The Webster Bible Church Podcast: Recent Episodes

WBC Staff

Webster Bible Church is an evangelical, independent, nondenominational Bible preaching and teaching ministry. We are dedicated to faithful expository preaching of the inspired Word of God. We offer bible teaching for all ages and grade levels. We have a growing biblical counseling ministry, a more intimate fellowship in our weekly small groups as well as a new found zeal for local and international missions.

Transformative Truth:
God transforms people by His Word

"By its very nature the Word does its work" - Alistair Begg

To be transformed, you must Trust the Goal of God's word in your life

Wisdom for Salvation
Maintenance of Your Faith
Preparation for Good Works

To be transformed, you must Trust the Power of God's word in your life

Trust the Power of God's Word for Teaching

Trust the Power of God's Word for Reproof

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. - Hebrews 4:12

Trust the Power of God's Word for Correction

Trust the Power of God's Word for Training

"The Word of God is able to do that which nothing else can do in the hearts and lives of men. It is able to accomplish certain results which nothing else can accomplish. It has a power which no other message has. And the need for that power of the Word of God is imperative."

Transformative Truth:
God’s People are Confident in God’s Word

Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son…

The first reason for Supreme Confidence in Scripture is that it is God-Breathed

KJV: All scripture is given by inspiration of God NASB: All Scripture is inspired by God NIV: All Scripture is God-breathed ESV: All Scripture is breathed out by God

Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:20-21)

The second reason for Supreme Confidence in Scripture is that it is Written

Canon / Rule
1. Evidence of divine authority
2. Prophetic or apostolic authorship
3. Orthodox doctrine
4. Widespread acceptance

For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. (Romans 15:4)

“What plant can be unwatered, and not wither” - Robert Murray M’Cheyne

Suggestions for Reading
1. Read Frequently
2. Read Actively

“No book in existence contains such important matters as the Bible” - JC Ryle

Through Scripture You Can Have Confidence
1. Knowing God
2. Knowing the Mission of God’s People
3. Knowing Truth
4. Knowing & Recognizing Lies
5. Knowing You
6. Knowing Christ

Transformative Truth:
God’s glory is to be cherished by His people and declared among the nations.

I. Praise the glorious works of God among the nations. (v.1-5)

II. Praise the glorious name of God among the nations. (v.2, 8, 6-10)

III. Proclaim the glory of the cross among the nations. (v.10, 13)

Transformative Truth:

God's holy people are to give thanks, not gratify self.

Get rid of sexual sin (vv.3-4a)
Give thanks instead (v. 4b)
Grasp the reason why (vv. 5-7)

Transformative Truth:
God Communicates for His Glory and for Our Benefit

I. God Speaks in Many Ways

II. God Speaks by Jesus His Son

Transformative Truth:
Be gracious like God in how you talk and treat others.

Talk Constructively

Be gracious like God in how you talk and treat others.

Treat Others Kindly

The kindness we express to others is an extension of the kindness that God has lavished on us, in Christ.

Transformative Truth:
Redeemed hands work hard and open wide.

Stop stealing (put off)
Start working (put on)
Share generously (purpose)
Stop stealing.

Redeemed hands work hard and open wide.

Start working.
Share generously.

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. - 2 Corinthians 9:7-8

If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. - James 2:14-16

Redeemed hands work hard and open wide.

Transformative Truth:
Deal with anger rightly, lest the devil hurt you badly.

Defining Anger

Anger is an active, whole-person response of moral displeasure at a perceived wrong.

Diagnosing Anger

Do you get angry about the right things?
Do you express anger in the right way?
How long does your anger last?
How controlled is your anger?
What motivates your anger?
Is your anger “primed and ready” to respond to another person’s habitual sins?
What is the effect of your anger?

Diagnosing Anger Do you get angry about the right things? Do you express anger in the right way? How long does your anger last? How controlled is your anger? What motivates your anger? Is your anger “primed and ready” to respond to another person’s habitual sins? What is the effect of your anger?

Dealing with Anger

Speaker: Andrew Smith, Missionary Pilot with Ethnos360

Text: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17

Transformative Truth:
Having rejected the lie and embraced the truth, speak accordingly.

Ephesians 4:25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.

The Premise

The Prohibition

You cannot bear to hear my word. You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. - John 8:43-44

The Precept

The Perspective

Having rejected the lie and embraced the truth, speak accordingly.

Pastor Ed Moore guest speaker

Transformative Truth:
Having learned Christ, live distinctly, according to your new identity.

The Way of the Lost (vv 17-19)

The Way of the Lord (vv 20-24)

Transformative Truth:
Every believer is gifted by Christ to build up the church.

Varying Grace - Ephesians 4:7-10

Every believer is gifted by Christ to build up the church.

But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness. - Romans 6:17-18 NIV

The Vibrant Church - Ephesians 4:11-16
- Capable Men
- Comprehensive ministry
- Christlike maturity

Every believer is gifted by Christ to build up the church.

Transformative Truth:
God Calls and Equips the Church for Unity

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Philippians 2:3

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32

In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, Ephesians 1:13

For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body-Jews or Greeks, slaves or free-and all were made to drink of one Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:13

For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named Ephesians 3:14-15

"that according to the riches of his (God's) glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being. Ephesians 3:16 ESV

Transformative Truth:
Through prayer, God energizes his church to experience his fullness.

For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. - Romans 15:4

Through prayer, God energizes his church to experience his fullness.

The Premise of the Prayer Ephesians 3:14a

The Posture of the Prayer Ephesians 3:14b-15

The Progression of the Prayer Ephesians 3:16-19 1. Inner strength (v. 16) 2. Indwelling Christ (v. 17a) 3. Immense love (v.17b-19a) 4. Increasing fullness

The Pinnacle of the Prayer Ephesians 3:20-21

Speaker: Mike Gendron, Guest Speaker

Scripture: Galatians 1:6-10

Three Observations:
1. Paul’s amazement at the Galatians deserting Christ (v. 6)
2. Paul’s awareness of the Galatians’ unwillingness to contend for the gospel (v. 7)
3. Paul’s anathema on anyone who distorts the gospel (vv. 8-9)

Why is There Only One Gospel?

God’s Gospel Upholds His Glorious Attributes

Modern-Day Judaizers Distort Justification

Transformative Truth:
The message for all peoples is worth proclaiming at any price.

The Minister (vv. 1-5, 7-8a)

The Mystery (v.6)

The Mission (vv. 8b-9)

The Manifestation (vv. 10-13)

Transformative Truth:
Every believer is an ambassador for Christ

Mission statement: Niagara Gospel Mission is committed to glorifying God by caring for the needs of our homeless and impoverished neighbors with love, excellence, service, and hospitality through the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ.

When He (Jesus) saw the crowds, He had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:36

Transformative Truth:
Believe in the resurrected Christ, and you will have eternal life.

Consternation: What They Saw John 20:1-10

V1: Mary "saw that the stone had been taken away."

V5: John "saw the linen cloths lying there."

V6: Peter "Peter saw the linen cloths lying there..."

Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying apart from the other wrappings. - John 20:6 NLT

He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, "Thus it is written that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead...." - Luke 24:45-47

Celebration: Who They Saw John 20:11-29

Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining the outcome of our faith, the salvation of your souls. - 1 Peter 1:8-9

Consideration: What about you? John 20:30-31

Transformative Truth:
In Christ we are no longer alienated from God and one another.

At one time... Remember the dilemma you were in!

But now... Rejoice in the difference Jesus has made!

Transformative Truth:
God’s grace eliminates all cause for human boasting in salvation.

A. Because of our sin, we were ruined. Ephesians 2:1-3
1. We were dead in our sin.
2. We were dominated by our sin.
3. We were damned for our sin.

"BUT GOD..."

B. Because of God's love, we were rescued. Ephesians 2:4-7
1. God made us alive together with Christ.
2. God raised us up with him.
3. God seated us with him in the heavenly places.

Because of God's grace, we were recreated. Ephesians 2:8-10

God's grace eliminates all cause for human boasting.

Transformative Truth:
The church’s greatest need is to know God better.

Praise (vv. 15-16)

Prayer (vv. 17-23)

The church’s greatest need is to know God better.

Three Things God Wants You to Know

The destiny God has planned for you.
How much God prizes you.
The greatness of God’s power toward you.

The church’s greatest need is to know God better.

Transformative Truth:
Colossians 3:1-2 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

1 – E__________________

2 – H______ & B_________ in God’s presence

3 – A__________________

4 – Means of G___________ & P____________

5 – R__________________

6 – R__________________

7 – H__________________

8 – G__________________

9 – S__________________

10 – I_________________

Transformative Truth:
Believers should praise God for his magnificent grace to us.

Blessed Be God (v. 3a)

Blessed By God (vv. 3b-7)

The source of blessing
The sphere of blessing
The substance of blessing

Transformative Truth:
Being set apart by God for God puts believers in a good place!

The Author (v. 1a)

For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it. And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. - Galatians 1:13-14

Paul, an apostle – not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead…. - Galatians 1:1

But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone…. - Galatians 1:15-16

The Addressees (v. 1b)

You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, not now you have received mercy. - 1 Peter 2:9-10

“I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world.” - John 17:15-18

The Assurance (v. 2)

Transformative Truth:
God’s Word tells us we can KNOW God’s will so that we can LIVE God’s will

The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law. -Deuteronomy 29:29

We believe the counsel of God given to us by the Spirit of God in the Word of God is the means by which the people of God KNOW the will of God

For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding... -Proverbs 2:6

He said to them, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. -John 8:23

Live in God’s will by BEARING fruit in every good work

Live in God’s will by INCREASING in the Knowledge of God

See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ -Colossians 2:8

… continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard… -Colossians 1:23

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. -Colossians 3:12

Giving thanks joyfully to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light

And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, -Colossians 1:21-22

Scripture: Romans 14:13–15:7

Transformative Truth:
Christian liberty is to be governed by love.

How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. - Hebrews 9:14

The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. - 1 Timothy 1:5

Christian liberty is to be governed by love.

For the sake of your brother
For the sake of Christ’s body

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” - Matthew 5:6

“I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on faith.” - Paul the Apostle (Philippians 3:9-10 NLT)

Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. - Colossians 3:15 NLT

Christian liberty is to be governed by love.

For the sake of God’s blessing

Conclusion
1. Our mandate (v. 1)
2. Our mission (v. 2)
3. Our model (v. 3)
4. Our manual (v. 4)
5. Our mantra (v. 7)

Scripture: Romans 14:1-12

Transformative Truth:
Since the Lord welcomes us, we should welcome one another.

Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
- Romans 15:7

How should I relate to fellow Christians whose consciences disagree with mine?

The Problem

Feel as I feel, think only as I think;
Eat what I eat, drink what I drink,
Look as I look, do always as I do,
Then and only then will I fellowship with you.

The Prescription

To the strong:

Welcome your weaker brother (v. 1).
Do not despise him (vv. 3a, 10b)

To the weak:

Stop passing judgment (vv. 3b, 4a, 10a)

Should a man not lay his hand upon his mouth before he criticizes his brethren? When we pass swift, uninformed, unloving and ungenerous judgments, surely we have forgotten that if we speak evil of them, at the same time we speak evil of the Lord whose name they bear.

