James Reed's FORGE: Recent Episodes
James Reed
Verse by verse Bible teaching. James is a retired US Air Force Master Sergeant. After leaving the Air Force, he became a pastor and has served the Lord's Church in a variety of ways. James is more than a preacher. He has been a worship leader, choir director, youth pastor, college outreach leader, Sunday school teacher, small group facilitator, discipleship mentor, and seminar teacher. With an MA in Biblical Studies and an MDiv James brings a combined 25+ year experience from both volunteer and vocational ministry. Here at the "FORGE" he offers his insights to the Bible. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Keywords
Ephesians, Paul, Gentiles, unsearchable riches, church, grace, gospel, diversity, wisdom, faith.
Summary:
In this sermon, Pastor James explores Ephesians 3:7-13, focusing on the Apostle Paul's ministry to the Gentiles and the unsearchable riches of Christ. He emphasizes the importance of grace, the diversity of God's creation, and the role of the church in revealing God's wisdom. The message encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ and to boldly share the gospel with others.
Takeaways:
Paul's ministry was specifically to the Gentiles.
The unsearchable riches of Christ are available to Christians.
The Church plays a vital role in God's plan.
Boldness and access to come before God the Father come through faith in Christ the Son.
Christ is the ultimate resource for fulfillment.
The Church is a witness to God's manifold wisdom.
Believers are called to share the gospel confidently.
Salvation is a gift, not earned by works.
Christians from every tongue, tribe, people, and nation are all part of one body in Christ.
Sound bites:
"The unsearchable riches of Christ."
"Jesus Christ is your resource."
"You belong to the Lord."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Ephesians and Paul's Ministry
02:50 The Unsearchable Riches of Christ
08:46 The Riches of Christ Explained
11:22 The Role of the Church in God's Wisdom
14:19 Boldness and Access Through Faith
Summary:
In this sermon, Pastor James explores Ephesians 3:1-13, focusing on Paul's ministry to the Gentiles and the unsearchable riches of Christ. He emphasizes the importance of grace, the role of the Church in displaying God's wisdom, and the eternal purpose behind God's plan for salvation. The sermon encourages us to study the Word of God and recognize our identity as part of God's covenant family, highlighting the transformative power of grace in our lives.
Keywords:
Ephesians, Paul, grace, ministry, church, salvation, biblical truth, exegesis, wisdom, eternal purpose.
Sound bites:
"We are covenant people."
"The manifold wisdom of God."
"Don't lose heart."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Ephesians and Paul's Ministry.
03:00 Understanding Grace and Salvation.
05:47 The Importance of Biblical Truth.
07:25 Exegesis vs. Eisegesis in Bible Study.
07:52 Paul's Calling and Ministry to the Gentiles.
09:55 The Unsearchable Riches of Christ.
11:38 The Role of the Church in God's Wisdom.
14:52 The Manifold Wisdom of God.
18:10 The Eternal Purpose of God's Plan.
19:20 Boldness and Access Through Faith.
22:40 Paul's Tribulations for the Church.
24:38 Studying the Word of God.
26:25 The Gift of Grace in Paul's Ministry.
28:38 The Power of God's Grace.
30:42 The Transformation Through Grace.
Takeaways:
Paul's ministry was a result of God's grace.
Believers are called to understand their identity in Christ.
The church plays a vital role in revealing God's wisdom.
Grace is the foundation of salvation and ministry.
Exegesis allows the Word of God to speak for itself.
The unsearchable riches of Christ are available to those whom the Lord calls.
God's eternal purpose includes both Jew and Gentile.
Boldness in faith comes from our relationship with Christ.
Paul's tribulations were for the glory of the members of the Church.
Study the Bible.
Summary:
In this sermon, Pastor James explores the themes of God's calling, the transformation of Paul, and the Christian life characterized by self-denial and service to others. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's calling, the mystery of inclusion of Gentiles in the gospel, and the necessity of living for others while maintaining openness without compromising the truth. The sermon culminates in a call to follow Paul's example of living a life dedicated to Christ and serving others.
Keywords:
Paul, calling, Christian life, sacrifice, service, gospel, grace, inclusion, transformation.
Takeaways:
Paul's calling was for the Gentiles.
A Christian's identity is rooted in their new life in Christ.
Dying to self is essential for true Christian living.
Paul's transformation illustrates the power of God's grace.
Living for others is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith.
The mystery of the gospel includes all people groups.
Sacrifice is a necessary part of serving others.
Openness to others does not mean compromising the gospel.
The genuine call of God requires self-denial and service.
Sound bites:
"How do you know which is real?"
"A Christian dies to self."
"It is all because of grace."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Paul's Calling
02:48 The Nature of God's Calling
05:49 Dying to Self: Paul's Transformation
08:29 Living for Others: Paul's Example
11:17 The Mystery of Inclusion: Gentiles and the Gospel
14:02 Sacrifice and Service in the Christian Life
16:50 Openness Without Compromise
18:51 The Genuine Call of God
22:07 Conclusion: Following Paul's Example
In this sermon, Pastor James explores Ephesians 2, emphasizing the transition from being outsiders to becoming citizens of God's kingdom through Christ. He discusses the nature of the Church, the significance of the covenants, and the reconciliation achieved through Jesus' sacrifice. The message highlights the importance of understanding our identity as members of God's family and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers.
Keywords:
Ephesians, citizenship, church, reconciliation, covenants, Holy Spirit, identity, Paul, grace, faith
Takeaways:
The purpose of our salvation is the glorification of God.
The Church is the Body of Christ, consisting of believers.
Being part of the visible church does not guarantee salvation.
True faith is a condition of the heart, not just a profession.
We were once alienated from God, without hope.
The blood of Christ reconciles us to God and each other.
We are now fellow citizens with the saints.
Our identity has changed; we are part of God's family.
The Holy Spirit dwells within us, making us His temple.
Christ's sacrifice fulfilled the law's requirements for reconciliation.
Sound bites:
"A legal pathway to citizenship."
"We were the ultimate illegals."
"His Church will not fail."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Ephesians 2: Citizenship in Christ
02:50 Understanding Our Former Condition
10:59 The Nature of the Church: Visible vs. Invisible
17:26 The Covenants and Our Alienation
22:31 Reconciliation Through Christ's Blood
28:23 Our New Identity as Citizens and Family
36:42 Conclusion: The Holy Spirit's Indwelling
In this sermon, Pastor James explores the theological concepts of new birth and regeneration as presented in Ephesians. Salvation is a gift from God, not a result of human effort. This sermon discusses the importance of understanding God's grace.
Last week, we learned from Paul the nature of the blessings which are ours in Christ. Paul the Apostle now gives thanks to God for Gentile conversion and assures them of his prayers inverses 15–16. Paul goes on to pray that God will give the Ephesians that wisdom and knowledge of Himself. Paul reminds them and us that it is the Spirit who is the author of this wisdom and knowledge in verse 17. In verses 18-19, Paul’s prayer is that their eyes might be enlightened properly to understand the nature and value of that hope which is founded in the call of God, the glory of the inheritance to be enjoyed among the saints, and the greatness of that power which had already been exercised in their conversion. The power which effects our spiritual resurrection is the same power which they experienced, and that was the same power which raised Christ from the dead.
Paul wrote letters to the churches which he planted in the ancient world. So much of Christian theology comes from these letters. He wrote letters as a pastor charged with the watch-care of the flock of God. The Book of Ephesians is one of thoseletters.
Abram and Lot are opposite in many ways. Abram walked by faith; Lot walked by sight. Abram was magnanimous; Lot was greedy. Abram looked for city whose builder and maker wasGod; Lot made his home in cities built by wicked men which were later destroyed by God. Abram becomes the father of all them that believe; Lot becomes the father (through incest) of 2 different pagan nations—the Moabites and Ammonites.Concerning Abraham, Romans 4:13 says, “For the promise that he would be the heir of the world was not to Abraham or to hisseed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.” Gen. 19:30 tells us that Lot lived in a cave. Thus, Abram inherits the world through righteousness of faith, Lot is not heard from again. So, it should not be a surprise to us that eventually, they part ways.
Faith is always tested, and now we learn that there was a famine in the land. Abram steps out in faith, and now comes face to face with famine. In fact, Abram now heads downto Egypt as if to be driven into a famine enforced exile from the very land God promised. I’m glad that God’s Word not only records the great victories of our great God, but it also records the humanity—the shortcomings and sins of thosewhom God calls. God did not call Abram because of Abram’s perfection. No, God called Abram that God Himself would be glorified. Today, we’re going to see that Abram does not do everything perfectly, yet God’s promises remain. God’smercy is everlasting. God’s grace is even upon the vile sinner, and His plan plan will not fail.
There is a lot to study in chapter 11, and I encourage you to read it on your own time. It will lead us to the text for today. As a summary of the things you will find there, there is a genealogy that takes us from Shem, the son of Noah to Abram who will soon experience a name change to Abraham. The setting is a time of warriors, shepherds, and builders all leaving the tower of Babel and the plain of Mesopotamia. I made mention of the Babylonian heart last week, and that iscertainly what traveled with the idolatrous pagans as they ventured out. Not only are the humans estranged from each other, but they are also estranged from the one true and living God. If we were to go through the remainder of chapter11, we would find that man’s years of life are shortened, fulfilling God’s promise from Genesis 6:3. Historicalevidence shows us that the predominate religion at this time in the land of Ur was the worship of a moon-god named Nanna. Joshua 24:2 lets us know that even Terah, Abraham’s father did not serve the one true and living God. It says, “Yourfathers, including Terah, the father of Abraham and the father of Nahor, dwelt on the other side of the River in old times; and they served other gods.” This is significant because it is in thisenvironment that Abram not only hears God’s word, but by faith he obeys.
I’m going to suggest to you today that the human heart is a Babylonian heart. God scattering the people at the Tower of Babel, but don’t forget that centuries later, Nebuchadnezzar took a look around and said, “Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?” (Daniel 4:30). Then there was King Herod who addressed his people and they shouted back, “Thevoice of a god, and not of a man!” (Acts 12:22). Then we have Alexander the Great, Caesar Augustus (some thought he was God), Louis XIV (the sun king), Hitler, and Stalin (who encouraged people to think of him when they were feeling down). And of course, how could we forget Elon Musk and others who elevate themselves? All of this is the height of...Human Arrogance.
I would like you to think about forgiveness. It can be difficult. In fact, I’d be willing to say, we have a difficult text . It’s notdifficult because we cannot possibly understand it; it’s difficult because we have to live it. I’m sure that each of us have experienced situations which have required us to forgive someone. Perhaps you have found it very difficultto do. Have you ever thought, “Why should I forgive?” Or maybe you’ve thought, “It is only right that I should receive some kind of payback, for what was done to me.” It has been said that you are never more like God than when youforgive.
To understand what happened on what we call "Palm Sunday", we must understand history, prophecy, and context.
Picking it up from last week, let’s imagine what it must have been like. The Bible gives us a picture of Noah and his family standing there in this new, and I believe replenished world inthe sunlight. Take the time to think about what it must have been like, and allow the Word of God to impress your imagination. It represented a new beginning, with Noah as the human centerpiece. Last week we noticed that the first thing he did was build an altar to the Lord and sacrifice burnt offerings. We talked aboutthe turning aside of God’s wrath—propitiation. Remember also the comment I made about true worship happens when we recognize our total dependence upon God. I would add today that Noah was publicly and completely giving his life to God. We talked about the aroma of Noah’s offering pleasing God meaning that God accepted the worship. We talked about God’s covenant, blessing, and grace, and we found the sacredness of human life spelled out and affirmed by God’s Word.Lastly, we talked about the sign of the covenant: a shimmering rainbow, “my bow” as God literally termed it.
So... we're moving on...
This one arrives late, but I had a lot going on over the last 2 weeks. How do you view covenant, blessing, and grace? What does propitiation mean? Why did Noah make a sacrifice when he got off the ark? How did Noah know what a clean or an unclean animal was? Answers to these questions and more await...
We continue to explore the life and times of Noah. During this study, we will see incredible judgment, but we will also see incredible grace. Remember Christ is our only perfect Savior!
We come now to a part of Genesis which is the most debated subject in the entire Book of Genesis. It is more debated that the creation story itself. I honestly did not want to cover this, and in the interest of keeping us moving at a good pace through Genesis, I thought I would have a good excuse to either pick another subject entirely or just skip it and move on. However, one of the things which happensas we go through the Bible in my particular preaching method, is I do not get to choose the topics. The topics come from the Bible itself as we go through it.
Did people really live over 800 years? Where did Cain get his wife? What's in a name? Can we really trust Genesis? Hasn't science already shown us that there's no possible way Genesis can be true? What's any of this got to do with the gospel of Jesus Christ?
RC states of our text for today, “The prophesied hostility between the offspring of the serpent and the offspring of the woman (cf. 3:15) takes shape immediately in the hostility of ungodly Cain against godly Abel (vv. 1–16), and in the contrast of Cain’sungodly offspring (which we will see later) versus the godly line of Seth (4:17–5:32). There is a horrendous escalation of sin from Cain to Lamech. 4:1–16 The focus is on Cain, the archetype of Satan’s followers. Cain displays his kinship with the devil by his hostility against God and his murder of a good man (v. 8; Matt. 23:35; Heb. 11:4), together with his lies (v. 9; John 8:44; 1 John 3:12).”[1]
[1] R. C. Sproul, ed., The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (Orlando, FL;Lake Mary, FL: Ligonier Ministries, 2005), 15.
We continue on from where we left Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. I did not bring this out last week, but in2:15 Adam was given a job to do.He was not to be idle doingnothing. His was a labor of keeping and tending the garden. Now, exactly what that looked like we are not told, but whatever it was- it was rewarding. It did not entail hard labor, the sweat of Adam’s brow, and the production of thorns and thistles as a reward. This work was done in obedience to God’s command.We see here a works based covenant with God. What happens here in chapter 3 is a test of fidelityto mankind’s King. Obedience is rewarded with a life in harmony with God. Disobedience will bring death.
Today, we will begin our study through the Book of Genesis. I love the Book of Genesis for a number of reasons which I’m sure will come out as we move through it. For the longest time, my approach to the Book of Genesis was defensive. I felt as though I had to be ready to give an explanation for everything Darwinian evolutionary and atheistic thought could throw at me. I have talked with many skeptics, agnostics, and atheists during my life, and I have learned through talking with them—a true skeptic will never be convinced of anything, and they are without question some of the most arrogant, lonely, and miserable people I have ever met. Skeptics are selectively skeptic—only when they come across something that they don’t like are they skeptical. Theirissue is not one of logic; their problem is one of a deaf and blind spirit which refuses to see and hear because they are spiritually dead. Romans 1:22–25 Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. Therefore God alsogave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
Those verses in Romans truly apply to Darwinian Evolution. While I’m prepared to give a defense and point out the utter foolishness of evolution, I want to encourage you, as God’s people, that’s not the reason to study Genesis. We needto study Genesis, because within this great book, we will find the gospel.
