Jesus. He epitomized hardheaded realism by insisting that seeing and touching Jesus for himself would be the only proof that would satisfy him.” (Life Application NT) John 20:19-20 (NIV) – [19] On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” [20] After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. 4. Doubt makes us double-minded. James 1:5-7 (NIV) – [5] If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. [6] But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. [7] That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; [8] he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. 5. Doubt is the easy choice. 6. Doubt denies us God’s blessings. 1 Peter 1:8-9 (NIV) – [8] Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, [9] for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. “We have no right to require God to prove himself; but he has every right as our Creator to expect our belief and obedience. The fact that God blesses those who believe is simply an added gift of his grace.” (Life Application NT) 7. Stop doubting and believe! “The surest evidence is the Word of God. If God says a thing, we honor Him by believing it; but we dishonor Him by demanding additional evidence. We should believe simply because He said it and because He cannot lie or be mistaken.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary)…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom In Conclusion… Galatians 6:11-18 (NIV) – [11] See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand! [12] Those who want to make a good impression outwardly are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. [13] Not even those who are circumcised obey the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your flesh. [14] May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. [15] Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation. [16] Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule, even to the Israel of God. [17] Finally, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. [18] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen. I. Paul’s Signature A. The first part of the letter may have been dictated by a scribe. B. Paul uses his own handwriting to authenticate the letter, as he did on other occasions. (1 Corinthians 16:21; Colossians 4:18; 2 Thessalonians 3:17) 1 Corinthians 16:21 (NIV) – [21] I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Colossians 4:18 (NIV) – [18] I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you. 2 Thessalonians 3:17 (NIV) – [17] I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. This is how I write. C. The “large letters” may indicate the theory that Paul had problems with his eyesight (Galatians 4:13-15), or it may have been to emphasize the points he is about to make. Galatians 4:13-15 (NIV) – [13] As you know, it was because of an illness that I first preached the gospel to you. [14] Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself. [15] What has happened to all your joy? I can testify that, if you could have done so, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me. II. Paul’s Warning A. The true reasons for the Judaizers’ emphasis on circumcision: 1. They wanted to impress people. 2. They were fearful of persecution. 3. They wanted to boast about their own righteousness. B. These three vices will always try to lure a believer into compromise: 1. The praise of man 2. The fear of man 3. The pride of man C. The ulterior motive for their overemphasis on circumcision: 1. They wanted to boast about the number of circumcisions. 2. To “fit in” with the culture, they compromised the grace of God. a. Most people can accept Jesus, but it is His sacrificial death on the cross and His bodily resurrection that they have the greatest difficulty accepting. b. Most religions recognize Jesus as a teacher; it’s His divinity they have a problem with. c. This truth always humbles people. (Ephesians 2:8-10) Ephesians 2:8-10 (AMP) – [8] For it is by free grace (God's unmerited favor) that you are saved (delivered from judgment and made partakers of Christ's salvation) through [your] faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [of your own doing, it came not through your own striving], but it is the gift of God; [9] Not because of works [not the fulfillment of the Law's demands], lest any man should boast. [It is not the result of what anyone can possibly do, so no one can pride himself in it or take glory to himself.] [10] For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live]. 3. May our only boast be in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross for our sins. 4. Through the death of Jesus, the world in us has been crucified and we have been crucified to the world.…
The Hands of Jesus The Hands that Bless Mark 10:13-16 (NIV) – [13] People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him TOUCH them, but the disciples rebuked them. [14] When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. [15] I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” [16] And he took the children in his arms, put his HANDS on them and blessed them. 1. We are blessed when we bring people to Jesus and not rebuke them. Rebuke (epitimao) means to express strong disapproval or to command with the implication of a threat. (Louw and Nida Lexicon) Mark 10:46-47 (NIV) – [47] When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” [48] Many REBUKED him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” [49] Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” Matthew 18:5-6 (NIV) – [5] “And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. [6] But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” Indignant (aganakteo) means to feel irritation, to be vexed, annoyed, angry, discontented. (Liddell and Scott Lexicon) Matthew 21:14-16 (NIV) – [14] The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them. [15] But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple area, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” they were INDIGNANT. [16] “Do you hear what these children are saying?” they asked him. “Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read, “‘From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise’?” “The phrase ‘much displeased’ is too tame. Our Lord actually became indignant as He openly rebuked His disciples for standing in the way. Then He announced that the children were better kingdom examples than were the adults. We tell the children to behave like adults, but Jesus tells the adults to model themselves after the children!” (Wiersbe Commentary) 2. We are blessed when we help and not hinder. “Jesus was often criticized for spending too much time with the wrong people—children, tax collectors, and sinners. Some, including the disciples, thought Jesus should be spending more time with important leaders and the devout, because this was the way to improve his position and avoid criticism. But Jesus didn’t need to improve his position. He was God, and he wanted to speak to those who needed him most.” (Life Application Bible Notes) 3. We are blessed when we just receive the Kingdom and not reject it. Matthew 18:1-4 (NIV) – [1] At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” [2] He called a little child and had him stand among them. [3] And he said: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. [4] Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” “Jesus explained that little children have the kind of faith and trust needed to enter the Kingdom of God. Anyone of any age who exhibits their kind of faith and trust is promised access to Jesus and to the Kingdom. Children represent the essence of discipleship, coming to Jesus in humility and receiving his blessing as a gift. Unless we can completely trust in God, we will never get into the Kingdom of God.” (Life Application Commentary) 4. We are blessed when we are child-like and not childish. “We enter God’s kingdom by faith, like little children: helpless, unable to save ourselves, totally dependent on the mercy and grace of God. We enjoy God's kingdom by faith, believing that the Father loves us and will care for our daily needs. What does a child do when he or she has a hurt or a problem? Take it to Father and Mother! What an example for us to follow in our relationship with our heavenly Father! Yes, God wants us to be childlike, but not childish!” (Wiersbe Commentary) 1 Corinthians 13:11 (NIV) – [11] When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 1 Corinthians 14:20 (NLT) – [20] Dear brothers and sisters, don’t be childish in your understanding of these things. Be innocent as babies when it comes to evil, but be mature in understanding matters of this kind.…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Harvest Principle, Part 2 Galatians 6:7-10 (AMP) – [7] Do not be deceived and deluded and misled; God will not allow Himself to be sneered at (scorned, disdained, or mocked by mere pretensions or professions, or by His precepts being set aside.) [He inevitably deludes himself who attempts to delude God.] For whatever a man sows, that and that only is what he will reap. [8] For he who sows to his own flesh (lower nature, sensuality) will from the flesh reap decay and ruin and destruction, but he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. [9] And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint. [10] So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good [morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God's family with you, the believers]. I. Two Universal Spiritual Principles A. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. B. Do not be deceived: A man reaps what he sows. 1. The principle of sowing and reaping is a universal spiritual law that holds true in every context. 2. The principle of sowing and reaping can apply either in a positive or a negative way. a. Sow to please the sinful nature and you will reap destruction. b. Sow to please the Spirit and you will reap abundant life and eternal life. II. Three Exhortations for Doing Good A. Do not become WEARY in doing good. 1. Weary (ekkakeo) means “to be weak, to fail in heart; to be utterly spiritless, to be wearied out, exhausted; to lack courage, to lose heart, to be fainthearted.” (Ephesians 3:13; 2 Corinthians 4:1) Ephesians 3:13 (NIV) – [13] I ask you, therefore, not to be DISCOURAGED because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory. 2 Corinthians 4:1 (NIV) – [1] Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not LOSE HEART. 2. Good (kalos) means “beautiful, magnificent; good, excellent in its nature and characteristics, and therefore well adapted to its ends; beautiful by reason of purity of heart and life; praiseworthy; morally good, noble, honorable.” B. We will reap a HARVEST at the proper time if we do not give up. 1. The promise is that we will be rewarded for our faithfulness. (Matthew 25:21; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15) Matthew 25:21 (NIV) – [21] “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!’” 1 Corinthians 3:11-15 (NIV) – [11] For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. [12] If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, [13] his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s work. [14] If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. [15] If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames. 2. There are two qualifiers for reaping a harvest: a. The first is that we will reap a harvest at the PROPER TIME. b. The second is that we will reap a harvest if we DO NOT GIVE UP. 1) Give up (ekluo) means “to loose or unloose as a bowstring; to weaken, to relax, to exhaust; to have one’s strength relaxed, to become feeble through exhaustion; to grow weak, to grow weary, to be tired out; to become despondent.” (Matthew 15:32; Hebrews 12:3) Matthew 15:32 (AMP) – [32] Then Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, I have pity and sympathy and am deeply moved for the crowd, because they have been with Me now three days and they have nothing [at all left] to eat; and I am not willing to send them away hungry, lest they FAINT or become EXHAUSTED on the way. Hebrews 12:3 (AMP) – [3] Just think of Him Who endured from sinners such grievous opposition and bitter hostility against Himself [reckon up and consider it all in comparison with your trials], so that you may not grow WEARY or EXHAUSTED, LOSING HEART and RELAXING and FAINTING in your minds. 2) We cannot give into the temptation to coast or to let down our guard or to become complacent and apathetic. C. Therefore, let us take every OPPORTUNITY to good to all people, especially other Christians. 1. Because we know that all good that we do will be rewarded by God, then we should be encouraged to continue to take advantage of every opportunity to do good to all people. 2. A person is to provide for the needs of his own household first before he meets the needs of others. (1 Timothy 5:8) 1 Timothy 5:8 (NIV) – [8] If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 3. In the same way, while we are to be willing to help anyone in need, the priority must first be for those who are fellow believers. (Romans 12:13; 3 John 5-8) Romans 12:13 (NIV) – [13] Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. 3 John 5-8 (NIV) – [5] Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you. [6] They have told the church about your love. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God. [7] It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. [8] We ought therefore to show hospitality to such men so that we may work together for the truth.…
The Hands of Jesus The Hands that Open Blind Eyes Mark 8:22-26 (NLT) – [22] When they arrived at Bethsaida, some people brought a blind man to Jesus, and they begged him to touch the man and heal him. [23] Jesus took the blind man by the HAND and led him out of the village. Then, spitting on the man’s eyes, he laid his HANDS on him and asked, “Can you see anything now?” [24] The man looked around. “Yes,” he said, “I see people, but I can’t see them very clearly. They look like trees walking around.” [25] Then Jesus placed his HANDS on the man’s eyes again, and his eyes were opened. His sight was completely restored, and he could see everything clearly. [26] Jesus sent him away, saying, “Don’t go back into the village on your way home.” 1. There is physical blindness, and there is spiritual blindness. Matthew 15:12-13 (NIV) – [12] Then the disciples came to him and asked, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?” [13] He replied, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. [14] Leave them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit.” 2. Sometimes our healing requires help from others. Mark 2:3-5 (NIV) – [3] Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. [4] Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. 3. We can’t heal anyone ourselves. Isaiah 42:6-7, 16 (NIV) – [6] “I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, [7] to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness… [16] I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them. I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them. 4. Sometimes the setting is not conducive to our healing. Matthew 11:20-22 (NIV) – [20] Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. [21] “Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. [22] But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. 5. If you need a miracle, surround yourself with believers not doubters. 6. Jesus heals His way. 7. Sometimes, healing is a process. “Why did Jesus touch the man a second time before he could see? This miracle was not too difficult for Jesus, but he chose to do it in stages, possibly to show the disciples that some healing would be gradual rather than instantaneous or to demonstrate that spiritual truth is not always perceived clearly at first. Before Jesus left, however, the man was healed completely.” (Life Application Bible Notes) 8. If we haven’t received a healing, we must persist in prayer. 9. Our handicap will make us appreciate our healing even more. 10. When we are healed, we should never go back.…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Harvest Principle Galatians 6:7-10 (NIV) – [7] Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. [8] The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. [9] Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. [10] Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. I. Two Universal Spiritual Principles A. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. 1. Deceived (planao) means “to cause to stray, to lead astray, to lead aside from the straight way; to wander about, to roam from safety, truth, and virtue; to lead away from the truth, to lead into error.” (Matthew 18:12; 24:4-5; 1 Peter 2:25) Matthew 18:12 (NIV) – [12] “What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them WANDERS away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?” Matthew 24:4-5 (NIV) – [4] Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one DECEIVES you. [5] For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will DECEIVE many.” 1 Peter 2:25 (NIV) – [25] For you were like sheep going ASTRAY, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. 2. Mocked (mukteerizoo) comes from the root word for “nose” or “snout” and means “to turn up the nose at; to sneer at, to deride, to treat with contempt.” Galatians 6:7 (AMP) – [7] Do not be deceived and deluded and misled; God will not allow Himself to be sneered at (scorned, disdained, or mocked by mere pretensions or professions, or by His precepts being set aside.) [He inevitably deludes himself who attempts to delude God.] B. Do not be deceived: A man reaps what he sows. 1. The principle of sowing and reaping is a universal spiritual law that holds true in every context. 2. The principle of sowing and reaping can apply either in a positive or a negative way. (Hosea 10:12-14; 2 Corinthians 9:6) Hosea 10:12-13 (NIV) – [12] Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers righteousness on you. [13] But you have planted wickedness, you have reaped evil, you have eaten the fruit of deception. 2 Corinthians 9:6 (NIV) – [6] Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. a. Sow to please the sinful nature and you will reap destruction. 1. Destruction (phthora) means decay, ruin, corruption, perishing; it is the physical, moral, and spiritual decay or rottenness that results from the sins of the flesh. (Romans 8:20-21; 2 Peter 1:4) Romans 8:20-21 (NIV) – [20] For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope [21] that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to DECAY and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. 2 Peter 1:4 (NIV) – [4] Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 2. If we continue to practice the acts of the sinful nature, we will suffer the consequences in our bodies, in our souls, and ultimately, in our spirits. (Romans 7:4-5; 1 Corinthians 5:4-5) Romans 7:4-5 (NIV) – [4] So, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God. [5] For when we were controlled by the sinful nature, the sinful passions aroused by the law were at work in our bodies, so that we bore fruit for death. 1 Corinthians 5:4-5 (NIV) [4] When you are assembled in the name of our Lord Jesus and I am with you in spirit, and the power of our Lord Jesus is present, [5] hand this man over to Satan, so that the sinful nature may be destroyed and his spirit saved on the day of the Lord. b. Sow to please the Spirit and you will reap abundant life and eternal life. (Isaiah 32:17; Mark 10:29-30) Isaiah 32:17 (NIV) – [17] The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. Mark 10:29-30 (NIV) – [29] “I tell you the truth,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel [30] will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life.”…
The Hands of Jesus 1 - The Hands that Heal Luke 13:10-17 (NIV) – [10] On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, [11] and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. [12] When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” [13] Then he put his HANDS on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God. [14] Indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, the synagogue ruler said to the people, “There are six days for work. So come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath.” [15] The Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Doesn’t each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water? [16] Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?” [17] When he said this, all his opponents were humiliated, but the people were delighted with all the wonderful things he was doing. 1. The Hands of Jesus bring healing and wholeness to body, soul, and spirit. Luke 4:40-41 (NIV) – [40] When the sun was setting, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his HANDS on each one, he healed them. [41] Moreover, demons came out of many people, shouting, “You are the Son of God!” But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew he was the Christ. 2. Healing happens on God’s time frame, not ours. Matthew 9:20 (NIV) – [20] Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for TWELVE YEARS came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. John 5:5 (NIV) – [5] One who was there had been an invalid for THIRTY-EIGHT YEARS. John 9:1 (NIV) – [1] As he went along, he saw a man BLIND FROM BIRTH. “If I had been crippled for eighteen years, I wonder if I would be faithful to worship God week after week in the synagogue. Surely this woman had prayed and asked God for help, and yet she was not delivered. However, God’s seeming unconcern did not cause her to become bitter or resentful. There she was in the synagogue.” (Weirsbe Bible Commentary) 3. Your healing may make others indignant. “The ruler of the synagogue indignantly told the people that they should come for healing on the first six days of the week, but not on the seventh. He was a professional religionist, with no deep concern for the problems of the people. Even if they had come on the first six days of the week, he could not have helped them. He was a stickler about the technical points of the law, but there was no love or mercy in his heart. If he had had curvature of the spine for eighteen years, he would not have minded on which day he was straightened out!” (Believers Bible Commentary) 4. Where there is hypocrisy, there won’t be healing. Mark 6:4-5 (NIV) – [4] Jesus said to them, “Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor.” [5] He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. “The synagogue leader could not see beyond the law to Jesus’ compassion in healing this crippled woman. Jesus shamed him and the other leaders by pointing out their hypocrisy. They would untie their animals and care for them, but they refused to rejoice when a human being was freed from Satan’s bondage.” (Life Application Bible Notes) Matthew 23:1-4 (NIV) – [1] Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: [2] “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. [3] So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. [4] They tie up heavy loads and put them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. “The bondage of the ruler of the synagogue was worse than that of the woman. Her bondage affected only her body, but his bondage shackled his mind and heart. He was so bound and blinded by tradition that he ended up opposing the Son of God!” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 5. The Healing Hands of Jesus set people free.…
Bakersfield First Assembly
