Small Churches, BIG Impact (NTRF.org): Recent Episodes
Stephen Atkerson
Welcome to today's exciting guide to apostolic church patterns. Please keep your arms and theological objections inside the vehicle at all times. Plural elders, somebody asked why you've got 17 assistant pastors and a CEO. The book of Titus just quietly stares at you from across the room. Weekly communion! Try serving it in tiny plastic cups while the worship team launches into their 18th consecutive key change. The apostles are slightly confused. Consensus! Everybody gets to speak. Everybody gets heard. Nobody gets voted off the island. What a bizarre first century concept. Participatory meetings, everybody brings a hymn, a teaching, a testimony, except Larry. Larry brought another fog machine. That's your church pattern today. That's your church pattern today. That's your church pattern today. That's your church pattern today. That's your church pattern today. That's your church pattern today. Church size. If you need binoculars to identify your pastor, Paul might have needed GPS to find Timothy. The Lord's Supper. Somebody says it's symbolic. Somebody else says it's spiritual. Meanwhile, Paul's wondering why supper stopped looking like, well, supper. Plural elders. One pastor is easier to idolize. Five pastors keep each other humble. Imagine that. Traditions. Everybody says, we don't follow traditions. Then everybody sits in rows, faces one stage, starts at 10, ends at noon, and argues about carpet color. Congratulations, you have successfully invented new traditions. That's your church pattern today. That's your church pattern today. Somebody quotes Corinthians. Somebody quotes Calvin. Somebody quotes YouTube. Guess which one gets shared the most.
What are the teachings of the prosperity gospel? It teaches that financial success is a direct reward for unwavering faith, positive speech, and religious donations. Today's version of this ancient heresy surfaced in the 1950s. One of their preachers, Reverend Ike, stated, "I don't want pie in the sky when I die; I want cash in the stash here and now!" It interprets scripture as a divine guarantee of earthly wealth, putting the believer's material desires at the center of faith. Some have characterized their teaching as "name it and claim it, give to get, blab it and grab it, profess it and possess it". Also known as the "Word of Faith" movement, it key figures today are Kenneth Copeland, Benny Hinn, Joel Osteen, T.D. Jakes, John Hagee, Creflo ("Cashflow") Dollar, Paula White, and Joyce Meyer. Past figures included Oral Roberts, Jim Bakker, Jimmy Swaggart, E.W. Kenyon and Kenneth Hagin.
How was Roman slavery different from American slavery in the 1800s? Both were "chattel" slavery. In real estate lingo, chattels are moveable items a seller takes with him—such as livestock. The word "chattel" comes from the French word for cows (you can hear it in the related word, "cattle"). All enslaved people in the Roman Empire were considered "chattel," meaning they were legally categorized as absolute property with few legal rights, could not refuse labor, and were treated as commodities that could be bought, sold, traded, or inherited (just like cattle). The differences are that: 1) American slavery was race-based, whereas Roman slavery usually came as the result of conquest, debt, or being born into it. 2) Roman slavery had a much more accessible legal pathway to freedom (Roman slaves were generally permitted to do outside work for pay, and were often able to save enough to buy their freedom). 3) Roman slaves were often much better educated than their masters, and were commonly entrusted with huge responsibilities. In contrast, it was illegal to educate American slaves. Thomas Sowel: "Although slavery was a worldwide institution for thousands of years, nowhere in the world was slavery a controversial issue prior to the 18th century. People of every race and color were enslaved—and enslaved others. White people were still being bought and sold as slaves in the Ottoman Empire, decades after American blacks were freed." Modern Application: For all practical purposes, slavery has been illegal in the United States since 1865. Unless a Christian is in prison, the closest application we can make today for this text is to the employee/employer relationship (or per
Today, we'll look at considerations for both the appointment and the discipline of leaders (the sad fact is that sometimes elders go bad).
First London Baptist Confession (1644): "… every Church has power.... to choose … Pastors … the due maintenance of the officers … should be the free and voluntary communication of the Church, that according to Christ's ordinance, they that preach the Gospel, should live on the Gospel …"
Paul dealt with four types of widows: older widows without children, older widows with children, younger widows, and wanton widows.
Our Christian maturity—that is, our growth in Christlikeness—is cultivated as we come to know the heart of Christ, and it is revealed in the way we relate to others, especially in how we view and respond to their sins, failures, and offenses. This sermon unfolds how Christ deals with us in our weakness and failure, and how, in turn, we are called to deal with one another in love, patience, mercy, and truth.
When two rams butt heads, little lambs get trampled. Doctrinal controversies within a church are always taxing. Such are times that try men's souls. Those with a weak conscience are often offended and discouraged. Those caught in the cross fire say things like, "What does it really matter, anyway? Can't we all just get along? Doctrine divides, but Christ unites. I don't ask them about their, beliefs, and they don't ask me about mine." Today, we'll continue to see why the price paid to safe guard orthodoxy is, in the long run, worth the high cost.
This paragraph has application primarily for church leaders. What is that application? Church leaders must: • Warn the brothers about deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons • Have nothing to do with myths • Must themselves be trained in the words of faith and good doctrine. • Toil and strive for the gospel, as God is potentially the Savior of all people. What is the application here for Christian in general? • All believers must beware of irreverent, silly, religious myths (they're all around us!). • Listen to your leaders when they warn of bad doctrine/practice. • Remember that bodily training is of some benefit, but training in godliness is far more valuable. You will not succeed spiritually if you do not adopt spiritual disciplines. Where are your priorities? • Live life in light of eternity. George Whitefield spoke of seeing criminals riding in a cart on their way to the gallows, arguing like a bunch of kids about who should sit on the right hand of the cart. Here were men condemned to die that very day, but their focus was on who got the best seat on the way to the execution! The Bible is clear that as members of the fallen human race, we're all in that cart, on the way to the gallows. We'd better be preparing for what lies beyond. • Toil and strive to effectively introduce the gospel to your children (the next generation). If you drop the ball, it will be a curse to them.
Some of the deepest wounds believers carry were not inflicted by the world; they were inflicted by the church. This happens because we are more judgmental and critical of one another's failures, rather than empathetic and helpful. I have been both a victim and a culprit of these wounds. This sermon examines how Jesus deals with His own people in their weakness, failure, and sin — and calls us to do the same for one another.
A major source of bad doctrine is demons! W are engaged in spiritual warfare. The ancient Egyptians who built the pyramids were just a few hundred years removed from Noah's flood, yet they had already departed wholesale into polygamy, and the doctrine of demons. Demonic influence is still happening today: NIV Ephesians 6:12 … 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. NIV 2 Corinthians 11:3 … I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.
Introduction: In How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth, it is stated that the epistles are "occasional" documents, written in response to some local situation (usually a problem occasion). As a result, the theology found in the epistles is "task" theology—theology tasked with solving a particular problem in order to drive an application. Structure: Many commentators feel that today's paragraph (3:14-16) is the heart of this letter, as it puts all the instructions and corrections into proper theological perspective. It reveals the belief that drives the behavior, the doctrine that drives the duty.