Genesis is the Book of Beginnings. We find a lot of first things happening in this great book. We find the beginning of man, the first family, and someone named Seth who is the many times great grandfather of Jesus. We find the first sin,first murder, the first polygamy, and the first false worship. And, on the pages of Genesis, we will find God’s plan of redemption.
I will not be taking the usual approach where we read every single verse. Genesis is 50 chapters long, and it covers the first 2,000 years of history. I don’t want to be in this book for the next several years, so we are going to take a rather accelerated approach. However, if you ever have anyquestions about anything at all, just ask me, and I will be glad to talk with you about it.
In Chapter 4 we have the wedding of Boaz and Ruth. If we were looking for a case illustrating the law of God as given in Dt. 25:5, there is no better example. But there’s a lot more going on here than a study in case law. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is here in pictures, shadows, and symbols. And, as I’ve brought out since the first chapter, a descendant of this marriage will be David the King, and a descendant of David is the Son of David—the Savior, Jesus Christ. Remember whenwe covered the Book of Mark, how we learned that “Son of David” was one of the titles for the Messiah. The Son of David is the Bridegroom of His Church. His chosen Bride is the Church where both Gentile and Jew unite to worship the onetrue and living God. In this last chapter we will see how there was another in line to be Ruth’s husband, but Boaz legally bested him. We will see this marriage of Boaz and Ruth solemnized with the blessings of the neighbors. And,finally we will see the offspring of this marriage—Obed, the grandfather of David. Matthew Henery (Theologian, Wales, 1662-1714) speculated that the Holy Spirit directed King David to ensure that this Book of Ruth was inserted into the sacred canon of Scripture. King David may have wanted the world to know about his great-grandmother, her virtues, the fact that God saved a Gentile, and the providence of God. Be that as it may, the Holy Spirit is the one to place this Book right where it is for the edification of the Body of Christ—the Church, and He put it here because it is the inspired Word of God—not a work of fiction as even some biblical scholars claim.
At this point in our narrative, we are moving toward a major resolution for Ruth and Naomi. We are moving from despair to hope. We are going to see the power of faithfulness,courage, and hope. We’re going to see that even in the face of uncertainty, God’s loving-kindness, His steadfast love—what is called “hesed” in Hebrew will conquer all the things these ladies are facing and Ruth’s needs will be met. May God bless the reading, preaching, and the hearing of the Word.
Up to this point in the Book of Ruth, we have seen the loving and excellent character of two women—Naomi and Ruth. Although others have been mentioned, these two women arethe only real actors up to this point. But now, in chapter 2 we will be introduced to the kinsman, Boaz. He’s the first male who’s not sick, dying, or disobedient to God we find in the story. Chapter 2 shows us Ruth’s faithfulness and love for the covenant people of God. We will also see her rewarded even in the midst of uncertainty and suffering. Boaz will be the one through whom this wonderful deliverance will come. As we look at chapter 2, remember all the circumstances from Chapter 1 that our God used in order to have Ruth graftedinto the line of Christ and taken in among Jesus’ ancestors. Ruth coming into the covenant community is a figure of the Gentiles coming into the Church.
Ruth has been called the most beautiful piece of literature in the not only the Bible, but the entire world. This book is about the providence of God and His covenant community. Providence is God’s care, preparation in advance, and His guardianship over you. Ruth is about the kindness of God’s people. BTW- We do not get to be God’s people because we are kind. We are kind because we are God’s people. This book gives us a picture of our Lord’s redeeming work. Boaz, a character we’ll get to as we look into this book, is the redeeming relative or kinsman-redeemer. This points us to Christ—our kinsman redeemer. Ruth is a picture of those who enter into new life through Christ, and we will see the clear hand of the Holy Spirit as we look at Ruth’s life. The main theme of this story is that of a redeeming relative. The most important theme in the Book of Ruth is God’s preservation and continuation of the promised Seed and the redemption of God’s people no matter the circumstances.
No other passage shows the heart of love of the Lord seen in the Suffering Servant, the Messiah, Jesus, more than this one. And all this 700 years before Christ lived on earth. The NT quotes more from Isaiah than all the other prophets combined, with an amazing 308 references in the various NT books. For example, John quotes Isaiah in chapter 12 of his Gospel, and then he adds this commentary in verse 41, “These things Isaiah said when he saw (Jesus’) glory and spoke of Him.” As a matter of fact, when one reads verses like these, it’s almost as though Isaiah was an eyewitness to the flogging and the crucifixion—that he was there. But remember, Isaiah’s long ministry was roughly 700 years prior to that of Jesus. Seven centuries separate them. I’ve used this as an example before, but that’s like someone writing in the early 1300s about the events related to the terrorist attacks here on 9/11/01!
Some of you may remember the classic A Charlie Brown Christmas. There’s a scene where an exasperated Charlie Brown yells, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?” I have to admit I’ve felt that way before. Amid the commercialism, materialism and the general confusion of the holiday, we probably all want to understand what happened to make Christmas the largest season in retail. During my short time as a manager at Walmart, I was truly amazed at what happened in our stores around Christmas. Multiple millions of dollars in retail moved through the stores I was in. People going into debt, for gifts that others don’t really want or need, in some cases attempting to impress those who don’t care, and buying things that will be out of the style trends next year. We seek to understand, just like Charlie Brown. “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”
-
Are you troubled by the events, people, or circumstances in your life?
-
Are you worried about the events, people, or circumstances in your life?
-
Are you fearful because of the events, people or circumstances in your life?
-
Is your heart at peace?
I’m going to suggest that if we’re honest, we are prone to being troubled, worried, and fearful. And we’re not alone. It’s common for all of us. Just look at the disciples of Jesus and consider that Jesus knew their hearts.
Today is our first Sunday of Advent. I love this time of year for a number of reasons. Advent is a time that we set aside each year to celebrate the birth of our Lord and King! It is a time when we are to long for or strongly desire His coming. The appropriate sense of the season is one of waiting with great anticipation for the Savior who will ransom captive Israel. This is the attitude of this portion of the season. It is an attitude of hope. Some of us were raised in Christian homes, and it’s hard to remember a time where Jesus was not in our life. It’s that way for several in our church. Praise God for that. However for some of us, we didn’t have that. No matter what your upbringing may have been, try to contemplate your life before Jesus saved you. Think about life before you made a public profession of faith. Think about a life of darkness and slavery. For all of us, no matter when we came to Christ, there are sins of the past which we deeply regret. We were in bondage. We were children of wrath. There was no hope for us. There is a list of sins given in 1 Corinthians 6, but there’s a great verse—verse 11 which states of those sins “such were some of you.” Now, think about the certainty that our salvation is secure. Think about our everlasting covenant from our everlasting God who does not break His promises. Indeed we hope in the promise of Christ!
This is the final installment of our verse by verse study through Mark's Gospel. We will look at the resurrection of Jesus, His ascension into heaven, and the Great Commission.
In keeping with the theme of covenant, we are going to see today what I’m calling the covenant ratified through the death and burial of Jesus. In his book, The Roman Empire Colin Wells states, “The Romans had a highly developed and theatrical sense of the public ceremonial.” They loved the triumphal parade. You could say, “Everyone loves a parade.” What is happening here with Jesus is a mock triumph. Instead of a parade with the victorious king or general leading the line, the soldiers are marching Jesus to His crucifixion. There were 2 purposes for such a horrible execution. First, as we’ve already seen, the crucifixion meant to prolong the pain, and force the victim to linger on the cross possibly for days until they slowly died from asphyxiation brought on by muscle fatigue. Second, the public exposure served as a warning and a deterrent. The victim would be marched through the streets with a placard announcing the crime, and the cross would be placed near a well-traveled road, so that a passers-by would see.
According to the historian Josephus, when Jerusalem was besieged, anyone caught outside the wall attempting to forage for food were crucified next to the wall of the city. The Roman general Titus, “hoped that the spectacle might perhaps induce the Jews to surrender, for fear that continued resistance might involve them in a similar fate. The soldiers out of rage and hatred amused themselves by nailing their prisoners in different postures; and so great was their number, that space could not be found for the crosses nor crosses for the bodies.”
We are continuing on with the theme of the acknowledged covenant as the arrest and trial of Jesus comes to an end. Lord willing, next week up to the first week of Advent, we will see the covenant ratified through Christ’s death and burial, and we will see it vindicated in His resurrection. That will get us through Mark 16:1-8, and we will finish with Christ’s victory as we consider verses 9-20. We have seen the acknowledgment of Jesus by the counsel of Jews, and now we are going to see the acknowledgment by Pilate. Based on their trumped-up charges, they now seek Rome’s involvement.
Last week I gave us part 1 of what I’m calling “The Covenant Acknowledged.” What I mean by this is that the enemies of Christ have gathered around Him now to basically ask Him how He pleads to the charges they are bringing against Him, and in so doing they are in a way, acknowledging His teachings, miracles, and all other activities.
One of the things which I have emphasized is that Christians are covenant people. The Church is a covenant body. When we become Christians, we enter into this sacred covenant with God through Christ. When we become confessional members of a church, we are saying that we believe in what this church stands for, and we enter into covenant with each other. Covenant is what we actively do, and it is actively who we are. So, please keep this in mind as we continue to examine what our Lord goes through here.
Last week I made many references to this particular Passover feast as the last supper, or the final Passover feast. Obviously, the Jews still celebrate Passover even to this day. I used those terms in spite of these continuingfeasts because it was all fulfilled in Christ. These OT practices are finally fulfilled once and for all in Jesus. So, there are those, even among Christians who like to continue having Passover meals or Seder meals, and I suppose it’s good for educational purposes, but as far as casting that forward looking prophetic purpose Jesus is the final Passover Lamb. I will be starting off by finishing up what I had from last week, and then we will moveon to the main point for today—the announcement of the covenant.
Remember from last week verses 29-31, Peter’s words to Jesus, “Even if all are made to stumble, yet I will not be.” Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that today, even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” But he spoke more vehemently, “If I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” And they all said likewise. Interestingly, that our Gospel of Mark is Peter’s account of the gospel to John Mark, and he is sure to tell John Mark that he swore he would not betray His Lord. But notice also that all the others said the same thing. In the midst of Jesus’ prophecy of His betrayal and the disciples’ desertion, we have this institution of the Lord’s Supper.
We continue to learn about the creation of the Kingdom as seen in 5 parts, and examined through the concept of covenant.
Today is a special episode from the Book of Luke. We will be back to Mark, Lord willing, next week.
There are religions out there, some of them even masquerading as some form of Christianity, which teach people in one form or another to work for salvation. They have a theology which requires certain things to achieve salvation. This kind of false teaching, at its core, does not see salvation as a free gift.
What does the Bible say about such things?
Today we begin our journey through the last 3 chapters of Mark’s Gospel. In chapters 14-16, we are going to see the creation of the Kingdom.
Today we will take a break from the Gospel of Mark and look at the Parable of the Prodigal Son. May this be a blessing to you. Don't forget to share this podcast with others.
Something that we often miss in our culture today is the use of poetic, figurative, and judgment language in the Hebrew language. When we read of thesun being darkened, the moon not giving its light, stars falling from the sky, floods, fire, and smoke—these are very standard prophetic imagery for political and social collapse. It does not mean now, nor did it mean in the OT when the prophets said these things that physical stars were going to fall out of the sky. It did not mean that the moon was not going to physically go dark forever. In fact, we absolutely know that these things did not happen. It is an absolute fact that Hebrew people understood the figurative way of a prophet saying things were about to get bad. Because we are well-educated Americans, living in the West, when we read, “sun, moon, and stars,” our mind goes to the actual physical heavenly bodies. It’s understandable. But the very first rule of proper Bible interpretation is to ask the question, “How would the original audience understand what I just read?” It’s a hard question to hold yourself to. But to be consistent and honest, we have to ask that question. It is the first rule of hermeneutics.What did the disciples understand? What did the Israelites understand? The disciples, unlike you and I today, were not steeped in Western thought, they were steeped in Hebrew thought.
Today’s sermon is a continuation from last week’s sermon where we were discussing the Olivet Discourse. We are going to continue on today, but I am speaking specifically about what is called the “abomination of desolation”.
We live in a world which seems to be in constant turmoil. In fact, it has been stated that the 20th century was the bloodiest century of known history. From 1900 to 1988 170 million men, women, and children were shot, beaten, tortured, knifed, burned, starved, frozen, crushed, or worked to death. Governments invented ways to kill people. Burning, drowning, hanging, and bombing are just a few of the ways it was done. One estimate is as high as click 203 million people now dead over the last century at the hands of governments given to wicked, godless worldviews and abuse of power. Of course we know about the constant saber rattling of governments all over the world today. There’s the ever present threat of China, the invasion at our Southern border, the war between the Jews and Hamas, the war between Russia and the Ukraine, and we just saw a little over a month ago now the assassination attempt on a presidential candidate. Then there is the crisis of the ever-weakening dollar, environmental hazards, pesticides in our food, global warming or cooling—climate change.
There are many different conspiracy theories that abound on the internet and social media outlets or the social unrest simmering just below the surface click with groups like ANTIFA and BLM. The media now calls us "Christian Nationalists" if we appeal to God as the source of our rights. We rejoiced that Roe v. Wade click was finally over-turned, but what it has revealed in more states than not, is that people want to keep killing the fatherless in the womb. When I stand here as a Christian and say, “Jesus is King right now,” I can understand how many—even other believers might say, “That’s just not true! How can you possibly believe that Jesus is reigning right now? Don’t you know these are the signs of the end of days?”
Today’s sermon is going to be a little bit different than my normal format. I already know that there will be at least 2 parts, and very possibly 3 parts as we look at this section of Scripture. Today, I will begin at verse 5. I am going to take each one of Jesus’ statements and give you some historical, cultural, and grammatical context. I want to present it to you because when we look at Scripture whether it is this subject or any other subject, we need to ask ourselves how the original audience would have understood what was being said or written. And, as always, I want to give you doctrinal truth so that you will be equipped to withstand false teachings.