Obedience is Better, Part 3 1 Samuel 15:24-35 (NIV) - [24] Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned. I violated the LORD’s command and your instructions. I was afraid of the people and so I gave in to them. [25] Now I beg you, forgive my sin and come back with me, so that I may worship the LORD.” [26] But Samuel said to him, “I will not go back with you. You have rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD has rejected you as king over Israel!” [27] As Samuel turned to leave, Saul caught hold of the hem of his robe, and it tore. [28] Samuel said to him, “The LORD has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given it to one of your neighbors—to one better than you. [29] He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a man, that he should change his mind.” [30] Saul replied, “I have sinned. But please honor me before the elders of my people and before Israel; come back with me, so that I may worship the LORD your God.” [31] So Samuel went back with Saul, and Saul worshiped the LORD. [32] Then Samuel said, “Bring me Agag king of the Amalekites.” Agag came to him confidently, thinking, “Surely the bitterness of death is past.” [33] But Samuel said, “As your sword has made women childless, so will your mother be childless among women.” And Samuel put Agag to death before the LORD at Gilgal. [34] Then Samuel left for Ramah, but Saul went up to his home in Gibeah of Saul. [35] Until the day Samuel died, he did not go to see Saul again, though Samuel mourned for him. And the LORD was grieved that he had made Saul king over Israel. 1. Partial obedience to God’s specific instructions. 2. Subjective interpretation of God’s objective commands 3. Overestimation of our own importance 4. Unwillingness to take personal responsibility 5. Blaming others for our mistakes 6. Fear of what others may think, say, or do 7. Outright rebellion against God Deuteronomy 18:10-13 (NIV) – [10] Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, [11] or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. [12] Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable practices the LORD your God will drive out those nations before you. [13] You must be blameless before the LORD your God. Jeremiah 32:30, 35 (NIV) – [30] “The people of Israel and Judah have done nothing but evil in my sight from their youth; indeed, the people of Israel have done nothing but provoke me with what their hands have made, declares the LORD… [35] They built high places for Baal in the Valley of Ben Hinnom to sacrifice their sons and daughters to Molech, though I never commanded, nor did it enter my mind, that they should do such a detestable thing and so make Judah sin. 2 Chronicles 33:1-2, 6 (NIV) – [1] Manasseh was twelve years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-five years. [2] He did evil in the eyes of the LORD, following the detestable practices of the nations the LORD had driven out before the Israelites… [6] He sacrificed his sons in the fire in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, practiced sorcery, divination and witchcraft, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did much evil in the eyes of the LORD, provoking him to anger. 8. Qualified and conditional repentance. “Saul was constantly redefining the Lord’s commands, doing what seemed best to him rather than what God said was best. He made a show of repentance and pleaded with Samuel not to abandon him.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary) 9. Resistance to the discipline of the Lord. Hebrews 12:5-6 (NIV) – [5] “And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: [6] ‘My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.’” 10. Failure to finish the task Matthew 21:28-32 (NIV) – [28] “What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ [29] “‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. [30] “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. [31] “Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. [32] For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.” 11. Grieve the heart of God “When God said he was sorry that he had made Saul king, was he saying he had made a mistake? God’s comment was an expression of sorrow, not an admission of error. An omniscient God cannot make a mistake; therefore, God did not change his mind. He did, however, change his attitude toward Saul when Saul changed. Saul’s heart no longer belonged to God but to his own interests.” (Life Application Bible) Ephesians 4:29-31 (NIV) – [29] Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. [30] And do not GRIEVE the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. [31] Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.…
Obedience is Better John 14:23 (NIV) – [23] Jesus replied, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.” John 15:10-11 (NIV) – [10] If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love. [11] I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 1 Samuel 15:13-24 (NIV) - [13] When Samuel reached him, Saul said, “The LORD bless you! I have carried out the LORD’s instructions.” [14] But Samuel said, “What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears? What is this lowing of cattle that I hear?” [15] Saul answered, “The soldiers brought them from the Amalekites; they spared the best of the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the LORD your God, but we totally destroyed the rest.” [16] “Stop!” Samuel said to Saul. “Let me tell you what the LORD said to me last night.” “Tell me,” Saul replied. [17] Samuel said, “Although you were once small in your own eyes, did you not become the head of the tribes of Israel? The LORD anointed you king over Israel. [18] And he sent you on a mission, saying, ‘Go and completely destroy those wicked people, the Amalekites; make war on them until you have wiped them out.’ [19] Why did you not obey the LORD? Why did you pounce on the plunder and do evil in the eyes of the LORD?” [20] “But I did obey the LORD,” Saul said. “I went on the mission the LORD assigned me. I completely destroyed the Amalekites and brought back Agag their king. [21] The soldiers took sheep and cattle from the plunder, the best of what was devoted to God, in order to sacrifice them to the LORD your God at Gilgal.” [22] But Samuel replied: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. [23] For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has rejected you as king.” [24] Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned. I violated the LORD’s command and your instructions. I was afraid of the people and so I gave in to them. 1. Partial obedience to God’s specific instructions. 2. Subjective interpretation of God’s objective commands 3. Overestimation of our own importance 4. Unwillingness to take personal responsibility "Rather than confessing his sin, Saul sought to justify his disobedience. He believed it was for a worthy purpose, and he failed to take responsibility for his actions and blamed the people instead." (Thomas Constable’s Notes) 5. Blaming others for our mistakes Proverbs 21:3 (NIV) – [3] To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice. Jeremiah 7:22-23 (NIV) – [22] For when I brought your forefathers out of Egypt and spoke to them, I did not just give them commands about burnt offerings and sacrifices, [23] but I gave them this command: Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways I command you, that it may go well with you. 6. Fear of what others may think, say, or do Proverbs 29:25 (NIV) – [25] Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe. Hebrews 13:5-6 (NIV) – [5] Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” [6] So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”…
Obedience is Better Deuteronomy 28:1-3 (NIV) – [1] If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. [2] All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God: [3] You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country… 1 John 5:3-4 (NIV) – [3] This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, [4] for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) – [6] And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. 1 Samuel 15:7-23 (NIV) - [7] Then Saul attacked the Amalekites all the way from Havilah to Shur, to the east of Egypt. [8] He took Agag king of the Amalekites alive, and all his people he totally destroyed with the sword. [9] But Saul and the army spared Agag and the best of the sheep and cattle, the fat calves and lambs—everything that was good. These they were unwilling to destroy completely, but everything that was despised and weak they totally destroyed. [10] Then the word of the LORD came to Samuel: [11] “I am grieved that I have made Saul king, because he has turned away from me and has not carried out my instructions.” Samuel was troubled, and he cried out to the LORD all that night. [12] Early in the morning Samuel got up and went to meet Saul, but he was told, “Saul has gone to Carmel. There he has set up a monument in his own honor and has turned and gone on down to Gilgal.” [13] When Samuel reached him, Saul said, “The LORD bless you! I have carried out the LORD’s instructions.” [14] But Samuel said, “What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears? What is this lowing of cattle that I hear?” [15] Saul answered, “The soldiers brought them from the Amalekites; they spared the best of the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the LORD your God, but we totally destroyed the rest.” [16] “Stop!” Samuel said to Saul. “Let me tell you what the LORD said to me last night.” “Tell me,” Saul replied. [17] Samuel said, “Although you were once small in your own eyes, did you not become the head of the tribes of Israel? The LORD anointed you king over Israel. [18] And he sent you on a mission, saying, ‘Go and completely destroy those wicked people, the Amalekites; make war on them until you have wiped them out.’ [19] Why did you not obey the LORD? Why did you pounce on the plunder and do evil in the eyes of the LORD?” [20] “But I did obey the LORD,” Saul said. “I went on the mission the LORD assigned me. I completely destroyed the Amalekites and brought back Agag their king. [21] The soldiers took sheep and cattle from the plunder, the best of what was devoted to God, in order to sacrifice them to the LORD your God at Gilgal.” [22] But Samuel replied: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. [23] For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has rejected you as king.” 1. Partial obedience to God’s specific instructions. Exodus 19:3-6 (NIV) – [3] Then Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain and said, “This is what you are to say to the house of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: [4] ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. [5] Now if you obey me FULLY and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, [6] you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.” 2. Subjective interpretation of God’s objective commands Psalms 51:16-17 (NIV) – [16] You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. [17] The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. 3. Overestimation of our own importance 1 Samuel 9:21 (NIV) – [21] Saul answered, “But am I not a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel, and is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why do you say such a thing to me?”…
A Root Out of Dry Ground
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Fruit of the Spirit of KINDNESS Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) The Meaning of Kindness a. Kind (chrestotes) literally means “useful.” b. It is to act towards someone in a useful, helpful, or beneficial manner. c. It is a mildness of temper, calmness of spirit, an unruffled disposition, and a tendency to treat all people with compassion and politeness. The Source of Kindness a. The LORD is the source and supply of all true kindness. (1 Peter 2:2-3) b. God showed his kindness to us through Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 2:6-7) c. God’s kindness leads us to repentance. (Romans 2:4) d. Those who reject God’s kindness will suffer his sternness. (Romans 11:22) e. Because of God’s kindness, He saved us from our unkindness and sin. (Titus 3:3-5) f. The LORD leads us with kindness. (Matthew 1:30) The Expression of Kindness a. Since God showed kindness to us, we are to clothe ourselves with kindness to one another. (Colossians 3:12-14) b. We are even to extend kindness to our enemies. (Luke 6:35) c. Kindness is closely connected to forgiveness. (Ephesians 4:32)…
"Your King is Coming!" (Part 15) Zechariah 4:1-14 (NIV) – [1] Then the angel who talked with me returned and wakened me, as a man is wakened from his sleep. [2] He asked me, “What do you see?” I answered, “I see a solid gold lampstand with a bowl at the top and seven lights on it, with seven channels to the lights. [3] Also there are two olive trees by it, one on the right of the bowl and the other on its left.” [4] I asked the angel who talked with me, “What are these, my lord?” [5] He answered, “Do you not know what these are?” “No, my lord,” I replied. [6] So he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty. [7] “What are you, O mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it!’” [8] Then the word of the LORD came to me: [9] “The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also complete it. Then you will know that the LORD Almighty has sent me to you. [10] “Who despises the day of small things? Men will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. “(These seven are the eyes of the LORD, which range throughout the earth.)” [11] Then I asked the angel, “What are these two olive trees on the right and the left of the lampstand?” [12] Again I asked him, “What are these two olive branches beside the two gold pipes that pour out golden oil?” [13] He replied, “Do you not know what these are?” “No, my lord,” I said. [14] So he said, “These are the two who are anointed to serve the Lord of all the earth.” 1. God moves mighty mountains. Isaiah 40:3-5 (NIV) – [3] A voice of one calling: “In the desert prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God. [4] Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. [5] And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” Matthew 17:20 (NIV) – [20] He replied, “Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” “With their limited resources, completing the temple must have looked to those Jews as impossible as moving a mountain, but God told Zerubbabel that he would, by God’s power, level the mountain and make it a plain! What “mountains” was Zerubbabel facing? Discouragement among the people, opposition from the enemies around them, poor crops, an unstable economy, people not obeying God’s law—problems not too different from those the people of God have faced throughout the centuries.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 2. We must shout, “Grace!” “The Hebrew word translated grace has a variety of meanings. One of these is indeed ‘grace’ in the sense of God’s favor, and another is ‘grace’ in the sense of gracefulness or beauty.” (UBS OT Handbook Series) “All mountain-like obstacles in Zerubbabel’s way shall be removed, so that the crowning top-stone shall be put on, and the completion of the work be acknowledged as wholly of ‘grace, grace.’ The repetition expresses, grace from first to last. Thus the Jews are urged to pray perseveringly and earnestly that the same grace which completed it may always preserve it.” (Jamieson, Faussett, Brown Commentary) “What comes from the grace of God, may, in faith, be committed to the grace of God, for he will not forsake the work of his own hands.” (Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary) 3. God finishes what He starts. Philippians 1:4-6 (NIV) – [4] In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy [5] because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, [6] being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. 4. Do not despise the day of small beginnings. Matthew 25:20-21 (NIV) – [20] The man who had received the five talents brought the other five. “Master,” he said, “you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more.” [21] His master replied, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” “Many of the older Jews were disheartened when they realized this new Temple would not match the size and splendor of the previous Temple built during King Solomon's reign. But bigger and more beautiful is not always better. What you do for God may seem small and insignificant at the time, but God rejoices in what is right, not necessarily in what is big. Be faithful in the small opportunities. Begin where you are and do what you can and leave the results to God.” (Life Application Bible Notes) “To some of the Jews, the project was but a “small thing” in comparison to Solomon’s grand temple, but we must look at God’s work through His eyes and not the eyes of the people of the world. Great oaks grow out of small acorns and great harvests from small seeds… Bible history is the record of God using small things… Never despise the day of small things, for God is glorified in small things and uses them to accomplish great things.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 5. We need the anointing. “The two heavenly beings were literally the two sons of [olive] oil, who were anointed with oil as part of their commissioning. Under the leadership of Jeshua and Zerubbabel, the religious and civic leaders of Jerusalem after the people returned from exile, the Temple of the Lord was rebuilt and worship was restored in Jerusalem.” (NLT Study Bible Notes) "Anointing means to authorize, or set apart, a person for a particular work or service (Isaiah 61:1). The anointed person belonged to God in a special sense. In the New Testament, all who are Christ’s disciples are said to be anointed; they are God’s very own, set apart and commissioned for service (2 Corinthians 1:21). In the New Testament, anointing was frequently used in connection with healing. The Holy Spirit’s activities in a believer’s life are pictured in terms associated with anointing. Anointing in the New Testament also refers to the anointing of the Holy Spirit, which brings understanding. This anointing is not only for kings, priests, and prophets; it is for everyone who believes in the Lord Jesus Christ. The anointing occurs physically with a substance such as oil, myrrh, or balsam. But this is also a spiritual anointing, as the Holy Spirit anoints a person’s heart and mind with the love and truth of God." (Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary) Isaiah 61:1-4 (NIV) – [1] The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, [2] to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, [3] and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. [4] They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations. 2 Corinthians 1:20-22 (NIV) – [20] For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. [21] Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, [22] set his seal of ownership on us and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Fruit of the Spirit of Patience Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) – [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, Galatians 5:22-23 (AMP) – [22] But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), Galatians 5:22-23 (MSG) – [22] But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, 1. The Meaning of Patience a. There are two words in the New Testament for patience, makrothumos and hupomone. 1) The first compound word is “makro” (long, far, distance) and “thumos” (passion as if breathing hard, rage, seethe, wrath, anger). a) Together, it literally means “to be long of spirit, breathing, or temper.” b) It is to wait a long length of time in avenging wrongs or to be slow in becoming angry c) It is being longsuffering as opposed to a short-tempered. 2) The second compound word is “hupo” (under, beneath, below) and “meno” (to stay, remain, abide). a) The second word means “to stay under” or to remain steadfast under pressure or hardship. b) The former involves patience with people, the latter involves patience with circumstances. b. Patience is the powerful capacity of selfless love to bear with difficult people and challenging circumstances without breaking down or giving in to anger. c. Patience is not placid indifference or lethargic fatalism. 2. The Source of Patience a. God exercises patience with humanity. (1 Peter 3:20) 1 Peter 3:18-20 (NIV) – [18] For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, [19] through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison [20] who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, b. The purpose of God’s patience is lead people to repentance and salvation. (2 Peter 3:9, 15) 2 Peter 3:9, 15 (NIV) – [9] The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance… [15] Bear in mind that our Lord's patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. c. We are not to try God’s patience, however. (Romans 2:4) Romans 2:4 (NIV) – [4] Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance? 3. The Exercise of Patience a. We are to exercise patience with God’s timing. (Hebrews 6:15; 1 Timothy 1:15-16; James 5:7-8) Hebrews 6:15 (NIV) – [15] And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised. 1 Timothy 1:15-16 (NIV) – [15] Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. [16] But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. 1) We are to be patient regarding the Lord’s coming. (James 5:7-8) James 5:7-8 (NIV) – [7] Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. [8] You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. b. We are to exercise patience with the people God brings into our lives. (Colossian 3:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; 2 Timothy 4:2) Colossians 3:12 (NIV) – [12] Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 1 Thessalonians 5:14 (NIV) – [14] And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 2 Timothy 4:2 (NIV) – [2] Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 1) As we grow in the knowledge of God, we will grow in patience with one another. (Colossians 1:10-12) Colossians 1:10-12 (NIV) – [10] And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, [11] being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully [12] giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. 2) Since patience is an attribute of agape love, if we love people, we will be patient with them. (1 Corinthians 13:4) 1 Corinthians 13:4 (NIV) – [4] Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. c. We are to show patience in the face of suffering. (James 5:10) James 5:10 (NIV) – [10] Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 4. The Benefits of Patience a. Patience results in wisdom and understanding. (Proverbs 14:29; 19:11) Proverbs 14:29 (NIV) – [29] A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly. Proverbs 19:11 (NIV) – [11] A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense. b. Patience calms quarrels. (Proverbs 15:18) Proverbs 15:18 (NIV) – [18] A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel. c. Patience brings about influence. (Proverbs 16:32; 25:15) Proverbs 16:32 (NIV) – [32] Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city. Proverbs 25:15 (NIV) – [15] Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone. d. Patience prepares us for the End Times. (Revelation 13:10; 14:12) Revelation 13:10 (NIV) – [10] If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity he will go. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword he will be killed. This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints. Revelation 14:12 (NIV) – [12] This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God's commandments and remain faithful to Jesus.…