The Principles

God welcomes all believers (v. 3)
The Lord upholds every believer (v. 4)
The Lord is sovereign over every believer (vv. 5-9)

“To deny the lordship of Jesus Christ in the life of any believer is to subvert the full work, power, and purpose of His crucifixion and resurrection.”

The Lord alone will judge each believer (vv. 10-12).

Scripture: Hebrews 10:19-25

Transformative Truth:
For the conscience to function properly, it must be calibrated to Scripture.

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
- Hebrews 10:22

Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.
- 1 Peter 3:21-22

For the conscience to function properly, it must be calibrated to Scripture.

The Calibration of the Conscience

Unless I am convicted by Scripture and plain reason – I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other – my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand, I cannot do otherwise. God help me. Amen.

But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their power of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.
- Hebrews 5:14

Education
Application

The Conditions of the Conscience

Those who have a guilty conscience and know it.
Those who have a guilty conscience and don’t know it.
Those who have a purified conscience and know it.
Those who have a purified conscience and don’t know it.

By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our hearts before him; for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything.
- 1 John 3:20

The Cross and the Conscience

Scripture: Genesis 3:1-21, Hebrews 9:14, 1 Peter 3:21-22

Transformative Truth:
Guilt and shame lose their power at the cross of Christ.

The conscience is your awareness of what you believe is right and wrong.

Modern-Day Fig Leaves (Self-Atoning, Self-Protective Measures)

• The blame game

• Perfectionism and overachievement

• Busyness and distractions

• Religious duties and good works

I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring [seed] and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.
- Genesis 3:15

How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.
- Hebrews 9:14

Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.
- 1 Peter 3:21-22

Guilt and shame lose their power at the cross of Christ.

I will greatly rejoice in the LORD; my soul shall exult in my God, for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation; He has covered me with the robe of righteousness...
-Isaiah 61:10

Scripture Text: various

Transformative Truth:
Thank God for the precious gift of conscience!

“The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.”
- 1 Timothy 1:5

“I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man.”
- Acts 24:16

THE NEGLECTED CONSCIENCE
Part One: What Is the Conscience?

They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts. Their consciences confirm this. Their competing thoughts either accuse or even excuse them [tell them they are doing right].
- Romans 2:15 CSB

To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure; but both their minds and their consciences are defiled.
- Titus 1:15 ESV

The conscience is your awareness
of what you believe is right and wrong.

Transformative Truth:
Trust the Transforming Power of the Gospel to Produce Fruit

The fruit of faith
The fruit of love
The fruit of hope

Transformative Truth:
Jesus Christ provides the rule that real peace requires.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. - Isaiah 9:6

Jesus Christ provides the rule that real peace requires.

Peace in a Person

“Children ought to love the Lord Jesus Christ above all things in the world.”

There is no love so great and so wonderful as that which is in the heart of Christ.

Peace through his Provision

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. - Romans 5:1

For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility…. - Ephesians 2:14

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock. - Isaiah 26:3-4

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock. - Isaiah 26:3-4

Peace that is Perpetual

Jesus Christ provides the rule that real peace requires.

Transformative Truth:
Jesus Christ is our “Everlasting Father”

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. - Isaiah 9:6

BLESSED BE THE NAME: Part Three: "Everlasting Father" Isaiah 9:6

And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." - Matthew 3:16-17

Jesus Christ is the founder and head of the household of faith.

Yet it was the will of the LORD to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. - Isaiah 53:10

Jesus Christ is the benevolent protector and provider for his people.
Jesus Christ will never let us down.

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." So we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?" - Hebrews 13:5-6

Transformative Truth:
The infinitely powerful Son of God fights for His people.

"Mighty God" on earth
"Mighty God" in heaven
"Mighty God" in heaven and on earth together

Transformative Truth:
As the Wonderful Counselor, Jesus provides perfect wisdom and care for all who come to him.

For to us a child is born, To us a son is given; And the government shall be upon his shoulder, And his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. - Isaiah 9:6

The Prophetic Context

Matthew 4:12-13 Now when he heard that John [the Baptist] had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee. And leaving Nazareth he went and lived in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali....

Matthew 4:14-17 so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of Gentiles- the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned." From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given.... - Isaiah 9:6

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder.... - Isaiah 9:6

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. - Isaiah 9:6

The Preeminent Counselor

Jesus is all-wise.
Jesus is approachable.
Jesus is reliable.
Jesus is available.

As the Wonderful Counselor, Jesus provides perfect wisdom and care for all who come to him.

Applications:
1. Come to Jesus with all your struggles and sins.
2. Listen to Jesus through the Word of God.
3. Walk with Jesus through the Holy Spirit.

Transformative Truth:
Celebrate and cultivate gospel-centered relationships in the local church.

Recognize our connection in Christ.
Root your confidence in God.

Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. - 1 John 3:2

Reaffirm our commitment to one another.
a. as partners in the gospel
b. through prayer for spiritual growth

Transformative Truth:
The One True God of the Bible still Rules and Reigns

I. Observation
1) The God of Israel is on His throne
2) The God of Israel defense His honor

II. Application
1) Point people to the One True God by first identifying false gods
2) Point people to the One True God by sharing God’s word

Transformative Truth:
Great people foster gratitude toward God and goodness toward others.

A Grand Feast - Esther 9:20-32

It was recorded.
It was required.

A Great Friend - Esther 10:1-3

What he sought
What he spoke

Transformative Truth:
Believers can fight valiantly, knowing that God is for us.

The Victory Declared Esther 9:1

The Victory Described Esther 9:2-19

What God's people did for themselves
What the governing officials did for them
What God Almighty did for them
What they gained as a result

Believers can fight valiantly, knowing that God is for us.

Transformative Truth:
You can expectantly trust God's deliverance!

"Old Testament historical narrative is 'a declaration from God about God' (Alec Motyer)..." - Dale Ralph Davis

I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. Genesis 12:3

Transformative Truth: You can expectantly trust God's deliverance!

I want you to fully believe in God's deliverance, which changes everything Esther 8:1-2

I want you to fully rest in God's deliverance, which is sometimes veiled behind human decisions and actions Esther 8:3-12

People of Israel, listen! God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. But God knew what would happen, and his prearranged plan was carried out when Jesus was betrayed. With the help of lawless Gentiles, you nailed him to a cross and killed him. So let everyone in Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah! Acts 2:22-23, 36, NLT

I want you to fully delight in God's deliverance, which brings freedom and joy. Esther 8:13-17

The Jews were filled with joy and gladness and were honored everywhere. Esther 8:16, NLT

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Matthew 1:1

For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives. Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was. Romans 6:3-5, NLT

Transformative Truth:
God protects his people and punishes those who oppose them.

The Request of the Queen Esther 7:1-4

The Rage of the King Esther 7:4-8

The Retribution on the Condemned Esther 7:9-10

Identification: Take your stand with Christ and his people.
Indignation: View God’s wrath in relation to his love.
Illusion: Beware of the deceitfulness of sin.

Transformative Truth:
The deliverance of God’s people spells doom for their enemies.

A Sleepless Night - Esther 6:1-3

A Surprising Morning - Esther 6:4-12

A Sobering Assertion - Esther 6:13-14

Marvel at God's providence.
Maintain a right perspective.
Make sure that you're prepared.

Speaker: Matthew H. Fletcher, Senior Pastor

Scripture: Esther 5:1-14

Transformative Truth:
God uses the humble and the haughty to achieve his purposes.

The Positive Effects of Humility Esther 5:1-8

Courage
Faith
Wisdom

The Negative Effects of Haughtiness Esther 5:9-14

Fragile ego
Frequent boasting
Foolish Impulse

Speaker: Matthew H. Fletcher, Senior Pastor

Scripture: Esther 4:1-17

Transformative Truth:
It’s better to risk your life than to waste it.

Devastating Crisis Esther 4:1-3

Deliberate Care Esther 4:4-17

My role: How does this concern me?

My risk: What might this cost me?

My reward: Are the consequences worth it?

"Yahweh! The Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty." - Exodus 34:6-7a NLT

Transformative Truth:
The forces of evil threaten to annihilate God’s covenant people.

Haman's Promotion Esther 3:1-2a

"The providences of God are seldom self-interpreting, and it's usually wrong for us to try and understand what's going on in the immediacy of the moment ... the time frame of the here and now." - Alistair Begg

Haman's Pride Esther 3:2b-5
Haman's Prejudice Esther 3:6
Haman's Proposal Esther 3:7-11
Haman's Proclamation Esther 3:12-15a
Haman's Presumption Esther 3:15b

Transformative Truth:
The best and worst of men can’t change the Master’s plan.

Girls Gathered vv 1-11

Esther Esteemed vv 12-18

Plot Precluded vv 19-23

Lessons Learned

1.

2.

3.

Transformative Truth:
With the exception of God, might does not make right.

The King's Predominance - Esther 1:1-4

The King's Parties - Esther 1:5-9

The King's Problems - Esther 1:10-12

The Proclamation - Esther 1:13-22

With the exception of God, might does not make right.

Practical Considerations
1. A look at our society
2. A look at our selves
3. A look at our Savior

Speaker: Noble Armstrong, Elder

Scripture: Psalm 51:1-19

Transformative Truth:
True confession involves seeing your sin for what it is, seeing God for who He is, and seeing yourself for who you are.

In the spring of the year, the time when kings go out to battle, David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel. And they ravaged the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem. 1 Samuel 11:1

When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. 4 For day and night your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Psalm 32:3-4

Graphic slide: Project graphic comparing 2 passages

Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned. Romans 5:12

21 Then Moses called all the elders of Israel and said to them, "Go and select lambs for yourselves according to your clans, and kill the Passover lamb. 22 Take a bunch of hyssop and dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and touch the lintel and the two doorposts with the blood that is in the basin. None of you shall go out of the door of his house until the morning. 23 For the LORD will pass through to strike the Egyptians, and when he sees the blood on the lintel and on the two doorposts, the LORD will pass over the door and will not allow the destroyer to enter your houses to strike you. Exodus 12:21-23

29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth.30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, "It is finished," and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:29

And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. Genesis 3:15

True confession involves seeing your sin for what it is, seeing God for who He is, and seeing yourself for who you are.

18 And he shall put some of the blood on the horns of the altar that is in the tent of meeting before the Lord, and the rest of the blood he shall pour out at the base of the altar of burnt offering that is at the entrance of the tent of meeting. 19 And all its fat he shall take from it and burn on the altar. 20 Thus shall he do with the bull. As he did with the bull of the sin offering, so shall he do with this. And the priest shall make atonement for them, and they shall be forgiven. Leviticus 4:17-20

13 For if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of defiled persons with the ashes of a heifer, sanctify for the purification of the flesh, 14 how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. Hebrews 9:13-14 22 Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins. Hebrews 9:13-14 and 22

7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 7-9

Title: Grace Alone

Speaker: Bill & Lori Smith, ABWE Missionaries

Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-10, Romans 11:5-6, Psalm 130

Transformative Truth:
Receive Grace... Live by Grace... Share HIS Grace

SOLO GRATIA (GRACE ALONE)
God’s grace is _____________________ favor. (Gen. 6:8)
God’s grace is _______________________ sin debt _________________________________ (Rom. 6:23)
God’s grace is through ____________________ alone. (John 14:6)
God’s grace can’t be _______________________. (Eph. 2:8,9)
God’s grace is ______________________________________. (John 1:29)
We need to _________________________________________ His Grace.
We need to _______________________________________ by His Grace.
We need to _____________________________________ share His Grace

Transformative Truth:
Believers “pay back” the Lord by magnifying his inexhaustible goodness.