When we left off in Mark’s Gospel, Jesus had silenced His questioners and He had told this last one in particular that he was not far from the Kingdom of God. We brought out at that time that, “To be ‘in the kingdom’ one must do more than simply approve of Jesus’ teaching; one must submit entirely to His authority and person. We are not told what became of this last questioner. So, a question which lingers in my mind is, ‘Did he make the next step and accept Jesus as the Son of David and David’s Lord?’”[1]He had the knowledge. He had some level of agreement. Did he trust Jesus as the Son of David, yet Jesus as the Lord of David? This is what we will be considering today.
[1] David E. Garland, Mark, The NIV Application Commentary (Grand Rapids, MI:Zondervan Publishing House, 1996), 477.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Now, the elders, scribes, and Pharisees send the Sadducees and the Herodians to Jesus. Will they catch Jesus in a trick question this time?
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Pastor Jay Nelson was pulpit supply at Green Meadow Community Church. This is part of his series, "The Attributes of God". Here, he focuses on God's Holiness. May God bless the hearing and the reading of His holy word, the Bible.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Mark could be split into 2 parts. The first 10 chapters would be the Person of Jesus Christ; thenbeginning at chapter 11, the focus shifts to the Authority of Jesus’ Office. From Chapters 11-13 we begin to see not only the authority of our King Jesus,but we find Him dealing with the Kingdom of Israel in crisis. Our passage today will deal with the contentof His judgment and the sentence brought upon Jerusalem. Jesus Christ the King gives Hisverdict in terms of a parable.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Spiritual blindness and pride can hinder us in our walk with Christ. We can fail to see just exactly how close He is to us. And, when we fail to see His closeness it often leads to fear and unbelief. So, I want to encourage you today, take note of His nearness. Consider what He endured for you. It is very personal. And, then, as you consider these things, reach out to Him in prayer. He has utterly destroyed every barrier in the way; the veil has been ripped in two, top to bottom, and you can now come in.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
This was the message delivered at Green Meadow Community Church the day after the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Our King Jesus is also a Prophet and our Priest, and what we see in verse 11 is a temple inspection. We have talked about our Lord’s offices in previous episodes, and He acts here within the duties of these offices. He is King of Israel, the Prophet of God –foretelling with 100%accuracy the future events soon to take place, and the only High Priest you will ever need—in the order of Melchizedek. He is the final offeror and thefinal offering. In this office, the temple is under His jurisdiction.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
We have been making our way through Mark’s Gospel, and in a sense we have been journeying with our Lordto His destination—the cross. We have heard the voice of the one crying in the wilderness, “Prepare the way of the Lord!” We have been called to action, and we have seen the power of forgiveness. We learned that not only is Christ the Lord of lords and the King of kings, but that He is also the friend of sinners. We have seen that He is Lord of the Sabbath. While we take our rest in Him, we are at the same time to shine the light into the darkness. Time and again we have seen our Lord Jesus cut to the heart of any given issue with precision, wisdom, and divine knowledge. In the midst of His miracles and signs we have seen the cost of true discipleship, we’ve learned that the first is to be last and the last will be first, and we’ve learned that if we do not come with the childlike faith, there will be no entrance into His glorious Kingdom. Today, we are going to consider yet another one of His miraculous healings—the healing of blind Bartimaeus. There is a picture here of spiritual things. So, I invite you to continue this journey with me as we consider this beautiful picture set before us today.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Jesus responds to His disciples, to Peter, James, and John specifically.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
As we consider our passage today, we need to keep in mind the previous chapters we’ve covered. Remember how we’ve considered Christian service to others. Remember the things our Lord has said about the first being the last or the greatest being the least. Remember how He has emphasized the totally helpless dependency of a child as a comparison of what our dependency upon the Lord should be.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Many thanks to Bethel Christian Reformed Church, Manhattan, MT. I was given the opportunity to preach there, 5/26/24. I hope this is encouraging to you.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
The world’s attitude toward children of the Hellenistic society in the 1st century was hostile. Of course, we all know that Herod had children put to death at the Advent according to Matthew 2:16-20. Children were in a precarious position. Sometimes they were loved. Sometimes they were exploited. This all depended upon how the family thought they could best benefit. There is a fragment of a letter believed to be dated 1 BC which contains instructions from a husband to his pregnant wife. She is instructed if it’s a boy, keep it; if it’s a girl cast it out. There was no Roman law which protected children in this case. Exposing children to the elements was not outlawed in Rome until 375 AD, in large part because of the Christian Church. It was the Christians who rescued babies.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Is someone who is divorced and remarried in a permanent state of sin with no chance of salvation?
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Your salvation is free. However, did you know that Jesus requires things of His disciples?
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
There was too much for a single episode, so I had to make a part 2. I hope this is a blessing to all who hear it.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Jesus and His disciples are now heading south from the mount of transfiguration. Jesus has told them where they are going and what is going to happen. There is a decisiveness as Jesus is passing through Galilee for the final time. Jesus is not going to be stopping. His final destination is Jerusalem. We’ve just read that the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of men, and they will kill Him. After He is killed, He will rise again on the third day. As we’ve pointed out before, the disciples did not understand this; they were afraid to ask Him about it. I want us to notice today not only what Jesus says, but how He reacts to the disciples.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
This episode was first posted on March 19, 2024. I had to do some edits. Hopefully, this is the better recording. In this episode, we might begin to understand why people wanted to make Jesus their king. However, what was in the minds of people had more to do with physical healing and free food than with true followership. We are going to further see that Jesus is and was God in the flesh- the same God of the Old Testament is the God of the New!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Today our attention is turned once again to a demonic confrontation where our Lord Jesus Christ shows yet again His power over evil. This account is also found in Matthew and Luke giving us 3 different witnesses. When taken together we get a full picture of what was going on. In Matthew 17:14-21 we learn that the young boy at the center of this narrative was epileptic and suffered severely. Luke 9:37-43 lets us know that this young boy is his father’s only child. When we put it all together we see a boy who has a mute spirit, foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and suffers from epilepsy or seizers.
These demons are those spiritual beings, corrupt and hostile to both God and man, whom Jesus exorcised from their victims. These disgusting vile creatures are permanently opposed to God, and as such they hate His image bearers (humanity), and they hate the Kingdom of God. Since the cross of Christ, the preaching of the gospel, and the expansion of His glorious kingdom, we do not see their power demonstrated anything like it was before Christ came. Satan is bound, and he is bound right now. I’ve heard it explained like this: Satan is like a dog on a chain. He’s still there and vicious as ever, but he is chained. Christ has permitted him to only go so far. Concerning demons, John Calvin said, “they drag their chains wherever they go.” Just remember, they are chained though. We have seen them time and again recognize and fear Christ, and we’ve seen how they are subjected to His authority. Martin Luther stated that the devil is God’s devil. So, while we may see demonic things, and it may appear that we are surrounded by evil we would do well to remember that these forces have no power over God’s elect. Demons are our Lord’s defeated enemies. Colossians 2:15 says, “Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them in it.” Demons are limited in their power and are permitted to do whatever they do only for the glory of God as His people contend and defeat them in the name of Christ. So, as we study this today, do not be afraid. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
The text is from Matthew 21:1-11. May this be an encouragement to all who hear it.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
This is late getting posted, but there were many audio issues to work out. The text is from Luke 24:13-34. May this be a blessing to all who hear it. This sermon was preached at Green Meadow Community Church (CRC) by Pastor James.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Last week we celebrated the Lord’s resurrection. Today, we are going to cover some things which happened in the life and ministry of Jesus before His glorious resurrection. Hopefully this will be an encouragement to you as you continue to walk with Christ. You have heard me say this before, but it bears repeating. Not only is the purpose of preaching to proclaim the gospel of Christ, but for those who are Christians we attend and learn so that we will be equipped to go do the work of the ministry. You have a job to do as a Christian, and I do what I can to equip and teach you for whatever God has called you to do. With that said, I’d like for us to consider Christ’s Glory today in terms of His authority and His return.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Last week we learned that from this point forward Jesus was going to be focusing on His death and travel to Jerusalem. So, it comes as no surprise to us today that the very first thing we read in our Gospel passage today is how Jesus told them that the Son of Man must suffer, be rejected, be killed, and in three days rise from the dead. We also talked about how that even the disciples had hard hearts—that even they, like the blind man who recovered his sight gradually, didn’t see clearly at the start. But, oh how their eyes would be opened over time! Oh, how their faith would be tested even more in days to come! James, sometimes called “James the Greater” is the only one who has his death recorded in Scripture. In Acts 12 we read that Agrippa killed James “with the sword”. The others are not recorded in Scripture, so I take it as what it is—tradition, but it is said that Phillip was crucified near Hierapolis. In 60 AD Matthew was killed with a spear. Andrew was crucified on an X-shaped cross in either Greece or what is now the Ukraine. Simon Peter was crucified by Nero. Thaddeus was crucified in Persia. Bartholomew translated the Gospel of Matthew into India’s language and was beaten and crucified. Thomas was killed with a spear by pagan priests in India. Simon (not Peter) is believed to have made it as far as Britain where he also was crucified. James Alphaeus made it to age 94 at which time he was beaten and stoned. And, as we can verify from Scripture, John is the only one who was not executed, but he was banished to the Isle of Patmos. The cost of discipleship is great. The gospel we believe and preach has been brought to us by the blood of martyrs. The gospel we believe and preach is the blood of Christ. Christians, our faith is one of blood.
From this point in our journey through Mark up to 10:52 we are going to find 3 predictions of Jesus’ death and resurrection. The first one is here today in 8:31. The next one will come in 9:31, and the third one comes in 10:33-34. Each of these passages deal with His travel to Jerusalem, and they challenge us in discipleship. Most importantly, they tell us of our Savior.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
We have seen two miraculous feedings at this point from our Savior. The first of course was the feeding of the 5,000, and last week we saw the feeding of the 4,000. Don’t forget that there were also women and children in these crowds. This is interesting for us to note as we see the disciples getting into the boat with Jesus and forgetting to bring provisions. They have one loaf of bread between them. I love to read details like this about the disciples because it lets us know that they were human like us, and sometimes they didn’t make the best plans. And it is because of this failure to plan that they misunderstand the teaching of their Master which follows.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
This special episode is Pastor James' sermon for Palm Sunday, 2024. The text is Matthew 21:1-11, but many references are given which show Jesus Christ fulfilled the prophets and now holds the offices of Prophet, Priest, and King.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Archeologists have discovered where they believe Capernaum was. This is the location we will read of in our text today. The remains of a synagogue have been found there which have a carving in the doorway of a bowl of mana and cluster of grapes.[1] Mana of course was the bread of heaven sent down by God to feed the children ofIsrael as they wandered through the wilderness, and of course we know that grapes are used to make wine. Both bread and wine are essential to us as Christians as these are the elements of the Lord’s table. Now, when I findthese kinds of things, I can’t help but wonder, “Was this the very synagogue where Jesus preached as we find here in our text?” There is no way for us to know for sure, but it is interesting to me. I try to imagine what it would belike to hear our Lord’s voice as He proclaims that He is the Bread of Life, as my eyes wander up to that doorway.
[1] Burn, John Henry. The Preacher's Complete Homiletic Commentary on the Gospel According to St. Mark.Vol. 22. 31 vols. Ann Arbor, MI: Baker Books, No Date, 27-28.
.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
People asked Jesus for a sign. He did not give them one. Have you ever wondered why?
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Have you ever wondered why some prayers go unanswered?
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
“Thoughts are the parents of words and deeds. Let us pray daily for grace to keep our thoughts in order, and let us cry earnestly and fervently, ‘lead us not into temptation’”.
J. C. Ryle, Mark, Crossway Classic Commentaries (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 1993), 106.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
As we take a look at our passage today, please keep in mind that what the Holy Spirit has recorded here is for our good. What I would like to point out to you is the healing which takes place throughout this passage. The main subject is indeed the miraculous healing of the sick, but let’s pay attention to how Mark records this for us. In keeping with Mark’s style, I have outlined today’s sermon in terms of action. I will be pointing out different things that the people here did. We are introduced to a young daughter, then we have an older daughter in the middle of the story, and then we close out going back to the first young daughter. I read a study aide earlier this week which called this section a “daughter sandwich”. You might recall from last week these events come on the heels of Jesus doing a great work—casting out the demons called “Legion” from the man whose real name we are not given. But I personally like to think of him as Mr. Freeman.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Today, we cover the sending, the story of John the Baptist and Herod, and finally- resting in Christ.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
At this point in the life and times of Jesus, His public ministry has been focused on or around the immediate region of the Sea of Galilee and Capernaum. Today, we’re going to see a slight location change. Jesus moves away from Capernaum and Galilee and goes home. He comes back to Nazareth. This is about a 25 miles southwest of the Sea of Galilee and Capernaum. While Jesus was born in Bethlehem, grew up in a small village. This is similar to people today in that when asked where we are from, there might be several answers that you could give. Depending on the circumstances, I might tell you that I was born in Virgina, raised in Florida, but I came to GMCC from Three Forks. All of these would be correct. Perhaps the same is true for you. You were born one place, raised in another, traveled around, and now consider yourself to be from a certain location. Jesus, in this sense is the one born in Bethlehem, yet we can truly call Him Jesus of Nazareth. This village where Jesus grew up was so obscure, it didn’t even have a Christian church until the fourth century, under the reign of Constantine in the Roman Empire.