Zechariah – Your King is Coming! Zechariah 4:1-14 (NIV) – [1] Then the angel who talked with me returned and wakened me, as a man is wakened from his sleep. [2] He asked me, “What do you see?” I answered, “I see a solid gold lampstand with a bowl at the top and seven lights on it, with seven channels to the lights. [3] Also there are two olive trees by it, one on the right of the bowl and the other on its left.” [4] I asked the angel who talked with me, “What are these, my lord?” [5] He answered, “Do you not know what these are?” “No, my lord,” I replied. [6] So he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty. Romans 13:11-12 (NIV) – [11] And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. [12] The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Ephesians 5:13-16 (NIV) – [13] But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, [14] for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” [15] Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, [16] making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 1. God has sent a wake-up call. “This is the voice of light speaking to those who are sleeping in darkness and lying in spiritual death. The light calls them to life and illumination. If they answer the invitation, Christ will shine on them and give them light.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary) 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6 (NIV) – [1] Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, [2] for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. [3] While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. [4] But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. [5] You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. [6] So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled. “The candlestick that Zechariah saw was totally unlike the one Moses had put into the tabernacle. Along with the seven branches and lamps, this candlestick had a bowl at the top into which olive oil dripped from two olive trees, which symbolized Joshua and Zerubbabel. The candlestick also had seven pipes going from the bowl to each lamp, making a total of forty-nine pipes. No priest had to provide the oil because it was always coming from the trees. Seven pipes to each lamp assured an ample supply of fuel to keep the lights burning.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) Matthew 25:1-13 (NLT) – [1] “The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. [2] Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. [3] The five who were foolish didn’t take enough olive oil for their lamps, [4] but the other five were wise enough to take along extra oil. [5] When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. [6] At midnight they were roused by the shout, ‘Look, the bridegroom is coming! Come out and meet him!’ [7] All the bridesmaids got up and prepared their lamps. [8] Then the five foolish ones asked the others, ‘Please give us some of your oil because our lamps are going out.’ [9] But the others replied, ‘We don’t have enough for all of us. Go to a shop and buy some for yourselves.’ [10] But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked. [11] Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, ‘Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!’ [12] But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’ [13] So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.” 2. We need more oil for our lamps. “Oil is a general symbol for the Holy Spirit in Scripture. Prophets, priests, and kings were anointed with oil, and the words Messiah and Christ mean ‘anointed one.’” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) Haggai 1:1 (NIV) – [1] In the second year of King Darius, on the first day of the sixth month, the word of the Lord came through the prophet Haggai to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest. “Zerubbabel was given the responsibility of rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem. While the prophets Haggai and Zechariah gave the moral and spiritual encouragement to resume work on the Temple, Zerubbabel saw that the task was carried out. As the work was being completed, the prophets encouraged Zerubbabel and told him of a time when spiritual apathy and foreign oppression would forever be abolished.” (Life Application Bible Notes) 3. We can’t fix what we are facing. Zechariah 4:6 (TM) – [6] “This is God’s Message to Zerubbabel: ‘You can’t force these things. They only come about through my Spirit,’ says God-of-the-Angel-Armies. Zechariah 4:6 (CEV) – [6] So the angel explained that it was the following message of the Lord to Zerubbabel: I am the Lord All-Powerful. So don’t depend on your own power or strength, but on my Spirit. “Many people believe that to survive in this world a person must be tough, strong, unbending, and harsh. But God says, ‘Not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit.’ The key words are ‘by my Spirit.’ It is only through God’s Spirit that anything of lasting value is accomplished. The returned exiles were indeed weak—harassed by their enemies, tired, discouraged, and poor. But actually they had God on their side! As you live for God, determine not to trust in your own strength or abilities. Instead, depend on God and work in the power of his Spirit!” (Life Application Bible Notes) 4. Say it: “By Your Spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NIV) – [13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.…
Your King is Coming! Zechariah 3:1-10 (NIV) – [1] Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him. [2] The LORD said to Satan, “The LORD rebuke you, Satan! The LORD, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebuke you! Is not this man a burning stick snatched from the fire?” [3] Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. [4] The angel said to those who were standing before him, “Take off his filthy clothes.” Then he said to Joshua, “See, I have taken away your sin, and I will put rich garments on you.” [5] Then I said, “Put a clean turban on his head.” So they put a clean turban on his head and clothed him, while the angel of the LORD stood by. [6] The angel of the LORD gave this charge to Joshua: [7] “This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘If you will walk in my ways and keep my requirements, then you will govern my house and have charge of my courts, and I will give you a place among these standing here.’ [8] “Listen, O high priest Joshua and your associates seated before you, who are men symbolic of things to come: I am going to bring my servant, the Branch. [9] See, the stone I have set in front of Joshua! There are seven eyes on that one stone, and I will engrave an inscription on it,” says the LORD Almighty, “and I will remove the sin of this land in a single day. [10] In that day each of you will invite his neighbor to sit under his vine and fig tree,’ declares the LORD Almighty.” Joshua and his priestly companions were symbolic of things to come. In their official priestly cleansing from sin they prefigured the future cleansing of the nation Israel. This future cleansing was linked with the coming of the Sin-Remover who was given three messianic titles - My Servant, the Branch, and the Stone. (Bible Knowledge Commentary) 1. Jesus is the Servant. Matthew 20:24-28 (NIV) – [24] When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers. [25] Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. [26] Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, [27] and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— [28] just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” 2. Jesus is the Branch. Servant and Branch are both titles for the Messiah. As servant, the Messiah obeys God’s will by becoming a sin-offering so that many might be made righteous. The Branch is a metaphor for kingship that identifies the Messiah as David’s descendant. (NLT Study Bible Notes) Isaiah 11:1, 6 (NIV) – [1] A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit… [6] The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them. Jeremiah 33:15-16 (NIV) – [15] “‘In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David's line; he will do what is just and right in the land. [16] In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The LORD Our Righteousness.’” 3. Jesus is the Stone. 1 Peter 2:6-8 (NIV) – [6] For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” [7] Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone,” [8] and, “A stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.” At His first advent, Jesus was a stumbling stone to Israel who rejected Him, but He became the foundation stone for the church. At His second advent, He will smite the kingdoms of the world and establish His glorious kingdom. The seven “eyes” on the stone probably speak of our Lord’s omniscience. (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) Upon one stone shall be seven eyes—namely, the watchful “eyes” of Jehovah’s care ever fixed “upon” it. The eye is the symbol of Providence: “seven,” of perfection. (Jamieson, Faussett, and Brown) Zechariah 4:10 (NIV) – [10] “Who despises the day of small things? Men will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. (These seven are the eyes of the LORD, which range throughout the earth.)” Revelation 5:6 (NIV) – [6] Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. The “inscription” engraved on the stone remains unexplained, but many of the early church fathers and interpreters ever since have taken the engraving as a preview of Messiah’s wounds. (Thomas Constable’s Notes on the Bible) Isaiah 53:4-5 (NIV) – Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. [5] But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. 4. Jesus is the Savior. The removal of Israel’s sin in a single day alludes to the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16. It foreshadows Christ’s crucifixion, when the Lamb of God would take away the sin of the world. (NLT Study Bible Notes) John 1:29 (NIV) – [29] The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” That day is shorthand for “the day of the Lord,” the day of God’s intervention in history when God will judge the wicked, deliver the righteous, and restore creation. (NLT Study Bible Notes) Micah 4:3-4 (NIV) – [3] He will judge between many peoples and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore. [4] Every man will sit under his own vine and under his own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the LORD Almighty has spoken. Zechariah 3:10 (MSG) – [10] “At that time, everyone will get along with one another, with friendly visits across the fence, friendly visits on one another’s porches.” “In that day,” the Lord promised, the Israelites will all “invite” their (Gentile) neighbors to join them in enjoying their peace and prosperity. Israel would enjoy peace and security as never before, even under the reign of Solomon. Then God will lift the curse that He imposed on the creation at the Fall, and there will be agricultural prosperity—as well as spiritual prosperity. Paradise lost will become paradise regained. (Thomas Constable's Notes on the Bible)…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom - Pastor James The Fruit of the Spirit of Peace Galatians 5:22-23 Matthew 10:34-36 (NIV) Luke 12:51-53 (NIV) Peace with God a. God is called the God of peace. (Romans 16:20; 1 Corinthians 14:33; 2 Thessalonians 3:16) b. We have peace with God through Jesus Christ. 1) From the day of the Fall of Man, mankind has been at war with God. (Romans 5:12-14) 2) Only by accepting the good news of Jesus Christ’s victory on the cross can people make peace with God. (Romans 5:8-10; Colossians 1:21-23) 3) Peace with God is the direct result of an active faith in Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:1-2) 4) The discipline of the Lord brings a harvest of peace to a believer’s life. (Hebrews 12:11) 5) A person cannot know true inner peace unless they have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Peace with Others a. We are to be peacemakers. (Matthew 5:9; James 3:18) b. We are to live at peace with everyone, if possible. (Romans 12:18) 1) Peace is not just passivity or a negative attitude of non-involvement. 2) Peace requires individual responsibility and effort. (Psalm 34:14; Romans 14:19; Ephesians 4:3; Hebrews 12:14) c. The world will not live at peace with the church, nor are we to be friends with the world. (John 15:18-25; James 4:4)…
Zechariah 3:1-10 (NIV) – [1] Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him. [2] The LORD said to Satan, “The LORD rebuke you, Satan! The LORD, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebuke you! Is not this man a burning stick snatched from the fire?” [3] Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. [4] The angel said to those who were standing before him, “Take off his filthy clothes.” Then he said to Joshua, “See, I have taken away your sin, and I will put rich garments on you.” [5] Then I said, “Put a clean turban on his head.” So they put a clean turban on his head and clothed him, while the angel of the LORD stood by. [6] The angel of the LORD gave this charge to Joshua: [7] “This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘If you will walk in my ways and keep my requirements, then you will govern my house and have charge of my courts, and I will give you a place among these standing here.’ 1. Our “clothes” must be changed. Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV) – [22] You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; [23] to be made new in the attitude of your minds; [24] and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. 2. Our sins will be removed. God removes our filthy clothes (sins), then provides us with fine, new clothes (the righteousness and holiness of God. All we need to do is repent and ask God to forgive us. (Life Application Bible Notes) Ezekiel 36:24-27 (NIV) – [24] “‘For I will take you out of the nations; I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. [25] I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. [26] I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. [27] And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. 3. Our call will be reinstated. Exodus 39:27-31 (NIV) – [27] For Aaron and his sons, they made tunics of fine linen—the work of a weaver— [28] and the turban of fine linen, the linen headbands and the undergarments of finely twisted linen. [29] The sash was of finely twisted linen and blue, purple and scarlet yarn—the work of an embroiderer—as the LORD commanded Moses. [30] They made the plate, the sacred diadem, out of pure gold and engraved on it, like an inscription on a seal: HOLY TO THE LORD. [31] Then they fastened a blue cord to it to attach it to the turban, as the LORD commanded Moses. The high priest’s turban bore a gold medallion inscribed with the words “Holy to the Lord.” The clean turban was placed on Jeshua’s head as an act of ordination that reinstated him as priest and mediator for the people. (NLT Study Bible Notes) Romans 11:29 (AMP) – [29] For God's gifts and His call are irrevocable. [He never withdraws them when once they are given, and He does not change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call.] 4. Walk in His ways. Deuteronomy 30:16 (NIV) – [16] For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. Jeremiah 7:22-24 (NIV) – [22] For when I brought your forefathers out of Egypt and spoke to them, I did not just give them commands about burnt offerings and sacrifices, [23] but I gave them this command: Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways I command you, that it may go well with you. [24] But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. They went backward and not forward. 5. Perform His service. Zechariah 3:7 (NAS) – [7] “Thus says the Lord of hosts, ‘If you will walk in My ways and if you will PERFORM MY SERVICE, then you will also govern My house and also have charge of My courts, and I will grant you free access among these who are standing here.’” 6. We will be given authority. Zechariah 3:7 (NLT) – [7] “This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: If you follow my ways and carefully serve me, then you will be given AUTHORITY over my Temple and its courtyards. I will let you walk among these others standing here.” 7. We will be granted access. Zechariah 3:7 (AMP) – [7] Thus says the Lord of hosts: If you will walk in My ways and keep My charge, then also you shall rule My house and have charge of My courts, and I will give you ACCESS [to My presence] and places to walk among these who stand here. If Joshua obeyed the Lord and served Him, Joshua would “govern” the temple, “have charge of” the temple “courts,” and enjoy “free access” into the Lord’s presence. He could come into the Lord’s presence like the angels who stood before Him. (Thomas Constable’s Notes on the Bible). Access (mahlkim) is a masculine plural noun indicating access, places to walk. It refers figuratively to potential access before God given to the high priest Joshua if he walked in the Lord’s paths. (The Complete Word Study Dictionary) Ephesians 2:13-18 (NIV) – [13] But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. [14] For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, [15] by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, [16] and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. [17] He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. [18] For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.…
Bakersfield First Assembly
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Fruit of the Spirit of Peace Galatians 5:22-23 Peace Defined a. Peace (eirene) literally means a state of well-being and rest that comes from a cessation of war. 1) It is the tranquil state of a soul so assured of its salvation through Christ, and therefore having no fear of anything and being content with everything. 2) The Old Testament meaning of peace (shalom) was completeness, soundness, and well-being of the total person. 3) In the New Testament, peace often refers to the inner tranquility and poise of the Christian whose trust is in God through Christ. b. Like joy, the believer can have an inner spiritual peace even in the midst of external conflict. 1) The Fruit of Peace is a condition of freedom from an inner turmoil and disturbance, whether or not there are external peaceful conditions. 2) It is in the midst of trouble that Jesus has promised to give us His peace. (John 16:33) 3) While the war rages on the outside, the peace of the God will guard the believer on the inside. (Philippians 4:4-7) 4) Peace is largely a state of mind. (Isaiah 26:3; Romans 8:6) 5) Peace should govern our decisions. 6) The peace Jesus gives is different than the peace as defined by the world. (John 14:27) 7) In fact, Jesus did not come to bring a worldly peace. (Matthew 10:34-36; Luke 12:51-53)…
our King is Coming! Zechariah 3:1-10 (NIV) – [1] Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him. [2] The LORD said to Satan, “The LORD rebuke you, Satan! The LORD, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebuke you! Is not this man a burning stick snatched from the fire?” [3] Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. [4] The angel said to those who were standing before him, “Take off his filthy clothes.” Then he said to Joshua, “See, I have taken away your sin, and I will put rich garments on you.” [5] Then I said, “Put a clean turban on his head.” So they put a clean turban on his head and clothed him, while the angel of the LORD stood by. [6] The angel of the LORD gave this charge to Joshua: [7] “This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘If you will walk in my ways and keep my requirements, then you will govern my house and have charge of my courts, and I will give you a place among these standing here. [8] “‘Listen, O high priest Joshua and your associates seated before you, who are men symbolic of things to come: I am going to bring my servant, the Branch. [9] See, the stone I have set in front of Joshua! There are seven eyes on that one stone, and I will engrave an inscription on it,' says the LORD Almighty, ‘and I will remove the sin of this land in a single day. [10] “‘In that day each of you will invite his neighbor to sit under his vine and fig tree,' declares the LORD Almighty.” The names Joshua and Jeshua were common in ancient times. The Greek equivalent is spelled “Jesus” in English, and all three forms of the name mean “The LORD saves.” (NIV Study Bible Notes) Ezra 5:2 (NIV) – [2] Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak set to work to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, helping them. Haggai 1:1 (NIV) – [1] In the second year of King Darius, on the first day of the sixth month, the word of the LORD came through the prophet Haggai to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest… 1. Jesus is our high priest. Hebrews 4:14-16 (NIV) – [14] Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. [15] For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. [16] Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. 1 Timothy 2:5-6 (NIV) – [5] For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, [6] who gave himself as a ransom for all men—the testimony given in its proper time. Hebrews 9:15 (NIV) – [15] For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant. 2. Satan is our accuser. Zechariah has described a courtroom scene in which Joshua is the defendant, God is the Judge, Satan is the prosecuting attorney, and Jesus Christ is the defense attorney, the Advocate of God’s people before the holy throne of God… God’s throne is a throne of justice and God is a righteous Judge. Knowing this, Satan pointed out Joshua’s defilement, which symbolized the defilement of the nation, and insisted that a holy God punish His sinful people. (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) Zechariah 1:9-10 (NIV) – [9] I asked, “What are these, my lord?” The angel who was talking with me answered, “I will show you what they are.” [10] Then the man standing among the myrtle trees explained, “They are the ones the LORD has sent to go throughout the earth.” Job 1:6-7 (NIV) – [6] One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. [7] The LORD said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the LORD, “From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it.” 1 Peter 5:8 (AMP) – [8] Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour. Job 1:8-12 (NIV) – [8] Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” [9] “Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. [10] “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. [11] But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” [12] The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.” Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD. Revelation 12:10-11 (NIV) – [10] Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. [11] They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. 3. The LORD rebukes Satan. Jude 4, 8-9 (NIV) – Jude 4 (NIV) – [4] For certain men whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord… [8] In the very same way, these dreamers pollute their own bodies, reject authority and slander celestial beings. [9] But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not dare to bring a slanderous accusation against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” Deuteronomy 34:5-6 (NLT) – [5] So Moses, the servant of the LORD, died there in the land of Moab, just as the LORD had said. [6] The LORD buried him in a valley near Beth-peor in Moab, but to this day no one knows the exact place. 4. God snatches us from the fire. The Lord is both defense attorney and judge; he censures the prosecution’s arguments, dismisses the case, and declares Jeshua innocent because he has been chosen and cleansed by God. Like a burning stick that has been snatched from the fire, Jeshua and other Hebrew exiles were plucked by God from near destruction in Babylon. (NLT Study Bible Notes) Amos 4:11 (NIV) – [11] “I overthrew some of you as I overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah. You were like a burning stick snatched from the fire, yet you have not returned to me,” declares the LORD. Jude 22-23 (NIV) – [22] Be merciful to those who doubt; [23] snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Fruit of the Spirit of Joy, Part 2 Galatians 5:22-23 2. The Source of Joy a. God is the source of joy. 1) Joy is an attribute of God. 2) God expresses joy. (Psalm 104:31; Zephaniah 3:17) b. Our joy comes from God through the Holy Spirit. (Acts 13:52; Romans 14:17) 1) The joy of the Lord is our strength. (Nehemiah 8:10) 2) Complete joy comes from complete obedience. (John 15:9-11) 3) Joy comes through trusting in God. (Romans 15:13) 4) Faith fills us with an inexpressible joy. (1 Peter 1:8-9) 5) Joy is the result of rejoicing. 3. The Expressions of Joy a. We are commanded to rejoice in the Lord. (Psalm 32:11; Philippians 4:4) b. Even inanimate nature is poetically called upon to rejoice in God. (Psalm 96:11-12; 98:4-9) c. Some Hebrew words for “joy”: 1) Ranan – to sing for joy (Psalm 33:1; 67:4) 2) Alats – to jump for joy (Psalm 5:11; 68:3) 3) Teruw` ah – to shout for joy or raise a battle-cry (Psalm 27:6; 33:3) 4) Giyl – to spin around or dance for joy (Psalm 21:1; 31:7)…