I believed, even when I spoke: "I am greatly afflicted"; 11. I said in my alarm, "All mankind are liars."
I believed, so [therefore] I spoke: "I am greatly afflicted"; 11. I said in my alarm, "All mankind are liars."

The gratitude we show God is itself a gift from God.

I'll live for the Lord, and here's how:

I will celebrate: I will lift up the cup of salvation.
I will supplicate: I will call on the name of the Lord.
I will congregate: I will worship in the presence of the Lord's people.
I will consecrate: I will dedicate myself to the Lord's service.

Believers "pay back" the Lord by magnifying his inexhaustible goodness.

Transformative Truth:
Tell others publicly why you love the Lord personally.

"I love the Lord," and here's why:

He has heard me Psalm 116:1-2
He has rescued me Psalm 116:3-6

In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him. - Hebrews 5:7-9

9 But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. 10 For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. 11 For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers, 12 saying, "I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise." 13 And again, "I will put my trust in him." And again, "Behold, I and the children God has given me." - Hebrews 2:9-13

Tell others publicly why you love the Lord personally.

The theological truth is that every experience of being rescued from death (the experience of Psalm 116) - whether being saved from dying or being raised from the dead - is possible only because of the death and resurrection of Christ. Psalm 116 is ours in Christ, as those who died with him and are raised with him (Rom. 6:1-11).

"I love the Lord," and here's why:

He has heard me.
He has rescued me.
He has cared for me. Psalm 116:7

Transformative Truth:
Divine love is revealed and expressed by Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Paul prays
(1) That God might strengthen us with power through his Spirit in our inner being (Ephesians 3:6-17a)
(2) That we might have power to grasp the limitless dimensions of the love of Christ (Ephesians 3:17b-19)

Divine Love is revealed and expressed by Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

First, to live with an ever-increasing awareness of Divine Love, Consider: Triune love Exists

Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Deuteronomy 6:4)

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. 2 Corinthians 13:14

WBC doctrinal statement He (God) is inexpressibly glorious in holiness, and worthy of all honor, confidence, and love. He eternally exists in three persons, who are equal in every divine perfection, and who execute distinct but harmonious roles in the work of creation, providence and redemption.

Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:8

"It is common when speaking of the Divine happiness to say that God is infinitely happy in the enjoyment of Himself, in perfectly beholding and infinitely loving, and rejoicing in, His own essence and perfection..." (Jonathan Edwards)

And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." Matthew 3:16-17

Second, to live with an ever-increasing awareness of Divine Love, Consider: Triune love is Expressed

"His self-giving affection for his image-bearing creatures and his unselfish concern for their well-being, that leads him to act on their behalf and for their happiness and welfare "

The God who is love - is the Father who sends his Son.

For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly (Son) Romans 5:6

But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Father) Romans 5:8

And when he (the Holy Spirit) comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.... (John 16:8 )

Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. John 3:5

You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. Colossians 2:13-14, NLT

Third, to live with an ever-increasing awareness of Divine Love, Consider: Triune love is Extended

In other words, the shape of the Father-Son relationship (the headship) begins a gracious cascade, like a waterfall of love: as the Father is the lover and the head of the Son, so the Son goes out to be the lover and the head of the church. "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you," the Son says (Jn 15:9). And therein lies the very goodness of the gospel: as the Father is the lover and the Son the beloved, so Christ becomes the lover and the church the beloved. That means that Christ loves the church first and foremost: his love is not a response, given only when the church loves him; his love comes first, and we only love him because he first loved us (1 John 4:19)

Divine Love is revealed and expressed by Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

Transformative Truth:
Without God’s grace, sinners are unable to choose salvation.

Predestination (Ephesians 1:3-14)
Arminianism’s argument against God’s Sovereign Election
God’s formula for salvation (Eph. 2:4-10)
a. God’s grace
b. When God “draws” his elect to salvation
Saul’s conversion
Questions about Free Will vs God’s Sovereign Election
a. What about verses that suggest belief is from Free Will?
b. Does God also predestine those who will go to hell?
c. Is God’s Sovereign Election unfair?
d. What about the people from Old Testament times?
Application

Transformative Truth:
O God, Your GRACE overwhelms us… And I simply must SAY something!

Transformative Truth:
Andrew exemplifies how a true disciple of Christ walks with his Lord.

Andrew, the Little Brother
John 1:29-42 (p. 833)
Mark 1:16-20 (p. 785)

Andrew, the Big Brother
John 6:4-14 (p. 838)

Andrew, the Christian Brother
John 12:20-26 (p. 845)
Matthew 26:36-41 (p. 781)

Transformative Truth:
Live for the Lord and the world to come.

The River of Life
If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me,
as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.'"
Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were
to receive.... - John 7:37-39

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation
of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved. - Psalm 46:10

The Return of the Lord
The confirmation of his return (v. 7)
The consequence of his return (v. 12)
Our consideration of his return (v. 20)

The Response of the Living
As surely as I live, says the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of
wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live.
Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die? - Ezekiel 33:11

Scripture: Revelation 21–22:6
Secondary Texts: 1 Peter 1:13; 1 Cor. 2:9-10

Transformative Truth:
The Book of Revelation is intended to buoy the hopes of God’s people in difficult times,
and to refocus their hearts and minds so as to truly “love His appearing.”

13 Things that won't be in the New Heavens and The New Earth
1 / 21.1 – No more SEA
2 / 21.4 – No more DEATH
3 / 21.4 – No more MOURNING
4 / 21.4 – No more CRYING
5 / 21.4 – No more PAIN
6 / 21.8 - No cowardly, faithless, detestable, murderous, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolatrous or lying persons
7 / 21.22 – No TEMPLE
8 / 21.23 – No SUN or MOON
9 / 21.25 – No LIMITED ACCESS:
10 / 21.25 – No NIGHT
11 / 21.27 – Nothing UNCLEAN
12 / 21.27 – No one DETESTABLE
13 / 22.3 – No more CURSE!

Transformative Truth:
At the end of all things - what matters is whether or not one stands before God, having had Jesus
take all the just due for their sins on the cross at Calvary – being listed in the Lamb’s Book of Life
- or standing before God and having to give an account for every act, the motive behind every act,
every wayward, evil or contrary thought, and their unrepentant state in refusing Christ as their
sin-bearer and Lord.

I. (v. 11) The JUDGE
II. (vss. 12-13) The JUDGED
III. (vss. 12-13) The JUDGMENTS
IV. (vss. 14-15) JUSTICE

3 Takeaways:
1 - There WILL be ultimate justice
2 - Satan, death and sin WILL be eradicated forever
3 - All things WILL be summed up in Christ

Transformative Truth:
Trust God's Absolute Sovereignty in Satan's Absolute Defeat

Sovereignty of God: The Biblical teaching that God is king, supreme ruler, and lawgiver of the entire universe

Trust God's Absolute Sovereignty in Satan's Absolute Defeat

For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:13-14 NLT

And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, (14) by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. Colossians 2.13

He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over
them in him. Colossians 2:15

Be Alert - Don't be Deceived!

See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. Colossians 2:8

Be Wise - Know the Truth!

"It is ever the Holy Spirit's work to turn our eyes away from self to Jesus; but Satan's work is just the opposite of this, for he is constantly trying to make us regard ourselves instead of Christ. . . ." - Charles Spurgeon

Be Confident - Rest in the victory!

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died-more than that, who was raised-who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. - Romans 8.31-37

Transformative Truth:
Satan cannot stop the advancement and triumph of God’s kingdom!

Satan Restrained! Revelation 20:1-3

Saints Reign! Revelation 20:4-6

Satan cannot stop the advancement and triumph of God’s kingdom.

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. - Matthew 28:18-20

Transformative Truth:
An eternal celebration awaits all the Lord’ servants.

Praise the Lord for delivering his people!

After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” - Revelation 7:9-10

Praise the Lord for destroying his enemies!
Praise the Lord for dressing his bride!

I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom dressed for his wedding or a bride with her jewels. - Isaiah 61:10 NLT

“… With fear and trembling your own salvation work out, for God is the [One] working in you both to will and to work according to [His] good pleasure.” - Philippians 2:12-13

Transformative Truth:
Don’t live for the city that won’t last.

The First Voice from Heaven (vv. 1-3)
• The Reality of Babylon’s Fall
• The Reason for Babylon’s Fall

The Second Voice from Heaven (vv. 4-24)
• Rescue (v. 4)
• Retribution (vv. 5-19, 21-24)
• Rejoicing (v. 20)

For here we have no lasting city,
but we seek the city that is to come.
Hebrews 13:14

Transformative Truth:
Don’t let the world lure you away from Jesus.

Babylon = Worldliness

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world - the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions - is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever. - 1 John 2:15-17

Don't let the world lure you away from Jesus.

THE HARLOT
1. Her seductive appeal
2. Her sinful abominations
3. Her satanic alliance
4. Her surprising annihilation

THE HERO

Don't let the world lure you away from Jesus.

Transformative Truth:
God is right to punish unrepentant sinners – and He will.

Bowls Poured

God Praised

Sinners Persist

Transformative Truth:
All God’s deeds are just, righteous, and worthy of worship!

I. Worship God for His Victory

II. Worship God for His Wrath

Transformative Truth:
To enjoy victory and escape judgment, “follow the Lamb wherever he goes.”

HEAVEN: The Music to Be Heard Revelation 14:1-5

HERALDS: The Messages to Be Heeded Revelation 14:6-13

HARVEST: The Moment to Be Had Revelation 14:14-20

So Jesus also suffered outside the [city] gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. - Hebrews 13:12-15

Transformative Truth:
Be wise and withstand the dragon’s helpers.

The First Beast Revelation 13:1-10

“Ah, the thunder of many peoples; they thunder like the thundering of the sea! Ah, the roar of the nations; they roar like the roaring of mighty waters! - Isaiah 17:12

The Second Beast Revelation 13:11-18

Be wise and withstand the dragon’s helpers.

Transformative Truth:
The devil’s rage we can endure, for his eternal doom is sure.

The Woman and the Dragon (vv. 1-6)

The War against the Dragon (vv. 7-12a)

The Wrath of the Dragon (vv. 12b-17)

Brooks Buser, Guest Speaker
February 9, 2025

Romans 10:13-15

God saves sinners
Goers in missions
a. Well trained
b. Need to preach
c. Must see past this world
Senders in missions
a. Raise their sons and daughters to be sent
b. Good senders live in such a way that the great commission
affects their lives here
c. Good senders are faithful church members

Transformative Truth:
God’s people will proclaim the gospel until His kingdom comes.

Tragedies are trumpets sounding the alarm that “the day of the Lord is coming; it is near” (Joel 2:1)

God’s people will proclaim the gospel until His kingdom comes.

The Church is secure (vv. 1-2)
The Church is sent (vv. 3-6)
The Church will suffer (vv. 7-10)
The Church will succeed (vv. 11-14)
The Church will celebrate (vv. 15-19)

Transformative Truth:
All the earth will know that God’s judgment is in full swing when the Seventh Trumpet sounds.