There are 640 acres in a square mile according to what I found on the ever-reliable internet. RC Sproul said in one of his sermons that, “…the people of Nazareth built their village out of a rocky hillside in an area that covered 60 acres. The whole town was 60 acres. (That’s not even a full 10th of a sq. mile.) Less than five hundred people lived there. Of course, having grown up in such a small village, Jesus knew everyone in town.” So, we’re talking small and insignificant by any worldly standard when we talk about Nazareth.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
The verses which we are going to consider today describe one of those mysterious miracles which the Gospels frequently record—the driving out of a demon. “Of all the cases of this kind in the NT, none is so fully described as this one. Of all the three evangelists who relate the story, none gives it so fully and minutely as Mark.” This is something for us to contemplate when we consider Mark’s fast pace and abbreviated style. He gives us an unusual amount of detail—for his style.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
We are going to continue our study today through the end of chapter 4 in the Book of Mark. As I have done several times, I want to point out the harmony of the Gospels. This account we’re reading today is also found in Matthew 8:23-27 and Luke 8:22–25. Over the last several Sundays we have seen a great deal of truth from Mark 4. We’ve learned that Jesus taught in parables in part that the prophecy would be fulfilled from Isaiah—”Seeing they may see and not perceive, And hearing they may hear and not understand…” We’ve seen an agricultural them as Jesus taught us about the seed which is scattered by the sower. We’ve had the hard soil of the wayside where the word is given, but Satan symbolized by the birds eats up the seeds. We took a look at the stony ground where the word is received with gladness, but does not endure over time because there is no root. Troubles come, and the shallow convert stumbles. We saw how some seeds fall among the thorns which picture the cares of this world, riches, and other desires. These choke out the word, and there is no fruit. Then we saw the good ground—these who accept the word and bear good fruit—some 30, 60, and 100 fold. We talked about letting our light shine in this dark world, and Jesus promised that to those who truly hear Him will receive even more. He warned us to take heed—that is to know, understand, assign meaning to His words. We do not want to be like those who had some knowledge but did not act upon it, and lost what little bit they had been given. We also had a short and poignant story. We looked at the parable about the mustard seed. I went to some effort to explain how I believe this is a picture of the Church throughout the world and time itself—growing and expanding.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
We continue to take our survey through the Book of Mark, this week picking up in verses 26-34. We’re going to divide the passage today into 2 parts. Verses 26-29 is the first part where we see a repetition of the theme from verse 20. Jesus compares His kingdom with a seed that grows. What is interesting about this first part of our text today is that Mark is the only one that records this repetition. We have already seen that Jesus would repeat themes throughout the Gospels, and here again we the emphasis on the work of grace in the individual soul. Then we’re going to notice that Jesus stays with this theme of seeds and growth, but taking verses 30-34, we’re going to see a shift from the individual to the Church of Jesus Christ throughout the entire world. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Today, we are going to get into the parable of the lamp. This parable comes right after the parable from last week’s sermon, the parable of the sower. Last week we learned that some are able to receive the message of Jesus, and some are not. There’s an implication here that the mystery of the kingdom of God is already revealed by Jesus, and those willing to embrace it, receive it. The verses we’re covering today are given more extensive treatment in Matthew 25:14-30 which is where we find the parables of the talents. There is also a similar parable of the 10 minas found in Luke 19:11-27. Again, taken together these passages clarify that embracing the kingdom of heaven means we act in obedience, according to the purposes of God.
There are words and ideas used by our Lord in our text today that He used repeatedly on many different occasions. What Jesus says here about the lamp being put under a basket or under a bed is found again in the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus tells us that, “…there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light.” He also cautions us that whatever measure we use, will be the measure for us. Both of these concepts are found in Matthew, but in both cases in an entirely different context from the passage today’s text from Mark. I think one reason for our Lord repeating these things so often and in different ways, is because He knew He’d be dealing with people like me. Sometimes, I just don’t get it. Sometimes, I need to hear it again, so that I may hear Him without my stubborn traditions.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
The recording on this one is rough, but listenable.As we have been making our way through the Book of Mark, I have reminded you that there is a parallel within the Gospels. I have mentioned what is called the harmony of the Gospels. As I was preparing for this sermon, I noticed that Matthew’s Gospel gives us a collection of 7 parables where Mark gives us 3. I find this interesting because both the numbers 3 and 7 are sacred numbers used throughout the Scriptures. When we read Matthew and Mark together in our private study, we get a cumulative picture of the Kingdom of God. We learn of its foundation, natural development, and glorious spread throughout the world. Any time you are reading Matthew, Mark, or Luke and you find a phrase, “The Kingdom of God is like…” you know the next teaching coming from Jesus is a parable. He taught us these things that we might know what the Kingdom of God is. Today, in our first 9 verses, we have harmony in Matthew 13:3-9 and Luke 8:4-8. It is the parable of the sower. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
One thing that is common among people, generally speaking, no matter where they are from, is the fact that everyone’s got an opinion. You might think that you’re not opinionated. But I can show you with just a matter of mentioning a few words, that everyone in this room has an opinion. Let’s start with something which may seem so very obvious. Republican vs. Democrat. You have an opinion don’t you? How about something a little less serious? Coke or Pepsi? Here’s one for you. Yoga pants being worn in public. I could go on and on with examples, but I’m sure you are starting to get the point. If we are truly honest, we’ve all got opinions. We’re going to look at some opinions found in our NT reading for today. These opinions are not simply a matter of taste, or even who you think the best political party is. This opinion that I want to talk to you about today is a lot more important than yoga pants, although, I have to say, that is one fad that I personally will not miss when it goes away. May God hasten the day. The question before us today is concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ. What is your opinion? Your opinion matters a great deal when it comes to your relationship with God. So, with that said, let’s take a look at our first opinion found in our text today.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Jesus had two sources of pressure coming at Him. First, as we have seen thus far in our journey through Mark, Jesus has had several collisions or as I like to call them conflicts with the religious leaders of the day. A second source of pressure would be His growing popularity with the people. It seems that everywhere Jesus went, a crowd followed.The conflicts which we have seen so far ultimately come down to Jesus standing against the traditions of men. Interestingly, in their attempts to make the Law of God easier, they only made it more difficult. Perhaps at the beginning some had good intentions, but at this point in history, the intent and spirit of the Law was lost on the minds of the people. Remember the first conflict was a question of Christ’s authority. Jesus forgave the paralytic’s sins and they accused Jesus of blasphemy. Next, Jesus called Levi to Himself. Levi- the despicable tax collector was now a disciple of the Lord. There was a question as to the direction of Jesus’ ministry. Following Levi’s calling and transformation, Jesus was seen breaking bread and fellowshipping with sinners. This was so shocking to the Pharisees because a teacher of the Law would have never kept such company. This Jesus must be a dangerous fraud. The third question was about feasting vs. fasting. Remember that the Pharisees did not recognize Jesus as the Savior. This was a question concerning the heart of Jesus, as I like to say because it so clearly had to do with His mission and atonement. And, then over the last two Sundays we talked about the conflict over the Sabbath. There were two examples dealing with the Sabbath bringing our total to 5 conflicts so far. Jesus and His disciples picked and ate the grain which constituted reaping a harvest and winnowing the chaff according to tradition. The last conflict was when Jesus healed the man with the withered hand on the Sabbath day. This broke their traditions because this was not a life-threatening situation. Two weeks ago, I brought out that there is no amount of so-called Sabbath keeping which will ever save your soul. I gave you encouragement from the Scriptures that we are not wrong for meeting on Sunday. Our Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath, and in Him all working and striving has ceased. And, We brought out last week that the Pharisees were so maddened with their hatred for Jesus that they begin to conspire with the Herodians. Their hypocrisy is on display for all to see. This is the reason for their anger at and hatred of Jesus.Can you imagine the pressure? How would you handle it if every single move you made was under the examination of hostile observers. They are always watching and listening to you. Waiting for you to make some kind of mistake—not so they could help, but so they could accuse and keep everything status quo. Now, Jesus was truly God, but He was also truly man. As a man, you know He felt their hatred for Him. He felt the emotional strain, the tension in the air, and the general discomfort of this kind of scrutiny. At the same time, being fully God He knew what was in the future, and He knew the pain He would suffer at their hands. But today was not that day. Today, we pick up our narrative along the seashore. He had withdrawn Himself, but the crowds keep coming. His popularity continues to grow. This growth is a stark contrast to the conspiracy of the Pharisees. There is an excitement around Jesus. People are starting to talk of making Him king. Could this actually be the Messiah?--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
This narrative found here in Mark is also found in Matthew 12:9-14 and Luke 6:6-11. When you put all three accounts together, here is what we learn. Another sabbath has arrived, and Jesus has entered the synagogue. Here He begins to teach (Luke 6:6). Attending the service is a man with a shriveled hand; specifically, the physician Luke (Col. 4:14) tells us it is the right hand. The Pharisees and scribes (Luke 6:7) are closely watching Jesus (Mark 3:2; Luke 6:7), with the purpose of preparing a charge against him. Jesus knows their thoughts, and forces the issue out of them (Luke 6:8; Matthew 12:10). His opponents ask Him, “Is it right to heal on the Sabbath?” Jesus turns to the man and says, “Step forward,” (Mark 3:3; Luke 6:8). Then Jesus asks them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” (Luke 6:9; Mark 3:4). When they remain silent, Jesus gets angry, and He was grieved by the hardness of their hearts (Mark 3:5). In Matthew 12:11-13 the Bible says, “11Then He said to them, “What man is there among you who has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? 12Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” 13Then He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and it was restored as whole as the other.” The Pharisees are furious (Luke 6:11). They leave the synagogue and discuss what should be done. They even make contact with the Herodians, and the plot was hatched. The aim was to kill Jesus (Mark 3:6; 6:6; Matthew 12:14).
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
This was supposed to be a the final point of the previous sermon, but ended up being its own sermon. It is my hope that this episode will be useful to you. Please take a moment and let me know the city where you hear my podcast. There's a one question survey you can take, or you can leave a voicemail through the link.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
The setting for today’s text is back in Capernaum. As I often say, I would like for us to imagine ourselves in the narrative today. Imagine that you were there in the crowd. Imagine that you had heard about this miracle man—one who spoke with authority casting out demons and healing the sick. Imagine that you were there that day, and there was no room for you to even get a glimpse. There were so many people there, that you might be waiting all day long just to get a glimpse of this man whom some were claiming to be the Messiah of Israel.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
According to a quick internet search, our national budget for fiscal 2022 was 1.688 trillion dollars. That’s a of tax dollars. It is almost beyond comprehension. In fact, we were talking about it a bit last week as we tried to wrap our heads around the concept of a trillion. As of February 2023, the US national debt was 31.4 trillion dollars. I did the math on our national budget only—not our national debt. Here’s what I came up with:
If you began at the birth of Christ spending $2,286,039.32 a day, every day, without any time off for weekends or holidays, and continued spending at that rate through the fall of Rome, the Dark Ages, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Age of Enlightenment, the Industrial Revolution, right on into the Twentieth Centurytill today, you would have just now succeeded in having spent $1.688 trillion. That comes out to spending $95,251.64 an hour for the last 2,023 years.[1]
It’s been said that two things are certain: death and taxes. Today, we’re going to take a look at Christ’s calling upon a tax collector named Levi. Today we’re going to look at that calling, a conflict, and a question—and all ofthese point to the Person and work of Jesus Christ.
[1] R. Kent Hughes, Mark: Jesus, Servant and Savior, vol.1, Preaching the Word (Westchester, IL: Crossway Books, 1989), 67.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Lord God, gracious and merciful, You anointed Your beloved Son with the Holy Spirit at His baptism in the Jordan, and You consecrated Him prophet, priest, andking. Father, we thank You for Jesus, the Son who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, ever one God. Pour out Your Spirit on us again that we may be faithful to our baptismal calling, ardently desire the communion of Christ’s body and blood, and serve Your people and all who need Your love. God, we ask these things as we turn our attention to the praise and glory of Your grace, through Jesus Christ, Your Son and our Lord.Amen.[1]
[1] Faith Alive Christian Resources. The Worship Sourcebook. 2nd. Grand Rapids, MI: The CalvinInstitute of Chrsitian Worship, Faith Alive Christian Resources, Baker Books, 2013.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
We are going to be going through the Book of Mark. It is one of the four Gospels, and it has been called the “action” Gospel. Mark does not give a lot of details.This Gospel takes a fast pace, and it is a summary of the ministry of Jesus Christ. Mark hits the highlights. I expect you as devoted Christians to read the entire Book of Mark. If the only time you read your Bible is on Sunday, youare only hurting your own spiritual health. The Bible is where Christians find our nourishment. Be a healthy Christian and stay in the Bible every single day.
Mark is the person we find in Acts (12:25; 13:5, 13; 15:37-39), and he is the one Peter calls his “son” in 1 Peter 5:13. In Acts 12:12 we find John whose surname was Mark. This is where we read that Barnabas and Paul took John Mark with them. Mark’s Jewish name was John, but it was customary at that time in history to add a Latin surname. Thus the Gospel of Mark is actually the Gospel of John Mark.
John Mark was probably a disciple of Peter, and you can really get a sense of Peter’s personality in this action Gospel. Mark is here to give the gospel of Jesus Christ, and doesn’t waste time doing it. He gets right to the point.
He accompanied Paul on Paul’s first missionary journey. We are not told what happened between Paul and Mark,but clearly something did happen. Mark quit the team and went back to his home in Jerusalem. This incident, whatever it was, seemed to stick with Paul. Laterin Acts 15:36-40 we find that Paul and Barnabas were planning another trip to check in on the churches they’d planted. Barnabas was determined to bring Markwith them, but Paul did not want to take Mark. Paul did not want Mark who had departed from them earlier. But apparently Barnabas was insistent that Mark bechosen to come with them. In fact, Barnabas and Paul could not agree to the point that it tells us in Acts 15:39 that Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus while Paul chose Silas and they went through Syria and Cilicia. Weshould note at this point that Barnabas and John Mark were cousins and of the tribe of Levi. Sometimes family sticks together.
We should note that Paul softened toward Mark. 2 Timothy 4:9-11 is where Paul asks for Mark by name and states that Mark is useful in ministry. We should take a lesson from this. Friends, our brothers and sisters will disappoint us at times; however, look at Paul andMark. By the time we get to 2 Timothy, something had changed in their relationship for the better. Paul asks for Mark. We must forgive. We must move forward with each other for the sake of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Whateverwas done that was hurtful—can I just say…? Get over it, forgive as a Christian should, and proclaim the gospel.
This is the Mark who gives us this Gospel. He is the one who departed from the missionary team and went home to Jerusalem.
He’s the one that Paul didn’t want joining them the next time around. But, we see that God uses the ones that even Paul would have rejected.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
Today, we’re going to get a sense of Mark’s fast pace as we look at four action points brought out in verses 29-45. First, we’re going to notice the healing of Simon Peter’s Mother-in Law. Next, we will see how from this one location Jesus begins ministering to the multitudes of people coming His way. Another thing we will notice is that even Jesus our Lord needed a time of spiritual renewal and instruction from God the Father. The fourth and final action point for today will be the healing of the leper. There are lessons for us in each of these action points as I’ve been calling them.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
I've been away for a while, but the podcast is still here! I've not had time to drop anything new, but this is something I found in my archives. It's me from 2012 speaking on a Sunday morning. So, it looks like we're going to skip from Matthew 5:26 all the way to Matthew 7. I will be back at some point to fill in the gaps as we continue to take the Bible verse by verse. I hope this is helpful and encouraging to you, my faithful listeners!
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
I'm back. Thanks dear listeners for your continued support for this podcast. This is a quick episode, but I hope it's meaningful to you. This episode covers the sermon on the mount. It's not a sermon for everyone. It's for those who follow Christ. These "Beatitudes" are for you dear Christian!