Zechariah 2:10-13 (NIV) - [10] “Shout and be glad, O Daughter of Zion. For I am coming, and I will live among you,” declares the LORD. [11] “Many nations will be joined with the LORD in that day and will become my people. I will live among you and you will know that the LORD Almighty has sent me to you. [12] The LORD will inherit Judah as his portion in the holy land and will again choose Jerusalem. [13] Be still before the LORD, all mankind, because he has roused himself from his holy dwelling.” 1. Be loud! Joshua 6:5; 20-21 (NIV) [5] “When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have all the people give a loud SHOUT; then the wall of the city will collapse and the people will go up, every man straight in…” [20] When the trumpets sounded, the people SHOUTED, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the people gave a loud SHOUT, the wall collapsed; so every man charged straight in, and they took the city. Ezra 3:10-11 (NIV) – [10] When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, the priests in their vestments and with trumpets, and the Levites (the sons of Asaph) with cymbals, took their places to praise the Lord, as prescribed by David king of Israel. [11] With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord: “He is good; his love to Israel endures forever.” And all the people gave a great SHOUT of praise to the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid. Isaiah 42:13 (NIV) – [13] The LORD will march out like a mighty man, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal; with a SHOUT he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over his enemies. 2. Be glad! Zechariah 9:9 (NIV) – [9] Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! SHOUT, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Revelation 19:11-16 (NIV) – [11] I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. [12] His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. [13] He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. [14] The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. [15] Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. [16] On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. Revelation 21:1-4 (NIV) – [1] Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. [2] I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. [3] And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. [4] He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Zechariah 8:20-23 (NIV) – [20] This is what the LORD Almighty says: “Many peoples and the inhabitants of many cities will yet come, [21] and the inhabitants of one city will go to another and say, ‘Let us go at once to entreat the LORD and seek the LORD Almighty. I myself am going.’ [22] And many peoples and powerful nations will come to Jerusalem to seek the LORD Almighty and to entreat him.” [23] This is what the LORD Almighty says: “In those days ten men from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, ‘Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.’” Micah 4:1-2 (NIV) – [1] In the last days the mountain of the LORD’s temple will be established as chief among the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and peoples will stream to it. [2] Many nations will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.” The law will go out from Zion, the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. Isaiah 14:1 (NLT) – [1] But the LORD will have mercy on the descendants of Jacob. He will choose Israel as his special people once again. He will bring them back to settle once again in their own land. And people from many different nations will come and join them there and unite with the people of Israel. 3. Be still. Exodus 14:13-14 (NIV) – [13] Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. [14] The LORD will fight for you; you need only to BE STILL.” Psalms 37:7 (NIV) – [7] BE STILL before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. Psalms 46:10 (NIV) – [10] “BE STILL, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Mark 4:37 (NIV) – [37] A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. [38] Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don't you care if we drown?” [39] He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! BE STILL!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. [40] He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” [41] They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Fruit of the Spirit of Joy Galatians 5:22-23 1. The Definition of Joy a. Joy (chara) means a constant, calm, and composed delight or cheerfulness. b. The Difference between Happiness and Joy. 1) Happiness is on a human level; joy is on a spiritual level. 2) Happiness is dependent; joy is independent. (Habakkuk 3:17-18; 2 Corinthians 7:4; 8:1-2; James 1:2) 3) Happiness is based upon present circumstances; joy is based upon future promises. (Luke 6:22-23) 4) Happiness can be taken from us; joy cannot. (John 16:22) 5) Happiness does not satisfy; joy is a state of satisfaction.…
Zechariah 2:1-13 (NIV) – [1] Then I looked up—and there before me was a man with a measuring line in his hand! [2] I asked, “Where are you going?” He answered me, “To measure Jerusalem, to find out how wide and how long it is.” [3] Then the angel who was speaking to me left, and another angel came to meet him [4] and said to him: “Run, tell that young man, ‘Jerusalem will be a city without walls because of the great number of men and livestock in it. [5] And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,' declares the LORD, ‘and I will be its glory within.’ [6] “Come! Come! Flee from the land of the north,” declares the LORD, “for I have scattered you to the four winds of heaven,” declares the LORD. [7] “Come, O Zion! Escape, you who live in the Daughter of Babylon!” [8] For this is what the LORD Almighty says: “After he has honored me and has sent me against the nations that have plundered you—for whoever touches you touches the apple of his eye— [9] I will surely raise my hand against them so that their slaves will plunder them. Then you will know that the LORD Almighty has sent me. Zechariah 2:6-8 (TEV) – [6-7] The Lord said to his people, “I scattered you in all directions. But now, you exiles, escape from Babylonia and return to Jerusalem. [8] Anyone who strikes you strikes what is most precious to me.” 1. It means passion. “…the love of God towards the faithful is so tender that when they are hurt he burns with so much displeasure, as though one attempted to pierce his eyes. For God cannot otherwise set forth how much and how ardently he loves us, and how careful he is of our salvation, than by comparing us to the apple of his eye.” (John Calvin) Deuteronomy 31:30, 32:9-11 (NIV) – [30] And Moses recited the words of this song from beginning to end in the hearing of the whole assembly of Israel… [9] For the LORD’s portion is his people, Jacob his allotted inheritance. [10] In a desert land he found him, in a barren and howling waste. He shielded him and cared for him; he guarded him as THE APPLE OF HIS EYE, [11] like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, that spreads its wings to catch them and carries them on its pinions. 2. It means possession. “The pupil of the eye… as being the object most carefully preserved, is a figure used to denote the dearest possession or good.” (Keil and Delitzsch Commentary) Psalms 17:7-9 (NIV) – [7] Show the wonder of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes. [8] Keep me as THE APPLE OF YOUR EYE; hide me in the shadow of your wings [9] from the wicked who assail me, from my mortal enemies who surround me. 3. It means protection. “The pupil, or aperture, through which rays pass to the retina, is the tenderest part of the eye; the member which we most sedulously guard from hurt as being the dearest of our members; the one which feels most acutely the slightest injury, and the loss of which is irreparable.” (Jaimison, Fausset, Brown Commentary) Proverbs 7:1-3 (NIV) – [1] My son, keep my words and store up my commands within you. [2] Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as THE APPLE OF YOUR EYE. [3] Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. 4. It means reflection. “…signifies the apple or pupil of the eye, literally the ‘little man’ which anyone may see reflected in another person’s eye.” (Synonyms of the Old Testament) “This is a remarkable expression. Any person, by looking into the eye of another, will see his own image perfectly expressed, though in extreme miniature, in the pupil… does not the expression mean that the eye of God is always upon His follower, and that His person is ever impressed on the eye, the notice, attention, providence, and mercy of God?” (Adam Clarke’s Commentary)…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom Am I My Brother’s Keeper? Galatians 6:1-6 (NIV) – [1] Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. [2] Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. [3] If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. [4] Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, [5] for each one should carry his own load. [6] Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor. I. Our Responsibility to Others A. Confrontation 1. We have a responsibility to lovingly confront Christians who sin. (Matthew 18:15-17) Matthew 18:15-17 (NIV) – [15] “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. [16] But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ [17] If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.” 2. We must first judge ourselves before we ever attempt to confront someone else. (Matthew 7:1-5) Matthew 7:1-5 (NIV) – [1] “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. [2] For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. [3] “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? [4] How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? [5] You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. 3. The goal of confrontation is to bring a person to repentance. (2 Corinthians 7:8-11) 2 Corinthians 7:8-10 (NIV) – [8] Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while— [9] yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. [10] Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. B. Restoration 1. Our goal for those who have sinned is always to restore them. a. Restore (katartizoo) means to mend what has been broken or torn, to repair; to put in order, to strengthen. b. It is used for the setting of broken bones, mending torn nets, or bringing warring factions together in peace. 2. Only those who are spiritual should conduct the work of restoration. a. Restoration, not condemnation, is the very kind of thing truly mature Christians believe in and practice. b. However, only those who are well-established in the faith and genuinely led of the Spirit have the maturity to deal with the sin of others. c. Restoration is a process that requires time, patience, mercy, wisdom and discernment. d. Restoration should be done with humility and gentleness. e. Those who restore must guard themselves from temptation. (1 Corinthians 10:12) 1 Corinthians 10:12 (NIV) – [12] So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! C. Care 1. We are to help carry each another’s burdens. a. Carry (bastazoo) means to take up with the hands, to take up in order to carry or bear, to put upon oneself something to be carried; to take away or remove by curing them. b. Burden (baros) means a heaviness, weight, burden, trouble. c. The emphasis is on moral burdens or weaknesses and it implies a burden too heavy for one person to carry. (1 Thessalonians 2:6-7) 1 Thessalonians 2:6-7 (NIV) – [6] We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else. As apostles of Christ we could have been a BURDEN to you, [7] but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children. 2. When we care this way, we fulfill the law of Christ, which is different from the Mosaic Law.…
CRISIS! Part 3 1 Samuel 13:1-15 (NIV) – [1] Saul was [thirty] years old when he became king, and he reigned over Israel [forty-] two years. [2] Saul chose three thousand men from Israel; two thousand were with him at Micmash and in the hill country of Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan at Gibeah in Benjamin. The rest of the men he sent back to their homes. [3] Jonathan attacked the Philistine outpost at Geba, and the Philistines heard about it. Then Saul had the trumpet blown throughout the land and said, “Let the Hebrews hear!” [4] So all Israel heard the news: “Saul has attacked the Philistine outpost, and now Israel has become a stench to the Philistines.” And the people were summoned to join Saul at Gilgal. [5] The Philistines assembled to fight Israel, with three thousand chariots, six thousand charioteers, and soldiers as numerous as the sand on the seashore. They went up and camped at Micmash, east of Beth Aven. [6] When the men of Israel saw that their situation was critical and that their army was hard pressed, they hid in caves and thickets, among the rocks, and in pits and cisterns. [7] Some Hebrews even crossed the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. Saul remained at Gilgal, and all the troops with him were quaking with fear. [8] He waited seven days, the time set by Samuel; but Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and Saul's men began to scatter. [9] So he said, “Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings.” And Saul offered up the burnt offering. [10] Just as he finished making the offering, Samuel arrived, and Saul went out to greet him. [11] “What have you done?” asked Samuel. Saul replied, “When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Micmash, [12] I thought, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the LORD’s favor.’ So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering.” [13] “You acted foolishly,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. [14] But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the LORD's command.” [15] Then Samuel left Gilgal and went up to Gibeah in Benjamin, and Saul counted the men who were with him. They numbered about six hundred. 1. Saul’s support is slipping away. 2. God seems late in coming. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, 11 (NIV) – [1] There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: [2] a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, [3] a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, [4] a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, [5] a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, [6] a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, [7] a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, [8] a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace… [11] He has made everything beautiful in its time. 1 Corinthians 4:5 (NIV) – [5] Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God. 3. Saul assumes the worst. 4. He thinks he can force God’s favor. 5. He panics and feels compelled to do something. “Compelled” (apac) means to force oneself into doing something. Exodus 32:1 (MSG) – [1] When the people realized that Moses was taking forever in coming down off the mountain, they rallied around Aaron and said, “DO SOMETHING. Make gods for us who will lead us. That Moses, the man who got us out of Egypt — who knows what’s happened to him?” Deuteronomy 20:1-4 (NIV) – [1] When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you. [2] When you are about to go into battle, the priest shall come forward and address the army. [3] He shall say: “Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be terrified or give way to panic before them. [4] For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.” 6. He acts foolishly. 2 Chronicles 26:16-21 (NIV) – [16] But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the LORD his God, and entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. [17] Azariah the priest with eighty other courageous priests of the LORD followed him in. [18] They confronted him and said, “It is not right for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to the LORD. That is for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who have been consecrated to burn incense. Leave the sanctuary, for you have been unfaithful; and you will not be honored by the LORD God.” [19] Uzziah, who had a censer in his hand ready to burn incense, became angry. While he was raging at the priests in their presence before the incense altar in the LORD’s temple, leprosy broke out on his forehead. [20] When Azariah the chief priest and all the other priests looked at him, they saw that he had leprosy on his forehead, so they hurried him out. Indeed, he himself was eager to leave, because the LORD had afflicted him. [21] King Uzziah had leprosy until the day he died. He lived in a separate house—leprous, and excluded from the temple of the LORD. “Act foolishly” (sakal) means to act without thinking because of an attitude of self-reliance. 7. He disobeys God’s commands.…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom Crucified or Conceited Galatians 5:23b-26 (NIV) – Against such things there is no law. [24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. [25] Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. [26] Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. NIV – [23] Against such things there is no law. KJV – [23] Against such there is no law. AMP – [23] Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge]. NLT – [23] There is no law against these things. MSG – [23] Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way. 1. “Such things” is referring to the Fruit of the Spirit. a. Because love, joy, peace, etc. can never be wrong or evil, there is no law against them. b. In addition, legalism though observance to the law will never produce the fruit of the Spirit in us. (Romans 7:4-6) Romans 7:4-6 (NIV) – [4] So, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God. [5] For when we were controlled by the sinful nature, the sinful passions aroused by the law were at work in our bodies, so that we bore fruit for death. [6] But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code. NIV – [24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. KJV – [24] And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. AMP – [24] And those who belong to Christ Jesus (the Messiah) have crucified the flesh (the godless human nature) with its passions and appetites and desires. NLT – [24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. MSG – [24] Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. 2. The reason believers are to no longer live a sinful lifestyle is because that lifestyle was crucified when we accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior. (Romans 6:6) Romans 6:6 (NIV) – [6] For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin — [7] because anyone who has died has been freed from sin. a. Like any crucifixion, death is guaranteed, but not necessarily immediate. (Luke 9:23; 2 Corinthians 4:10) Luke 9:23 (NIV) – [23] Then he said to them all: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 2 Corinthians 4:10 (NIV) – [10] We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. b. Therefore, though the sinful nature has been crucified, we still struggle with its influence. c. Though we will not be entirely free from the desires of the sinful nature in this life, by the power of the Holy Spirit, those desires no longer control and rule us. (Galatians 2:20) Galatians 2:20 (NIV) – [20] I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. d. We have been saved from the PENALTY of sin (hell), we are being saved from the POWER of sin (sanctification), and we will eventually be saved from the very PRESENCE of sin (heaven). NIV – [25] Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. KJV – [25] If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. AMP – [25] If we live by the [Holy] Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. [If by the Holy Spirit we have our life in God, let us go forward walking in line, our conduct controlled by the Spirit.] NLT – [25] Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. MSG – [25] Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. 3. The best way to learn to stop doing wrong it to start living right. a. It is not enough to stop practicing the acts of the sinful nature; we must also start producing the fruit of the Spirit. b. “Keep in step” (stoicheo) means to walk in a straight line, to arrange in a row, to march in military rank. (Romans 4:12) Romans 4:12 – [12] And he is also the father of the circumcised who not only are circumcised but who also walk in the footsteps of the faith that our father Abraham had before he was circumcised. c. Keeping in step with the Spirit means following the Spirit’s leading without wavering or taking detours. NIV – [26] Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. KJV – [26] Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. AMP – [26] Let us not become vainglorious and self-conceited, competitive and challenging and provoking and irritating to one another, envying and being jealous of one another. NLT – [26] Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. MSG – [26] That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original. 4. “Conceited” (kenodoxos) is a compound word: “keno” is translated “empty or vain,” and doxa means, “glory or praise.” a. Combined, it means vainglory, empty praise, false pride; full of empty boasting; to have a false estimate of oneself; one who talks big. b. Conceit promotes competition and comparison which provokes envy. c. And envy is one of the acts of the sinful nature. (Galatians 5:21) d. When we walk in the Spirit, we won’t think too highly of ourselves. e. When we walk in the Spirit, we won’t purposely stir up strife and dissension or covet the possessions or positions of others.…
Crisis, Part 2 1 Samuel 13:1-15 (NIV) – [1] Saul was [thirty] years old when he became king, and he reigned over Israel [forty-] two years. [2] Saul chose three thousand men from Israel; two thousand were with him at Micmash and in the hill country of Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan at Gibeah in Benjamin. The rest of the men he sent back to their homes. [3] Jonathan attacked the Philistine outpost at Geba, and the Philistines heard about it. Then Saul had the trumpet blown throughout the land and said, “Let the Hebrews hear!” [4] So all Israel heard the news: “Saul has attacked the Philistine outpost, and now Israel has become a stench to the Philistines.” And the people were summoned to join Saul at Gilgal. [5] The Philistines assembled to fight Israel, with three thousand chariots, six thousand charioteers, and soldiers as numerous as the sand on the seashore. They went up and camped at Micmash, east of Beth Aven. [6] When the men of Israel saw that their situation was critical and that their army was hard pressed, they hid in caves and thickets, among the rocks, and in pits and cisterns. [7] Some Hebrews even crossed the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. Saul remained at Gilgal, and all the troops with him were quaking with fear. [8] He waited seven days, the time set by Samuel; but Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and Saul's men began to scatter. [9] So he said, “Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings.” And Saul offered up the burnt offering. [10] Just as he finished making the offering, Samuel arrived, and Saul went out to greet him. [11] “What have you done?” asked Samuel. Saul replied, “When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Micmash, [12] I thought, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the LORD’s favor.’ So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering.” [13] “You acted foolishly,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. [14] But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the LORD's command.” [15] Then Samuel left Gilgal and went up to Gibeah in Benjamin, and Saul counted the men who were with him. They numbered about six hundred. 1. Saul’s support is slipping away. 1 Samuel 30:6 (AMP) – [6] David was greatly distressed, for the men spoke of stoning him because the souls of them all were bitterly grieved, each man for his sons and daughters. But David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God. 2. God seems late in coming. 1 Samuel 10:8 (NIV) – [8] “Go down ahead of me to Gilgal. I will surely come down to you to sacrifice burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, but you must wait seven days until I come to you and tell you what you are to do.” Lamentations 3:22-26 (NIV) – [22] Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. [23] They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. [24] I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” [25] The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; [26] it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. Acts 1:4-5 (NIV) – [4] On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. [5] For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 3. Saul assumes the worst. Psalms 37:7-9 (AMP) – [7] Be still and rest in the Lord; wait for Him and patiently lean yourself upon Him; fret not yourself because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked devices to pass. [8] Cease from anger and forsake wrath; fret not yourself — it tends only to evildoing. [9] For evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait and hope and look for the Lord [in the end] shall inherit the earth. Job 3:25-26 (NIV) – [25] “What I feared has come upon me; what I dreaded has happened to me. [26] I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil.” 4. He thinks he can force God’s favor. Genesis 6:5-9 (NIV) – [5] The LORD saw how great man’s wickedness on the earth had become, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time. [6] The LORD was grieved that he had made man on the earth, and his heart was filled with pain. [7] So the LORD said, “I will wipe mankind, whom I have created, from the face of the earth—men and animals, and creatures that move along the ground, and birds of the air—for I am grieved that I have made them.” [8] But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. [9] This is the account of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God. Daniel 9:13 (NIV) – [13] Just as it is written in the Law of Moses, all this disaster has come upon us, yet we have not sought the favor of the LORD our God by turning from our sins and giving attention to your truth.…