Jesus was called "a friend of sinners." Would sinners say the same about us? Are we becoming more Christ-like or more like the Pharisees? This message explores the radical heart of Christ — full of grace, rich in truth.
The audio contains an addendum I added giving reasons why the passage can not apply to Antiochus
Daniel 11:1-37b. Historical events covered were Persia, Greece, Alexander's four successor generals. The "wilfull king" Herod the Great was partially covered. All of this is the first part of Daniel's Fourth and Last Vision.
Topics: Greece (Alexander the Great and his Successor 4 Horns) against Persia, the Seleucid (Greek) little horn Antioch IV Epiphanes (r.175-164), his persecution of the Jews and desecration of the Temple and the abomination of desolation, the pollution of Israel and the Temple for 2300 mornings and evenings, and the first Hanukkah ("dedication") and the cleansing of the Temple.
Learn how Daniel predicted the rise of both Alexander the Great and Antiochus Epiphanes. Upon editing the attached .mp3, I noticed four errors I made in this presentation: 1) Elam was an ancient country two to three thousand years ago. I meant to say 2000-3000 BC, not two or three thousand years before our current time. Elam's actual dates are c. 2700-539. It was absorbed into Persia by Cyrus the Great the same year he conquered Babylon. 2) I said Cassius Dio was a source for our period No, he was late second century AD, not BC. 3) Steve asked me if the "Festival of Lights" was the same as Hanukkah. I thought he said the "Festival of Lots," which is the Jewish festival of Purim. So, "Festival of LIghts" is Hannakkah, "Festival of Lots" is Purim. 4) I said Polybius was a Roman historian. Actually he was Greek, who spent some time in Rome. His dates are c.200-118 BC, which means he is a great authority for the little horn Antiochus IV Epiphanes (r. 175-164).
In past weeks we've been examining the qualifications for elder (1Ti 3:1-7). In this lesson, we'll consider 1) who decides which men serve as elders, 2) how many elders a church should have, and 3) their job description.
Have you ever felt like God is distant, your prayers are unheard, or your struggles are hidden from Him? In our weariness, we are tempted to believe God has forgotten us. But what if the answer to our deepest discouragement isn't a change in our circumstances, but a clearer vision of God Himself? This message challenges us to lift our eyes from our problems to behold the immeasurable, incomparable God who sees us, knows us, and gives strength to the weary.
How is an "overseer" (1Ti 3:1) different from an elder or pastor? In Scripture, the terms overseer (KJV "bishop"), elder, and arguably also pastor, are used interchangeably. Hierarchy: There was no hierarchy of authority within the local church leadership team. No bishop was over the pastors, no senior pastor, no lead pastor, no pastor over the elders, no difference between pastor and elder. Paid vs Volunteer: In modern times, a "pastor" is a vocational leader, whereas elders are volunteer. This is not a biblical distinction. The tile "elder" brings out the fact that church leaders should embody maturity and wisdom ("elder" and "older" are from the same Germanic root). It is a state of being. The word "pastor" translates the Greek word for shepherd and brings out the leader's role in leading, feeding and protecting God's flock. The word "overseer" (3:1) highlights out the leader's job of managing, administrating, being sure things in the church are doing according to God's will. Plurality: The New Testament generally presents an ideal of a plurality of leaders in every congregation.
In recent years, more ink has been spilled on this passage than on any other part of this epistle, due largely to the rise of egalitarianism and feminism. I've read the arguments of evangelical feminists. However, I just can't explain away the plain teaching of Scripture that prohibits women from teaching men or exercising authority over men.
A homeless man entered our church building, then left. I didn't interact with him; I didn't even know he had been there. Yet, when I later entered the area, I immediately knew it. The area he had been in reeked. He was gone, but his "aroma" lingered. So too, Timothy stopped the false teaching, but the impact of their stinky doctrine remained. Paul prescribed prayer as the air freshener.
My goal in this lesson was not to squeeze every jot and tittle of truth out of the text. To do so might be to obscure the forest because of the trees. Instead, my purpose was to help believers ferret-out the big picture of the chapter. Aside from the introduction, there are four main paragraphs (ESV). We'll try to get the main point of each one, and how they fit together. So, here it is, in all it's unedited, participatory glory!
Preaching is not a casual task—it is a divine charge given in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will one day judge every soul. In this expositional message from 2 Timothy 4:1–2, we will discover the sacred responsibility, reverence, and urgency with which pastors are called to proclaim God's Word, and how we as a church must respond to it.
In a world filled with confusion and compromise, the Word of God remains our unshakable foundation. Hear this sermon to explore the transformative power of Scripture—how it shapes lives, strengthens leaders, and equips the church for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16–17). Discover why Scripture is not only inspired but also essential and life-giving for every aspect of Christian living.
A Christian author remarked, -We have become perhaps the most emotionally exhausted, psychologically overworked, and spiritually malnourished people in history.- The remedy to survive in the busyness of life is to also get busy with God. This message provides insights into how believers and pastors can integrate God into their busy lives.
Helga Henry, wife of the renowned theologian Carl F. H. Henry, reminds us that -Christian hospitality is not a matter of choice- it is not a matter of money- it is not a matter of age, social standing, sex, or personality. Christian hospitality is a matter of obedience to God.- This message explains the significance of hospitality.
In our passage from Hebrews 12, we encounter a startling description of our God as -a consuming fire.- This is not a warm, comforting fire on a cold night. No, this is an image of God's terrible holiness and His fierce judgment. This sermon encourages Christians to have a balanced view of God - His comforting grace and consuming judgment. May God build His people through this expositional sermon.
This expositional sermon contrasts the terrifying experience of the Israelites at Mount Sinai under the Old Covenant with the glorious privileges believers now have under the New Covenant, including access to the heavenly Jerusalem, the worship of innumerable angels, fellowship with the righteous, and the mediating work of Jesus. The sermon emphasizes the security and hope believers have in Christ even in the face of suffering and persecution.
Is Hebrews 12-14 speaking about personal or corporate pursuit of peace and holiness-- What kind of bitterness is the author addressing here-- What is the point of the author in speaking about sexual immorality, which seems to have no connection to the context-- What is the responsibility of believers in the church-- This sermon addresses some complex issues of the text with encouraging applications to believers.
It is crucial for believers to understand the significance of their response to the Lord's discipline amidst afflictions. Our reactions shape our journey either towards spiritual maturity or immaturity. May this expositional sermon encourage the hearts of the listeners to embrace a biblically grounded response to the discipline lovingly administered by the Lord.
What is your perspective on the Lord's discipline-- Do you view it as an act of punishment from a vengeful God, or do you recognize it as an expression of His love for His children-- Delve into this expositional message to dispel any misconceptions about the Lord's discipline and find encouragement to persevere in your faith amid challenges. Understand why the Lord's discipline is a crucial aspect of the Christian journey, shedding light on its role in shaping and molding believers for a deeper meaning and purpose.