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
The Gospel of Matthew is written from a Jewish perspective. Matthew points out time and again how the prophets are fulfilled in Jesus Christ. We're going to pick up the pace as we take Matthew in larger chunks each episode. May this episode be a blessing to all who hear it.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
I'm going to attempt to keep producing episodes during our move, but just in case... I want you to know I didn't forget about you!--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
We are at the end of Galatians, and I think that it’s important for us to note the manner in which Paul began, and now the manner in which he ends this Book. Throughout this Book, we have seen Paul’s seriousness, and we have seen his heart for the Lord’s Church. One of the things that I hope you have seen is Paul’s emphasis upon fleeing from false teachers and their teachings. Paul opened up with a righteous indignation. Now, at the close, from verses 11-17 Paul takes his parting shots once again at the Judaizers. It was after all their heretical activities among the church in Galatia that prompted the writing of this letter to begin with. If you get no other point from our study through this great book, I want you to get this point: When false beliefs are embraced, taught, propagated, and ultimately believed, it is the truth of the gospel which is at stake. In other words, you cannot embrace the truth of grace alone, faith alone in Christ alone while at the same time you embrace a works-based salvation.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
We need to understand that calling sin what it is, is not judgment. If I love you, I must do everything I can to lead you to repentance. We want to encourage others who were once a part of the fellowship to come back. All will be made whole again, if the one who has fallen down comes to Christ in repentance. This doesn’t make me your judge; it makes me your friend. Confess, repent, believe, and come back. Or, as the case may be, stop pretending to be a Christian when you’re not. Again, this doesn’t make me a judge; it means I love you in Christ. What do we do when we see someone who has spiritually fallen down?Well, our passage today starts off with instructions on what we should do in these types of situations.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
We’re moving on through Galatians. By the end of today, we will only have one more chapter to go—Lord willing. As I brought out last week, we’ve had a lot of solid doctrine in this great book, and now Paul moves us into some practical application. Today, we’re going to be talking about our flesh and our renewed spirit because of the Holy Spirit. If you’ve ever caught yourself doing something which you know was wrong, you may have been tempted to doubt your own salvation. After all, would a true Christian do what you just did? If you’ve ever had thoughts like that—and I know I have had those thoughts—these verses from God’s word are for you today.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/support
I want to speak to you about Christian liberty. Salvation in Christ is liberation, and the Christian life is one of liberty—Christ has set us free (Gal. 5:1; John 8:32, 36). Christ’s liberating action is not a social gospel. It is not Critical Race Theory nor is it Liberation Theology. It is not progressive, nor is it humanistic. In fact, Christ’s liberty does not have anything to do with political or economic improvement. When we talk about the liberty we have in Christ, we mean that we are free from working or attempting to keep the law as a means of salvation. We are free from the power of sin and from superstition.
As Christians we have been set free from superstitions. Gnosticism, which infiltrated the Church even within the Apostles’ lifetimes claimed matter and physical pleasure are intrinsically evil. However, Paul insists that Christians are free to enjoy all created things (1 Tim. 4:1–5) as God’s good gifts, as long as we do not transgress the moral law, nor hinder our own spiritual well-being or that of others (1 Cor. 6:12, 13; 8:7–13).[1]
[1] R. C. Sproul, ed., The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (Orlando, FL; Lake Mary, FL: Ligonier Ministries, 2005), 1700.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james-reed877/message
Can you imagine someone wanting to be in jail or prison? Who would want to go back after tasting freedom? That’s what Paul is bringing out to the Galatians in our text. The Holy Spirit directed Paul to use analogy here to show the Judaizers that God’s plan of redemption has always been the plan of grace. We’ve learnedalready that the law is our teacher, and at the same time it condemns us. Salvation has never come through law-keeping. In fact, Paul asks those who desire to be under the law if they hear what it says.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
What is a Christian? This question was asked to J.I. Packer. He stated, “The richest answer I know is that a Christian is one who has God as Father… Our understanding of Christianity cannot be better than our grasp of adoption… The truth of our adoption gives us the deepest insights the New Testament affords into the greatness of God’s love.” [1] In preparing for this sermon, I read a story about Abraham Lincoln. The story tells how he went to New Orleans and purchased a slave girl. Upon buying her, he immediately told her she was free to leave. He purchased her for the sole purpose of setting her free. This story is not true, but it can help us get in the right frame of mind as we get ready to study our text today. Imagine if that was a true story, but not only does he set the slave free; he decides to adopt her as his very own daughter with all the rights and privileges of someone born naturally into the family. That, dear friends is what our heavenly Father has done for us through His only Son Jesus Christ.[1]Packer, J. I. Knowing God, (Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 1973), 181-182.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
This is me explaining why I no longer hold to the Dispensational view of the Bible, history, and eschatology. I felt I should get into this just a bit based on where we are in Galatians of all places. What you think about these subjects affects how you view the covenants which God has put in place, and it will determine how you view all of Scripture. I ramble a little, but I try to keep it focused. Hopefully, you will find this helpful and edifying.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
As we continue on with Paul’s discussion of works of the law as opposed to faith in the promise, we’re going to see how these two different approaches effect people. In verses 6 through 22 of this same chapter we have seen that the Abrahamic Covenant of promise is superior to the Mosaic Covenant of the law. Now, we’re going to look at personal application in verses 23-29. Paul takes a kind of before and after approach. Paul will show us our character and orientation before we trusted in Christ for salvation. He also shows us the righteousness that God grants because of that trust. We brought out in the last episode that before we became followers of Christ we were under the law. To be under the law is to be under bondage. Remember, we talked about how the law is binding on both parties, but the promise is kept by God alone. When we understand this, it ought to compel us to go preach the gospel to our neighbors, friends, family, co-workers, and even our government officials.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
On the last episode, we focused on covenants. God has chosen to deal with His people and their redemption through covenants. We talked about the Abrahamic and Mosaic Covenants last week, but there are others too. There was the Noahic Covenant and the Davidic Covenant. In creation, God entered into a covenant of works with Adam. Adam was called to obey God. The law at that time was not to eat of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. This is called a covenant of works because if Adam kept the law, he would live. If he violated the law, he and all his posterity would die.
Concerning our text today, RC Sproul said, “Ironically, that we are justified by Christ alone also means that the only way any of us will be saved is by works.” [1] Now, when I first read this, I thought, “What in the world is RC getting at here? Did I read that right?” RC is correct from a certain point of view. We are all under the work of the first Adam which resulted in disobedience, or we are under the work of Christ—the second Adam. The work of Christ kept the law perfectly. So, when you think of it this way, we are saved by works. The question is, “Whose works?” This is what RC was getting at.
[1]Sproul, R. C. For Freedom Christ Has Set Us Free. (Sanford: Ligonier Ministries, 2022), 71.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
The doctrine of justification has been called the storm center of the Reformation. For Paul, it was the heart of the gospel of Jesus Christ. From Galatians 2:15 through 5:1, we will learn how this concept shaped Paul’s message and devotion. This subject of justification by faith is spoken of by others in the NT, but it is most often the words written by Paul that we turn to when we seek to defend this beautiful doctrine.
Justification is God’s act of pardoning sinners and accepting them as righteous for Christ’s sake. When God justifies someone, He permanently puts right their relationship with Himself. 2 Cor. 5:21 reminds us, “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” This is the foundation of our acceptance by God.
R. C. Sproul, ed., The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (Orlando, FL; Lake Mary, FL: Ligonier Ministries, 2005), 1696.
Daniel Bush and Noel Due, Live in Liberty: The Spiritual Message of Galatians (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2015).
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
I don’t think I’d be too far off base if I told you that our culture has completely embraced what is called moral relativism. This philosophy states that whatever is right for you may or may not be right for me. If you’ve ever heard someone say, “I have to speak my truth,” they are referring to moral relativism. Relativism on the whole states that everything is relative, and depending upon the situation in which you find yourself, lying, cheating, stealing—even killing might be the right thing to do.
Allan Bloom indicated in his book The Closing of the American Mind, that 95% of students who graduate from high school and enter college are already convinced of the position of moral relativism. By the time they graduate from college, that number goes up to 98%.
While this may be a true statistic, I’m willing to suggest that if I wanted to break into their home and take their stuff, they would suddenly believe that I was absolutely wrong. If I took their wallet, I can guarantee they would call for justice. This is because we are all image bearers of our creator God, and He has put a moral law in all our hearts. We know without anyone telling us that it is better to love our neighbor than to kill our neighbor and take their stuff.
I heard a story about the professor who asked his class if there was any such thing as an absolute. A student replied, “There are no absolutes.” The professor then replied, “Are you absolutely sure of that statement?” Hopefully you can see that as soon as someone makes an absolute truth claim, they believe in an absolute. To state that there are no absolutes is an absolute truth claim and thus contradicts itself.
I bring this up for two reasons. First, God has given us moral absolutes—what He demands of us as humans. And second, Paul uses logic applied very simply over today’s text. Let’s see what Paul had to say.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
Paul heard the reports that the Galatians had departed from the true gospel of Christ, and that false teachers had brought in ideas of keeping the law in order to truly be a Christian. By now, you may have noticed that the Apostle Paul has a very stern tone with the Galatians. If you think that Paul has been harsh over the first 2 chapters, just wait to see what happens here in chapter 3.
There’s great assurance here. May we all realize that we have received a generous, overflowing, abundant power from the Holy Spirit to live this life. We have received eternal salvation through faith in Christ the Lord. God the Father promised, and as always, He keeps His promises. How foolish we would be if we thought for one second we could add to that with some work or merit on our part. Just as Abraham believed God, we are to do the same. There’s simply no other way to be a member of this Faith Family. The foolish Galatians could yet become wise, and so can we. Reflecting on their own experience, the covenant with Abraham, and the curse of the law, they could return to the wisdom of the Gospel—sola fide, faith alone.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
There are two pillars of the gospel. 1. The grace of God. 2. The death of Jesus Christ upon the cross. These are so important for us to understand because to the extent that you understand this, will be the extent that you run from false gospels. You will run from legalism.
The full doctrine of justification by faith in Christ alone is that we are saved by faith unto good works.Ephesians 2:8-10 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” A study of this passage will show you that just as much as grace is a gift of God so to is saving faith. And we see here that we have been saved for good works, and further that God has prepared those works for us to do beforehand. James 2:17 says, “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” As Christians we have a living faith, a faith that goes with us wherever we go. It is not dead, but it produces good fruit.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
Chapter 10 of the Westminster Confession is entitled “Effectual Calling”, and it begins with the following: “All those whom God hath predestinated unto life, and those only, He is pleased, in His appointed and accepted time, effectually to call, by His Word and Spirit, out of that state of sin and death, in which they are by nature, to grace and salvation, by Jesus Christ; enlightening their minds spiritually and savingly to understand the things of God, taking away their heart of stone, and giving unto them a heart of flesh; renewing their wills, and, by His almighty power, determining them to that which is good, and effectually drawing them to Jesus Christ: yet so, as they come most freely, being made willing by His grace.”
I do not believe these writings because they were written so long ago by the Reformers. I do not follow the teachings of men. I only believe these things to the extent that they adhere to the inspired Word of God. I believe these things because they systematically teach doctrine derived from scripture alone.
1. Scripture Alone. Meaning that we look to the Bible alone as the highest source of authority in a Christian’s life. This is not the only authority as we do submit to government and other authorities. However, we will not follow these authorities if they go against the clear teaching of the Bible. We also do not look to Rome or any other Church body to tell us what the Bible clearly states. 2. Faith Alone. This means that we believe a Christian is justified—that is to be made right with God—only through faith in Christ. 3. Grace Alone. This teaching states that sinners are saved only through the unearned gift of God’s grace. It is not of works, lest any man should boast. 4. Christ Alone. This statement emphasizes the exclusive role which Christ has in our salvation. We are not saved through a Church system, a list of good works, penance, or any other man-made way of atonement. Christ alone is the only way. And 5. To the Glory of God alone. The purpose of creation, salvation, God’s eternal decrees, everything you can think of, and most especially our goal as Christians is the glory of God that God may be all in all as the Bible says in 1 Cor. 15:28.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
Jesus gave a parable of the wheat and tares in Matthew 13:24-30. What we learn from that parable is that wherever the seed of God’s truth is sown, Satan will also be there to sow his seeds of lies. In the Book of Acts chapter 20, we find that Paul warns them to be on guard against wolves who want to come in and kill the flock. Paul claims that these wolves will say perverse things and draw people away from the truth. If you have ever heard of a wolf in sheep’s clothing, this is where it comes from. Paul instructs Timothy that people will fall away from the faith and go after deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons. Paul does not say that these wolves have it mostly right except for a few things… he calls it doctrines of demons. Let that sink in. This is not to be taken lightly. Read 1 Timothy 4:1-2.
Paul the Apostle was always fighting this—or so it would seem. False teachers would come in after Paul and attack his apostleship, and in doing so would attack the gospel which he preached. The idea was that he could not possibly be a real Apostle like the Lord’s twelve. They accused him of preaching something different than Peter and the others who were in Jerusalem. What we find here in the second chapter of Galatians is Paul’s account of a trip to Jerusalem where a council was called to proclaim what the gospel truly is.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message
Dear Paul,
We have heard some very exciting teaching in the churches of Galatia lately. The new teachers have shed new light on what you taught us.
Some of us wonder why you didn’t know these things. In fact, the big question around here is where you really got the right to call yourself an Apostle. Furthermore, we didn’t realize until now that you and the Jerusalem Apostles—that is the real Apostles, are teaching different things. Your gospel, Paul, doesn’t do justice to the old Jewish laws. After all, wasn’t Jesus the Jewish Messiah?
Please answer two questions: 1. Where did you get the right to be an Apostle? And, 2. Is the gospel of the grace of Christ (as you like to call it) different from what the venerable Jerusalem Apostles are preaching?
Thank you- Philip Nomos, Clerk.
Harn, Roger Van. Revelation Series for Adults: Galatians. Grand Rapids, MI: Education Department of the Christian Reformed Church, 1984.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
We live in a world which seems to have no shortage of belief systems and religions. Indeed, there are cults which would call themselves Christian. I’m sure you have them wherever you are.
How do you know what you believe is correct? What if they are correct? Is everyone correct in what they believe? Do all roads end up going to the same place?
Friends, a different gospel is not another gospel. There is only one gospel. It is found in this Book, the Bible. It is not found in another “testament”, Rome, a new “un-corrupted Bible”, nor any other false system of works. Here at the FORGE, not only do we believe in Scripture alone, we also hold to grace alone, faith alone, in Christ alone for the glory of God alone.
You were truly born into sin, you have broken God’s laws, and you are a sinner (Psalm 51:5; Romans 3:23). You have been found guilty and the penalty is death (Romans 6:23). That’s the bad news.