Crisis! 1 Samuel 13:1-15 (NIV) – [1] Saul was [thirty] years old when he became king, and he reigned over Israel [forty-] two years. [2] Saul chose three thousand men from Israel; two thousand were with him at Micmash and in the hill country of Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan at Gibeah in Benjamin. The rest of the men he sent back to their homes. [3] Jonathan attacked the Philistine outpost at Geba, and the Philistines heard about it. Then Saul had the trumpet blown throughout the land and said, “Let the Hebrews hear!” [4] So all Israel heard the news: “Saul has attacked the Philistine outpost, and now Israel has become a stench to the Philistines.” And the people were summoned to join Saul at Gilgal. [5] The Philistines assembled to fight Israel, with three thousand chariots, six thousand charioteers, and soldiers as numerous as the sand on the seashore. They went up and camped at Micmash, east of Beth Aven. [6] When the men of Israel saw that their situation was critical and that their army was hard pressed, they hid in caves and thickets, among the rocks, and in pits and cisterns. [7] Some Hebrews even crossed the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. Saul remained at Gilgal, and all the troops with him were quaking with fear. [8] He waited seven days, the time set by Samuel; but Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and Saul's men began to scatter. [9] So he said, “Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings.” And Saul offered up the burnt offering. [10] Just as he finished making the offering, Samuel arrived, and Saul went out to greet him. [11] “What have you done?” asked Samuel. Saul replied, “When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Micmash, [12] I thought, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the LORD’s favor.’ So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering.” [13] “You acted foolishly,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. [14] But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the LORD's command.” [15] Then Samuel left Gilgal and went up to Gibeah in Benjamin, and Saul counted the men who were with him. They numbered about six hundred. 1. The Cause of Crisis a. Doing God’s will John 16:33 (NIV) – [33] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (AMP) – [33] I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] b. Conflict with others c. Severe stress Isaiah 53:7 (NIV) – [7] He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 2. Our Reaction to Crisis a. Some go into hiding. b. Some run away. c. Some quake with fear. Leviticus 26:3-6 (NIV) – [3] “If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commands, [4] I will send you rain in its season, and the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit. [5] Your threshing will continue until grape harvest and the grape harvest will continue until planting, and you will eat all the food you want and live in safety in your land. [6] I will grant peace in the land, and you will lie down and no one will make you afraid.”…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Fruit of the Spirit of GENTLENESS I. The Meaning of Gentleness A. Gentleness (prautes) means mildness of disposition, a submissiveness of spirit, kindness, humility. B. It is also translated as “meekness.” (Matthew 5:5) C. Gentleness has two applications—toward God and toward other people. D. Gentleness or meekness has nothing to do with weakness. II. The Source of Gentleness A. God speaks to His people in a gentle whisper. (1 Kings 19:12) 1 Kings 19:12 (NIV) – [12] After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a GENTLE whisper. B. It was prophesied that the Messiah would be recognized for His gentleness. (Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:5) Zechariah 9:9 (NIV) – [9] Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, GENTLE and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Matthew 21:5 (NIV) – [5] “Say to the Daughter of Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, GENTLE and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’” C. Jesus identified Himself as one who by nature is gentle. (Matthew 11:29) Matthew 11:29 (NIV) – [29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am GENTLE and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. III. The Practice of Gentleness A. Christians are to exhibit that same quality of gentleness and meekness of Christ Jesus. (2 Corinthians 10:1; Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:12) 2 Corinthians 10:1 (NIV) – [1] By the meekness and GENTLENESS of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am “timid” when face to face with you, but “bold” when away! Ephesians 4:2 (NIV) – [2] Be completely humble and GENTLE; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Colossians 3:12 (NIV) – [12] Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, GENTLENESS and patience. B. Gentleness produces peace and calms quarrels. (Proverbs 15:1) Proverbs 15:1 (NIV) – [1] A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. C. Gentleness is crucial in restoring those who have been caught up in sin. (Galatians 6:1) Galatians 6:1 (NIV) – [1] Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him GENTLY. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. D. The person of God will gently instruct those who oppose him and the truth. (2 Timothy 2:25) 2 Timothy 2:24 (NIV) – [24] And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. [25] Those who oppose him he must GENTLY instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth. E. Effective witnessing requires gentleness and respect for the unbeliever. (1 Peter 3:15) 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) – [15] But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with GENTLENESS and respect.…
Call on the Name of the LORD Romans 10:9-15 (NIV) - [9] That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. [11] As the Scripture says, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” [12] For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, [13] for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” [14] How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? [15] And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” 1. When we call on the Name of the LORD, we must confess. “Self-Talk [is] the way we talk to ourselves [and it] sets the tone for how we’ll engage with the world and the types of interactions we’ll come to expect with others… I’ll be the first to admit that positive thoughts are powerful, and I’ve written at length about healthy self-talk in this book and elsewhere. In fact, studies continue to document the power of our thoughts and our beliefs to shape our experiences and choices.” (“The Anxiety Reset” by Gregory L. Jantz) “Anyone can say he or she believes something, but God knows each person’s heart. In this confession, it is not enough to merely utter the words; they must be declared, professed, proclaimed from the heart, expressing our full conviction.” (Life Application NT Commentary) 1 Corinthians 2:16 (NIV) – [16] “For who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ. Isaiah 55:8-9 (NIV) – [8] “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. [9] “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Psalms 119:66 (NIV) – [66] Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I believe in your commands. [67] Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word. [68] You are good, and what you do is good; teach me your decrees. John 8:44 (NIV) – [44] You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. “In the early church, the phrase ‘Jesus is Lord’ was one of the most common and simple expressions by which believers confessed their faith in Christ. It is a confession parallel and very similar to Israel’s basic confession of faith in Yahweh: ‘Yahweh our God is one Lord’ (Deuteronomy 6:4, the Shema). In the Roman world, faithful citizens were increasingly being expected to acknowledge that Caesar was Lord (divine). So the original recipients of this epistle, especially, had to face the issue of who really is divine, Jesus or Caesar.” (Thomas Constable’s Notes) “When we confess that Jesus is Lord, we are acknowledging his rank or supreme place. We are pledging our obedience and worship; we are placing our life under his protection for safekeeping. We are pledging ourselves and our resources to his control for direction and service.” (Life Application NT Commentary) 2. When we call on the Name of the LORD, we must believe. “In Biblical terms the heart is not merely the seat of the emotions and affections, but also of the intellect and will… Christians believe not only that Jesus lived but also that he still lives… Salvation involves inward belief (‘with your heart’) as well as outward confession (‘with your mouth’).” (NIV Study Bible) 1 Corinthians 15:13-20 (NIV) – [13] If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. [14] And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. [15] More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. [16] For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. [17] And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. [18] Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. [19] If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. [20] But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. Romans 10:10 (NLT) – [10] For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Fruit of the Spirit of FAITHFULNESS 1. The Meaning of Faithfulness a. Faithfulness (pistis) means fidelity, trustworthiness, reliability, dependability, loyalty, and stability. b. Faithfulness comes from the word for faith, which means a belief or conviction of the truth or in the reliability of someone. 2. The Source of Faithfulness a. Faithfulness is an attribute of God. b. God is faithful to keep His promises. c. His faithfulness never ends. d. He is faithful to forgive confessed sin. e. God is faithful even in our temptations. f. The Lord is faithful to strengthen and protect us. g. Even if we are faithless, God remains faithful because He cannot deny His own nature. (2 Timothy 2:13) 2 Timothy 2:13 (NIV) – [13] …if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself. 2 Timothy 2:13 (AMP) – [13] If we are faithless [do not believe and are untrue to Him], He remains true (faithful to His Word and His righteous character), for He cannot deny Himself. 2 Timothy 2:13 (NLT) – [13] If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is. h. However, to the faithful, God shows Himself faithful. (2 Samuel 22:26; Psalm 25:10) 2 Samuel 22:26 (NIV) – [26] “To the faithful you show yourself faithful, to the blameless you show yourself blameless… Psalms 25:10 (NIV) – [10] All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of his covenant. 3. The Practice of Faithfulness a. We are to be faithful in serving the Lord only. (Joshua 24:14-15) Joshua 24:14-15 (NIV) – [14] “Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. [15] But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” b. Heaven is for those servants who exhibit goodness and faithfulness. (Matthew 25:21) Matthew 25:21 (NIV) – [21] “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!’” c. The Lord rewards faithfulness. (1 Samuel 26:23; Proverbs 28:20) 1 Samuel 26:23 (NIV) – [23] The LORD rewards every man for his righteousness and faithfulness. The LORD delivered you into my hands today, but I would not lay a hand on the LORD's anointed. Proverbs 28:20 (NIV) – [20] A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished. d. He protects those who are faithful. (Psalm 97:10; Proverbs 2:8) Psalms 97:10 (NIV) – [10] Let those who love the LORD hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked. Proverbs 2:8 (NLT) – [8] He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. e. We are to be faithful in prayer. (Romans 12:12) Romans 12:12 (NIV) – [12] Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. f. We must prove ourselves faithful. (1 Corinthians 4:2) 1 Corinthians 4:2 (NIV) – [2] Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. g. We are to be faithful even to the point of death. (Revelation 2:10; 13:9-10) Revelation 2:10 (NIV) – [10] Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. Revelation 13:9-10 (NIV) – [9] He who has an ear, let him hear. [10] If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity he will go. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword he will be killed. This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints.…
1 Kings 18:20-24 (NIV) – [20] So Ahab sent word throughout all Israel and assembled the prophets on Mount Carmel. [21] Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people said nothing. [22] Then Elijah said to them, “I am the only one of the LORD’s prophets left, but Baal has four hundred and fifty prophets. [23] Get two bulls for us. Let them choose one for themselves, and let them cut it into pieces and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. I will prepare the other bull and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. [24] Then you call on the name of your god, and I will CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD. The god who answers by fire—he is God.” Then all the people said, “What you say is good.” 1. As the End draws near, call on the Name of the LORD. 2. When you are wavering, call on the Name of the LORD. 3. When your heart is divided, call on the Name of the LORD. 4. When you feel alone, call on the Name of the LORD. 1 Kings 19:14-15, 18 (NIV) – [14] Elijah replied, “I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.” [15] The LORD said to him… [18] “Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him.” Romans 11:2-5 (NIV) – [2] God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew. Don’t you know what the Scripture says in the passage about Elijah — how he appealed to God against Israel: [3] “Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me”? [4] And what was God’s answer to him? “I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” [5] So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. 1 Kings 18:36-39 (NIV) – [36] At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. [37] Answer me, O LORD, answer me, so these people will know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.” [38] Then the fire of the LORD fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench. [39] When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The LORD—he is God! The LORD—he is God!” “Everything that Elijah did was according to the Word of the Lord (v. 36), including confronting the king and inviting him and the priests of Baal to a meeting on Mount Carmel. Ahab called Elijah ‘the troublemaker in Israel,’ but it was really Ahab whose sins had caused the problems in the land. Surely Ahab knew the terms of the covenant and understood that the blessings of the Lord depended on the obedience of the king and his people.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 5. We must obey when we call on the Name of the LORD. James 5:17-18 (AMP) – [17] Elijah was a human being with a nature such as we have [with feelings, affections, and a constitution like ours]; and he prayed earnestly for it not to rain, and no rain fell on the earth for three years and six months. [18] And [then] he prayed again and the heavens supplied rain and the land produced its crops [as usual]. 6. We must pray earnestly when we call on the Name of the LORD. “The clause he prayed fervently is literally ‘in prayer he prayed.’ This usage reflects the influence of the Hebrew idiom, and its function is to intensify the force of the statement… the force of the clause may be rendered ‘He prayed earnestly’, ‘He prayed and prayed’, ‘he prayed constantly,’ or ‘he prayed again and again.’” (UBS New Testament Handbook) James 5:17-18 (MSG) – [17] Elijah, for instance, human just like us, PRAYED HARD that it wouldn’t rain, and it didn’t — not a drop for three and a half years. [18] Then he prayed that it would rain, and it did. The showers came and everything started growing again. 7. The fire will fall when we call on the Name of the LORD. Acts 2:1-4 (NIV) – [1] When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. [2] Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. [3] They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. [4] All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Fruit of the Spirit of FAITHFULNESS Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) – [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness… Galatians 5:22-23 (AMP) – [22] But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness… Galatians 5:22-23 (MSG) – [22] But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments… 1. The Meaning of Faithfulness a. Faithfulness (pistis) means fidelity, trustworthiness, reliability, dependability, loyalty, and stability. 1) It is that character quality whereby one is punctual in performing one’s promises, conscientious in fulfilling one’s commitments, and careful in preserving what is entrusted to one’s care. 2) It denotes the firmness, constancy, and unchangeableness of God in His relations with men, especially with His people. b. Faithfulness comes from the word for faith, which means a belief or conviction of the truth or in the reliability of someone. 1) We have faith in God because He is the truth, and He is trustworthy and reliable. 2) In other words, we have faith in God because God is faithful, or full of faith. 2. The Source of Faithfulness a. Faithfulness is an attribute of God. (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 33:4; 86:15; 1 Corinthians 1:9) Deuteronomy 32:4 (NIV) – [4] He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he. Psalms 33:4 (NIV) – [4] For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. Psalms 86:15 (NIV) – [15] But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. 1 Corinthians 1:9 (NIV) – [9] God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful. b. God is faithful to keep His promises. (Deuteronomy 7:9; Hebrews 10:23) Deuteronomy 7:9 (NIV) – [9] Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands. Hebrews 10:23 (NIV) – [23] Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. c. His faithfulness never ends. (Psalm 100:5; 117:2) Psalms 100:5 (NIV) – [5] For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalms 117:2 (NIV) – [2] For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD. d. He is faithful to forgive confessed sin. (1 John 1:9) 1 John 1:9 (NIV) – [9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. e. God is faithful even in our temptations. (1 Corinthians 10:13) 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) – [13] No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. f. The Lord is faithful to strengthen and protect us. (Psalm 91:4; 2 Thessalonians 3:3) Psalms 91:4 (NIV) – [4] He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV) – [3] But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. g. Even if we are faithless, God remains faithful because He cannot deny His own nature. (2 Timothy 2:13) 2 Timothy 2:13 (NIV) – [13] …if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself. 2 Timothy 2:13 (AMP) – [13] If we are faithless [do not believe and are untrue to Him], He remains true (faithful to His Word and His righteous character), for He cannot deny Himself. 2 Timothy 2:13 (NLT) – [13] If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is. h. However, to the faithful, God shows Himself faithful. (2 Samuel 22:26; Psalm 25:10) 2 Samuel 22:26 (NIV) – [26] “To the faithful you show yourself faithful, to the blameless you show yourself blameless… Psalms 25:10 (NIV) – [10] All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of his covenant. 3. The Practice of Faithfulness a. We are to be faithful in serving the Lord only. (Joshua 24:14-15) Joshua 24:14-15 (NIV) – [14] “Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. [15] But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” b. Heaven is for those servants who exhibit goodness and faithfulness. (Matthew 25:21) Matthew 25:21 (NIV) – [21] “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!’” c. The Lord rewards faithfulness. (1 Samuel 26:23; Proverbs 28:20) 1 Samuel 26:23 (NIV) – [23] The LORD rewards every man for his righteousness and faithfulness. The LORD delivered you into my hands today, but I would not lay a hand on the LORD's anointed. Proverbs 28:20 (NIV) – [20] A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished. d. He protects those who are faithful. (Psalm 97:10; Proverbs 2:8) Psalms 97:10 (NIV) – [10] Let those who love the LORD hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked. Proverbs 2:8 (NLT) – [8] He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. e. We are to be faithful in prayer. (Romans 12:12) Romans 12:12 (NIV) – [12] Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. f. We must prove ourselves faithful. (1 Corinthians 4:2) 1 Corinthians 4:2 (NIV) – [2] Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. g. We are to be faithful even to the point of death. (Revelation 2:10; 13:9-10) Revelation 2:10 (NIV) – [10] Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. Revelation 13:9-10 (NIV) – [9] He who has an ear, let him hear. [10] If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity he will go. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword he will be killed. This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints.…