1 Timothy 3-1-7 contains fourteen qualifications for church leaders -a similar list is found in Titus 1-6-8-.--Universal Applications- -1- Don't assume this does not apply to you if you don't aspire to be a church leader. Every brother's goal should be to embody the character qualities listed here. -2- These are the character qualities single sisters should look for in a man.
RESILIENCE is about staying strong and pressing forward in difficult life situations. This virtue is what modern Christians desperately need. But how do we cultivate this quality in our Christian lives-- This expositional sermon encourages us to live a life of resilience in Christ.
Considering the shortness of life, the passing of time, the nearness to death, the one and the only life we have on earth---WE CANNOT AFFORD TO WASTE OUR LIVES. May the Lord use this expositional sermon to encourage you to take your life and all the resources God has given you seriously. Aim to hear these words from the Lord, -Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little- I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.-
Growing in obedience involves aligning our lives to God's Word, and the local church plays a crucial role in facilitating this growth. The local church serves as a supportive community where believers receive teaching, encouragement, correction, and accountability in their journey of obedience. Through these biblical means, the church contributes to shaping people's lives by fostering a culture of obedience.
Ephesians 4-28, -Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.-
Are you born again because you believed, or do you believe because you were born again--
-New Audio Expositional Sermon- Moses - His Faith and Choices -Exposition of Hebrews 11-23-28---What you believe has an impact on the choices you make in life. And the choices we make in life have consequences. In this expositional sermon, we will see how Moses' faith led him to make choices in life which had great rewards. We too are called to make choices, not by focusing on immediate worldly rewards, but by fixing our eyes on future rewards given by God. May we emulate Moses' faith and experience God's astonishing work in our lives.
Abraham receives more verses than any other person in Hebrews 11. He is renowned as -the father of all who believe.- He was an ordinary man like us, but his faith in God made him live an extraordinary life. Much of our ineffective Christian living is rooted in the weakness of our faith. May we listen to this man's life and grow in faith to experience God's mighty works in our lives.
Many claim to believe in God, but very few fear God. What does a God-fearing life look like-- This expositional sermon presents Noah as an example of a God-fearing life. He lived such a life with no godly example and godly fellowship around him. May we be provoked in our soul to imitate this man of faith.
In the dull description of genealogy in Genesis 5, Enoch outshines for being a man who walked with God. What does it mean to walk with God-- Can we modern Christians walk with God-- This expositional sermon calls and challenges believers to imitate this man of faith. May the Lord build His church-
Jesus tasked the apostles with making disciples. He didn't say to evangelize, nor to plant churches, but to make disciples. Of course, in the process of making disciples, evangelism will take place, and church will be planted. The end game, however, is disciple making. I hope all of us here today are believers, are genuine Christians, but are you a disciple-- In Luke 14, Jesus painted a picture of what it looks like to be a disciple. Let's see if we measure up-
Do you know that you can offer the best of your services in vain-- Why did God accept Abel's sacrifice and reject Cain's-- How was Abel justified-- How could Abel speak even after his death-- This message expounds on the life of Abel with insightful applications to our Christian living.
Is the universe eternal or has a beginning-- Who created the universe-- How did the universe come into existence-- If God created the universe, how did He do so-- What role does faith play in understanding the creation of the universe-- This sermon grapples with these questions and addresses them with biblical authority.
The Holy Bible is replete with the promises of God. We must trust the faithfulness of God to fulfil His promises. But, do all promises apply to us-- How do we rightly apply the promises of God-- How can promises be abused-- This message answers these questions with biblical clarity. May the Lord build His Church-
Faith is extremely crucial for salvation and Christian living. Nevertheless, it is one of the most misunderstood factors. What is biblical faith-- How is faith different from presumption-- What is the object of faith according to Hebrews 11-1-- This sermon answers these questions with clarity and biblical authority. May God build His Church-
One of the major reasons the church gathered was to have the Lord's Supper -Acts 2-46- 20-7-. But why must we celebrate the Lord's Supper-- What is the purpose of the Lord's Supper-- How did the early church celebrate the Lord's Supper-- This message answers these questions with an emphasis that the early church celebrated the Lord's Supper in the context of a communal meal. How good for modern churches to recover this practice- In church basic series, -Understanding the Lord's Supper-, Bobbie Jamieson expresses, -Celebrating the Lord's Supper in the context of a whole-church meal is a practice I'd love to see more churches recover.-
After mentioning the need for believers to draw near to God through the work of Christ on the cross, the author now highlights the significance of church fellowship and mutual encouragement. Why should we often meet together as a church-- How should our church fellowship look like-- What is the sense of urgency indicated in Hebrews 10-24-25-- May God use this expositional message to build His church for His glory and our edification-
The great need of a Christian is to draw near to God. The worst weakness of a Christian is to draw away from God. Why should we draw near to God-- What is the basis of our drawing near to God-- This expositional sermon encourages believers and pastors about the necessity to draw closer to God, cling to Him, and persevere in Him till the end. May God build His church through this message-
What is the difference between the Old and New Covenant-- Why was the Old Covenant ineffective-- How did Christ become the Lord of the New Covenant-- What-benefits do we, the New Covenant believers, enjoy in Christ-- This expositional sermon answers these questions with biblical clarity. May the Lord use this message to build His Church.
Perseverance is persistence in doing something despite difficulty until we reach the goal. Claiming to believe in Christ is one thing, and persevering in our faith in Christ till the end is another thing. Perseverance is one of the great marks of true believers. But how do believers learn to persevere in their faith despite trials and temptations-- This message addresses this issue with exposition from God's Word. May God encourage the hearts of the hearers-
What is the necessity of a high priest-- Why is Christ the high priest in the order of Melchizedek-- Who was Melchizedek and how is his priestly ministry better than the Levitical priesthood-- What blessings do we believers reap from Christ's high priestly ministry-- This expositional sermon answers these questions, bringing encouragement to us to behold the supremacy of Christ.
Hebrews 6-4-8 has caused tremors of confusion in the minds of many believers regarding the irreversible condition of those who fall away from the faith. Does this passage speak about losing salvation-- Do those who fall away never return to faith-- How shall we reconcile this passage with other Scriptures that provide unwavering salvation assurance-- May the Lord use this sermon to strengthen the faith of His church-
Bible expositor, Kent Hughes, regrettably expressed, -There is a massive tragedy few are aware of and with which fewer still concern themselves-namely, arrested spiritual growth, perpetual infancy, never becoming a -big person- spiritually. Set against eternity, this is a tragedy of incalculable proportions.- This expositional sermon addresses the issue of the dullness of hearing and intellectual laziness prevailing in the churches today. May God use this sermon to revive His church-
Knowing the holiness and majesty of God, what is the basis for our courage to approach the Throne of Grace-- This expositional sermon reveals both the sympathetic nature of Christ to the repentant and the judgment to those who are hardened. May God use this sermon to draw us closer to His Throne of Grace and empower us to live holy and pleasing in His sight.
Martin Luther commented on this passage, -After terrifying us, the Apostle now comforts us- after pouring wine into our wound, he now pours in oil.- Let us hear how Christ was fully God and fully man but His divinity did not diminish the struggles of temptations as a human, and how Christ was always without sin. May God use this expositional sermon to build His church.