The good news is that Christ came to save sinners (1 Timothy 1:15; Hebrews 9:26). God the Father placed your sin upon Christ who was innocent. Christ then took the penalty and the full wrath of a righteous God and Judge upon the cross where He bled, suffered, and died for His people (1 Peter 2:24; 2 Corinthians 5:21). For all those who would call upon the name of Christ for salvation, your sin was placed upon Him, and in turn His righteousness was placed upon you. You can become a child of God and a joint heir with Jesus the Son of the living God (Romans 8:16-17; John 1:12). Come to Christ alone in faith realizing that you have nothing to offer but the sin that makes your salvation necessary (Ephesians 2:8-10; 1 Corinthians 3:14-15). It is that simple.
Keep it simple folks. The gospel is that Christ came to redeem us from sin. We preach the law to the proud, so that we might be conduits of grace for the humble.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
I wanted to study Galatians because this Book is full of instruction for the Lord's Church. As we go through this Book, ask our Lord exactly what God specifically has for your local church. Ask how He might use you.
I also want to challenge you to read the Book of Galatians at least once a week from now until we complete our survey. Here we are going to find instructions for each of us. We are also going to find that even though this is not one of the 4 Gospels, the gospel message is assumed to be known by the audience.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
This sermon was given on September 25, 2022, at Green Meadow Community Church, Helena, MT. The audio is not great, but I hope this is useful to you in spite of that.
I would like to turn our attention to Acts 2:14-24, and then we will skip down to verses 36-39. As I read these verses aloud, and you follow along with me, I want to challenge you to examine yourself. Perhaps you think that God cannot use a person like you. Even as Christians, we can forget God’s call upon our life. It becomes easy to keep things as the status quo.
I hope to show you through the study of one of our Lord’s disciples and the sermon that he gave, that you are not so far gone that God cannot use you for His purpose. We’re going to take a look at more than just one text today. I will cover a lot of material, and we’re only going to hit the highlights, but my hope is that you will be encouraged to go back on your own time and study the life of Peter as revealed to us in Scripture. I hope you will see that your failures of the past no longer matter. I hope you will see and remember the transforming power of Christ. When you became a disciple of Christ, you were never intended for the status quo, and even if you made some mistakes along the way, you are still on mission. You have a mission from God.
If you are a non-believer, I have great news for you. You are not reading these words nor listening to this episode of my podcast by accident. Today could be your day of salvation. You too can experience a re-birth—the regeneration of your spirit-person. This could be the very day that you realize your hopeless state— just like Peter’s audience in Acts 2. And, if that should happen, I strongly encourage you to do exactly what Peter's audience did that day so long ago. Repent and believe the gospel.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
This sermon was given at Green Meadow Community Church (CRC) on October 2, 2022. When Christians partake at the Lord's table it is a time for fellowship, thanksgiving, proclamation, self-examination, and remembrance. But what exactly are we to remember? This episode deals with that question as we remember our Lord's suffering, His life, and the new covenant.
Please consider supporting this podcast. Any amount will help. Thank you- James
James Reed's FORGE • A podcast on Anchor
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Jude Verses 24-25
It’s time yet again for another exciting episode of the FORGE. Today, we will be looking at Jude 24-25, and following our inversion format we find that this is the theme from verses 1-2. We have assurance for the believer. Usually, I end each Book with an episode entitled “Final Thoughts on…” but this time, we’re going combine this final episode actually covering the verses with the final thoughts episode because I’m going to be doing so much of a review. So, without any further ado, let’s get into our study for today. The word of God. Jude 24-25.
Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless Before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, To God our Savior, Who alone is wise, Be glory and majesty, Dominion and power, Both now and forever. Amen.
As we read these last 2 verses, we find Jude’s “Doxology”. It’s clear that Jesus Christkeeps us from falling. We also find that Christ presents us to God faultlessas pure and holy as He is. We also see that He does this with great joy. Again, quoting from RC Sproul, “Jude’s conclusion is a doxology expressing confidence in God’s power to preserve His people to the end, and acknowledging God’s eternal greatness in His “glory, majesty, dominion, and authority.”[1] With all that said, I would add this. Verse 24 tells us what God has accomplished for us. Verse 25 tells us what God receives from us.
[1] R. C. Sproul, ed., The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (Orlando, FL; Lake Mary, FL: Ligonier Ministries, 2005), 1843.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Welcome back my friends to the FORGE and the Book of Jude. We’re going to pick it up today with our theme of the "Believer and the Faith" which is a mirror image of verse 3.
Jude 20-23:
But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.
There's more to this fight than opposing false teachers. We are to give the truth also. We must live and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
So… how do we know the truth? How can we? Well, Paul gives us instructions in Galatians 1:8. He says, “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed.” That last phrase “let him be accursed” literally means, “let him go to hell” or “to hell with them”. So, Jude tells us to learn from the historical figures he points to because this is where we will find descriptions of apostates. It also means we are to measure what is being said by the preacher or teacher against what the Bible has already stated. Measure it against what the apostles taught.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Welcome back everyone. Again, I have to say that this particular Book is taking me a lot longer to get through than what I had originally planned. However, I hope to get the rest of the episodes out by the end of this month. I’m not going to take a long time here with the introduction, but I do want to remind you of the inversion pattern that we are using as an outline for this Book. We’re now coming out of the Book of Jude in reverse order. We’re on our theme of apostates in the Old Testament which corresponds to verses 5-8. So, let’s get into the word of God. From Jude verses 14-16 we read:
Now Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men also, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints, to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.” These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; 28 and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. 29 “My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. 30 “I and the Father are one” (John 10:27-30, NASB).
Jesus tells us that His sheep know His voice. Are you His? Do you know and follow His voice? Jesus says His sheep have eternal life. Do you know that you will live forever? Are you sure about your final destination? His sheep confess the deity of Christ. Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the second Person of the Trinity? Do you believe that Jesus is and was God in the flesh?
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Hello everyone and welcome back. As I stated in my last episode, the summer months are upon us, and this humble podcast and YouTube channel of mine are truly a work I do on a part time basis. When I get the time, I drop an episode. Sometimes this can happen in rapid succession, and other times—maybe not so much. I am grateful for my listeners, and I truly appreciate your faithfulness.
We’re going to take a look at Jude verses 12 and 13. Verse 11 was our turn-around point in this inversion type of outline I am using. Verses 12 and 13 now begin the outline in reverse order. So, you may remember that verses 9-10 were about apostasy in the supernatural, and now we see a mirror of this them in verses 12 and 13—apostasy in the natural.
With strong words of caution, Jude admonishes us dear Christians—guard your heart, soul and mind against the evils of false teaching and the teachers who bring it to you. Test the words of a so-called Bible teacher against the words of the living God. Test me also. I encourage you to read it for yourself. The Holy Spirit will always guide His people. Until the next time dear friends, keep the faith and reject the lies of the enemy.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Sorry I was away for so long. I've been very busy. We're going to pick it up at Jude 11- "The Trio of Apostacy". Also, I thought that I would start this one off with the music and poetry of Shai Linne-- his tune "False Teachers". I highly recommend any of his tracks. The one I chose to share is relevant to our study in this episode. "I know that some will label me a Pharisee- because today the only heresy is saying that there's heresy... Tell me who would teach you to pursue as a goal the very thing that the Bible says will ruin your soul..." Good words.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Welcome back everyone! I have been looking forward to this particular passage of scripture, because this is one of those places where we get a glimpse into the world of the unseen. I believe, as most Christians do, that there is a world beyond what we see with our natural physical eyes. There is a world of the spirit. There is a world where the rules of physics, science, and everything we think we know no longer applies. This world of the unseen is not truly unseen for it is our God who controls all things. He certainly sees it all, and reigns supreme there as much as He reigns supreme in this physical world.
We have been talking a lot about false teachers and philosophies which are contrary to the word of God as we have been going through Jude. This discussion has led us to the exploration of apostacy, and we have seen many examples of this kind of behavior. For these next 2 verses, we’re going to look at apostacy in the supernatural realm. So, calm your mind. Get focused. Get your Bible and turn with me to Jude verses 9-10. Now, let us read and hear the words of the one true and living God.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
So glad you’re here with me for another look at the Book of Jude. Today, we’re going to look at verses 5 through 8 and we call this section, “Apostates in the Old Testament”. So, as we have been going through this inversion pattern, be on the lookout for when this them gets repeated again in this short Book of the Bible. So, let’s get into it.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Welcome back friends of the Forge! In the last episode we only covered verse 3. We are working through this short letter following an inversion pattern, and I want to remind you that we’ve covered “Assurance for the Believer” in verses 1 and 2, and we’ve covered “The Believer and the faith” in verse 3. Now, as we focus on verse 4 we’re going to find “Apostates Described”. Just a short reminder—when I mention these divisions of this short Book, I encourage you to read ahead to find where the theme is mirrored. For example, even though we covered “The Believer and the Faith” in verse 3, you’ll find that same idea in verses 24 through 25. Likewise verse 4- “Apostates Described” is repeated in verses 17-19. So, for right now let’s focus on verse 4.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Several key points in this episode. First, we find in this single verse the overall theme of this wonderful and short Book. Next, we find that Jude started off with one subject in mind, and then changed his mind. We learn about shades of meaning in Greek words which draw our attention to the urgency in the subject change. We learn exactly what it means to be a part of this family of faith as we explore even more definitions of words. Finally, we can see that Christianity is worth defending. Indeed, God's grace toward His own does not give us an excuse to sit back and relax; it is His grace that compels us to earnestly contend for this faith!
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In this episode, we will be covering only 2 verses. In just 2 short verses, the Christian finds a "blessed assurance". One possible way to outline the Book of Jude is by following an inversion pattern. I have included this outline in the show notes. Don't forget to check out my YouTube channel by the same name.
A. Assurance for the Believer v.1-2.
B. The Believer and the Faith v. 3.
C. Apostates Described v.4.
D. Apostates in the OT v.5-8.
E. Apostasy in the Supernatural v.8-10.
F. Trio of Apostasy v. 11.
E. Apostasy in the Natural v. 12-13.
D. Apostates in the OT V. 14-16.
C. Apostates Described v.17-19.
B. The Believer and the Faith v. 20-23.
A. Assurance for the Believer v.24-25.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
So great to be back with you once again! This is an introduction to the Book of Jude. You may notice that there are no chapters in this very small Book of the Bible, but as we will soon discover, it's packed full of God's truth for the Church. So, once again, pick up your Bible and prepare your heart and mind for the study of God's word.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
These are my final thoughts on Genesis. We will be taking a break for about a month, but we will be back with Season 3 and another Book of the Bible.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
This great Book of Genesis ends with Joseph’s coffin awaiting the exodus. And that is the story of the second book of the Pentateuch. We will be taking a break from the OT as we begin the next season, but what is important is that the OT ends with the expectation of the Messiah who, when He came, by grace led His people in a second exodus from the bondage of this world.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Dear listener, the Book of Genesis is about blessing and grace. Through the Lion of the tribe of Judah, which you have heard me mention several times throughout our Genesis study, blessing and grace has come to you. As Christians, we have been blessed indeed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus. But perhaps you are listening to this podcast, and you do not know Christ. You’re not a Christian. You have no idea what it is like to have the blessing of fellowship with the one true and living God. Your goals in life hold no true meaning. You find that you are living just to die. You can gain for yourself all the material wealth you can imagine, and then… what? But according to everything we have studied here, God’s word promises blessing and grace for all those who call upon Him in the name of His only Son, Jesus Christ. Is the Holy Spirit calling you into a relationship with God? This dear friend is good news. Repent today and believe the gospel.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
“Joseph received the rights of the firstborn and the double portion through Jacob’s adoption and elevation of his two sons to the status of founding father among Israel’s 12 tribes.” RC Sproul, ed., The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (Orlando, FL; Lake Mary, FL: Ligonier Ministries, 2005), 85.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Was Joseph holy? There’s no question that he was. Was he an extremely wise and shrewd politician? He would have had to be. The two concepts are not mutually exclusive. In this episode we focus just a little more than normal on Joseph the statesman. A nation ruled by such a man would certainly be blessed.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
God has preserved for Himself a people of the new covenant in a land of pagan beliefs. This world is no more our home than Egypt was to Israel. We dwell in the land, but we are citizens of a different kingdom altogether. And just as both Jacob here in Genesis, and the Simeon of the Book of Luke were ready to die in peace having seen the promises of God fulfilled, so we too can be ready when this life ends. For this same God who has the power to raise His only Son from the grave will surely grant to all those in His new covenant the gift of eternal life—raising them from the grave as well.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
RC Sproul states, “In this narrative of forgiveness and reconciliation, Joseph presents a model of submission to God’s eternal and benevolent purpose. All the evil done to him by his brothers was only part of God’s secret plan designed for the good, not only of Joseph, but of his wicked brothers as well. We learn that “all things work together” to accomplish God’s excellent purpose (Rom. 8:28), not only for us who presently “love God,” but for the “great multitude” that will comprise the everlasting city (Rev. 7:9).” R. C. Sproul, ed., The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (Orlando, FL; Lake Mary, FL: Ligonier Ministries, 2005), 81.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
This is the final test from Joseph. Will they turn on their brother Benjamin? Will they only look out for themselves? Has there truly been any kind of character change at all? How long will Joseph continue to the charade? What can we learn from these valuable lessons found in the pages of Scripture? How do we apply these truths to our own lives? Have a listen to another episode of the FORGE and find out.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
As Christians we see grace, mercy, and peace in our Lord Jesus Christ. Grace- the giving of a free gift that cannot be earned- the gift of eternal life. Mercy- the withholding of the wrath of God which each of us deserve. And of course, this leads to the peace of God in the very depth of our soul. Indeed, we have a peace that surpasses all understanding. This peace is not a temporary feeling, but it is an assurance we have as people of the covenant. This peace does not depend upon circumstances. It's a peace based in the very promise of God- the God of grace- the God of mercy. All of this is on display in Genesis 43.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Guilt. Fear. Sorrow. These can be good things if they are godly. These can be seen as gifts of God's grace. Guilt over our sin brings us to a realization that we are lawbreakers. Fear- knowing that God alone is the Sovereign focuses us on His Son as the only source and hope of forgiveness and help. Sorrow helps us see our way to clear repentance. Repent and believe the gospel.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Should the leader of a nation actually be a citizen of that nation? Would a flat tax of 20% be fair? What do these questions have to do with anything in Genesis? Listen to this episode and find out.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
You know, many Christians under much less pain and discouragement than Joseph faced quit trying. They don’t believe in the promises of God all the while claiming to be one of His children. Imagine how Joseph must’ve felt without a scripture verse like Romans 8:28 to comfort him. What does it tell us there? Well, friends this verse is part of that golden chain of redemption. It states, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Friends, this verse is not for the non-believer. In fact, it is for the called. It reminds those of us who are saved that God is at work for your good and His purpose. You and I have that promise and more, but how often we give up the fight, never knowing what God is doing. Christian, it’s called providence. It’s called sovereignty. It’s called faithfulness. God did not forget; you just don’t know everything. So, continue to trust in Him. He was faithful to Joseph, and He will be faithful to His own.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
I’m not going to have time to develop all of these verses, but for you own study I recommend the following scriptures: Leviticus 18:22 which tells us that men are not to lie with men; Leviticus 20:13 which tells us that homosexual behavior is a detestable act; Romans 1:24-26 which tells us that those who do these things have exchanged truth for a lie; 1 Corinthians 6:9 which tells us that men who take the role of an effeminate person in the relationship will not inherit kingdom of God; 1 Timothy 1:10 which tells us that sexual perversion is contrary to sound teaching; and Jude 7 which makes a comparison to the cities we just talked about, Sodom and Gomorrah. For further study consider Deuteronomy 23:17; 1 Kings 14:24; 15:12; 22:46 and 2 Kings 23:7.