“Call on the Name of the LORD” 1 Kings 18:20-24 (NIV) - [20] So Ahab sent word throughout all Israel and assembled the prophets on Mount Carmel. [21] Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people said nothing. [22] Then Elijah said to them, “I am the only one of the LORD's prophets left, but Baal has four hundred and fifty prophets. [23] Get two bulls for us. Let them choose one for themselves, and let them cut it into pieces and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. I will prepare the other bull and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. [24] Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the LORD. The god who answers by fire—he is God.” Then all the people said, “What you say is good.” Picture - Mount Carmen and the Valley of Armageddon Revelation 16:12-16 (NIV) - [12] The sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up to prepare the way for the kings from the East. [13] Then I saw three evil spirits that looked like frogs; they came out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast and out of the mouth of the false prophet. [14] They are spirits of demons performing miraculous signs, and they go out to the kings of the whole world, to gather them for the battle on the great day of God Almighty. [15] “Behold, I come like a thief! Blessed is he who stays awake and keeps his clothes with him, so that he may not go naked and be shamefully exposed.” [16] Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon. “The name Armageddon (or Harmagedon) is probably derived from har (‘mountain,’ ‘hill’) plus Megiddo, which was one of the three cities fortified by Solomon along with Gezer in the south and Hazor in the north (1Ki 9:15). The fortress of Megiddo stood on a hill in the largest pass through the Carmel range, strategically guarding the Jezreel Valley. The city was situated on the Via Maris, the main highway between Egypt and Mesopotamia. Many armies used this route, and the site became known as a bloody battlefield. It was here, for instance, that Pharaoh Neco, on his way to fight the Assyrians, killed Josiah (2Ki 23:29). Armaggedon thus became a symbolic term epitomizing the final conflict between God and the forces of evil. (NLT Study Bible) 1. As the End draws near, call on the Name of the LORD. 2. When you are wavering, call on the Name of the LORD. “The Hebrew word translated waver means ‘to be lame’ or ‘to limp.’ Elijah compared the people's hobbling between the worship of the LORD and of Baal to a person who limps awkwardly from one foot to the other. Elijah may have also been referring to the ritual dance performed by Baal's prophets as they attempted to gain the storm god's attention. (NLT Study Bible) 1 Kings 18:26 (NLT) - [26] So they prepared one of the bulls and placed it on the altar. Then they called on the name of Baal from morning until noontime, shouting, "O Baal, answer us!" But there was no reply of any kind. Then they danced, hobbling around the altar they had made. “Elijah placed a clear choice before the people. He drew a sharp contrast between the worship of the Lord and that of Baal to eliminate the apostate idea that people could worship both deities.” (NIV Study Bible) 3. When your heart is divided, call on the Name of the LORD. Psalms 86:11 (NIV) - [11] Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. Ezekiel 11:17-19 (NIV) - [17] “Therefore say: ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will gather you from the nations and bring you back from the countries where you have been scattered, and I will give you back the land of Israel again.' [18] “They will return to it and remove all its vile images and detestable idols. [19] I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. James 1:5-8 (NIV) - [5] If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. [6] But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. [7] That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; [8] he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. 4. When you feel alone, call on the Name of the LORD. 1 Kings 19:14-15, 18 (NIV) - [14] He replied, “I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.” [15] The LORD said to him… [18] “Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him.” 1 Kings 18:36-39 (NIV) - [36] At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. [37] Answer me, O LORD, answer me, so these people will know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.” [38] Then the fire of the LORD fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench. [39] When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The LORD—he is God! The LORD—he is God!” 5. For the fire to fall, call on the Name of the LORD. Acts 2:1-4 (NIV) - [1] When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. [2] Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. [3] They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. [4] All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.…
Stand Firm in Your Freedom The Fruit of the Spirit of GOODNESS, Part 2 2) Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) – [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness… 3) Galatians 5:22-23 (AMP) – [22] But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence)… 4) Galatians 5:22-23 (MSG) – [22] But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people… 1. The Meaning of Goodness a. Goodness means “an uprightness of heart and life, a moral excellence.” b. It is a purity in heart and a righteousness in conduct. 2. The Source of Goodness a. Goodness is an attribute of God. b. All that God is, and all that God does, is good. c. Absolutely every good thing comes from God. d. God’s goodness is manifested to us through His love and faithfulness. e. Affliction and suffering can produce goodness in us. 3. The Expression of Goodness a. No one is good except God. (Mark 10:17-18) Mark 10:17-18 (NIV) – [17] As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “GOOD teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” [18] “Why do you call me GOOD?” Jesus answered. “No one is GOOD—except God alone.” b. God gives His goodness to those who fear Him. (Psalm 31:19) Psalms 31:19 (NIV) – [19] How great is your GOODNESS, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you. c. Those who are in the light will manifest the fruit of goodness. (Ephesians 5:8-9) Ephesians 5:8-10 (NIV) – [8] For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light [9] (for the fruit of the light consists in all GOODNESS, righteousness and truth) [10] and find out what pleases the Lord. d. Goodness begins in the heart. (Matthew 12:33-35; Luke 6:43-45) Matthew 12:33-35 (NIV) – [33] “Make a tree GOOD and its fruit will be GOOD, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. [34] You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything GOOD? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. [35] The GOOD man brings GOOD things out of the GOOD stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.” Luke 6:43-45 (NIV) – [43] “No GOOD tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. [44] Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. [45] The GOOD man brings GOOD things out of the GOOD stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.” e. If we are good, we will act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with our God. (Micah 6:8) Micah 6:8 (NIV) – [8] He has showed you, O man, what is GOOD. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. f. If we persist in doing good, we will reap a harvest. (Galatians 6:9) Galatians 6:9 (NIV) – [9] Let us not become weary in doing GOOD, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. g. Those who do good are from God; those who do evil are not. (3 John 11) 3 John 11 (NIV) – [11] Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is GOOD. Anyone who does what is GOOD is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God. h. We are to do good to everyone, especially other Christians. (Galatians 6:10) Galatians 6:10 (NIV) – [10] Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do GOOD to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. i. We overcome evil by doing what is good. (Romans 12:21) Romans 12:21 (NIV) – [21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with GOOD.…
Call on the Name of the LORD Genesis 4:25-26 (NIV) – [25] Adam lay with his wife again, and she gave birth to a son and named him Seth, saying, “God has granted me another child in place of Abel, since Cain killed him.” [26] Seth also had a son, and he named him Enosh. At that time men began to CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD. “Seth was 105 years old when his son Enosh was born. ‘Enosh’ means ‘man’ and comes from a Hebrew word that means ‘frail, weak.’ It’s the word for man that emphasizes how fragile and weak we really are in ourselves.” (The Bible Exposition Commentary) 1. There is an appointed time. Isaiah 55:6 (NIV) – [6] Seek the LORD while he may be found; CALL ON HIM while he is near. “Here is a gracious offer of pardon, and peace, and of all happiness. It shall not be in vain to seek God, now his word is calling to us, and his Spirit is striving with us. But there is a day coming when he will not be found. There may come such a time in this life; it is certain that at death and judgment the door will be shut. There must be not only a change of the way, but a change of the mind.” (Matthew Henry Commentary) “Unfortunately, when left to themselves, people tend to get worse instead of better… Violence was on the rise. Two distinct groups were emerging: (1) those who showed indifference to sin and evil, and (2) those who worshiped the Lord. (Life Application Bible Notes) 2. We are distinct from the world. 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 (NIV) – [14] Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? [15] What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? [16] What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” [17] “Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.” [18] “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” 3. The world is getting worse. 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (NLT) – [1] You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. [2] For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. [3] They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. [4] They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. [5] They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! “Call” (qara) means “to call, to declare, to summon, to invite, to read, to be called, to be invoked, to be named. (Complete Word Study Dictionary) “A remarkable thing is recorded in connection with the birth of this boy [Enosh]: at that time, people began to gather together to worship God, proclaim His name, and pray… The Hebrew word translated “call upon,” carries the meaning of praying in God’s name and also proclaiming his name in worship… There was a revival of public worship and believing prayer as the descendants of Seth met together in the name of the Lord.” (Wiersbe Commentary) 4. A practice of worship, proclamation, and prayer will bring revival. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV) – [14] If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.…
The Reset 12.26.2021 “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Ephesians 6: 1-3 1. Honor Your Parents. “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4 NIV “As for parents, don’t provoke your children to anger, but raise them with discipline and instruction about the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4 CEB 2. Parents: Don’t Be Too Harsh 3. Have plenty of Fruit in the home. But the fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Forbearance, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Self-Control. Galatians 5:22 You are loved: Roman 5:8 You are Chosen: 1 Peter 2:9 You are redeemed: Ephesians 1:7 You are favored: Palms 5:12 You are blessed: Psalm 146:5 You are healed: 1 Peter 2:24 You have a purpose and amazing destiny: Jeremiah 29:11 You are sons and daughters of the highest. Galatians 4:4-7 It’s Time for a RESET.…
God with Us Matthew 1:23 (NIV) – [23] “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”—which means, “God with us.” Isaiah 7:1-14 (NIV) – [1] When Ahaz son of Jotham, the son of Uzziah, was king of Judah, King Rezin of Aram and Pekah son of Remaliah king of Israel marched up to fight against Jerusalem, but they could not overpower it. [2] Now the house of David was told, “Aram has allied itself with Ephraim”; so the hearts of Ahaz and his people were shaken, as the trees of the forest are shaken by the wind. [3] Then the LORD said to Isaiah, “Go out, you and your son Shear-Jashub, to meet Ahaz at the end of the aqueduct of the Upper Pool, on the road to the Washerman’s Field. [4] Say to him, ‘Be careful, keep calm and don’t be afraid. Do not lose heart because of these two smoldering stubs of firewood—because of the fierce anger of Rezin and Aram and of the son of Remaliah. [5] Aram, Ephraim and Remaliah’s son have plotted your ruin, saying, [6] “Let us invade Judah; let us tear it apart and divide it among ourselves, and make the son of Tabeel king over it.” [7] Yet this is what the Sovereign LORD says: “‘It will not take place, it will not happen, [8] for the head of Aram is Damascus, and the head of Damascus is only Rezin. Within sixty-five years Ephraim will be too shattered to be a people. [9] The head of Ephraim is Samaria, and the head of Samaria is only Remaliah’s son. If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.’” [10] Again the LORD spoke to Ahaz, [11] “Ask the LORD your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights.” [12] But Ahaz said, “I will not ask; I will not put the LORD to the test.” [13] Then Isaiah said, “Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of men? Will you try the patience of my God also? [14] Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. 1. Our hearts will not be shaken. Hebrews 12:26-29 (NIV) – [26] At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” [27] The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain. [28] Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, [29] for our “God is a consuming fire.” Isaiah 54:10 (NIV) – [10] Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you. 2. We must be careful. Genesis 2:15 (AMP) – [15] And the Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to tend and guard and keep it. 3. We have to keep calm. Isaiah 32:17-18 (NIV) – [17] The fruit of righteousness will be peace, the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. [18] My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest. 4. We don’t have to be afraid. 5. We can’t lose heart. Deuteronomy 20:1 (NIV) – [1] When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you. [2] When you are about to go into battle, the priest shall come forward and address the army. [3] He shall say: “Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be terrified or give way to panic before them. [4] For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.” 6. We must stand firm in our faith. 7. We should accept the sign.…
Zechariah – Your King is Coming! Zechariah 2:1-13 (NIV) – [1] Then I looked up—and there before me was a man with a measuring line in his hand! [2] I asked, “Where are you going?” He answered me, “To measure Jerusalem, to find out how wide and how long it is.” [3] Then the angel who was speaking to me left, and another angel came to meet him [4] and said to him: “Run, tell that young man, ‘Jerusalem will be a city without walls because of the great number of men and livestock in it. [5] And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,' declares the LORD, ‘and I will be its glory within.’ [6] “Come! Come! Flee from the land of the north,” declares the LORD, “for I have scattered you to the four winds of heaven,” declares the LORD. [7] “Come, O Zion! Escape, you who live in the Daughter of Babylon!” Leviticus 26:14-15, 33 (NIV) – [14] “‘But if you will not listen to me and carry out all these commands, [15] and if you reject my decrees and abhor my laws and fail to carry out all my commands and so violate my covenant… [33] I will scatter you among the nations and will draw out my sword and pursue you. Your land will be laid waste, and your cities will lie in ruins. 1. Disobedience drives us to be scattered. Isaiah 43:5-7 (MSG) – [5] “So don’t be afraid: I’m with you. I’ll round up all your scattered children, pull them in from east and west. [6] I’ll send orders north and south: ‘Send them back. Return my sons from distant lands, my daughters from faraway places. [7] I want them back, every last one who bears my name, every man, woman, and child Whom I created for my glory, yes, personally formed and made each one.’” 2. God is calling the Prodigals to come back. Luke 15:17-20 (NIV) – [17] “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! [18] I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. [19] I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.’ [20] So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. “From God’s perspective, one hidden act of repentance, one little gesture of selfless love, one moment of true forgiveness is all that is needed to bring God from his throne to run to his returning son and to fill the heavens with sounds of divine joy.” (The Return of the Prodigal Son, Henri Nouwen) 3. We must leave the past and the places where we were scattered. “Many of the captive Israelites did not return to Jerusalem because they had become accustomed to the security and wealth they had in Babylon. But Zechariah instructed them to leave Babylon quickly. This was an urgent request because Babylon would be destroyed and its decadent culture would cause God’s people to forget their spiritual priorities. A vast majority of the Israelites rejected these warnings and remained in Babylon.” (Life Application Bible) 4. We can get too comfortable in our captivity. “The Lord called these people to ‘escape’ from ‘Babylon’ among whose ‘daughter’ nations they lived. This was a call for the scattered Jews to return home in Zechariah’s day and help rebuild their nation. But it is also, because of the context and lack of fulfillment, a prophetic call to those living in the end times to abandon the Babylon of their day.” (Thomas Constable’s Notes on the Bible) Revelation 18:1-4 (NIV) – [1] After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority, and the earth was illuminated by his splendor. [2] With a mighty voice he shouted: “Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great! She has become a home for demons and a haunt for every evil spirit, a haunt for every unclean and detestable bird. [3] For all the nations have drunk the maddening wine of her adulteries. The kings of the earth committed adultery with her, and the merchants of the earth grew rich from her excessive luxuries.” [4] Then I heard another voice from heaven say: “Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues.” “[Babylon] is a symbol for the spirit of godlessness which in every age lures men away from the worship of the Creator. It is the final manifestation of secular humanism in its attempt to destroy the remaining vestiges of true religion. Society set free from God is its own worst enemy.” (The New International Commentary) “Christians are to separate themselves ideologically, and if necessary, physically from all the forms of Babylon.” (The Expositor’s Bible Commentary) 5. It’s time to leave Babylon behind.…
ZECHARIAH "Your King is Coming!" Zechariah 2:1-13 (NIV) – [1] Then I looked up—and there before me was a man with a measuring line in his hand! [2] I asked, “Where are you going?” He answered me, “To measure Jerusalem, to find out how wide and how long it is.” [3] Then the angel who was speaking to me left, and another angel came to meet him [4] and said to him: “Run, tell that young man, ‘Jerusalem will be a city without walls because of the great number of men and livestock in it. [5] And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,' declares the LORD, ‘and I will be its glory within.’ “The man with the measuring line symbolizes the hope of a rebuilt Jerusalem and a restored people. The man would be measuring to mark out the boundaries for a foundation.” (Life Application Bible) Ezekiel 40:2-3 (NIV) – [2] In visions of God he took me to the land of Israel and set me on a very high mountain, on whose south side were some buildings that looked like a city. [3] He took me there, and I saw a man whose appearance was like bronze; he was standing in the gateway with a linen cord and a measuring rod in his hand. “The man with a measuring-line is Messiah who, by measuring Jerusalem, is denoted as the Author of its coming restoration. Thus the Jews are encouraged in Zechariah’s time to proceed with the building. Still more so shall they be hereby encouraged in the future restoration. (Jamieson–Fausset–Brown Commentary) 1. The LORD will measure out our restoration. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (NIV) – [16] Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God's Spirit lives in you? [17] If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is sacred, and you are that temple. Amos 9:11 (NIV) – [11] “In that day I will restore David’s fallen tent. I will repair its broken places, restore its ruins, and build it as it used to be.” Revelation 21:1-4 (NIV) [1] Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. [2] I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. [3] And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. [4] He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. “So many shall be its inhabitants that all could not be contained within the walls, but shall spread out in the open country around; and so secure shall they be as not to need to shelter themselves and their cattle behind walls. So hereafter Judea is to be ‘the land of unwalled villages.’” (Jamieson–Fausset–Brown Commentary) 2. We will no longer need walls. 3. The LORD will be a wall of fire around us. 2 Kings 6:15 (NIV) – [15] When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. “Oh, my lord, what shall we do?” the servant asked. [16] “Don't be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” [17] And Elisha prayed, “O LORD, open his eyes so he may see.” Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. Revelation 21:22-27 (NIV) – [22] I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. [23] The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. [24] The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. [25] On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. [26] The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. [27] Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. 4. The LORD’s glory will transform us. 2 Corinthians 3:13, 18 (NIV) – [13] We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at it while the radiance was fading away. [18] And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.…
ZECHARIAH "Your King is Coming!" Zechariah 1:18-21 (NIV) – [18] Then I looked up—and there before me were four horns! [19] I asked the angel who was speaking to me, “What are these?” He answered me, “These are the horns that scattered Judah, Israel and Jerusalem.” [20] Then the LORD showed me four craftsmen. [21] I asked, “What are these coming to do?” He answered, “These are the horns that scattered Judah so that no one could raise his head, but the craftsmen have come to terrify them and throw down these horns of the nations who lifted up their horns against the land of Judah to scatter its people.” 1. Horns represent strength. “Because the horn was used by animals as a weapon, it came to symbolize power and might… God lifts up the horn of the righteous but cuts off the horn of the wicked. Probably as an extension of this meaning of the word, horns in the visions of Daniel and John symbolized kingdoms and individual kings.” (Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary) “The horns were the four world powers that oppressed Israel—Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, and Medo-Persia.” (Life Application Bible Notes) Daniel 7:7 (NIV) – [7] “After that, in my vision at night I looked, and there before me was a fourth beast—terrifying and frightening and very powerful. It had large iron teeth; it crushed and devoured its victims and trampled underfoot whatever was left. It was different from all the former beasts, and it had ten horns.” Psalms 75:10 (NIV) – [10] I will cut off the horns of all the wicked, but the horns of the righteous will be lifted up. 2. The blacksmiths destroyed the horns. “The word translated blacksmiths could refer to any sort of craftsmen (mason, carpenter, smith). If the horns representing the nations were metal, then blacksmiths were appropriate to the task of destroying them.” (NLT Study Bible Notes) “The four blacksmiths (1:20) were the nations used to overthrow Israel’s enemies. God raised them up to judge the oppressors of his people.” (Life Application Bible Notes) Isaiah 54:16-17 (NIV) – [16] “See, it is I who created the blacksmith who fans the coals into flame and forges a weapon fit for its work. And it is I who have created the destroyer to work havoc; [17] no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the LORD. “It also reminds the Jews of God's providential care in the past and His promise of protection for the future, for God will not permit any nation to annihilate His chosen people. In the last days, when Antichrist, the ‘dreadful and terrible beast,’ establishes his kingdom (Daniel 7:7-8, 15-28) and persecutes the Jews, he and his kingdom will be destroyed by the return of Jesus Christ in glory and power.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 3. No weapon formed against us will prosper. 4. Our vindication comes from LORD. 1 Peter 2:23 (AMP) – [23] When He was reviled and insulted, He did not revile or offer insult in return; [when] He was abused and suffered, He made no threats [of vengeance]; but he trusted [Himself and everything] to Him Who judges justly. 2 Thessalonians 1:6-7 (NIV) – [6] God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you [7] and give relief to you who are troubled, and to us as well. This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels. 5. No human kingdom lasts forever. Daniel 7:1-4 (NIV) – [1] In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon, Daniel had a dream, and visions passed through his mind as he was lying on his bed. He wrote down the substance of his dream. [2] Daniel said: “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me were the four winds of heaven churning up the great sea. [3] Four great beasts, each different from the others, came up out of the sea. [4] “The first was like a lion, and it had the wings of an eagle. I watched until its wings were torn off and it was lifted from the ground so that it stood on two feet like a man, and the heart of a man was given to it.…