The author of Hebrews calls his recipients to enter into God's rest. How do we enter into God's rest-- This sermon presents two factors that the author of Hebrews employs, persuading the listeners to practice them to enter God's rest. May God use this sermon to build the body of Christ-
In this age of unrest, we are in need to hear afresh from God's Word on Rest. Dwelling in God's Rest is the need of the hour. In the exposition of Hebrews 4-1-11, you will learn what is God's Rest and the three aspects of Rest the Holy Bible reveals. May God build His church through this expositional preaching--
Someone said- You can't do two things alone- Marriage and living the Christian life. Since our hearts are prone to wander away from the Lord-one of the crucial reasons why God has made us part of His redeemed community-is to guard one another's heart in Christ. Hear this sermon and learn the significance of meaningful Christian fellowship and encouragement for the purpose of sanctification.
Hebrews chapter 3-7-19 speaks about how one must guard their hearts against hardenness and rebellion. Failure to do so would lead a person to fall away from the living God. May the Lord, through this message, provoke the listeners to guard their hearts in Christ Jesus-
Hebrews chapter 3-7-19 speaks about how one must guard their hearts against hardenness and rebellion. Failure to do so would lead a person to fall away from the living God. May the Lord, through this message, provoke the listeners to guard their hearts in Christ Jesus-
Hebrews 3-1-6 is a passage that reveals the supremacy of Christ over Moses, the identity of believers in Christ, and the call of believers to act in response to who Christ is and what He has done. We know and struggle how we find it difficult to gaze on Christ amidst the clamor, crisis, and captivating allurements of the world. May the Lord use this message to revive the hearts of His people to gaze on Christ-
Why did Christ had to become a merciful and faithful high priest-- What did we reap from His suffering-- Why did Christ suffer temptation-- How is He able to help us in our temptation-- This message is an encouragement, answering these questions.
Your bi-vo shepherding ministry can be more effective using strategies Jesus Himself gave the early church. In this interview with a Baptist church planting network, learn about proven, practical, biblical ideas drawn directly from the New Testament. Pure Scripture, no gimmicks. 30 years of experience.
How did Christ become lower than the angels-- Why did Christ taste death for us-- What does it mean for us to enter into glory-- How did Christ become perfect through suffering-- Who holds the power of death - God or the devil-- How did Christ destroy the devil-- What delivers us from the fear of death-- This message has immense encouragement for believers in Christ. May God enlighten, transform, and build His church through this expositional sermon-
How is Christ superior to the angels-- Why did Christ become inferior -for a little while- than the angels-- What is the grandeur of man-- How has man lost his dominion to Satan-- How is this dominion going to be restored to man-- This message addresses these issues. May the Lord build His church through His Word.
There are a lot of ways this could be titled- How to be Content, or Getting God to Meet Your Every Need or How to Have a Treasure in Heaven. However, this passage is really primarily about having a proper perspective on giving, about what happens when you give to missions.----Paul was a self-supported missionary -through tent making-. His policy was not to ask for support money, but the Philippians had given it. Maybe Luke or Lydia was the catalyst behind it. In any event, Paul was glad they did, but not for the reasons you might think-
We live in a generation where the Gospel of Christ is diluted and adulterated. Unlike Paul who said -I preach Christ and Him crucified,- what has been proclaimed today is -Christ who heals-, -Christ who prospers-, -Christ who gives self-esteem-, -Christ who blesses-, and -Christ who solves personal problems.- This message calls to return to the apostolic preaching, -Christ and Him crucified.----------- ------- ----- ----- ----- ------- ----- --- --------------. ----- ----- ------- ---------- --------------- --- ---- ------------- -------, - ---- ----------------- ------------ ---------, ---------- ---- ---------, -------------- ----- ---------, ------------ --------- ----- ---------- -------- ----------- --------.- - ------ --------- ----- --- ----- -------- ---------- ------ ------- ---------------.
How are we to handle disagreements-- Often, our greatest strengths are our greatest weaknesses. One of the main reasons people like church is the wonderful fellowship they enjoy. One of the main reasons people leave church is because of conflicts that occur during times of extended fellowship.----ESV Proverbs 10-19 When words are many, transgression is not lacking ------To dwell above with the saints we love, O that will be glory- But to dwell below with the saints we know, that's a different story------In today's lesson, we turn down the home stretch of Paul's letter to the Philippian church. Chapter 4 contains some surprisingly personal closing appeals. The early church was far from perfect. Yes, we've got trouble, right here in River City, with a capital T, and that rhymes with P, and that stands for people. If you ever find a perfect church, don't join it, because it wouldn't be perfect anymore-
It is one thing to believe in Christ and another thing to persevere in faith till the end. Many claim to believe in Christ, but a few run with endurance till the end. A Christian has to face several pressures and pleasures, either pressing forward in Christ or drifting away from Christ. May the Lord use this sermon to stir up the hearts of His children to persevere in their faith and guard them against drifting-
Hear about the little kid who fell out of bed while he was sleeping-- He said, -I guess I fell asleep to close to where I got in.- In your walk with the Lord, don't be like that kid- Some people barely just get inside the front door of the kingdom, then go sleep- Philippians 3 warns against that. Don't be content where you are in your walk with the Lord. Look at Paul's life goal- 3-10. In fourteen-hundred and ninety-two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue. Even though Christopher Columbus discovered America, he was barely on the edge of a vast continent that remained to be explored. Don't be like Columbus- instead, be like Lewis and Clark-
The author of Hebrews uses seven Old Testament passages to prove how Christ is supreme over the angels, thereby pointing to the deity of Christ. Hebrews 1-4-14 has also baffled many readers because of the words such as -begotten- and -firstborn-, questioning the deity of Christ. This sermon is an exaltation of Christ's supremacy over angels and defending His deity, humbling us to fall at His feet and worship Him.
How is Christ sustaining the universe-- Why is idolatry sinful-- What is the heresy of subordinationism-- What is the necessity of Christ's purification for sins-- What does -Christ sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high- speak about-- What is the hope that you have in Christ's exaltation-- Listen to this sermon to get answers to these questions.
The Holy Bible exhorts, -Praying at all times in the Spirit- -Eph. 6-18-. What praying in the Holy Spirit is not- What praying in the Holy Spirit is- How do we pray in the Holy Spirit- In this eighth part of the message on spiritual warfare series, we learn how to pray in the Holy Spirit -1--
Ephesians 6-18, -Praying at all times in the Spirit.- The Scripture commands to all believers to pray at all times in the Spirit. But what is praying at all times- Is that realistically possible- How can we cultivate the habit of praying at all times- This message answers these questions and encourages believers to pray at all times.
Ephesians 6-17, -and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.- Without the helmet of salvation, a believer lives with a lack of assurance of salvation, becoming a victim of the devil's schemes. And without the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, a believer is not offensive to the enemy but becomes a victim. May this message encourage believers to cling firm to the hope of salvation in Christ and wield the word of God against all the schemes of the devil.