The Messenger Roars (Revelation 10:1-4)
The Angel Swears: “No More Delay” (Revelation 10:5-7)
A Bittersweet Prophesy (Revelation 10:8-11)

Transformative Truth:
The restrained judgments of God are a merciful call to repentance.

Trumpets 1-4:
Wrath With Restraint

The trumpets resemble the plagues on Egypt
The trumpets run parallel to the seals and the bowls.
The trumpets reiterate the plight and peril of sinners.

The restrained judgments of God are a merciful call to repentance.

The restrained judgments of God are a merciful call to repentance.

Trumpets 5-6:
Woes Without Repentance

The restrained judgments of God are a merciful call to repentance.

Transformative Truth:
God hears and answers the prayers of His people.

“Here we see that God is listening to and answering the prayers that saints have voiced all throughout history. The prayers will be answered fully and finally when the kingdom comes, when God’s will is done.”

The Priority of Prayer
Revelation 8:1

The People of Prayer
Revelation 8:2b

God hears and answers the prayers of his people.

The Presentation of Prayer
Revelation 8:3-4

The Power of Prayer
Revelation 8:5

Title: Keep Others

Speaker: Dave Theobald, Guest Speaker

Scripture: Jude 22-23

Transformative Truth:
You are your brother’s keeper.

S__________ - End Rescues
S_______ S______ Rescues
D__________ - End Rescues

Transformative Truth:
God desires his people to love him, to love themselves, and to love others.

You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.”
Deuteronomy 6:5

You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down and when you rise.
Deuteronomy 6:7

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.
Leviticus 19:18b

And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” And he said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.
Luke 10:25-28

But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and took him to an inn and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.”
Luke 10:29-37

Transformative Truth:
The glory of God has come into the world in the person of Jesus.

Now Jesus did many other [miraculous] signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
- John 20:30-31

The glory of God has come into the world in the person of Jesus.

The Word
John 1:1-5

1 Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. 2 And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. … And through the Son he created the universe. 3 The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God….
- Hebrews 1:1-3

“In the beginning the Word was existing. And the Word was in fellowship with God the Father. And the Word was as to His essence absolute deity.”

How precious is your steadfast love, O God! …
For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light.
- Psalm 36:7, 9

The Witness
John 1:6-8

What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, as the Lord assigned to each. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.
- 1 Cor. 3:5-7

The World
John 1:9-13

Behold what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!
- 1 John 3:1

The Wonder
John 1:14-18

Transformative Truth:
Redeemed and sealed forevermore, the saints their Lord and God adore.

The Preservation of God’s Servants
(vv. 1-8)

In him [Christ] you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
- Ephesians 1:13-14

Have you truly believed that the Lamb has purchased you by the price of his blood?
Do you desire to keep God’s commandments?
Are you so convicted of sin that it leads to repentance and renewal of your relationship with Christ?
Are you willing to bear witness to the Lamb amid pressures to compromise faith?

The Praise from God’s Servants
(vv. 9-12)

The Presence among God’s Servants
(vv. 13-17)

The only shelter from the wrath of the Lamb
is the love of the Lamb.

Redeemed and sealed forevermore,
the saints their Lord and God adore.

Transformative Truth:
Believers can trust God no matter what happens.

The Four Horsemen
Revelation 6:1-8

The Faithful Martyrs
Revelation 6:9-11

The Furious Judgment
Revelation 6:12-17

Transformative Truth:
God’s work cultivates a thankful heart.

Three Key Words
Thanks
Constantly
Remembering

Give thanks for God's work IN you
Evidence

Encouragement

Exhortation

Give thanks for God's work THROUGH you
Evidence

Encouragement

Exhortation

Transformative Truth:
The purchase by the Lamb elicits eternal praise to the Lamb.

The Scroll and the Problem Revelation 5:1-4

Scroll = future history

The Solution and the Praise Revelation 5:6-14

The purchase by the Lamb elicits eternal praise to the Lamb.

Transformative Truth:
The indescribably glorious God on heaven’s throne rules over all.

The Revelation of the Throne

"On the throne"

"Around the throne"

"From the throne"

"Before the throne"

"Around the throne" (again)

Our Response to the Throne

Acknowledge

Bow

Come

Declare

Transformative Truth:
Self-sufficiency deprives us from intimate fellowship with the all-sufficient Savior.

The Attributes of the Lord Revelation 3:14

"The Amen"

"the faithful and true witness"

"the beginning of God's creation"

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:1-4

His Assessment of the Church Revelation 3:15-17

His Appeal to the Church Revelation 3:18-22

Self-sufficiency deprives us from intimate fellowship with the all-sufficient Savior.

Transformative Truth:
Trust the Authority and Power of Jesus Christ to keep you.

The first place you must Trust the Authority & Power of Jesus is in Salvation

But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut the kingdom of heaven in people's faces. For you neither enter yourselves nor allow those who would enter to go in. Matthew 23:13

The Second Place you must Trust the Authority & Power of Jesus to keep you is on Mission

And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20

The third way we trust the Authority & Power of Jesus is to keep us through the Hour of Trial

I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. John 17:15

The fourth way we trust the Authority & Power of Jesus is to keep us through Eternity

I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown. Revelation 3:11

Rev. 3:12 The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it...

...and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name. Revelation 3:12b

Rev. 3:13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.'

Heb. 10:23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.

Transformative Truth:
Christ supplies by his Word and Spirit what the church is lacking.

The Attributes of the Lord Revelation 3:1a

The Assessment of the Church Revelation 3:1b

The Action to Be Taken Revelation 3:2-3a

Wake up, and Strengthen what remains... Remember what you received and heard. Keep it, and Repent.

Christ supplies by his Word and Spirit what we're lacking.

Three Questions for the Apathetic

Am I living in unconfessed sin?

Have I neglected God's means of grace?

What fills my mind daily?

The Appeal to Be Heeded Revelation 3:3b-6

Transformative Truth:
Nothing can be lost in serving Jesus now, that will not be infinitely eclipsed when we inherit Him.

Transformative Truth:
Stop compromising and stand steadfast in the shadow of Satan’s throne.

We know that we are of God, and the whole world is under the sway of the evil one.
- 1 John 5:19

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world – the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life – is not from the Father but is from the world.
- 1 John 2:15-16

Be awed by Jesus Christ (v. 12)
Be aware of your condition (vv. 12-15)

“This church had been faithful under the assault of the world’s violence, but it was yielding to the allures of the world’s friendship.”

While the Israelites were camped at Acacia Grove, some of the men defiled themselves by having sexual relations with local Moabite women. These women invited them to attend sacrifices to their gods, so the Israelites feasted with them and worshiped the gods of Moab. In this way, Israel joined in the worship of Baal of Peor, causing the Lord’s anger to blaze against his people.
- Numbers 25:1-3

Take action as a church (v. 16a)
Pay attention to the consequences (vv. 16b-17)

Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s life is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they are children of God. 10 So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God.
- 1 John 3:9-10

“To humbly submit to the church’s discipline, graciously repenting when approached about personal sin, and lovingly restoring others who become entangled in sin.”

Transformative Truth:
Don’t be afraid of what you’ll suffer as a Christian.

The Addressee of the Letter Revelation 2:8a

The Attributes of the Lord Revelation 2:8b

The Address to the Church Revelation 2:9-10

The Appeal to Each Person Revelation 2:11

“Whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul?” - Jesus Christ (Mark 8:35-37)

It is possible to be a good church!

A church that pleases Jesus will not be exempt from suffering.

Jesus is worth dying for.

Transformative Truth:
Good deeds and doctrinal purity are no substitute for love.

The Authority of the Lord Revelation 2:1

The Address to the Church Revelation 2:6

The Commendations

The Complaint

The Commands

Good deeds and doctrinal purity are no substitute for love.

The Appeal to Each Person Revelation 2:7

Transformative Truth:
A fresh vision of Jesus inspires continued faithfulness to Jesus.

Where John was Revelation 1:9-10a

God is not revealing more Scripture to us, but he is revealing Scripture more to us.

What John Heard Revelation 1:10b-11

What John Saw Revelation 1:12-16 He is "clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest." "The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow." "His eyes were like a flame of fire." "His feel were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace." "His voice was like the roar of many waters." "In his right hand he held seven stars...." "From his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword." "His face was like the sun shining in full strength."

What Happened Next Revelation 1:17-20

A fresh vision of Jesus inspires continued faithfulness to Jesus.

Transformative Truth:
The God of all grace is worthy of all glory.

THE SETTING (v. 4a)

THE SALUTATION (vv. 4b-8)

• Grace and peace from God

• Glory and praise to God

The Seven-Fold Description of Christ
"the faithful witness"
"the firstborn of the dead"
"the ruler of the kings on earth"
He "loves us"
"And has freed us from our sins by his blood"
"and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and our Father"
"He is coming with the clouds"

The God of all grace is worthy of all glory.

Transformative Truth:
God blesses those who read, hear, and heed the revelation of Jesus Christ.

The Book Revelation 1:1-2

God (the Father) Jesus Christ (the Son) His angel His servant John

Four Views of Revelation Preterist (past view) Futurist (pre-view) Historicist (panoramic view) Idealist (parallel view)

The Blessing Revelation 1:3

God blesses those who read, hear, and heed the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Transformative Truth:
True Righteousness brings persecution; persecution for Jesus' sake brings eternal reward.

First, to stay faithful, you must arm yourself with the expectation of a righteous life.

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Philippians 2:5-8

For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. Romans 8:29

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18

He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Psalm 23:3

Second, to stay faithful, you must arm yourself with the expectation of persecution.

For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:20-21

We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother's righteous. Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.

To stay faithful, you must arm yourself with the expectation of eternal rewards.

And I, behold, I make you this day a fortified city, an iron pillar, and bronze walls, against the whole land, against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests, and the people of the land. They will fight against you, but they shall not prevail against you, for I am with you, declares the Lord, to deliver you. Jeremiah 1:18-19

Why has my pain been perpetual And my wound incurable, refusing to be healed? Wilt Thou indeed be to me like a deceptive stream With water that is unreliable? Jeremiah 15:18 NASB

My soul is bereft of peace; I have forgotten what happiness is; so I say, "My endurance has perished; so has my hope from the Lord." Lamentations. 3:17-18

But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him."
Lamentations 3:21-24

For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? 2 Corinthians 2:15-16

Transformative Truth:
God blesses those who show mercy to others from the heart.

“Blessed are the merciful. . .” Matthew 5:7

“Blessed are the pure in heart. . .” Matthew 5:8

Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when He appears we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him as he is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. 1 John 3:2-3

Transformative Truth:
God satisfies those who earnestly seek his salvation.

None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.
Romans 3:10

God satisfies those who earnestly seek his salvation.

My righteousness draws near speedily, my salvation is on the way. Isaiah 51:5

God makes repentant sinners the royal subjects of his eternal kingdom.

The Prerequisites for Righteousness

The Pursuit of Righteousness

O how blessed are those who long for total righteousness - like starving people long for food and those dying of thirst long for water - for they will be truly satisfied!

"I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on faith." - Paul the Apostle (Philippians 3:9-10 NLT)

The Promise of Righteousness

Peace (Romans 5:1)

Pardon (Romans 8:1)

Power (1 Peter 2:24; Ephesians 3:20)

Perfection (1 John 3:1-2)

God satisfies those who earnestly seek his salvation.