The Bible says homosexuality is a sin, and it should not be practiced. God loves homosexuals, but commands them to submit to His authority in this area of their life. We, the true believing Christians must condemn the sin of homosexuality, but love sinners. Finally, if anyone in Canada is listening, your brothers and sisters in the US stand with you. We love, support, and pray for the Lord’s Church in Canada, as we know you will be tested. Continue to preach the truth to power.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
What can we learn from the story of Joseph? How does it apply to each one of us personally? What principles do we find in Scripture that have relevance in Western culture? I hope to share answers to these questions and others as we continue on with our study in Genesis.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Here we have the story of Judah. This parenthetical insert lets us know what Judah did while Joseph was enslaved in Egypt. We will be introduced to a remarkable woman named Tamar. We also see God's plan for the Redeemer begin to take shape as the tribe of Judah is formed.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
We now begin our trek through the last section of Genesis, "The Generations of Jacob". This one goes a bit long, but there's a lot here which takes time to unpack. There's only 36 verses here, but what they contain will set the stage for great things to come. So, get ready to study the life and trials of Joseph, the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Here we have a brief history of Edom, but there's more going on here than just a list of names. Merry Christmas!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
There’s a lot going on in this chapter. It kind of serves as a conclusion of sorts to the end of one generation and the beginning of another. One chapter (in the life of Israel) concludes, and another is about to begin. My hope and prayer is that this study is useful to you. Consider how the Bible unites to tell one single story. May your faith be strengthened as you see the consistency of Scripture and the promises of God fulfilled time after time. May you know and see the Savior even from the very beginning of this great Book of books.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Dinah says nothing in this chapter, yet she is at the very center of the unfolding narrative. What will happen next? How can we find God's mercy on display even in such a tragic story?
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Think of it dear Christian— to the extent that we are indeed ruled by God is the extent that He is truly our God. To the extent that we attempt to take things into our own hands, is the extent that we are refusing to submit to His rulership.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
As Christians we know that God will change our character. While you and I have yet to see Him face to face as these great men and women of old had the privilege to do, we have the Holy Spirit living within. He has brought us to life and sealed us forever. Dear Christian, I do not know the Esau in your life. I do not know with what things you are wrestling. I do not know how your are specifically contending with God nor do I know how you are trying to manipulate the situation as you trust in the things of the flesh. But I do know this: if you are His you will surrender and be blessed in your brokenness which He out of love commanded at His own hand for your good and His glory.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Jacob finally heads home.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
God's plan is not helped nor is it hindered by the schemes of men. Just as God took care of Jacob, He continues to take care of His people today.
I normally do some editing so you hear a better produced episode. Today, I was tongue-tied and even used the wrong microphone at one point. Sorry about that... hopefully this still encourages you.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Jacob finds a wife... or two. This chapter has a lot of action packed into a small space. Here we have the first four sons of Jacob recorded as the nation of Israel begins to take form. We will also see the deceiver gets deceived. Yet through it all, God remains faithful to His people. It's great to know that even when we are not faithful to Him, He remains faithful to us. And... we can learn from the life of Leah too. May we as Christians find our peace, comfort, joy, fulfillment, and indeed our very life in Christ alone.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Do you remember the Tower of Babel? Have you ever heard about Jacob's ladder or a stairway to heaven? Have you ever tried to make a deal with God? The Psalmist writes in Psalm 51:17, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart—These O God, You will not despise.” What does all this have to do with Genesis 28? Listen to this episode to find out.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
God's choice is not determined by the ways of men. God is working all things for the praise of His glory! Once God has called and appointed you, no manipulation on the part of mere humans will ever enhance or change that. Christianity is something which is revealed by the Holy Spirit, so let us walk by faith-- not by sight.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Our God is a covenant keeping God! Remember, God uses people who make mistakes, and He is working all things for the good of those He called for His own glorification!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Esau and Jacob- the two sons of Isaac. One is favored by Isaac. One is favored by Rebekah. Do you know which one was favored by God?
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In Genesis 24 we read an amazing story of love, and we see a picture of things to come. We have as characters in this story: a father, a son, a helper, and a bride.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
This summer has brought some changes to our episode schedule to be sure! I'm trying to get back on track as we continue on with Genesis 22 and 23. Here we find some beautiful shadows of things to come. We will also read about the death of Sarah, but we will also be reminded of the hope of life we have in Christ.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Sorry for the delay in getting this out there. It's July and there's been a lot going on. In this episode, we will see how God defines love. We also see a shadow of things to come. May this podcast continue to be a blessing to all those God has called!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
This episode is a little short. I am also not recording in my studio, so the quality suffers. Give it a listen anyway! We see in this chapter that Abraham and Sarah lie to another king about their marriage. Apparently, this was a pre-arranged story between the two of them. They knew what they would do if a king or other ruler wanted to kill Abraham and take Sarah. They would just tell their lie. But God was faithful-- even when Abraham was not. There was never a time where God was not protecting Abraham. Dear Christian, God is faithful to you too!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In this chapter we see what happened to the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. We also see God's provision for Lot. Lot was blessed because of his relationship with Abraham; however, we see a sad conclusion to Lot's part in the narrative. Interestingly, Jesus makes reference to Lot in the New Testament (Luke 17:28-37). Jude 7 also makes mention of the events found in Genesis 19. This is significant because once again it shows the intricate weaving of scriptures together in such a way that to take away part is to take away all.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
We're going to cover a lot of material in this episode. First off- there's something I overlooked in our last study. So, there is a little bit of back-tracking to make sure we get that covered. Next, we're going to take a look at God's revelation of Himself to Abraham and Sarah. This is where He changes their names and reminds them of a promise He intends to keep in their old age. We're also going to give some consideration to circumcision as the sign of the covenant and how this relates to water baptism today. Why do we believe in and practice infant baptism? We close out this study with a look at yet another visitation from God to Abraham and Sarah. Is anything too difficult for the Lord? And finally, we will see the precursor of judgement upon the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. What lessons can we take from Genesis and apply to our world today?
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
God keeps His covenant. What God has promised, God will do, and has already done.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Get your colored pencils out and make a family tree. We're going to be talking about Father Abraham and his many sons. Then, we take a look at one of the most interesting characters in the whole Bible. Do you know his name?
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
“Covenants in Scripture are solemn agreements, negotiated or unilaterally imposed, that bind the parties to each other in permanent defined relationships, with specific promises, claims, and obligations on both sides (e.g., the marriage covenant, Mal. 2:14).
When God makes a covenant with His creatures, He alone establishes its terms, as His covenant with Noah and every living creature shows (Gen. 9:9). When Adam and Eve failed to obey the terms of the covenant of works (see Gen. 3:6 and theological note “The Fall”), God did not destroy them, but revealed His covenant of grace by promising a Savior (Gen. 3:15). God’s covenant rests on His promise, as is clear from His covenant with Abraham. He called Abraham to go to the land that He would give him, and promised to bless him and all the families of the earth through him (Gen. 12:1–3). Abraham heeded God’s call because he believed God’s promise; it was his faith in the promise that was credited to him for righteousness (Gen. 15:6; Rom. 4:18–22). God’s covenant with Israel at Sinai is in the form of the ancient Near Eastern suzerainty treaties. These are covenants imposed unilaterally by a powerful king on a vassal king and a servant people.
Although the covenant at Sinai required obedience to God’s laws under the threat of His curse, it was a continuation of the covenant of grace (Ex. 3:15; Deut. 7:7, 8; 9:5, 6). God gave the commandments to a people He had already redeemed and claimed (Ex. 19:4; 20:2). The gracious promise of God’s covenant was further defined through the types and shadows of the law given to Moses. The failure of the Israelites to keep His covenant showed the need for a new covenant that would bestow the power to obey (Jer. 31:31–34; 32:38–40; cf. Gen. 17:7; Ex. 6:7; 29:45, 46; Lev. 11:44, 45; 26:12).
God’s covenant with Israel was preparation for the coming of God Himself, in the person of His Son, to fulfill all His promises, and to give substance to the shadows cast by the types (Is. 40:10; Mal. 3:1; John 1:14; Heb. 7–10). Jesus Christ, the Mediator of the new covenant, offered Himself as the true and final sacrifice for sin. He obeyed the law perfectly, and as the Second Adam (second representative head of the human race) He became the inheritor, with those united with Him by faith, of all the covenant blessings of peace and fellowship with God in His renewed creation. The temporary Old Testament arrangements for imparting those blessings became obsolete when what they anticipated was realized.
As Heb. 7–10 explains, through Christ God inaugurated a better version of His one eternal covenant with sinners (Heb. 13:20)—a better covenant with better promises (Heb. 8:6), based on a better sacrifice (Heb. 9:23) offered by a better high priest in a better sanctuary (Heb. 7:26–8:6, 11, 12, 13). This better covenant guarantees a better hope than had ever been made explicit by the former version of the covenant—glory with God in “a better country, that is, a heavenly one” (Heb. 11:16; cf. v. 40)."
R. C. Sproul, ed., The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (Orlando, FL; Lake Mary, FL: Ligonier Ministries, 2005), 30.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Chapter 11 has been called the “Table of Nations” because various ethnic groups can be traced to this chapter and the people mentioned here. It is the earliest ethnological table in the literature of the ancient world. This chapter pre-dates Homer’s writings. Virtually all names found here can also be found in ancient literature and archaeological discoveries of the past 2 centuries.
Chapter 11 is where we read of The Tower of Babel. You will remember that we were just introduced to Nimrod. From the book, The Genesis Record, Dr. Moris tells us that Nimrod and his followers were the founders of polytheism and idolatry.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
We have covered a lot in these first 9 chapters of Genesis. This is a great place to pause for a review. Everything moving forward from this point in the human story is in a post-flood world. The world and all of creation as it looked during the first 1,650 years or so is now forever changed.
Check out the following for more resources:
Answers in Genesis
Biblical Science Institute |
Dr. Lisle | Biblical Science Institute
Topix | Biblical Science Institute
The Secret Code of Creation - Dr. Jason Lisle - Bing video
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In this episode, we take a look at the post-flood world. We also see God's covenant-- initiated, made, and kept by Him.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In this relatively short episode, we take a look at the day Noah and his family gathered into the ark.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Not only does the Bible have a talking serpent mentioned within its pages, but it also mentions giants. Where did they come from? Are there clues in Genesis 6:2 and 4 along with Job 1:6; 2:1 and 38:7? Numbers 13:33; Deut. 2:11, 20; 3:11, 13; 1 Chron. 20:4, 6, 8; and 2 Sam. 21:16, 18, 20, 22 all mention giants. We also take a look at 2 Peter 2:4-5, 8 and Jude 6. Did you know the giant Goliath had a brother named Lahmi? Read 1 Chron. 29:4-8. He had 6 fingers on each hand and 6 toes on each foot.
How many railroad boxcars do you think you could fit into Noah's Ark? How many sheep?
While this is all very interesting, what we should take away from Genesis 6 is that mankind had become so incredibly wicked that God decided to destroy the earth and all humans by means of a flood. Only Noah and his wife, their sons and their sons' wives would be saved. God chose Noah, and He made a covenant with Noah which resulted in salvation for Noah and his family.
Don't forget to leave a 5-star review!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In Genesis chapter 5 we find a list of names and ages. Why is this here? Is there more to it than just a list of names? I think so, and I hope after you hear this episode you will agree.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
We continue moving through the Book of Genesis. Chapter 4 gives us another list of "firsts"- the first brothers, the first murder, and the first man with more than one wife. Here we will also see two very important and good first things. 1. Seth is born, and this is the beginning of the line of Christ. 2. Men calling on the name of the LORD, or the birth of corporate worship.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Genesis 3 is where we learn of the fall of all humanity in Adam. This is where sin enters the world. But even here, in the very beginning of the Bible we find God's provision for salvation. Even in the midst of our transgression, God is merciful and gives grace to His people.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Genesis Chapter 2 is another collection of first things: the first man, the first woman, the first wedding, and the first command of God.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In this episode, we will finish the discussion of Genesis chapter 1 and the first creation week. God was not confused when He created humans in His own image. He was not confused when He created male and female. To the extent that we accept the truth of God’s word on such matters as human origins and human sexuality, will be the extent that we enjoy stability in our culture. As I see my fellow humans as image bearers of the most-high and living God, I begin to love and care for them. If, on the other hand I see my fellow humans as nothing more than a series of unguided chemical accidents, then there is absolutely nothing wrong with hating my fellow man. Indeed, the strongest will survive, right? Is this not what the survival of the fittest is all about? To the extent that I embrace an evolutionary point of view is the extent I make room for hatred, racism, lust, power, and total self-preservation at all cost. On the other hand, if I see my fellow man as an image bearer, I am more inclined to love, look past differences, care for others, and place others higher than myself. The truth of God is the only reason to even offer a standard of “right and wrong”. In the evolutionary world view, concepts of what is right and what is wrong are merely matters of opinion. As Christians, we appeal to an outside source for our direction. That outside source is the living God!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Genesis is the Book of the beginnings. Be on the look-out as we go through it for the beginnings of things- the first man, first family, first sin, and God's plan of redemption. Yes, even in the very first Book of the Bible we see God's plan for redeeming fallen man. This episode is largely introductory, but we will pick up the pace in future episodes and cover more than just 8 verses-- Lord willing.