View the video version by selecting the external link above -.--Many thanks to Ron - Don of MidWest Christian Outreach -midwestoutreach.org- for this interview on New Testament Church Growth Strategies.
Ephesians 6-16, -In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one.-
SHOES FOR YOUR FEET, HAVING PUT ON THE READINESS GIVEN BY THE GOSPEL OF PEACE -Eph. 6-15--Put on the gospel of peace to stand against the schemes of the devil
Martin Luther asserted, -This doctrine -justification- is the head and the cornerstone. It alone begets, nourishes, builds, preserves, and defends the church of God and without it the church of God cannot exist for one hour.- This message provides ten factors to grasp the doctrine of justification by faith, encouraging us to understand what Christian life is all about.
If you are a church planter or pastor and you desire to grow your church in a healthy and biblically authentic way, this is for you. Here is the truth- Everyone cannot be John MacArthur. While we love J Mac and I praise God for his faithfulness over the years, it's ok if your church is not Grace Community Church. We need to stop placing unbiblical pressure on young pastors to achieve such a goal. Instead, why not examine actual New Testament church practices and let the scriptures speak- Furthermore, let's abandon pragmatism and forego the new and shiny. In this episode of the B.A.R. Podcast with Dawain Atkinson, Stephen Atkerson gives a brief overview of how Jesus set up the early church.
Since the fall of man in Genesis 3, sin not only has separated man from God but also caused interpersonal problems. And the cross of Christ not only reconciles man to God but also man to man. Thus, we, the children of God -the church-, are commanded to make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace -Eph. 4-1-3-. Yet, many Christians are victims of cynicism, suspicion, judgmentalism, assumptions, bitter prejudice. hasty conclusions. This message persuades that understanding people is crucial to keep the unity of the Spirit.
In the third part of the message on the Christian warrior, we will hear the description of the armor of God, particularly the belt of truth and the breastplate of righteousness. May God use this message to equip you walk in truth and righteousness.
Does the Scripture clearly teach about territorial spirits- Except in exorcism, does the Scripture teach believers to have a direct conversation with the evil spirits- Does the Scripture teach us to command, bind, and shout at the wicked spirits- What does it mean to resist the devil- All these issues are dealt with in the second part of The Christian Warrior -Series- Spiritual Warfare-.
The Christian life is not a playground- it's a battlefield. In almost every nation, there are soldiers and civilians. Soldiers fight against the enemies on the border. Civilians live their ordinary lives in the society. But in the Christian faith, every Christian is a warrior and is engaged in the battle. This message is an exposition of Ephesians 6-10-18.
When people think about God's direction in their life, they often think about studies, career, marriage, acquiring property, and future settlement. But what's the goal and purpose of all these things- You cannot understand God's direction -GPS- in life if you don't understand the purpose of life. If you understand the purpose of life, i.e. why are you existing in this world, then every direction you take in life has meaning and purpose. Hear this message to know the purpose of your life.
Ephesians 5-18-21 gives amazing insights, which are often neglected, on Spirit-filled life. This passage shatters many assumptions on being filled with the Holy Spirit. This final message in the series addresses how a Spirit-filled life reflects thanksgiving and submission in everyday Christian living.
When people think about Spirit-filled life, they view it as a spectacular, mountain-top experience. But what Paul writes in Ephesians 5-18-21 is simple and ordinary. This message explains how Spirit-filled believers are singing believers.
Sunil Lazarus is a bi-vocational pastor in Hyderabad, India. The Lord used him to start and lead a network of small churches with a total membership of over 2,000.
What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit- How does being filled with the Holy Spirit look like in practicality- What is our responsibility in seeking to be filled with the Holy Spirit- This message answers these questions, taking listeners through the exposition of Ephesians 5-18-21.
Regarding the filling of the Holy Spirit, Martyn Lloyd Jones stated, -It is vital that that should be established, otherwise there will be nothing but confusion.- This message, based on the exposition of Ephesians 5-18-21, describes what Spirit-filled life truly is.
In modern times, we generally look for a person's profession of receiving a divine call, a seminary degree or some training, and leaving a job in the marketplace for full-time church ministry. But what are the qualifications required to serve God's church- This message answers this question biblically.
Christian joy in suffering is not in the situations we go through but in the hope we cling to. And this hope is anchored on the gospel of Christ Jesus. This final part of the series encourages to preach the gospel to ourselves everyday to cling to our glorious hope of eternal glory.
The conviction that we as Christians must be engaged in preaching the gospel of Christ is greatly missing in the church tody. For this reason, we must preach the gospel to ourselves everyday so that we will preach the gospel to others. This message explains this necessity.
Agriculture in Jesus' Name- Improving nutrition and livelihoods for the furtherance of the gospel. Equipping Leaders International. Michael - Holly Cooley. Email-----NarrowPassagePermaCulture-gmail.com
Someone prayed- -Lord, make bad people good, and good people gracious.- One major problem in the church today is believers accepting one another despite minor doctrinal differences. This message argues how the Gospel is the core factor for Christian unity and that we must preach the Gospel to ourselves everyday to practice Christlike acceptance of one another.