Transformative Truth:
Biblical Meekness is essential for anyone who will enter into the New Earth to come.

(1) The “If this” Part: “Blessed are the meek”
(a) Meekness in the eyes of the world.
(b) Meekness according to God:
(i) not weakness of character,
(ii) but strength of character.
(iii) It is the attitude of one who:
1. Realizing his own spiritual poverty, acknowledges he deserves nothing
from the hand of God or his fellow man.
2. Does not become resentful toward God when bad things happen or
when others treat him badly, knowing that God is using it to purify him.
3. Believes God will work all things for this good, so he leaves his case with
God-relying on God rather than his own strength to defend against injustice.
(c) Moses’ reaction in Numbers 12 shows self-control as a key
element of Biblical meekness.
(d) The Biblically meek must be able to exhibit ________________.
(2) The “Then That” Part: “They shall inherit the earth”
(a) The Present View - The meek already inherit the earth in this life (1 Cor. 3:21)
(b) The Future View - The __________ _______________ to come.
(3) Conclusion: Biblical Meekness is necessary because:
(a) It is a necessary character trait of those who are saved;
(b) It is commanded by the Lord;
(c) It is essential for our being effective witnesses;
(d) Without meekness within us, we cannot give glory to God.

Transformative Truth:
We can be blessed even in our mourning, as we consider our position
in the Kingdom now, and the comfort to come.

1 - Blessed are those who mourn - Now. Christians mourn in ways the
world cannot know.

2 - Blessed are those who mourn - For we SHALL be comforted.
a. A FUTURE (and certain) Comfort / They SHALL be comforted.
b. A COMPREHENSIVE Comfort / They shall BE comforted.
c. A PERSONAL comfort for our particular mourning / THEY shall
be COMFORTED.

Transformative Truth:
To enter God's kingdom you must be poor in spirit.

Two realities about God's people:

1) Their posture

2) Their position

The Setting

The Purpose of the Sermon on the Mount

What is a Beatitude?

Matthew 5:1-3 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Two realities about God's people:

Their posture - who are the poor in spirit?

Their position in the Kingdom - When, What, Where, How

Transformative Truth:
The Lord’s empowering presence enables us to finish life well.

The presence of the Lord 2 Timothy 4:16-17a
The power of the Lord 2 Timothy 4:17b-18a

I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace. Acts 20:24

All praise to the Lord 2 Timothy 4:18b

Final Greetings 2 Timothy 4:19-22

Christian ministry is relationally hard.
Friends in ministry will abandon us.
Not all letdowns will last.
Christ-exalting friendships further our joy in Jesus.
Only Jesus is our perfect friend.

Transformative Truth:
Specific persons have a profound impact on a Christian’s life.

Timothy, the Faithful Son 2 Timothy 4:9
Demas, the Unfaithful Deserter 2 Timothy 4:10
Crescens, the Faithful Unknown 2 Timothy 4:10

For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. Hebrews 6:10

Titus, the Faithful Comforter 2 Timothy 4:10
Tychicus, the Faithful Messenger 2 Timothy 4:12
Luke, the Faithful Companion 2 Timothy 4:11
Mark, the Unfaithful Restored 2 Timothy 4:11
Carpus, the Faithful Host 2 Timothy 4:13
Alexander, the Faithless Opponent 2 Timothy 4:14-15

Specific persons have a profound impact on a Christian's life.

Our interpersonal connectedness
Our individual contributions
The indispensable characteristic
The inevitable consequences

Transformative Truth:
Live each day with death and eternity in view.

The Present: View of Death 2 Timothy 4:6

The Past: Victory in Life 2 Timothy 4:7

The good fight I have fought. The race I have finished. The faith I have kept.

I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace. Acts 20:24

The Future: Vindication by God 2 Timothy 4:8

"I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on faith." - Paul the Apostle (Philippians 3:9 NLT)

All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. Romans 3:23-24

He made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21

Two men looked through the bars. One saw the mud, the other, the stars.

Transformative Truth:
Men of God stick with the Scriptures no matter what.

A Solemn Directive 2 Timothy 4:1-2

He was given authority, glory, and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed. Daniel 7:14

A Spiritual Dilemma 2 Timothy 4:3-4

A Steadfast Determination 2 Timothy 4:5

Transformative Truth:
Embrace God’s truth, and you’ll be super-equipped for life.

The Pattern of a Godly Life
2 Timothy 3:10-11

I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
- Paul the Apostle (Acts 20:24)

The Price of a Godly Life
2 Timothy 3:12-13

The Perseverance of a Godly Life
2 Timothy 3:14-15

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.
2 Timothy 1:5

The Provisions for a Godly Life
2 Timothy 3:16-17

Transformative Truth:
Avoid church people who are consumed with love of self.

The Prediction (v. 1)

The Problem (vv. 2-5a)

The Prescription (v. 5b)

The Perpetrators (vv. 6-8)

The Prediction (v. 9)

Transformative Truth:
God uses clean instruments who run from sin toward godliness.

The Picture 2 Timothy 2:20

The Promise 2 Timothy 2:21

He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5

God uses clean instruments who run from sin toward godliness.

The Practicalities 2 Timothy 2:22-26

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. James 1:19-21

Transformative Truth:
For the church to be healthy, we must handle God’s Word rightly.

The Duties of Faithful Teachers 2 Timothy 2:14-16a

3 If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, 4 he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, 5 and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth.... 1 Timothy 6:3-5

O Timothy, guard the deposit entrusted to you. Avoid the irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called "knowledge," for by professing it some have swerved from the faith. 1 Timothy 6:20-21a

The Dangers of False Teaching 2 Timothy 2:16b-19

It leads to ungodliness.
It spreads like gangrene.
It upsets the faith of some.

For the church to be healthy, we must handle God's Word rightly.

Transforming Truth:
Dauntless disciples keep JESUS at the forefront of their minds.

God's supreme power keeps the gospel advancing 2 Timothy 2:9

I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that my situation has actually turned out to advance the gospel: The whole imperial guard and everyone else knows that I am in prison for the sake of Christ, and most of the brothers and sisters, having confidence in the Lord because of my imprisonment, now more than ever dare to speak the word fearlessly. - Paul the Apostle (Philippians 1:12-14)

God's sovereign election keeps his messengers persevering 2 Timothy 2:10

[God the Father] chose us in [Christ] before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless before him. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. Ephesians 1:4-5

God's steadfast character keeps his word unchanging.

If we have died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful--

"Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven. " - Jesus Christ Matthew 10:32-33

Transforming Truth:
By God’s grace, keep the chain of gospel teaching strong.

Power up by grace
2 Timothy 2:1

“There is no limit to the supply of grace which God has placed at his people’s disposal in Christ.”
F.F. Bruce

Power up: “to begin to make good use of or take full advantage of.”

Pass on the gospel
2 Timothy 2:2

Through personal relationship, prayer, teaching, modeling, and practical instruction, we want to see people grow in: conviction character competency

By God’s grace, keep the chain of gospel teaching strong.

Persevere toward the goal
2 Timothy 2:3-7

a. the dedicated soldier

b. the disciplined athlete

Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.
1 Corinthians 9:25-27

c. the diligent farmer

By God’s grace, keep the chain of gospel teaching strong.

Speaker: Jamie Fischer, LeTourneau Director

I. Abraham’s Journey of Faith in God

II. God Tests Abraham and Requires the Unthinkable, 22:1-2

III. Abraham Trusts and Obeys God, 22:3-10

IV. God Provides the Burnt Offering He Required, 22:11-14

V. God Rewards Abraham’s Obedience, 22:15-19

VI. A Final Burnt Offering Foreshadowed

Transforming Truth:
Loyal Christian friends are rare, remembered, and will be rewarded.

Loyal Christian friends are rare.

"Adversity separates the chaff of surface friendship from the substance of real friendship."

Loyal Christian friends are remembered.

He often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, but when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me - ... and you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesus.

Here is love, vast as the ocean, lovingkindness as the flood: when the Prince of Life, our Ransom, shed for us His precious blood.

Who His love will not remember? Who can cease to sing His praise? He can never be forgotten throughout heaven's eternal days.

Loyal Christian friends will be rewarded.

Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne. Hebrews 12:2 NLT

Transforming Truth:
God’s sovereign, saving grace makes the gospel worth suffering for.

Exhortations 2 Timothy 1:8, 13-14

Paul: "Don't be ashamed!"Timothy: "I won't be!" Paul: "I know you won't!"

God's sovereign, saving grace makes the gospel worth suffering for.

Explanation 2 Timothy 1:9-10

"Life" = regeneration (new life) "Immortality" = resurrection (never-ending life)

God's sovereign, saving grace makes the gospel worth suffering for.

Experience 2 Timothy 1:11-12

God's sovereign, saving grace makes the gospel worth suffering for.

Transforming Truth: Fortify one another’s faith through godly remembrances and reminders.

Paul’s Greeting
(vv. 1-2)

“Greetings!” “Grace!”
(charein) (charis)

“There is no limit to the supply of grace which God has placed at his people’s disposal in Christ.”
-F. F. Bruce

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end;
They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness.
- Lamentations 3:22-23

Paul’s Gratitude
(vv. 3-5)

Now I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon so that I too may be encouraged by news about you. For I have no one else like-minded who will genuinely care about your interests; all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know his proven character, because he has served with me in the gospel ministry like a son with a father.
- Philippians 2:19-22

Paul’s Guidance
(vv. 6-7)

Fortify one another’s faith through godly remembrances and reminders.

Transformative Truth: It is God in His Word we must believe to have true faith
not thoughts, impressions or even others.

Who it was that was believed.
What it was that was believed.
How what Jesus said was responded to.

We must believe what He has said, and not what He hasn't. We need to verify
such things in His Word or it is not actually faith.

We must respond to what He has said appropriately.

Transformative Truth: Baptism portrays death to sin and new life in Christ.

"Run, John, run!" the Law commands But gives neither feet nor hands. Better news the gospel brings: It bids me fly and gives me wings!

Baptism portrays death to sin and new life in Christ.

What happened to us?
Why is this significant?

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.
Titus 2:11-14

What do we do now?

11 So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus. 12 Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. 13 Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an nstrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Romans 6:11-13 NLT

Transformative Truth: Jesus suffered in silence to save us.

Jesus suffered in silence to save us.

The Silence of the Lamb
The Substitution of the Lamb
The Suffering of the Lamb

a. He was scourged. Mark 15:15

b. He was scorned. Mark 15:16-20

Jesus suffered in silence to save us.

I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life.
John 5:24

If you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:20-21

Transforming Truth: To be truly rich, trust in God and guard the gospel.

A Word to the Wealthy 1 Timothy 6:17-19

Hope: firm expectancy in God that characterizes Christian faith.

Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Romans 5:1 NLT

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." - Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:19-21)

To be truly rich, trust in God and guard the gospel.

A Plea to the Pastor 1 Timothy 20-21

A Benediction for All Believers 1 Timothy 6:21b

Do Good, acronym...

Develop a Great Commission mindset.

Own your responsibility.

Give generously, consistently, and cheerfully.

Operate through the local church.

Open your eyes to the opportunities around you (John 4:35)

Depend on God's grace (John 15:5)

Transformative Truth:
See Jesus clearly so you can help others see and know Him.