ZECHARIAH "Your King is Coming!" Zechariah 1:7-17 (NIV) – [7] On the twenty-fourth day of the eleventh month, the month of Shebat, in the second year of Darius, the word of the LORD came to the prophet Zechariah son of Berekiah, the son of Iddo. [8] During the night I had a vision—and there before me was a man riding a red horse! He was standing among the myrtle trees in a ravine. Behind him were red, brown and white horses. [9] I asked, “What are these, my lord?” The angel who was talking with me answered, “I will show you what they are.” [10] Then the man standing among the myrtle trees explained, “They are the ones the LORD has sent to go throughout the earth.” [11] And they reported to the angel of the LORD, who was standing among the myrtle trees, “We have gone throughout the earth and found the whole world at rest and in peace.” [12] Then the angel of the LORD said, “LORD Almighty, how long will you withhold mercy from Jerusalem and from the towns of Judah, which you have been angry with these seventy years?” [13] So the LORD spoke kind and comforting words to the angel who talked with me. [14] Then the angel who was speaking to me said, “Proclaim this word: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion, [15] but I am very angry with the nations that feel secure. I was only a little angry, but they added to the calamity.’ [16] “Therefore, this is what the LORD says: ‘I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there my house will be rebuilt. And the measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem,’ declares the LORD Almighty. [17] “Proclaim further: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘My towns will again overflow with prosperity, and the LORD will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem.’” 1. We need the Word of the LORD to come to us. 2. We must search out the signs and symbolism in Zechariah. 3. There is a promise of blessing when we study the Scriptures. 4. There will be deception and a falling away. 5. God controls world events. 6. God knows every human heart. 7. The Angel of the LORD is Christ. 8. Beware a false peace. 9. Only Jesus offers true peace. 10. We wonder how long. 11. God will show mercy. 12. Jesus intercedes for us. 13. God will comfort us. 14. Our suffering comforts others. 15. God is jealous. Exodus 34:14 (NIV) – [14] Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. Romans 13:13 (NIV) – [13] Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. "Jealousy when used to describe God’s attitude refers to His careful concern, specifically intolerance of rivalry or unfaithfulness, for the well-being of others. Often in Scripture it alludes to God as a husband wanting to keep His wife, Israel or the church, true to Himself. God’s jealousy has none of the negative connotations that we associate with selfish human jealousy." (Thomas Constable’s Notes on the Bible) 16. God will repay. “The Lord was angry with the Gentile nations because they had been unnecessarily brutal toward the Jews. True, God had called Assyria to punish the northern kingdom of Israel, and Babylon to chasten Judah; but these nations went beyond what God called them to do and tried to destroy the Jews.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) Romans 12:19 (NIV) – [19] Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 17. God will return. Zechariah 8:1-3 (NIV) – [1] Again the word of the LORD Almighty came to me. [2] This is what the LORD Almighty says: “I am very jealous for Zion; I am burning with jealousy for her.” [3] This is what the LORD says: “I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the City of Truth, and the mountain of the LORD Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain.” Matthew 24:37-42 (NIV) – [37] “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. [38] For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; [39] and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. [40] Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. [41] Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. [42] Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” 18. We must rebuild. 1 Peter 2:4 (NIV) – [4] As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him— [5] you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:19-22 (NLT) – [19] So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. [20] Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. [21] We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord. [22] Through him you Gentiles are also being made part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit. 19. God will restore. Zephaniah 3:20 (NIV) – [20] “At that time I will gather you; at that time I will bring you home. I will give you honor and praise among all the peoples of the earth when I restore your fortunes before your very eyes,” says the LORD.…
Bakersfield First Assembly
A Game Plan for Life Philippians 3:10-14 (NIV) – [10] I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, [11] and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead. [12] Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. [13] Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, [14] I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. 1. Know Christ Philippians 3:8 (NIV) – [8] What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ. Jeremiah 9:23-24 (NIV) – [23] This is what the LORD says: “Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, [24] but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,” declares the LORD. 2. Press On 1 Corinthians 15:9 (NIV) – [9] For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I PERSECUTED the church of God. 2 Timothy 2:22 (NIV) – [22] Flee the evil desires of youth, and PURSUE righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 3. Take Hold Ephesians 3:17-18 (NIV) – [17] And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, [18] may have power, together with all the saints, to GRASP how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ. 1 Timothy 6:12 (NIV) – [12] Fight the good fight of the faith. TAKE HOLD of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. Hebrews 6:17-19 (NIV) – [17] Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. [18] God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to TAKE HOLD of the hope offered to us may be greatly encouraged. [19] We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.…
Zechariah 7-17 (NIV) – [7] On the twenty-fourth day of the eleventh month, the month of Shebat, in the second year of Darius, the word of the LORD came to the prophet Zechariah son of Berekiah, the son of Iddo. [8] During the night I had a vision—and there before me was a man riding a red horse! He was standing among the myrtle trees in a ravine. Behind him were red, brown and white horses. [9] I asked, “What are these, my lord?” The angel who was talking with me answered, “I will show you what they are.” [10] Then the man standing among the myrtle trees explained, “They are the ones the LORD has sent to go throughout the earth.” [11] And they reported to the angel of the LORD, who was standing among the myrtle trees, “We have gone throughout the earth and found the whole world at rest and in peace.” [12] Then the angel of the LORD said, “LORD Almighty, how long will you withhold mercy from Jerusalem and from the towns of Judah, which you have been angry with these seventy years?” [13] So the LORD spoke kind and comforting words to the angel who talked with me. [14] Then the angel who was speaking to me said, “Proclaim this word: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion, [15] but I am very angry with the nations that feel secure. I was only a little angry, but they added to the calamity.’ [16] “Therefore, this is what the LORD says: ‘I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there my house will be rebuilt. And the measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem,’ declares the LORD Almighty. [17] “Proclaim further: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘My towns will again overflow with prosperity, and the LORD will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem.’” 1. We need the Word of the LORD to come to us. 2. We must search out the signs and symbolism in Zechariah. 3. There is a promise of blessing when we study the Scriptures. 4. There will be deep deception and a great falling away. 5. God controls world events. Daniel 2:20-22 (NLT) – [20] He said, “Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power. [21] He controls the course of world events; he removes kings and sets up other kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars. [22] He reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though he is surrounded by light.” When we see evil leaders who live long and good leaders who die young, we may wonder if God is still in control. Daniel saw evil rulers with almost limitless power, but he knew that God “removes kings and sets others on the throne” and that he controls everything that happens. God governs the world according to his purposes. You may be dismayed when you see evil people prosper, but God is in control. Let this knowledge give you confidence and peace no matter what happens. (Life Application Bible) 6. God knows every human heart. 2 Chronicles 16:9 (NIV) – [9] For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. Psalms 33:13-15 (NIV) – [13] From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; [14] from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth—[15] he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do. Zechariah 3:9; 4:10 (NIV) – [9] See, the stone I have set in front of Joshua! There are seven eyes on that one stone, and I will engrave an inscription on it,’ says the LORD Almighty, ‘and I will remove the sin of this land in a single day… [10] “Who despises the day of small things? Men will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. “(These seven are the eyes of the LORD, which range throughout the earth.)” Revelation 5:6 (NIV) – [6] Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. Genesis 16:7 (NIV) – [7] The angel of the LORD found Hagar near a spring in the desert; it was the spring that is beside the road to Shur. 7. The Angel of the LORD is Christ. “Traditional Christian interpretation has held that this ‘angel’ was a preincarnate manifestation of Christ as God’s Messenger-Servant.” (NIV Study Bible Notes) 8. Beware a false peace. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-4 (NIV) – [1] Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, [2] for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. [3] While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. [4] But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. The messengers reported that the Gentile nations were “at rest and in peace.” After the upheaval of empires and Persia’s conquest of Babylon and other nations, this would appear to be an encouraging report, but it really wasn’t. The Jewish remnant was in distress, while the Gentile powers were at ease. Haggai had promised that the Lord would shake the nations and redeem His people, but this important event hadn’t occurred yet. (Wiersbe Bible Commentary) 9. Only Jesus offers true peace. John 14:27 (AMP) – [27] Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.]…
The Book of Zechariah: Your King is Coming! “Like Haggai, Zechariah encouraged the people to continue rebuilding the Temple, whose reconstruction had been halted for nearly 15 years. Zechariah combated the people’s spiritual apathy, despair over pressures from their enemies, and discouragement about the smaller scale of the new Temple foundation.” (Life Application Bible) Zechariah 7-17 (NIV) – [7] On the twenty-fourth day of the eleventh month, the month of Shebat, in the second year of Darius, the word of the LORD came to the prophet Zechariah son of Berekiah, the son of Iddo. [8] During the night I had a vision—and there before me was a man riding a red horse! He was standing among the myrtle trees in a ravine. Behind him were red, brown and white horses. [9] I asked, “What are these, my lord?” The angel who was talking with me answered, “I will show you what they are.” [10] Then the man standing among the myrtle trees explained, “They are the ones the LORD has sent to go throughout the earth.” [11] And they reported to the angel of the LORD, who was standing among the myrtle trees, “We have gone throughout the earth and found the whole world at rest and in peace.” [12] Then the angel of the LORD said, “LORD Almighty, how long will you withhold mercy from Jerusalem and from the towns of Judah, which you have been angry with these seventy years?” [13] So the LORD spoke kind and comforting words to the angel who talked with me. [14] Then the angel who was speaking to me said, “Proclaim this word: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion, [15] but I am very angry with the nations that feel secure. I was only a little angry, but they added to the calamity.’ [16] “Therefore, this is what the LORD says: ‘I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there my house will be rebuilt. And the measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem,’ declares the LORD Almighty. [17] “Proclaim further: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘My towns will again overflow with prosperity, and the LORD will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem.’” Genesis 15:1 (NIV) – [1] After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” “This is a phrase typically introducing revelation to a prophet… Visions were one of the three primary methods of divine revelation in the Old Testament along with dreams and direct communications.” (Thomas Constable’s Notes on the Bible) John 1:14 (NIV) – [14] The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. Hebrews 4:12 (NIV) – [12] For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 1. We need the Word of the LORD to come to us. Revelation 19:11-13 (NIV) – [11] I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. [12] His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. [13] He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. 2. We must search out the signs and symbolism in Zechariah. Revelation 6:3 (NIV) – [3] When the Lamb opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature say, “Come!” [4] Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make men slay each other. To him was given a large sword. Zechariah 6:1-4 (NIV) – [1] I looked up again—and there before me were four chariots coming out from between two mountains—mountains of bronze! [2] The first chariot had red horses, the second black, [3] the third white, and the fourth dappled—all of them powerful. [4] I asked the angel who was speaking to me, “What are these, my lord?” [5] The angel answered me, “These are the four spirits of heaven, going out from standing in the presence of the Lord of the whole world. 3. There is a promise of blessing when we study the Scriptures. Revelation 1:1-3 (NIV) – [1] The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, [2] who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. [3] Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near. 4. There will be deep deception and a great falling away. Matthew 24:10-12, 24 (NIV) – [10] “At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, [11] and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. [12] Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold… [24] For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect—if that were possible.”…
Zechariah: Your King is Coming! - Part 1 “The prophet’s name, along with his message, consistently reminded the nation that the Lord had made a covenant with Israel, a binding commitment that God would assuredly keep. The people should respond to the reminder of the Lords’ faithfulness with faith and obedience of their own. Israel’s security and future hope will be as sure as the faithfulness of God himself, provided that the nation live obediently before the Lord.” (The New American Commentary) “Zechariah’s primary message, however, was an exhortation to repentance and spiritual renewal—a return to right relationship with God. In fact, the central theme of Zechariah’s sermons is encouragement, as he explicitly states his duty as one of comforting and strengthening the people. As a complementary voice to Haggai, Zechariah also reinforced the summons to the people to rebuild the Jerusalem temple.” (Tyndale OT Commentaries) Zechariah 1:1-6 (NIV) – [1] In the eighth month of the second year of Darius, the word of the LORD came to the prophet Zechariah son of Berekiah, the son of Iddo: [2] “The LORD was very angry with your forefathers. [3] Therefore tell the people: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘Return to me,’ declares the LORD Almighty, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the LORD Almighty. [4] Do not be like your forefathers, to whom the earlier prophets proclaimed: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘Turn from your evil ways and your evil practices.’ But they would not listen or pay attention to me, declares the LORD. [5] Where are your forefathers now? And the prophets, do they live forever? [6] But did not my words and my decrees, which I commanded my servants the prophets, overtake your forefathers? “Then they repented and said, ‘The LORD Almighty has done to us what our ways and practices deserve, just as he determined to do.’” 1. God is our all-powerful warrior-king. Nehemiah 1:8-9 (NIV) - [8] “Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, [9] but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’ 2. If we return, so will He. 2 Chronicles 36:15-16 (NIV) – [15] The LORD, the God of their fathers, sent word to them through his messengers again and again, because he had pity on his people and on his dwelling place. [16] But they mocked God’s messengers, despised his words and scoffed at his prophets until the wrath of the LORD was aroused against his people and there was no remedy. 3. Let’s learn from our past, not repeat it. 4. The only thing that lasts is the Word of God. Matthew 24:35 (NIV) – [35] Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. (Mark 31:30; Luke 21:33) Isaiah 55:10-11 (NIV) – [10] As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, [11] so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Zechariah 1:5-6 (MSG) – [5] “And where are your ancestors now? Dead and buried. And the prophets who preached to them? Also dead and buried. But the Message that my servants the prophets spoke, that isn’t dead and buried. [6] That Message did its work on your ancestors, did it not? It woke them up and they came back, saying, ‘He did what he said he would do, sure enough. We didn’t get by with a thing.’” 5. Repentance is our wake-up call.…
John 4:39-42 (NIV) – [39] Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me everything I ever did.” [40] So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. [41] And because of his words many more became believers. [42] They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” 1. You cannot argue with a changed life. Luke 19:7-9 (NIV) – [7] All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner.’” [8] But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” [9] Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 2. Never discount the power of a personal testimony. Revelation 12:11 (NIV) – [11] They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) – [15] Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. John 4:39 (MSG) – [39] Many of the Samaritans from that village committed themselves to him because of the woman's witness: “He knew all about the things I did. He knows me inside and out!” 3. God knows us yet still loves us. Psalms 139:1-4 (NIV) – [1] O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. [2] You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. [3] You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. [4] Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. 4. Jesus was a friend of sinners. Matthew 9:9-13 (NIV) – [9] As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him. [10] While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and “sinners” came and ate with him and his disciples. [11] When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and ‘sinners’?” [12] On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. [13] But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” 5. You must believe in Jesus for yourself. 1 John 4:14-15 (NIV) – [14] And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. [15] If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God.…
John 4:35-38 (NIV) – [35] “Do you not say, ‘Four months more and then the harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. [36] Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. [37] Thus the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ is true. [38] I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.” 1. The harvest is ripe. John 4:36 (NLT) – [36] The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life. John 4:35 (MSG) – [35] “As you look around right now, wouldn't you say that in about four months it will be time to harvest? Well, I'm telling you to open your eyes and take a good look at what’s right in front of you. These Samaritan fields are ripe. It’s harvest time!” John 3:16-17 (NIV) – [16] “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. [17] For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” 2. The harvest is now. 2 Corinthians 6:1-2 (NIV) – [1] As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. [2] For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation. 3. The harvest requires teamwork. 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 (NIV) – [6] I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. [7] So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. [8] The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. [9] For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. John 4:39 (NIV) – [39] Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony…” 4. The harvest needs workers. Matthew 9:35-38 (NIV) – [35] Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. [36] When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. [37] Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. [38] Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”…
“Well” with My Soul John 4:31-34 (NLT) – [31] Meanwhile, the disciples were urging Jesus, “Rabbi, eat something.” [32] But Jesus replied, “I have a kind of food you know nothing about.” [33] “Did someone bring him food while we were gone?” the disciples asked each other. [34] Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.” 1. Be in step with Jesus. 2. Have faith in Jesus. 3. Have the mind of Christ. Psalms 86:11 (NIV) – [11] Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. 4. Accept we don’t know. 5. Do God’s will. John 6:38 (NIV) – [38] For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. Matthew 26:39 (NIV) – [39] Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it IS possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Matthew 26:42 (NIV) – [42] He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is NOT possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” 6. Drink the cup. Psalms 16:5-6 (NIV) – [5] LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. [6] The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. 7. Finish God’s work. John 17:4 (NIV) – [4] I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. 8. Bring God glory. John 15:8 (NLT) – [8] When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.…