Who knows better how to grow churches than Jesus- This audio book will help you plant or revitalize a church His way. Simple strategies from the ancient church can help your church grow in unity, community, and love-plus avoid apathy, atrophy and entropy in your weekly services.----Transform your church with refreshing, Christ-honoring strategies from the ancient church----Communion Strategy for Unity, Community and Purity.---Worship Strategy for Unleashing the Laity---Leadership Strategy for Christ-like Shepherding---Size Strategy for Accountability, Family-Like Atmosphere----Complete Audio Book- New Testament Church Dynamics
Jesus said- -No one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins.- His point was simply that some actions are inappropriate. Some church practices are also inappropriate. If we compare the new wine to our new lives in Christ, then the wineskin could be likened to what we do when we come together as God's people -ecclesiology-. The most appropriate wineskin is arguably found in the dynamics of New Testament church practice.--The growth strategies of the ancient church were simple-a family atmosphere, participatory worship, weekly fellowship over food with friends who love Jesus, servant leaders, and the in-depth discussion of Scripture. Economist E.F. Schumacher said, -Any intelligent fool can make things bigger and more complex. It takes a lot of genius and a lot of courage to move in the opposite direction.---The growth strategies of the ancient church were strategic-God's people got involved in church meetings through participatory worship that stirred up good deeds, loving relationships were formed through the weekly Agap-, and a strong commitment by the leaders to build congregational consensus promoted unity. Overflowing love and unity is a powerful witness to the watching world.--The growth strategies of the ancient church were scriptural-based on Jesus' teachings, clearly seen in the Bible, practiced by first-century believers, and prescribed in the New Testament. They constituted a divine design for making disciples of all nations. Who knew better than the apostles the best church practice wineskins---Audio Book New Test. Ch. Dynamics
When it comes to the size of a church, it's easy to assume that bigger is better. But is it really- Instead of 1,000 people in one church, might it be better to have 100 people in 10 churches- For its first two hundred years, the church met in the private homes of its members. Since everything in the New Testament was written to a church that met in someone's home, the body-life activities set forth as ideal were designed for smaller settings. God used these small churches to turn the Roman world upside down -Acts 17-6-. Smaller churches have strategic, divinely-designed size advantages for effective ministry.----Chpt 5, Audio book- New Testament Church Dynamics
Contrasting the authority of secular political leaders with that of church leaders, Jesus said- -The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves- -Lk 22-25-26-. How much authority does the youngest person in a family have- How much authority does a household servant have over his employer- Jesus was a master of hyperbole, but there is an underlying truth that must not be glossed over- Pastors are to be servant leaders. Their attitude should be one of humility in leadership, not kingly authority that lords it over others. Pastors must lead with a servant's heart. In harmony with Jesus' words, Peter instructed elders to -shepherd the flock of God - not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock- -1Pt 5-1-3-.----Chpt 4, Audio Book, New Testament Church Dynamics
Jesus empowered the ancient church with a strategy for communion designed to create supernatural unity, loving community, and holiness in view of His return. One part of this strategy was to celebrate the Lord's Supper every week. The other was to partake of the elements in the context of an actual meal-a sacred, covenant meal. Since most believers are unaware of this strategy, the last supper has, in a sense, become the lost supper.--Chpt 3 Audio Book, New Testament Church Dymamics
Jesus equipped the early church with a worship strategy designed to promote love and good deeds, edify, encourage, strengthen, and instruct. His plan called for ordinary believers to be able to regularly and significantly contribute to corporate worship. There was an open format for sharing, with orderly spontaneity. In contrast, today's worship services have become more of a spectator sport.--Chapter 2 Audio Book from New Testament Church Dynamics
A church alive is worth the drive. Through the apostles, He equipped the ancient church with strategic, timeless traditions to encourage spiritual growth. Success in fulfilling God's purposes for His body awaits your church if you adopt the apostolic traditions found in the New Testament.--Audio Book, Chapter 1, New Testament Church Dymamics
There is one sin that almost no one confesses and that is the sin of greed. In our culture that is bent on feeding greediness, generosity is a rarely found character. Since generosity is the antidote to greediness, we must preach the gospel to ourselves everyday to practice generosity. This message speaks how the gospel teaches us to live a generous life.
Audio Book- New Testament Church Dynamics- Growth Strategies of the Ancient Church. Read by Robert Thomason. Printed version available at NTRF.org. You can contact Robert Thomason via the external link above.
How do Christians build a godly family life- How will husbands learn to become Christ-like leaders at home- How will wives manifest Christ-like submission to their husbands- This message reveals that we much preach the Gospel to ourselves everyday to build a godly family life with practical applications. Without the Gospel, you cannot become a godly husband or wife. May God use this message to build godly Christian families.
What is the meaning of the 7 Trumpets as relates to God's judgment on Israel for rejecting Jesus-
Martin Luther -1483-1546- said, --The truth of the Gospel- is also the principal article of all Christian doctrine. . . . Most necessary is it therefore, that we should know this article well, teach it unto others, and -beat it into their heads continually-.- In the third part of why we must preach the Gospel to ourselves everyday, we learn how the Gospel speaks to us about practicing loving one another in the church and being a good Christian employee in the workplace.
In the 1st Part, we learned the significance of the Gospel for Christian life. In this 2nd Part, we look at the application of the Gospel in the everyday Christian life. May God exalt the Cross of Christ and edify the church of Christ Jesus.
We all struggle to explain where everything came from. The science of naturalism is the main approach used today, but naturalism, even though it is a great science for the laboratory, is a lousy science for origins. The alternative to naturalism is theism, and within theism is the biblical approach to origins-the idea that God made the universe through non-natural means. In fact, naturalism comes from Christian philosophy. If God created the universe, the universe should reflect the character of that God. Thus, law, constancy, predictability, and grandeur are pretty much guaranteed. So on the one hand, the universe is naturalistic. On the other hand, the universe was created. These two thoughts are not in conflict.
What would it mean to be -spit- out of Jesus' mouth-that you lose your salvation- From emeo, it means to vomit or to throw up. Figuratively it means -to reject with extreme disgust.- It is not that they would lose their salvation. Lukewarm coffee is still coffee. The point is that this church made Jesus sick -nauseated-. Their blandness was unacceptable to him.----It been said that there is no one farther from the truth in Christ than the one who makes an idle profession without real faith. Their life in Christ was a lie in Christ.----G. Campbell Morgan- -Lukewarmness is the worst kind of blasphemy.-
Many suppose the Gospel of Christ is for unbelievers and not for believers. But believers and Christian leaders live their Christian life by the Gospel. Milton Vincent wrote to Christians- -Preach the gospel to yourself every day.- Why- This introductory message speaks of its necessity.
The imagery of the open door that no one could shut may be been used by Jesus in contrast to the way the unbelieving Jews had treated the Jewish believers, excluding them from the synagogue, barring the door behind them- -Get out and stay out-- Whereas the Jews had kicked them out, Jesus had a door into God's kingdom permanently open for them. This eschatological interpretation is more in keeping with the theme of Revelation.
Though the Sardinians outwardly looked alive, Jesus knew that they were in reality dead on the inside. Spiritually, these people were no more than living corpses. Of the seven churches, Sardis got the worst report card. It is a lot easier to cool down a fanatic than to warm up a corpse. Unlike the other churches, there was no mention of false teachers, or immorality, or persecution. The problem is that they were near death spiritually. There is no reason for Satan to attack it- It has been said that the biggest cult is the cult of the comfortable. Beautiful buildings and multitudes of programs do not a live church make- Some churches are merely morgues with steeples. We must recognize that some churches that we look up to as examples of growing, vibrant Christianity may, in reality, be quite dead.
Church is a supernatural community. Why is it supernatural- Because no community on earth is like the community of God. -But, what's so supernatural about the church of God- This message, expounding Ephesians 2-11-22, displays features of a supernatural community.
The saints in Thyatira tolerated the teachings of Jezebel. How can we avoid their mistake -2-18-29----1- Realize that Jesus searches and rewards each of us based on what we do, 2-23b.--2- Realize that wrong teachings can come from gifted teachers. Don't be misled.--3- Realize that big problems can happen in obscure little places -like Thyatira-- Don't be surprised.--4- Realize the importance of maintaining a pure fellowship through church discipline.
Many people think Christ was born for Christians, Christ is only the God of Christians, so Christmas is the celebration of Christians. But this is not true. This brief message -18mins- helps people understand the marvelous three facts the Holy Bible reveals.
What do you think could have been happening in Pergamum -as opposed to the other six cities- to quality it as the location of Satan's throne -2-13-- A -throne- is associated with kings and ruling- throne is the seat of government. Pergamum was the regional Roman capital. The association of Satan with a regional Roman capital city suggests that the true power behind Rome was Satan. Writing arguably about the Roman Empire, John later recorded-----ESV Revelation 13-1-2 - I saw a beast rising out of the sea -the Roman Empire--. And to it the dragon gave his power and his throne and great authority.