Help people see Jesus more clearly through His ACTIONS. Mark 8:1-10
Help people see Jesus more clearly through His WORDS. Mark 8:13-15
Help people see Jesus more clearly through His MISSION. Mark 8:27-31

Conclusion - Key Takeaways:

Recognize our need
Present Jesus to those around us
Worship Jesus

Transformative Truth: A man of God exemplifies active allegiance to his King.

A man of God exemplifies active allegiance to his King.

What he flees from 1 Timothy 6:11a

What he follows after 1 Timothy 6:11b

"God has not called us to be like those around us. He has called us to be like Himself. Holiness is nothing less than conformity to the character of God." - Jerry Bridges The Pursuit of Holiness

What he fights for 1 Timothy 6:12

A man of God exemplifies active allegiance to his King.

What he is faithful to 1 Timothy 6:13-16

Then Pilate said to him, "So you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world - to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice." John 18:37

No one has ever seen God. The one and only Son, who is himself God and is at the Father's side - he has revealed him. John 1:18

A man of God exemplifies active allegiance to his King.

Transforming Truth:
Forsake toxic cravings and find true contentment in Christ.

Toxic Cravings 1 Timothy 6:3-5, 9-10

"And in their greed they will exploit you with false words." - 1 Peter 2:3

Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. - 2 Timothy 4:2-3 NLT

True Contentment 1 Timothy 6:6-8

But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. 1 Timothy 6:6-8

Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness! ... We all come to the end of our lives as naked and empty-handed as on the day we were born. We can't take our riches with us. Ecclesiastes 5:10,15 NLT

And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him. Hebrews 9:27-28 NLT

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." - Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:24)

Transformative Truth:
God is a Father who eagerly welcomes His wayward children home.

Act 1 - The Selfish Son (vv 11- 20a)

Act 2 - The Forgiving Father (vv 20b - 24)

Act 3 - The Begrudging Brother (vv 25 - 32)

Lessons from the Older Brother

Lessons from the Father

Lessons from the Younger Son

Transformative Truth:
Glorify God by being the best employee you can.

The Conscientious Christian Employee
1 Timothy 6:1-2

Glorify God by being the best employee you can.

The Precept
(v. 1a)

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
- Jesus Christ
(Matt. 11:28-30)

Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free.
- Ephesians 6:5-8

Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality.
- Colossians 3:22-25

The Purpose
(v. 1b)

Bondservants are to be submissive to their own masters in everything; they are to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior.
- Titus 2:9-10

The Prohibition
(v. 2a)

The Perspective
(v. 2b)

Be compliant.
Be courteous.
Be credible.
Be committed.
Be Christ-like.

Transformative Truth:
Be good to your elders while remaining godly yourself.

Reward them generously (vv. 17-18)
Discipline them properly (vv. 19-21)
Appoint them carefully (vv. 22-25)
Reward them generously (vv. 17-18)

Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.
- Hebrews 13:17

Discipline them properly (vv. 19-21)

a. Protect elders from unsubstantiated accusations

Appoint them carefully (vv. 22-25)

Be good to your elders while remaining godly yourself.

Transformative Truth:
Churches flourish when their members treat one another like family.

Love one another like family (vv. 1-2).
Look after those who have no family (vv. 3-16).

a. widows needing support (vv. 3-8)

God in his holy dwelling is a father of the fatherless and a champion of widows.
- Psalm 68:5

b. widows offering service (vv. 9-16)

The principle of discrimination
The principle of dignity

Churches flourish when their members treat one another like family.

Transformative Truth:
Go all out for God, and you’ll be forever glad you did.

Make God’s word your manual for life. 1 Timothy 4:11
Set an example for believers to follow. 1 Timothy 4:12

When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am. So let no one despise him. Help him on his way in peace, that he may return to me, for I am expecting him with the brothers.
- Paul the Apostle (1 Corinthians 16:10-11)

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
Colossians 3:12-14

Stay the course, showing others the way. 1 Timothy 4:13-15

They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense so that the people understood the reading.
Nehemiah 8:8

Remain vigilant, in view of the glorious outcome. 1 Timothy 4:16

Transforming Truth:
Train yourself for godliness, which brings both temporal and eternal benefits.

Train yourself for godliness because it benefits you both today and forever.

The Measure of Godliness 1 Timothy 4:6

The Mandate for Godliness 1 Timothy 4:7

The Motivation for Godliness 1 Timothy 4:8-10

All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. 1 Corinthians 9:25

Train yourself for godliness because it benefits you both today and forever.

Transformative Truth:
False teachers forbid good things God created for our enjoyment.

Bad Doctrine 1 Timothy 4:1-3a

Many will turn away from the faith ... and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Matthew 24:10-11

These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. John 14:25-26

I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. 2 Corinthians 11:3

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone into the world. 1 John 4:1

Benevolent God 1 Timothy 4:3b-5

False teachers forbid good things God created for our enjoyment.

Let's Bear More in '24 1. Freedom in Christ (vv 13-15) 2. Works vs. Fruit (vv. 19-22a) 3. Fruit of the Spirit (vv. 22-23) a. Grouping 1i. Loveii. Joyiii. Peace b. Grouping 2i. Patienceii. Kindnessiii. Goodness c. Grouping 3i. Faithfulnessii. Gentlenessiii. Self-control 4. Application

Pray that God's people would walk worthy of the Lord.

The Reason

The Request

The Result

It is a pleasing walk.
It is a productive walk.
It is a progressive walk.
It is a powerful walk.
It is a praise-filled walk.

Always thanking the Father. He has enabled [us] to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:12-14 NLT

Providence (vv. 22-27)

Praise (vv. 28-33)

Prophecy (vv. 34-36)

Transformative Truth:
True godliness springs from a heartfelt confession of Jesus’ supremacy.

He was manifested in the flesh.

He was vindicated by the Spirit.

He was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit.
He is Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 1:4

He was seen by angels.

He was proclaimed among the nations.

He was believed on in the world.

He was taken up in glory.

Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.

Transformative Truth:
God is in the house and wants his truth upheld!

The Significance of the Church
1 Timothy 3:14-15

The Supremacy of Jesus Christ
1 Timothy 3:16

Because God's children are human beings-made of flesh and blood-the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death.
Hebrews 2:14

Transformative Truth:
Deacons must exemplify the character expected of all Christians.

If anyone speaks, let it be as one who speaks God's words; if anyone serves, let it be from the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4:11

The Requirements
1 Timothy 3:8-12

All glory to God, who is able to make you strong, just as my Good News says. This message about Jesus Christ has revealed his plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time, but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith.
Romans 16:25-26

We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. We have depended on God's grace, not on our own human wisdom. That is how we have conducted ourselves before the world, and especially toward you. - Paul the Apostle
2 Corinthians 1:12

The Reward
1 Timothy 3:13

Transformative Truth:
Overseeing the church is excellent work, which requires men of excellent character.

Overseeing the church is an excellent work.

Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.
Acts 20:28

You know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lose their value. It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God.
1 Peter 1:18-19

Overseeing the church is excellent work, which requires men of excellent character.

Overseers must be men of excellent character.

Above reproach

The husband of one wife

Sober-minded, Self-controlled, Respectable

Hospitable

Able to teach

He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instructions in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.
Titus 1:9

Not a drunkard

Not violent

Gentle

Not quarrelsome

Not a lover of money

Must manage his own household well ...

Not a recent convert

Be well thought of by outsiders

Transformative Truth: Worship God joyfully, for we have many reasons to rejoice!

Worship God joyfully, for we have many reasons to rejoice!

Shout to the Lord! Psalm 100:1a

This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God's wonderful grace. Colossians 1:6

Serve the Lord! Psalm 100:2a
Sing to the Lord! Psalm 100:2b
Know the Lord! Psalm 100:3

We believe that there is one, and only one, living and true God: an infinite, intelligent Spirit, the Creator and Ruler of heaven and earth. He is inexpressibly glorious in holiness, and worthy of all honor, confidence, and love. He eternally exists in three persons, who are equal in every divine perfection, and who execute distinct but harmonious roles in the work of creation, providence and redemption.

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my other's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous-how well I know it. Psalm 139:13-14

Praise the Lord! Psalm 100:4a
Thank the Lord! Psalm 100:4b
Bless the Lord! Psalm 100:4c-5

Transformative Truth:
How men and women behave in church impacts global evangelism.

Men and Prayer 1 Timothy 2:8

Women and Propriety 1 Timothy 2:9-15

Concluding Counsel (A - B - C)

Align yourself with Scripture, not culture.

Beware of compromise and excessive cushion.

Celebrate the complementary contributions of both sexes to the body of Christ.

Transformative Truths:
Prayer requires no special skill, secret method, specific place, posture, language, or time.
The key to prayer is a heart and mind trained to bring everything in thought and life before the throne of God.
No one on their deathbed ever complained of having prayed too much.
Let prayer always be your first resort.

Sermon Outline:
1 - The Priority of prayer
2 - The Power of prayer
3 - The Pleasure of prayer
4 - The grand Purpose of prayer
5 - The Person of prayer
6 - The Empowerment of prayer

Transformative Truth:
The truth of the gospel is worth fighting for.

Exhortation 1 Timothy 1:18-19a

A "good conscience" is a state in which one's moral self-evaluation accurately registers that one has been obedient to God.

"A bad conscience is the mother of all heresies."

Excommunication 1 Timothy 1:19b-20

The truth of the gospel is worth fighting for.

"The time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing."
- Paul the Apostle 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Transformative Truth:
As we guard the gospel, let us celebrate the gospel.

Gratitude 1 Timothy 1:12

1 Tim. 1: 12: "because he judged me faithful"

1 Cor. 7:25: "one who by the Lord's mercy is trustworthy"

Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart. 2 Corinthians 4:1

Grace 1 Timothy 1:13-14

"I myself was convinced that I ought to do many things in opposing the name of Jesus of Nazareth. And I did so in Jerusalem. I not only locked up many of the saints in prison after receiving authority from the chief priests, but when they were put to death I cast my vote against them. And I punished them often in all the synagogues and tried to make them blaspheme, and in raging fury against them I persecuted them even to foreign cities." - Paul the Apostle Acts 26:9-11

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. Titus 3:4-5

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved.... Ephesians 2:4-5

Gospel 1 Timothy 1:15

Glory 1 Timothy 1:17

Transformative Truth:
The law restrains sinners, but only the Lord redeems them.

8 Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. 9 For the commandments, "You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet," and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." 10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
Romans 13:8-10

"Paul reserves the word 'fulfill' for Christian experience; only Christians, as a result of the work of Christ and through the Spirit, can 'fulfill' the law." - Douglas J. Moo

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." - Jesus Christ
John 13:34

"Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." - Hebrews 13:4 NIV

The Primacy of the Gospel
1 Timothy 1:11

The law restrains sinners, but only the Lord redeems them.

"But I consider my life of no value to myself; my purpose is to finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God's grace." - Paul the Apostle Acts 20:24

Transformative Truth:
Oppose whatever draws people away from gospel truth.