"Well" with My Soul John 4:31 (NLT) – [31] Meanwhile, the disciples were urging Jesus, “Rabbi, eat something.” [32] But Jesus replied, “I have a kind of food you know nothing about.” [33] “Did someone bring him food while we were gone?” the disciples asked each other. [34] Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.” 1. Be in step with Jesus. Matthew 16:5-12 (NIV) – [5] When they went across the lake, the disciples forgot to take bread. [6] “Be careful,” Jesus said to them. “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” [7] They discussed this among themselves and said, “It is because we didn’t bring any bread.” [8] Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked, “You of little faith, why are you talking among yourselves about having no bread? [9] Do you still not understand? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? [10] Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? [11] How is it you don’t understand that I was not talking to you about bread? But be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” [12] Then they understood that he was not telling them to guard against the yeast used in bread, but against the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. 2. Have faith in Jesus. Isaiah 55:8-9 (NLT) – [8] “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. [9] For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” 1 Corinthians 2:16 (NIV) – [16] “For who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ. 3. Have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 13:9-12 (NLT) – [9] Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture! [10] But when the time of perfection comes, these partial things will become useless. [11] When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. [12] Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. 4. Accept we don't know. 5. Do God’s will. Matthew 26:39 (NIV) – [39] Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Matthew 26:42 (NIV) – [42] He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is NOT possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” 6. Drink the cup. 7. Finish God’s work. John 17:4 (NIV) – [4] I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.…
FREEDOM Galatians 5:1 (NIV) – [1] It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. 1. Jesus came to set us free. Luke 4:18 (NIV) – [18] “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, [19] to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.” [20] Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, [21] and he began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” 2. Freedom comes by knowing the truth. John 8:31-32 (NIV) – [31] To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. [32] Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 3. Jesus set us free once and for all. John 8:36 (NIV) – [36] So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. 4. Freedom can be lost if we don’t stand firm. Isaiah 7:9 (NIV) – [9] “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.” 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NIV) – [13] Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. [14] And do everything with love. 5. Freedom is found where the Holy Spirit is. 2 Corinthians 3:17 (NIV) – [17] Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.…
"Well" with My Soul" Part 17 John 4:25-30 (NIV) – [25] The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” [26] Then Jesus declared, “I who speak to you am he.” [27] Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?” [28] Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, [29] “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” [30] They came out of the town and made their way toward him. 1. Know the Messiah for yourself. Matthew 16:16, 20 (NIV) – [16] Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” [20] Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ. John 3:16 (AMP) – [16] For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life. 2. God surprises us sometimes. 3. Be careful when questioning God. Mark 7:17-18 (NIV) – [17] After he had left the crowd and entered the house, his disciples asked him about this parable. [18] “Are you so dull?” he asked. Job 38:1-3 (NLT) – [1] Then the LORD answered Job from the whirlwind: [2] "Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words? [3] Brace yourself like a man, because I have some questions for you, and you must answer them. 4. Leave your water jar behind. Matthew 4:18-22 (NIV) – [18] As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. [19] “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” [20] At once they left their nets and followed him. [21] Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, [22] and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him. Luke 18:28-29 (NIV) – [28] Peter said to him, “We have left all we had to follow you!” [29] “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said to them, “no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God 5. Call others to come and see. John 1:44-46 (NIV) – [44] Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. [45] Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” [46] “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip.…
James 1:17 "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning." DIFFICULT TO SEE THE FORREST FOR THE TREES? -When you are in the desert or when you embrace a single tree. - Hearts have been corrupted by fallen nature. ABUNDANCE OF GOD'S PROVISION! -How extravagant is His abundance (John 10:10) More than you could ask or think (Ephesians 3:20) Exceedingly abundantly -He provides with so much abundance -Do not confuse ABUNDANCE WITH HAPPINESS "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven." IT IS YOUR FATHER'S JOY TO LOVE IT IS A JOY TO CALL HIM FATHER! HE PROMISES-WE SHARE THE DIVING NATURE COME INTO YOUR NEW FAMILY LINEAGE Galatians 6:8 2 Corinthians 3:17-18…
Pastor Frank Triggs
ohn 4:19-24 (NIV) – [19] “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. [20] Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” [21] Jesus declared, “Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. [22] You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. [23] Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. [24] God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.” 1. Worship is not about a particular place. "The Samaritans had set up a place for worship on Mount Gerizim, basing their authority to do so on Dt 11:26-29;27:1-8; the Jews had followed David in making Jerusalem the center of Jewish worship. The split had come in the days of Ezra and Nehemiah (Ezr 4:1-2; Ne 4:1-2) when the Samaritans had offered to help rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem but had been rebuffed. So there was an ongoing debate between the two groups as to who was correct." (Life Application New Testament Commentary) Deuteronomy 11:26-29 (NIV) – [26] See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse— [27] the blessing if you obey the commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today; [28] the curse if you disobey the commands of the LORD your God and turn from the way that I command you today by following other gods, which you have not known. [29] When the LORD your God has brought you into the land you are entering to possess, you are to proclaim on Mount Gerizim the blessings, and on Mount Ebal the curses. 2. Worship is not about a particular people. Romans 1:16 (NIV) – [16] I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. Revelation 7:9-10 (NIV) – [9] After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. [10] And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” 3. Worship is about a particular person. Luke 4:5-8 (NIV) – [5] The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. [6] And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. [7] So if you worship me, it will all be yours.” [8] Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” Hebrews 12:28-29 (NIV) – [28] Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, [29] for our “God is a consuming fire.” 4. Worship is about a particular approach. “God is Spirit” means he is not a physical being limited to one place. He is present everywhere, and he can be worshiped anywhere, at any time. It is not WHERE we worship that counts, but HOW we worship. (Life Application Bible) 1 John 2:4 (NIV) – [4] The man who says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him.…
John 4:15-19 (NIV) – [15] The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” [16] He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” [17] “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. [18] The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” [19] “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. Genesis 2:25; 3:6-8 (NIV) – [25] The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame… [3:8] Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. [9] But the LORD God called to the man, “Where are you?” [10] He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” [11] And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” 1. Sin brings shame. 2. Jesus brings salvation. Romans 10:11-13 (NIV) – [11] As the Scripture says, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” [12] For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, [13] for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Psalms 32:5 (NIV) – [5] Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD”—and you forgave the guilt of my sin. 1 John 1:8-9 (NIV) – [8] If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. [9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 3. Confession brings forgiveness. John 8:31-32, 36 (NIV) – [31] To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. [32] Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free… [36] So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” 4. Truth brings freedom.…
John 4:7 (NIV) – [7] When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” [8] (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) [9] The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) [10] Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you LIVING WATER.” [11] “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this LIVING WATER? [12] Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?” [13] Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, [14] but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” [15] The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” 1. Know the Living Water. Jeremiah 17:13 (NIV) – [13] O LORD, the hope of Israel, all who forsake you will be put to shame. Those who turn away from you will be written in the dust because they have forsaken the LORD, the spring of LIVING WATER. 2. Ask for Living Water. Luke 11:9 (AMP) – [9] So I say to you, Ask and keep on asking and it shall be given you; seek and keep on seeking and you shall find; knock and keep on knocking and the door shall be opened to you, [10] For everyone who asks and keeps on asking receives; and he who seeks and keeps on seeking finds; and to him who knocks and keeps on knocking, the door shall be opened. 3. Receive the Living Water. John 7:37-39 (NIV) – [37] On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. [38] Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of LIVING WATER will flow from within him.” [39] By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified. 4. Trust the Living Water. Jeremiah 2:13 (NIV) – [13] “My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of LIVING WATER, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water.” 5. Drink the Living Water. Revelation 7:9, 16-17 (NIV) – [9] After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb… [16] Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. [17] For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of LIVING WATER. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.…
Well With My Soul - Part 14 (May 16, 2021) John 4:4-6 (NIV) – [4] Now he had to go through Samaria. [5] So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. [6] Jacob’s WELL was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the WELL. It was about the sixth hour. “The context does not indicate that Jesus was in a hurry to get to Galilee. Thus, the necessity must be understood in a different way: Jesus went to Samaria to give the Samaritans what he had given to Nicodemus—the offer of eternal life by being born again. And, furthermore, by going to Samaria and bringing the gospel to the despised Samaritans, he showed that he was above… prejudices.” (Life Application Bible) 1. Sometimes, we just have to. 2. Go through not around. Psalms 23:4 (NIV) – [4] Even though I walk THROUGH the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Genesis 33:18-20 (NIV) – [18] After Jacob came from Paddan Aram, he arrived safely at the city of Shechem in Canaan and camped within sight of the city. [19] For a hundred pieces of silver, he bought from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem, the plot of ground where he pitched his tent. [20] There he set up an altar and called it El Elohe Israel. (which means “mighty is the God of Israel”) Joshua 24:32 (NIV) – [32] And Joseph's bones, which the Israelites had brought up from Egypt, were buried at Shechem in the tract of land that Jacob bought for a hundred pieces of silver from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem. This became the inheritance of Joseph’s descendants. 3. You are not where you came from. 4. Remember, you are only human. PICTURE: T-shirt Jesus took naps (see attached) Hebrews 4:15-16 (NIV) – [15] For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are — yet was without sin. [16] Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Psalms 103:13-14 (NLT) – [13] The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. [14] For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust.…
John 4:1-3 (NIV) – [1] The Pharisees heard that Jesus was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John, [2] although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. [3] When the Lord learned of this, he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. 1. Refuse to compare John 3:30 (NLT) – [30] “He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.” John 4:1-2 (TM) – [1] Jesus realized that the Pharisees were keeping count of the baptisms that he and John performed [2] (although his disciples, not Jesus, did the actual baptizing). They had posted the score that Jesus was ahead, turning him and John into rivals in the eyes of the people. John 6:38-40 (NIV) – [38] For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. [39] And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. [40] For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” 2. Don’t need recognition John 12:42-43 (NIV) – [42] Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; [43] for they loved praise from men more than praise from God. 3. Can walk away John 6:53-54, 60, 66 (NIV) – [53] Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. [54] Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day… [60] On hearing it, many of his disciples said, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?” [66] From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. 4. Trust God’s timing John 7:3-5 (NIV) – [3] Jesus’ brothers said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. [4] No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” [5] For even his own brothers did not believe in him. John 7:6-8 (NIV) – [6] Therefore Jesus told them, “The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right. [7] The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that what it does is evil. [8] You go to the Feast. I am not yet going up to this Feast, because for me the right time has not yet come.” Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV) – [4] But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. 5. Accept our role Matthew 3:11 (NIV) – [11] “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”…
"These verses tell of some of the exploits that the special corps of David’s army carried out. There were two elite groups of men: 'the Thirty' and 'the Three.' To become a member of such a group a man had to show unparalleled courage in battle as well as wisdom in leadership. 'The Three' was the most elite group." (Life Application Bible) 2 Samuel 23:13-17 (NLT) – [13] Once during the harvest, when David was at the cave of Adullam, the Philistine army was camped in the valley of Rephaim. The Three (who were among the Thirty—an elite group among David’s fighting men) went down to meet him there. [14] David was staying in the stronghold at the time, and a Philistine detachment had occupied the town of Bethlehem. [15] David remarked longingly to his men, “Oh, how I would love some of that good water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem.” [16] So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But he refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the LORD. [17] “The LORD forbid that I should drink this!” he exclaimed. “This water is as precious as the blood of these men who risked their lives to bring it to me.” So David did not drink it. These are examples of the exploits of the Three. 1. Mighty men and women don’t start out that way. 1 Samuel 22:1-2 (NIV) – [1] David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam. When his brothers and his father's household heard about it, they went down to him there. [2] All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader. About four hundred men were with him. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (NIV) – [26] Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. [27] But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. [28] He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, [29] so that no one may boast before him. 2. Satan is our ultimate enemy. Genesis 10:13-14 (NIV) – [13] Mizraim was the father of the Ludites, Anamites, Lehabites, Naphtuhites, [14] Pathrusites, Casluhites (from whom the Philistines came) and Caphtorites. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV) – [8] Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. [9] Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 3. We often long for what we cannot have. 1 Samuel 30:3-6 (NIV) – [3] When David and his men came to Ziklag, they found it destroyed by fire and their wives and sons and daughters taken captive. [4] So David and his men wept aloud until they had no strength left to weep. [5] David's two wives had been captured—Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail, the widow of Nabal of Carmel. [6] David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the LORD his God. 4. True commitment is willing to take great personal risk. “Those in trouble, in debt, or discontented joined David, who himself was an outlaw. These people were outcasts themselves and could only improve their lot by helping David become king. David’s control over this band of men again shows his resourcefulness and ability to lead and motivate others. It is difficult enough to build an army out of good men, but it takes even greater leadership to build one out of the kind of men that followed David. This group eventually formed the core of his military leadership and produced his ‘mightiest men.’” (Life Application Bible) 5. No sacrifice is too great for God. John 12:1-8 (NIV) – [1] Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. [2] Here a dinner was given in Jesus' honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. [3] Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. [4] But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, [5] “Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages.” [6] He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. [7] “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “[It was intended] that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. [8] You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”…
God can bring us out of our current circumstances and into something better, even something great. God gives us everything we have: all of our talents, all of our possessions, our relationships, our children. He gives us everything we have. Is this satisfaction? No, we should be content with what God has given us. Never be satisfied but always be striving to do better as God leads and guides us along, His way. There is the danger in God's blessing and that is a tendency to forget. We must never forget that every good gift is given by God. Remember that!…
Sacrifice yourself to God, a living sacrifice in communion with God. Always remember the areas in our lives where we have experienced God taking action, helping us along in life. When trouble strikes, call on God, call on the Name of the Lord. Stand your ground with God as your lead. Do not give in to the temptations of the Devil. If at first you don't succeed, try again with God as your lead. Keep on trying but do so as you depend on God, as you call on Him.…
The Lord says "Do not be afraid, for I will be with you; I will bless you." We are not to be afraid in life for our God is with us always. Even death will not separate us from God. He is with us always and will bless us and increase our number. Our children will be blessed if they too follow God's Word. God has made a covenant with us through His Word. As we live our lives and follow the covenant of our God, we and our children, and our children's children will be blessed.…
Easter is about redemption. Jesus Christ, The Son of God, died on a cross in payment for our sins. Mary Magdalene was a sinful woman and was possessed by seven demons. Jesus cured her and forgave her sins. She was a different person after that. She was so thankful that she followed him and gave of her monetary means to help fund Jesus' mission on earth to heal, win souls and forgive sins. Mary was at Jesus' crucifixion, at His death, and at the tomb after His resurrection. Mary was a steadfast follower of Jesus and so thankful for His healing and forgiveness; for her redemption.…
The Lord "needs" us to accomplish His Purpose. Therefore we must release to the Lord all that He asks of us. After all, everything and every one belongs to the Lord. He created everything and everything belongs to Him. But, the Lord gives back what we have given to Him, in time and in abundance. The Lord takes whatever we give and uses it for His glory.…
There are disputes in our lives. Isaac had many disputes over wells with the Philistines. They wanted what he had. Instead of fighting with them, Isaac just moved on until he was far enough away so no one would dispute over wells and the life giving water they offered. Isaac was a patient man and his heart followed what God wanted for him. Sure there would be trouble. Life, even with God leading, is not always easy. But shy away from disputes and opposition and just stay on the path God has set for your life. Remain steadfast in God and He will lead you to green pastures and calm waters. Continue to work out your salvation in fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.…
May God Himself, The God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23) Envy is the desire for what others have, and the discontentment with what we have. Envy stifles the well-being of our own soul and eventually results in rejection. Do not envy! It will rot your mind, soul and body. Instead celebrate life and take joy in what the Lord has given you. Know that soon you will be in paradise with our Lord Jesus. So do not envy.…
"Take, eat this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, This is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me. For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death till He comes." (1 Corinthians 11:23-26) If you want salvation from our Lord, receive and take the bread and the cup with gladness.…
"And afterward, I will pour out My Spirit on all people." The sign of the Spirit will bring back our sons and daughters. Our God wants all who bear His name, those whom He created for His glory. Yes, God made each one, He created each one for His glory. So don't be afraid. There will be signs in the sky and heavenly bodies will be shaken. The Son of Man will be seen in the sky, coming on the clouds of the sky with great power and great glory. If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Believe!!…
Rend your heart and return to the Lord. Return with all your hearts. Humble ourselves. Grieve our sin with godly sorrow. The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Turn back to God, repent, ask for His forgiveness and He will forgive because He is gracious, compassionate, slow to become angry, abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity. He will turn and show pity to us. He will even leave a blessing upon us. Turn to the Lord and be forgiven. He will bless us…
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