Please leave feedback and let me know how the production quality sounds. I'm learning and trying new things. Also, try leaving me a voice message through the link.
May God bless the reading and the hearing of His word!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
FORGE SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT- SEASON TWO
Hello everyone! This is James. I wanted to take a moment here for a special announcement.
First, let me say thank you to all who are listening to and supporting me in this podcast. I cannot thank you enough for your love, support, prayer, and belief in me. It truly means more than I can say.
It is my hope and prayer, as I have said many times, that this podcast is a blessing to you. If it has been a blessing to you, then I ask you to spread the word. The best thing you could do for me is to tell others about FORGE. I would like to have subscribers all over the world. That happens through word of mouth. That happens when you tell someone who tells someone, who tells someone… you get the idea. Another way you can help me out is by leaving a review. Give me a 5-star review and leave some comments—that is if they’re nice comments.
Next, I want to let you know that in our second season, you will hopefully notice a massive improvement in production quality. When I started this podcast, I used a laptop, its voice recorder software, and I did almost no editing. With each episode, I began to edit a little more, but the production quality was not that great. You can hear ambient noise to include doors opening, mouse clicks, and dishes being done in the background. I really didn’t care that much, I just wanted to get it out there. Well, the second season is going to be a lot different in that regard. It’s my intention to use quality equipment and software, write and produce my own music, and generally get more professional with each passing episode. I hope you will be able to hear the difference.
I also wanted to let you know that I will be working on my website, jamesreedsforge.com. It’s through Word press, and right now it’s not that great either, but we’re going to be in a constant state of improvement. With that will come blogs, links to other ministries, more original music, and a donate button. If you so choose, donations are greatly appreciated, and will go 100% to further the work we’re doing here. Never let a gift to the FORGE interfere with your giving to your local church. Your local church comes first.
Another thing which I will probably start doing is slowing down on the number of podcast episodes I drop each week. My goal is to do one episode per week. I’m also going to see about making each podcast episode longer.
In the first season we covered Jonah- the only OT preacher- prophet sent to Gentiles exclusively. We also did a study in the Book of James, a NT Book written to Jewish believers in Jesus. I chose these two Books because I thought it would be a help to see God’s love for Gentiles in what many consider to be the “Hebrew Bible”—the OT, while at the same time we could see Jews in the Church from its very beginning in the NT. The Bible is not made up of the Jewish section followed by the Gentile section. In the Lord’s Church, we are all one.
In the second season, we’re going to dive into the Book of Genesis. This Book is 50 chapters long and covers the first 2,000 years of human history. With the new schedule of only one episode per week, and assuming we cover a chapter a week, it will take us a full year to get through Genesis. I could see it taking us even longer; my point is, I’ve got ideas for improvements in quality and content, but we’re also going to remain flexible. This study in Genesis is going to be fascinating.
I’m looking forward to season 2, and I hope you are also.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE BOOK OF JAMES
James was written to “exhort the early believers to Christian maturity and holiness of life” (Blue, J. Ronald. The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Colorado Springs, CO, David C. Cook, 1983). As we read James, we find “54 commands” (Swindoll, Charles R. God’s Masterwork,Anaheim, CA, Charles R. Swindoll, Inc., 1998). As I mentioned before, I did not emphasize these 54 commands because I wanted to follow a different outline for this Book. Let me just say here that these 54 commands are what we call imperatives. An imperative is simply something of great importance. It is something which must be done. If we count what are called hypotheticals, that number increases to 60. If you want to do an interweb search, you can find all the references for the 54 commands. I’m not going to list them all here. By reading the Book verse by verse, you have, whether you realized it or not, heard all 54 commands.
So, is James giving us additional commandments? Of course not. In fact, I believe James means to encourage believers. Tradition tells us that James was the leader of the Church in Jerusalem. Hegesippus was a 2nd Century historian who tells us that James knelt so much in prayer while asking for forgiveness on behalf of the people, that James became known as “Camel Knees”. That is to say he developed calluses on his knees from kneeling so often. While we really have no way of confirming this, I believe it is probably a true account. I believe it to be true because the historian was close enough to the time of James that it’s not likely the tradition had enough time to develop from people just making up stories. That said, it is not in the Bible, and thus you have another “JO”- James Opinion. That is—my opinion.
But here’s what we can learn from Scripture. Remember that this James is the half-brother of Jesus, and he came to saving faith later according to 1 Corinthians 15:7 and Acts 1:14. I have often wondered what I would have thought if my brother started telling people he was the promised Messiah. I always get the sense that James was watching his older brother from a distance. As a Jewish boy, James would have been taught the Scriptures from an early age. One thing that most Jewish boys could do was read. There had to be times where he marveled at Jesus, and he had to have privately compared what he was seeing with the Scriptures. But… getting back on focus here… For such a short book, James touches on just about every aspect of Christian character and living: how we ought to talk, behave, serve, and who we are as followers of Christ.
The approach I took with the Book of James was a theme of testing.
-
Test of Faith
-
Test of Obedience
-
Test of True Religion
-
Test of Brotherly Love
-
Test of Good Works
-
Test of the Tongue
-
Test of Motivation
-
Test of Submission
-
Test of Trust
-
Test of Patience in Suffering
I would like to give you a quote from Dr. David Jeremiah-
The most deeply important question asked in Christian circles also divides many believers. It is simply, How are we saved? Is it faith alone? Or must we live in a way that glorifies God if we are to spend eternity with Him? That is an appropriate discussion when it comes to salvation. The NT clearly says that we are saved “by grace… through faith” and that “(salvation) is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” (Eph. 2:8-9). Yet the apostle Paul’s very next words are that “we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Eph. 2:10). So we are not saved by good works, but we are saved for good works.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
The final test we find in James- The Test of Patience in Suffering. Up next we will have some final thoughts on the Book of James. Please consider subscribing and tell others about FORGE.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
We're going to get into another test... The Test of Trust. In whom or what have you placed your trust? Money? Retirement plans? Friends? The political system? Legal loopholes? There's only one you can trust with your eternal soul.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
The Test of Submission- Do we submit to God? What does it mean to wash or cleanse our hands and our hearts? Read these passages to get an idea- Ex 20:16; 30:17-21; Lev 19:12; Deut 21:6; Ps 24:4; Jer 5:2; 7:9; Zach 5:4; Mal 3:5; Matt 5:8; Eph 6:11-18; 1 Pet 5:8-9. Cleansing of the hands has to do with our actions. Cleansing of the heart has to do with our motives.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
The Host Gets Back On Script
This is my second attempt at loading this particular episode. My editing skills need work, but stay with me. Production value will be getting better as we move forward.
In James we have been thinking in terms of "tests". We've had the test of: Faith, Obedience, True Religion, Brotherly Love, Good Works, The Tongue, and now we get into the Test of Motivation. As always, James has some challenging words for us.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
The Host Goes Off Script
God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. These words are found in James 4:6. James is reflecting here upon Proverbs 3:34 which states, "Surely He scorns the scornful, But gives grace to the humble." We preach God's Law to the prideful that they may see their violation of God's Law. We preach grace to the humble-- the ones who have been broken before God's Law and see their state as hopeless. But all is not lost! "God, who is in mercy, because of His great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved)... (Ephesians 2:4-5).
If you have not come to Christ for forgiveness, then you have no case before God. What are you going to do?
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
What do a horse bit, a boat rudder, and a fire place all have in common? How does this relate to our control over our speech? To find answers to these and other questions, you're just going to have to listen to this episode of James Reed's FORGE.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
“Belief” is not enough. While a belief in the one true and living God is good, we’re reminded even demons know this. This doesn’t mean they’re saved. I’m reminded of Romans 10:10, “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness: and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” The Amplified Bible further defines this belief as “adheres to, trusts in, and relies on.” This is an absolute trust in God for salvation, not a mere admission of His reality. It’s a deep confidence, not just acknowledgement. True repentance is whole heartedly trusting in Christ for salvation and is born out of the realization of what He’s done for His people. This understanding is what causes the sinner to turn away from and actually lose his appetite for sin! Good works spring from a growing love of Christ. These are the kind of works which demonstrate a real saving faith. If someone says they have faith there should be deeds which reflect its life.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Our study in the Book of James has covered several "tests". We have the "Test of Faith" from chapter 1, but we also mentioned the "Test of Obedience" and the "Test of True Religion". Now, as we take a look at James Chapter 2, we will see the "Test of Brotherly Love".
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
What is the test of true religion?
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In this episode we take a look at LSD- Lust, Sin, and Death.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
How can a person find joy in trials? We are to see a trial as an opportunity for development in us. If we really desire to be all God wants us to be, we will look forward to the outcome, and thus endure the time of testing with joy. James 1:3-4 lets us know the trial will work patience and from patience will come a wholeness and maturity which is gained no other way. “Trials can be faced with joy because infused with faith, perseverance results, and if perseverance goes full-term it will develop a thoroughly mature Christian who lacks nothing” (Blue, J. Ronald. The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Colorado Springs, CO, David C. Cook, 1983). God is sovereign and God is good. If there was any other way to produce what He desires in me without the pain of a testing, He would grant it. But He knows me better than I know myself; there is no short-cut. The trial must come. Jesus focused upon the joy set before Him and endured the cross (Hebrews 12:2). Knowing this, we can face the trial with pure joy. Bring it!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Who wrote the Book of James? Why does it matter? What is a bondservant? Why does James talk about works? Isn't salvation free? These and other questions will be answered as we jump into The Epistle of James.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
There are several things which are interesting about the Book of Jonah. First, it is a fantastic story. This does not make it unbelievable or a work of fiction by any means, but its phenomenal claims actually add to its authenticity. Indeed, its placement within the canon of Scripture begs the question, “Why include something like this if it was not a true story?” Second, this book has more to do with the condition of the prophet and God’s love and discipline for him than it does with his actual prophecy. Finally, Jonah holds the distinction of being the only Old Testament preacher called specifically to Gentiles.
The word “sea” only appears in the first chapter. It appears in verses 4, 5, 9, 11, 12, 13, and 15. The plural appears in chapter 2. It is natural for those familiar with the story of Jonah to first think of the great fish prepared for Jonah, the boat trip to Tarshish, and the sea; however, after Jonah’s prayer in chapter 2, the word “sea” is not mentioned again. At the risk of reading too much into this passage, I find it very comforting that once I repented of my sins and decided to follow Jesus no matter where He would lead, my tumultuous sinful past (the raging sea from which I was saved) is never brought up again.
There is more to be seen in this story also when taken on the whole. Jonah means “dove”. How fitting indeed that a man called to preach coming destruction to a pagan culture has such a name! But, does this not speak of the peace being offered by God—even to Gentiles? The parallels continue. Through Jonah’s experience, one can see Israel’s past, present, and future. Israel was intended to be a witness for God to the Gentiles; so was Jonah. Israel became jealous that God should offer grace to Gentiles; so did Jonah. Just as Jonah was thrown into the sea, Israel was thrown into the world. As he was swallowed by a great fish but not digested, the Jews were swallowed by other nations yet never lost their national identity. Finally, as Jonah was placed back on to dry land, so will Israel be returned in full to the land which God promised.
The final chapter finds an angry Jonah (who knew that God was full of grace and mercy) asking to die rather than see God’s salvation toward these brutal Gentiles (Jon. 4:1-3). In these final verses one finds the true lesson of God’s sovereignty. He is sovereign over all—even Gentiles. God gives mercy to whom He will; how sad that God’s prophet had more pity upon a plant than for 120,000 children (they did not know left from right) and the livestock of the country (Jon. 4:11). As Jesus communicated to Nicodemus in John 3, God’s plan was always international in scope.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
This is the final part of our study through Jonah 4. If salvation is free, then why does it appear from Scripture that the Ninevites were saved because God saw their good works?
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
God's lesson for Jonah is...? In this podcast we will discuss more of Jonah's prayer time. This prayer is very different than the one prayed by Jonah from the belly of a great fish. This is a chapter which shows that God had a plan all along. We also discover that Jonah knew of God's plan and we see that Jonah really did not want God's plan-- even after preaching God's truth.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
- God's Call does not change. 2. The past disobedience to the Call of God must be dealt with before you can move forward. 3. Salvation comes when we obey, and then we can share His glorious gospel with others.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In Jonah 3 there are 3 truths. We could think of it as "3 in 3".
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
There are 4 aspects or parts of Jonah's pious and grateful prayer. 1. Sacrifice. 2. Thanksgiving. 3. Obedience. 4. Proclamation.
Salvation is of the LORD!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
Join us as we take a look at Jonah's first prayer in the Book of Jonah. Notice how he recognizes that salvation is of the Lord. We also take a look at the "chiastic" pattern found in verses 2 through 6.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In this short podcast, we wrap up our study of Jonah Chapter 1 with a brief conclusion. Remember the "take away" from Chapter 1- If God has called you to do something, do not attempt to run away!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
We continue our study through Jonah Chapter 1. Have you ever struggled to be obedient to the call of God upon your life? Take a lesson from Jonah.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
In this podcast we take a look at the first few verses of the Book of Jonah. Before we do that, we observe the parallel outline of Jonah and take note of some similarities between Israel and Jonah. There is some interesting word play in these first few verses, and we also note that these are real events that happened to real people.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support
FORGE exists to serve those whom the Holy Spirit is calling into a relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ.
FORGE does this by teaching the Bible, God’s holy word so that individuals understand God’s forgiveness, live in its reality, and overcome wounds caused by bondage to sin. Christians experience gratefulness and renewed purpose as they are encouraged by words of life and participate in God’s ongoing healing for their lives.
Forgiven- We are forgiven because of Christ’s completed work upon the cross. This is a gift of God’s grace and mercy; there is nothing done by a human to earn nor keep salvation. (Eph. 2:8-10; Tit. 3:5).
Overcoming- We are overcoming false teaching, conditioning, and emotionalism based upon a sober study of God’s Word, the Bible. (2 Tim. 2:15; Acts 17:11).
Reformed- We are committed to the Reformed Confessions. We walk in forgiveness, and we rest in the sovereignty of God knowing that He will work all things together for good for those called according to His purpose (Matt. 7:12; Rom. 8:28; 2 Cor. 2:4-10).
Grateful- We are grateful that God opened our eyes to His glorious truth and that He brought us to life for His glorious purposes. (1 Cor. 2:14; Gal. 2:20).
Encouraging- We encourage others by speaking words of life. We preach true deliverance to the captive and freedom to the slave. We proclaim the true gospel of Christ—not the counterfeits which currently seem to consume our society and much of visible religious life. (Luke 4:18; Gal. 1:8).
“As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend” (Prov. 27:17, NKJV).
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/james-reed877/support