The Commission
1 Timothy 1:3-4

29 I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. 31 So be on your guard!
Acts 20:29-31 NIV

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don't belong to him and he isn't their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. The hired hand runs away because he's working only for the money and doesn't really care about the sheep.
John 10:11-13 NLT

Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have received that you have heard from me.
2 Timothy 1:13

But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.
Titus 2:1

I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth.
1 Timothy 3:14-15

The Contrast
1 Timothy 1:3-5

"Love is the overflow of joy in God which gladly meets the needs of others."
- John Piper

It was not so much that they set out to be heretical. They simply wanted to "go deeper" into the Scriptures. They wanted to go beyond the "simple" exegesis of Paul, and by giving the people and events allegorical meaning, simple stories would reveal fantastic truths. They did not set out to abandon the gospel ... but in fact their progressive accretions smothered the gospel.
-Hughes and Chapell

Transformative Truth: A healthy church thrives on the blessings of salvation.

1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope.
2 To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
1 Timothy 1:1-2

1 Paul came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was Jewish and a believer but whose father was a Greek. 2 The believers at Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him. 3 Paul wanted to take him along on the journey, so he circumcised him because of the Jews who lived in that area, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. 4 As they traveled from town to town, ... the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers.
Acts 16:1-4a, 5

28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. 29 I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. 31 So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. 32 "Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.
Acts 20:28-32

Grace

"Greetings!" "Grace!"
(charein) (charis)

Mercy

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
His mercies never come to an end;
They are new every morning;
Great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23

Peace

Transformative Truth:
Rescuing lost people requires our compassionate, prayerful participation in God’s mission.

DIVINE PERSPECTIVE Matthew 9:37
DILIGENT PRAYER Matthew 9:38
DIVERSE PERSONNEL Matthew 10:1-4

Transformative Truth: God’s Word is meant to transform us, not just inform us.

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he gave us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 into an inheritance that is undying, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. 5 Through faith you are being protected by God's power for the salvation that is ready to be revealed at the end of time.
1 Peter 1:3-5

Like newborn babies, crave the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow up into salvation - if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
1 Peter 2:2-3

God's Word is meant to transform us, not just inform us.

Take out the trash! James 1:21a

Put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.
1 Peter 2:1

But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language out of your mouth.
Colossians 3:8

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me, and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting!
Psalm 139:23-24

Take in the truth! James 1:21b
Take on the traits! James 1:22-27

God's Word is meant to transform us, not just inform us.

Transformative Truth: The righteous King’s rule brings both blessing and judgment..

The Public Address
2 Samuel 23:1-7

When one rules justly over men, ruling in the fear of God, he dawns on them like the morning light, like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning, like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth.

Ruler over mankind - righteous! Ruler - fear of God!

God promised this Good News long ago through his prophets in the holy Scriptures. The Good News is about his Son. In his earthly life he was born into King David's family line, and he was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He is Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 1:3-4

The righteous King's rule brings both blessing and judgment.

The Private Charge
1 Kings 2:1-9

When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom.
2 Samuel 7:12

When I was a son with my father, tender and precious to my mother, he taught me and said, "Your heart must hold on to my words. Keep my commands and live."
Proverbs 4:3-4

The righteous King's rule brings both blessing and judgment.

The Promised Kingdom
1 Kings 2:10-12

Transformative Truth:
Rebel-sinners stand in need of mercy from the rightful King.

Self-Advancement 1 Kings 1:1-10

Sovereign Appointment 1 Kings 1:11-40

On that day living water will flow out from Jerusalem, and the LORD will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one LORD, and his name the only name. Zechariah 14:8, 9

Settled Arrangement 1 Kings 1:41-53

The Lord is God and has given us light. Bind the festival sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar. Psalm 118:27

Rebel-sinners stand in need of mercy from the rightful King.

For this reason God highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow- in heaven and on earth and under the earth- and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11

The Sinful Act 2 Samuel 24:1-9

The Sincere Confession 2 Samuel 24:10

Sin is costly, but because of God's mercy we can be forgiven and enjoy fellowship with him.

The Severe Consequences 2 Samuel 24:11-17

The Sacrificial Offerings 2 Samuel 24:18-25

Propitiation: a sacrifice that bears God's wrath to the end and in so doing changes God's wrath toward us into favor.

Sin is costly, but because of God's mercy we can be forgiven and enjoy fellowship with him.

Transformative Truth: "The strength of God's kingdom rests in the Lord, not in us"

Great Human Accomplishments (vv.8-12)
Great Human Devotion (vv. 13-17)
More Great Human Accomplishments (vv. 18-23)
The Problem with Human Heroes (vv. 24-39)

Transformative Truth: "The One worthy of all praise is Yahweh, the great deliverer."

The Deliverance of the Lord
The Righteousness of the Servant?
The Splendor of the Lord
The Victory of the King
The Reign of the Messiah

Transformative Truth: "Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins." - Hebrews 9:22

The Beauty of Clarity (vv. 1-2)
The Brutality of Atonement (vv. 3-9)
The Blessing of Covenant (v. 7)
The Pathos of Love (vv. 10-14)
The Blissfulness of Security (vv. 15-22)

Human sin reduces instability, but God's kingdom never collapses.

The Rebellion of Sheba (vv. 1-2)

The Ruination of Victims (v. 3)

The Ruthlessness of Joab (vv. 4-13)

The Reaction of the People (vv. 14-22)

The Recovery of David’s Kingdom (vv. 23-26)

No king but Christ is perfectly victorious.

Confrontation 2 Samuel 19:1-8a

Conflict 2 Samuel 19:8b-15, 41-43

Concessions 2 Samuel 19:16-40

No king but Christ is perfectly victorious.

Transformative Truth: The preserving of God’s kingdom involves the perishing of its enemies.

For the LORD had ordained to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, so that the LORD might bring harm upon Absalom. 2 Samuel 17:14

A BITTERSWEET VICTORY 2 Samuel 18

Tension 2 Samuel 18:1-4

Triumph 2 Samuel 18:6-18

The preserving of God’s kingdom involves the perishing of its enemies.

Tears 2 Samuel 18:19-33

Transformative Truth: No human wisdom, insight, or plan can succeed against the Lord.

Ahithophel's Counsel 2 Samuel 17:1-4

Hushai's Counterplan 2 Samuel 17:5-13

The Lord's Control 2 Samuel 17:14-23

There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD. Proverbs 21:30 NIV

Transformative Truth:

God uses even our enemies to fulfill his good purposes for us.

ZIBA: The Ready Opportunist 2 Samuel 16:1-4

SHIMEI: The Relentless Critic 2 Samuel 16:5-14

But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." Galatians 3:13

AHITHOPHEL: The Ruthless Traitor 2 Samuel 16:15-23

"Thus says the Lord, 'Behold, I will raise up evil against you out of your own house. And I will take your wives before your eyes and give them to your neighbor, and he shall lie with your wives in the sight of this sun. 12 For you did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel and before the sun.'" - The Lord God (2 Sam. 12:11-12)

God uses even our enemies to fulfill his good purposes for us.

Rebellion 2 Samuel 15:1-12

Those who serve themselves are not submitted to God's will.

Retreat 2 Samuel 15:13-37

"I expect and hope that I will not fail Christ in anything but that I will have the courage now, as always, to show the greatness of Christ in my life here on earth, whether I live or die. To me the only important thing about living is Christ, and dying would be profit for me." - Paul the Apostle Philippians 1:20-21 NCV

Those who serve themselves are not submitted to God's will.

Transformative Truth: Passive parenting leads to painful consequences.

His Return 2 Samuel 14:1-24

His Recalcitrance 2 Samuel 14:25-32

His Restoration 2 Samuel 14:33

Passive parenting leads to painful consequences.

Transforming Truth: The Lord is in control even when it seems like He isn't.

Amnon's Passion 2 Samuel 13:1-22

Absalom's Revenge 2 Samuel 13:23-33

David's Grief 2 Samuel 13:34-39

Transformative Truth:
God loves his children too much to leave us in our sin.

Pursuing Grace 2 Samuel 12:1-9

Painful Grace 2 Samuel 12:10-15

Do not despise the Lord's instruction, my son, and do not loathe his discipline; for the Lord disciplines the one he loves, just as a father disciplines the son in whom he delights. Proverbs 3:11-12

No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11

Pardoning Grace 2 Samuel 12:13-14

Powerful Grace 2 Samuel 12:15-31

a. His concern for his child 2 Samuel 12:15b-23

b. His compassion for his wife 2 Samuel 12:24-25

c. His conquest over his enemies 2 Samuel 12:26-31

The godliest saint is still susceptible to the most grievous sins.

The Context 2 Samuel 11:1-2

The Crime 2 Samuel 11:3-4

The Coverup 2 Samuel 11:5-25

The Commentary 2 Samuel 11:26-27

Five Realities to Consider

Our inclination toward laxity.

Our obsession with sex.

Our Abuse of Power.

Our Accountability to God.

Our Hope in Christ.

The King's Kindness Is Despised 2 Samuel 10:1-4

Despising the kindness of God's king leads to terrible consequences.

The King's Compassion Is Aroused 2 Samuel 10:5

The King's Enemies Combine Forces 2 Samuel 10:6-8

The King's Armies Fight Courageously 2 Samuel 10:9-12

The King's Victory Is Secured 2 Samuel 10:13-19

Transforming Truth: "God has restored us and given us a seat at His table through His Son."

A Picture of Grace
The Scope of Grace

Transforming Truth: "Believers are blessed by God to be a blessing to others."

David's Victories (vv. 1-6)

David's Spoils (vv. 7-14)

David's Officials (vv. 15-18)

(vss. 1-3) JESUS, GOD’S ONLY AUTHORIZED SHEPHERD

Hebrews 13:20-21 / Ezek. 34:11-16

(vs. 3) JESUS CALLS HIS OWN BY NAME
(vs. 3) HE LEADS US
(vs. 4) HE GOES BEFORE US
(vs. 10) HE GIVES ABUNDANT LIFE
(vs. 11) HE SACRIFICES HIMSELF:
(vs. 14) HE IS INTINATELY FAMILIAR WITH HIS OWN
(vs. 16) HE IS STILL GATHERING:
(vs. 28) HE GIVES ETERNAL LIFE
(vs. 28-29) HE KEEPS US IN ABSOLUTE SAFETY

"But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you; how much less this house that I have built?" - King Solomon (1 Kings 8:27)

"And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever." 2 Samuel 7:16

The Prayer of Gratitude 2 Samuel 7:18-29

God has built an eternal house through his Son, King Jesus.

Cultivate a heart for service
Contemplate the grace of God.
Communicate the gospel of God

We are to seek the Lord's presence reverently.

Then David said that no one but the Levites may carry the ark of God, for the Lord had chosen them to carry the ark of the Lord and to minister to him forever. 1 Chronicles 15:2

We are to celebrate the Lord's presence joyfully.

The Lord is to be worshiped reverently and joyfully.

The new birth is a must.

And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience - among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. Ephesians 2:1-4

Apart from the new birth . . .

a. We are dead in our trespasses and sins (Eph. 2:1-2).

b. We are by nature children of wrath (Eph. 2:3).

c. We love darkness and hate the light (John 3:19-20).

d. We are unable to submit to God or please God (Rom. 8:7-8).

e. We are unable to accept the gospel (Eph. 4:18; 1 Cor. 2:14).

f. We are unable to come to Christ or embrace him as Lord (John 6:44, 65; 1 Cor. 12:3).

g. We are slaves to sin (Rom. 6:17).

h. We are slaves to Satan (Eph. 2:1-2).

i. No good thing dwells in us (Rom. 7:18).