The Nazis and the KKK might twist Revelation 2-9 to justify their anti-Semitism. One might as well be anti-Romanic since it was the Romans who actually crucified Jesus. The problem in this case was that it was the unbelieving Jews in Smyrna who were particularly active in persecuting the church, thus earning them the status of being a synagogue of Satan. It would be wrong to conclude that other unbelieving Jewish people are in league with Satan any more than any other unbelievers. There are plenty of churches of Satan, mosques of Satan, temples of the Tempter, and, for that matter, schools of Satan and businesses of Beelzebub. Any religion that rejects the biblical Jesus is ultimately teaching the doctrine of demons.----God reckons His people based on their relation to Jesus, not genealogy. As regards the gospel, unbelieving Jews are -enemies- of the church -Ro 11-28-. However, because of His promises to Abraham, there is an elect a remnant from among the physical Jews who will to come to faith in Christ -Ro 11-28-31-. Paul is an example of one such chosen Jew -Ro 11-1-.
Today we'll study the first of seven performance reviews from Jesus for each the seven churches. The Ephesians had -abandoned- the love that they had at the first. Though not explained further by Jesus, it implies that their love for both Jesus and each other had grown cold. They seemed to be at a place of dead orthodoxy. A person can be as straight as a gun barrel theologically, and just as empty. Their love for Jesus had cooled, and with it a love for each other. Perhaps their ministry for the Lord was merely academic, a dry job, done without an underlying love for the Lord. Perhaps the endless parade of false apostles had caused them to be cynical so that they dealt with people in a joyless, tribunal-like fashion.
This appearance of Jesus was designed to set the scene for the royal edicts that were about to be communicated to the seven churches. Images from this first chapter are referred to over and over in the messages to the seven churches -Re 2-3-. The impression would have been that Jesus is the exalted Lord who rules in divine glory. Jesus knows what He is talking about in the predictions He is about to give, and is in control of everything.
A normal reading of the text indicates that John's predictions would be fulfilled close in time to when they were made. The problem with this lies in reconciling the near time indicator with such prophecies as the one given in 1-7 about Jesus' coming. To resolve this, some people tend to take the words that clothe the prophecies literally --every eye will see Him--, but take the time statements --soon, near-- figuratively. The alternative is to take the time statements literally --soon, near--, but to interpret the words that clothe the prophecies more symbolically --every eye will see Him--, to read them not quite so literally, but rather literarily.
It is surprising to many to know that God has created us with a desire to seek attention, recognition, and rewards. The issue is not that we seek them, but where do we seek them- This message encourages believers and pastors to find their sufficiency in God in matters of attention, recognition, and rewards.
Clarifying Confusion Concerning Christ's Coming--When it comes to prophecy, we must seek to understand the Bible accurately and not read into it things that are not there. Critics and liberals have had a field day attacking the supposedly failed prophecies of Jesus as relates to the timing of His second coming.----The New Testament makes frequent reference to Jesus -coming.- However, such references do not always refer to the second coming. Instead, these texts sometimes refer to types of coming different from the second coming. One example of this concerns Jesus coming-not in person-but impersonally, and not in world-wide judgment, but in localized judgment against rebellious Israel.----People rightly conclude that there is only one second coming. However, Scripture itself never refers to Jesus' return in person as the -second coming- -it never uses the words Trinity, rapture, missionary or Bible, either-. Rather, it states that He will -appear- a second time-----ESV Hebrews 9-28 - Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time -----In a sense, it might help avoid confusion if we called it the second appearing of Jesus instead of His second coming. When we speak of the second coming, we mean His second coming in person, when he actually appears. Another other type of coming the New Testament speaks of is Jesus' impersonal coming in a localized judgment against rebellious Israel. This judgment coming took place in A.D. 70, within the lifetimes of the apostles.
Tullian Tchividjian once said, -Legalism says God will love us if we change. The gospel says God will change us because He loves us.- How true- Many people in the church have a legalistic understanding of God's love. This brief message may be helpful to get a gospel's perspective of God's love.
Earlier when Peter said he would die for Jesus, he ended up denying three times that he even knew Jesus. Peter's actual death would be a different- it would glorify God -21-19-. Jesus' statement about Peter's death was to reassure Peter that he would remain faithful to the end -and not deny Jesus again-.
Every one of us has a longing to be loved. Who has created this longing within us- Why do we look for love- And where do you look for love- Where do we find our sufficiency- If you believe in God's love for you, what is its basis- This message answers these questions.
Does God love you more when you obey Him and love you less when you disobey Him- Is God's love for you based on your performance- What is the basis of God's love for you-
During this Covid-19 pandemic, we see many celebrities, businessmen, employees, NGOs, and other religious folks doing great charity to help the poor and needy. Aren't these people doing good- Is the Word of God true in its declaration that no one does good, not even one- How do you justify Rom 3-12 in the context of present reality -all kinds of people doing good to others--
It's been more than a month since we are in lockdown due to Covid-19 pandemic. The purpose is to prevent the spread of the virus. But there are adverse, negative effects too, i.e. people have become preoccupied with their own safety and security without concern for others. This message speaks not to lock yourself down to -self- in lockdown.
It was important for John to explain to his readers why it was that Judas, one of Jesus' chosen disciples, one of His inner circle, did not believe in Jesus. On the surface, Judas' betrayal of Jesus seemed to threaten the credibility of who Jesus claimed to be. Judas was in inside man- had he discovered some ugly truth about Jesus that was so bad, he turned Jesus in- If one of His own disciples did not believe in Jesus, why should you- John deals with that in this chapter.
It was important for John to explain to his readers why it was that Judas, one of Jesus' chosen disciples, one of His inner circle, did not believe in Jesus. On the surface, Judas' betrayal of Jesus seemed to threaten the credibility of who Jesus claimed to be. Judas was in inside man- had he discovered some ugly truth about Jesus that was so bad, he turned Jesus in- If one of His own disciples did not believe in Jesus, why should you-
Resurrection is both a historical fact and a future reality. How is it- How future resurrection gives meaning to present suffering- Hear these answers in this message, which is an exposition of 2 Corinthians 5-1-10.
How are we, who worship Jesus as the one true God, to view such disasters as the China virus- Would Jesus let one of us catch the virus, or worse yet, someone we love die from it- Where is Jesus in that- Why does God let such things happen- Is it God's judgment for some specific sin like abortion or human trafficking, or war-
A well-known psychiatrist was recently asked what he had found to be the basic problem troubling the majority of his patients. His reply was- -Insecurity.- Security is something that you trust to protect you from loss and danger. This message encourages believers to find their security in God and not in money, people, and health.
Never before in my lifetime have I witnessed the whole world suffering from one pandemic, which is Covid-19. What is Covid-19- How must Christians respond to Covid-19- Should our response be different from the people of the world- This message discloses 8 BIBLICAL RESPONSES of Christians to Covid-19.
Do you ever wonder why you believe in Jesus, but your neighbor doesn't- Is it because he simply hasn't heard- Is because he just hasn't studied the evidence for Christianity- Is it because you had a better upbringing- Is it because you are smarter than he is- Is it because you are more spiritually sensitive than he is- Are you a better person than he is- John, in essence, dealt with this issue in his commentary on why the crowds in Jerusalem didn't believe in Jesus.
Short summary of John 12-20-33-- A. The gospel is universal, for every ethnic group on earth, not just the Jews-- B. We imitate our Lord, who died and was then glorified-- C. If we are to be disciples, we must follow Jesus to the death-- D. Disciples lose whatever this life has to offer, but gain so much more, and that eternally-- E. The devil is defeated, Jesus and his church is victorious-- F. The resurrection of Christ glorifies the Father, and is absolutely fundamental to the gospel
How was what John wrote in chapter 12-1-19 designed to cause an unbelieving Jew to believe in Jesus---1. This chapter reveals the evil that existed in the heart of Judas long before he betrayed Jesus -he stole from the common purse-.--2. This chapter shows the murderous intent of the leaders despite overwhelming evidence of Jesus' true identity through miracles -they plotted to kill Lazarus, too-.--3. His triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey fulfilled Hebrew prophecy -Zechariah 9-9- and shows Jesus as a spiritual Messiah, not a political one.
John 11 is the account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. The irony is that in raising Lazarus from the dead earned Jesus the death penalty. This record tells us all we need to know about who Jesus really is -God- and what kind of men the leaders really were -wicked, evil men-.
God does have a will for every believer in marriage. What is that God's will- How do you find it- Listen to this message to find the answer.
Many Christians believe that God has a plan for believers to marry a specific person -If you miss this person, you miss the best-. You need to get a special revelation to find that person. You need to pray and look out for signs to get confirmation from God to marry the person. Does this traditional view has Biblical support- Listen to this message to find the answer.
One would expect that because Jesus loved Mary and Martha, He hurried back to heal Lazarus. Instead, John wrote that Jesus' love for them motivated Jesus' delay. He loved them so much He was willing to do whatever it took to ultimately strengthen their faith -11-15-. Why was Jesus -glad- he was not there to heal Lazarus -11-15-- It was so that the disciples might believe.
The Jews asked Jesus for clarification on His Messianic status, and He gave them an answer far beyond what they were asking. Whereas Jesus privately told people that He was the Messiah -such as the woman at the well-, He did not literally, plainly, flatly declare as much publically to the leadership. Instead, He revealed His true identity through veiled comments designed to lead them to the proper conclusion- He was both Messiah and Jehovah God in human form.
The Old Covenant failed because of the continuous rebellion of people. God makes the New Covenant, which is unconditional and assures of His regenerating work in the lives of His elect. This regeneration evidences in producing hunger for righteousness and love.
Jesus said that He is both the door to the sheepfold and the good shepherd, whose sheep know His voice, who will die for the sheep to protect them and then rise again, and is loved by the Father. In contrast to Jesus, there are thieves, wolves and hired hands, all of whom hurt the sheep.----In the Old Testament, Jehovah is the Shepherd and the Israelites were His sheep --The LORD is my shepherd-, Psalm 23-. That Jesus here presents Himself as the good shepherd hints at the fact that Jesus is the Jehovah read about in the Old Testament. At the very least, this is a subtle claim to be the Messiah.
All these learned Pharisees were unable to deter the blind man from believing in Jesus. Why was that- The man had experienced the real thing. Imagine you just finished eating an apple pie, when someone come along, sits down next to you, and says, -I don't believe in apple pie-. Is he going to be able to convince you that it doesn't exist-----Someone once gave this scenario- imagine trying to explain color to a world filled with blind people. You couldn't prove that color exists. The blind could even offer theoretical proof as to why color can't exist. A child with eyesight would know more about color than the greatest intellectual ever could.
The Holy Bible not only reveals the fact that we are living in the end times but also prescribes certain disciplines to cultivate as we live in the last days. In this message of exposition of 1 Peter 4-7-11, the second part addresses the discipline of loving one another earnestly. May the Lord speak to our hearts and preserve our souls till the end by cultivating these disciplines in our life.
1- Anyone who believes in Jesus, regardless of ethnic background, is the true child of Abraham. Thus, the church is the ultimate, true fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would have a multitude of descendants.----2- Conversely, even if a person is Jewish, but does not believe in Jesus, he is not a true offspring of Abraham. A true Jew is someone who is not merely a Jew outwardly, but inwardly also.----Jesus clearly said that those Jews who considered Him and then rejected Him were not of God, but were of their father, the devil -8-44-.----3- God does not have two peoples, the church and Israel. God only has one people- the church. Theologically, the present situation is not, the church and Israel- it is, the church is Israel.----However, this does not mean that God has utterly rejected the Jewish race. According to Romans 9-11, because of God's promises to Abraham, God has elected Jews in every generation -a remnant- to believe in Jesus and come into the church, and in this way all the elect within physical Israel will be saved.----John Resinger- Resinger wrote about Abraham's four seeds---1. Natural Offspring -through Isaac and Ishmael-.--2. Special Natural Offspring -through Isaac, then Jacob, then the 12 tribes-.--3. Unique Offspring -Jesus the Messiah-.--4. Spiritual Offspring -all believers of all ages and all nationalities-.----3- God does not have two peoples, the church and I
John wrote his Gospel as an evangelistic tract. His goal was to persuade unconverted Jews, living throughout the Roman Empire, to believe in Jesus. The conversations recorded in John 7-8 took place during a festival called the Feast of Booths. It in, John brought to light the unreasonable, hardened opposition of the Jewish leadership. As we read this, ask yourself, how did John design this information to cause an unbeliever to believe in Jesus-----Jesus gave this advice Jesus gave about forming opinions of His identity-----ESV John 7-24 Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.----Overview- Themes in the rest of this chapter are where Jesus came from and where He was going, who the Father is, and who Jesus is. Moreover, the opposite of each of these was applied to the Jewish leadership- Jesus is from above, they from below- Jesus is not of his world, they are from the world- where Jesus was going, they could not come- God is Jesus' Father, their father is the devil.
The Holy Bible not only reveals the fact that we are living in the end times but also prescribes certain disciplines to cultivate as we live in the last days. In this message of exposition of 1 Peter 4-7-11, the first part addresses the discipline of prayer. May the Lord speak to our hearts and preserve our souls till the end by cultivating these disciplines in our life.
How does the information in John 7-8 help persuade an unbelieving, first-century dispersion Jew to believe in Jesus as the Christ- It shows the bias and unreasonableness of the leadership of Judea, and it shows the ignorance of the general populace concerning Jesus. It teaches the readers the importance of following Jesus' advice-----ESV John 7-24 Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.
The previous two messages have addressed Amnon's fascination, frustration, association, deception, and isolation. In this final third message, we will look at Amon's indiscretion, repercussion, and infatuation. May the Lord caution us through this foolish man to flee from lust and to walk in sexual purity.