BUT GOD, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved.... Ephesians 2:4-5

Diagnosis: Dead in Sin Remedy: Life with Christ

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3

The new birth is a miracle.

a. God regenerates.

(1) God ransomed us by the blood of Jesus (1 Peter 1:18-19).

(2) God raised Jesus from the dead (1 Peter 1:3-5).

God supernaturally gives us life by connecting us to the resurrected Christ - through faith.

(3) God called us into union with Christ (1 Peter 1:23-25).

Note: Post the following highlights on one slide at the same time for the sake of review-- 2. The new birth is a miracle. God regenerates. We respond.

God supernaturally gives us life by connecting us to the resurrected Christ - through faith.

Now you can have real love for everyone because your souls have been cleansed from selfishness and hatred when you trusted Christ to save you; so see to it that you really do love each other warmly, with all your hearts. 1 Peter 1:22 The Living Bible

The Covenantal King 2 Samuel 5:1-5

The Conquering King 2 Samuel 5:6-25

God is bringing the promised kingdom to its appointed consummation.

Unity comes by following one king.
Different situations require different strategies and constant dependence on the Lord.
Christ alone is the perfect king.
The kingdom comes in stages.

There was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. And David grew stronger and stronger, while the house of Saul became weaker and weaker. 2
Samuel 3:1

The Murder of Ishbosheth 2 Samuel 4

The Cowardly Conspirators 2 Samuel 4:1-7a

The Spiritual Spin 2 Samuel 4:7b-8

They come with blood on their hands but theology on their lips, expecting that the latter will magically bleach the former. Murder always seems more pleasant when wrapped in religious considerations.

No amount of spin can justify a sin.

The Righteous Retribution 2 Samuel 4:9-12

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, didn't we prophesy in your name, drive out demons in your name, and do many miracles in your name?' Then I will announce to them, 'I never knew you. Depart from me, you lawbreakers!'" Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:21-23)

God overlooked people's ignorance about these things in earlier times, but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent of their sins and turn to him. For he has set a day for judging the world with justice by the man he has appointed, and he proved to everyone who this is by raising him from the dead. Acts 17:30-31

The promises of God require patience and purity on our part.
It's never right to do wrong in order to get a chance to do right.
Gratitude begets fidelity.

One sentence that sums up the main point of the sermon:
God wants each of you to find your place in raising up the next generation of missionaries to reach the unreached for His glory.

An additional text that would complement the sermon (if you have one in mind): Romans 15:14-21

Outline:
I. God has given each believer at least one spiritual gift to serve and encourage others.
II. God’s Spirit will guide you in how to influence others to serve Him.
III. God will encourage you as you pour your life into the lives of others.
IV. What would have happened if Barnabas wasn’t willing to reach out to Paul?

Transformative Truth: Learning to fight for the faith is much more than most of us are equipped to do unless we are prepared for real battle. Jude 3

Outline:The Person, 1-2The Purpose, 3The Perpetrators, 4The Penalty, 5-7The Personalities, 8-10 The Practical Jokes/imposters, 11The Pictures, 12-13The Preacher, 14-16The Prophecy and Predictions, 17-19 The Principles, 20-21The Pursuit, 22-23The Promise, 24The Point, 25

Transformative Truth: "God's plans will come about despite people's (and our) sinful actions."

Abner Joins David (vv. 1-21)

Abner Murdered (vv. 22-30)

Abner Mourned (vv. 31-39)

Transformative Truth:“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.”(Proverbs 3:5)

A Faithful Beginning (2 Samuel 2:1-7)
An Unfaithful Beginning (2 Samuel 2:8-11)
A Tale of Two Armies (2 Samuel 2:12-32)

The Grievous Report
The Godly Response

a. David's sorrow 2 Samuel 1:11-12

The more we love, the more we grieve.

b. David's standard (vv. 13-16)

(1) Words designed to please people will eventually hurt you, not help you.

(2) A godly person will not only adhere to God's standard but also hold others to account.

This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. Ephesians 4:13

c. David's song 2 Samuel 1:17-27

"A lament is a formal expression of grief or distress, one that can be written, read, learned, practiced, repeated." --Dale Davis

The more we love, the more we grieve.

God saves from his wrath those who trust in Christ.

The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So the Lord said, "I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created-and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground-for I regret that I have made them." Genesis 6:5-7

But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God. Noah had three sons: Shem, Ham and Japheth. Genesis 6:8-10

By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7

He responded to God's word.

By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. Hebrews 11:7a

He rebuked the world.

"I am not what I ought to be, I am not what I want to be, I am not what I hope to be in another world. But still I am not what I once used to be, and by the grace of God I am what I am." - John Newton

He received God's righteousness.

By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7

I am not ashamed of the gospel [good news], because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed - a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Romans 1:16-17

God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21

Saul had a royal beginning.
Saul had a rebellious bent.

If you will fear the Lord and serve him and obey his voice and not rebel against the commandment of the Lord, and if both you and the king who reigns over you will follow the Lord your God, it will be well. But if you will not obey the voice of the Lord, but rebel against the commandment of the Lord, then the hand of the Lord will be against you and your king. 1 Samuel 12:14-15

Saul died in a ruinous battle.

Defeat 1 Samuel 31:1

Death 1 Samuel 31:2-6

This God – his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. Psalm 18:30

Displacement 1 Samuel 31:7

Disgrace 1 Samuel 31:8-10

Derring-Do 1 Samuel 31:11-13

The Lord rescues his people and recovers what's been lost.

The Loss Suffered 1 Samuel 30:1-6a

The Lord Sought 1 Samuel 30:6b-8

The Loved Ones Saved 1 Samuel 30:9-20

What you do really matters.

The Loot Shared 1 Samuel 30:21-30

Now the Philistines had gathered all their forces at Aphek. And the Israelites were encamped by the spring that is in Jezreel. 1 Samuel 29:1

Dissension 1 Samuel 29:1-5

Dialogue 1 Samuel 29:6-10

Deliverance 1 Samuel 11

Pure Animosity DEATH

Pure Approval DILEMMA

Mixed Feelings / Friction DELIVERANCE

Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. John 3:36

When we get ourselves into a fix, God is still faithfully at work.

Nothing is so utterly miserable than finding in the hour of greatest need that you had long ago placed yourself beyond the sound of God's voice and that you are totally alone. --Ralph Davis

Listen to the Lord before it's too late.

Desperation 1 Samuel 28:1-15

Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the Lord. So the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse. 1 Chronicles 10:13-14

Dread 1 Samuel 28:16-20

Darkness 1 Samuel 28:21-25

At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o'clock. Then at three o'clock Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" which means "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" Mark 15:33-34

David's Decision (v. 1)
The Consequences (vv. 2-7)
David's Practice (vv. 8-12)

Transformative Truth

When we try to live our lives apart from the Lord's leading, compromise is sure to follow.

The Conception of Jesus
The Consternation of Joseph
The Confirmation of the Angel
The Compliance of Joseph

Jesus' royal credentials uniquely qualified him as God's anointed King.

Christ = Messiah

Prophetic Statements

The Messiah would be of the seed of Abraham, through whom all the nations of the earth will be blessed (Gen. 22:18).
The Messiah would be a descendant of David, and God would establish the throne of his kingdom forever (2 Sam. 7:16).

Purposeful Summary

Matthew 1:7-8 "and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asaph, and Asaph the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah."

Why the Shortened Genealogy?

Symmetry

Significance of David

Simplicity

Jeremiah 22:24-30 (New Living Translation) "As surely as I live," says the Lord, "I will abandon you, Jehoiachin son of Jehoiakim, king of Judah. Even if you were the signet ring on my right hand, I would pull you off. I will hand you over to those who seek to kill you, those you so desperately fear - to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon and the mighty Babylonian army. I will expel you and your mother from this land, and you will die in a foreign country, not in your native land. "You will never again return to the land you yearn for. "Why is this man Jehoiachin like a discarded, broken jar? Why are he and his children to be exiled to a foreign land? "O earth, earth, earth! Listen to this message from the Lord! "This is what the Lord says: 'Let the record show that this man Jehoiachin was childless. He is a failure,?for none of his children will succeed him on the throne of David?to rule over Judah.'"

Matthew 1:12-16 And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ.

Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ Matthew 1:16

Personal Consideration

Do you recognize Jesus as God's anointed King?
Do you revere Jesus as your King?

God graciously uses people as "stop signs" on our path toward sin.

Despicable Ingrate1 Samuel 25:2-11

David's Indignation1 Samuel 25:12-13, 21-22

Divine Intervention1 Samuel 25:14-20, 23-44

God graciously uses people as "stop signs" on our path toward sin.

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.Galatians 6:7-8

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.Galatians 6:9-10

This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" - and I am the worst of them all.1 Timothy 1:15

Giving thanks is not primarily an outflow of our experience but an expression of our faith.

What are we being called to do?
Who are we to give thanks to?
Where are we to give thanks?
Why should we give thanks?

The Incident in the Cave 1 Samuel 24:1-7

God is my helper. The Lord keeps me alive! May the evil plans of my enemies be turned against them. Do as you promised and put an end to them. … I will praise your name, O Lord, for it is good. For you have rescued me from my troubles and helped me to triumph over my enemies. Psalm 54:4-7

Be careful how you interpret life’s circumstances, lest you substitute your will for God’s in any given situation.

The Interaction with the King 1 Samuel 24:8-22

Vengeance is the Lord’s, not yours – so live accordingly.

The Lord helps and upholds his people.

God interacts with us 1 Samuel 23:1-14

And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22

Now that we know what we have—Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God—let’s not let it slip through our fingers. We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help. Hebrews 4:14-16

Saul said, “Let’s chase the Philistines all night and plunder them until sunrise. Let’s destroy every last one of them.” His men replied, “We’ll do whatever you think is best.” But the priest said, “Let’s ask God first.” So Saul asked God, “Should we go after the Philistines? Will you help us defeat them?” But God made no reply that day. 1 Samuel 14:36-37

God invigorates us 1 Samuel 23:15-18

Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable? Proverbs 20:6

When we [Paul and Timothy] arrived in Macedonia, there was no rest for us. We faced conflict from every direction, with battles on the outside and fear on the inside. But God, who encourages those who are discouraged, encouraged us by the arrival of Titus. 2 Corinthians 7:5-6

God intervenes for us 1 Samuel 23:19-29

Nob: The Place of Provision
Gath: The Place of Panic
Cave of Adullam: The Place of Prayer

Even in their most desperate moments, the Lord doesn't let go of his servants.

Moab: The Place of Providence

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. ... And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. - Hebrews 11:1, 6

Forest of Hereth: The Place of Protection

Behold, the days are coming when I will cut off your strength and the strength of your father's house, so that there will not be an old man in your house. ... The only one of you whom I shall not cut off from my altar shall be spared to weep his eyes out to grieve his heart, and all the descendants of your house shall die by the sword of men. 1 Samuel 2:31, 33

Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God," for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. James 1:13

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." - Joseph (Genesis 50:20)

"Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by God's deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him." - Peter the Apostle (Acts 2:22-24)

Even in their most desperate moments, the Lord doesn't let go of his servants.

Even in their most desperate moments, the Lord doesn't let go of his servants.

Nob: The Place of Provision
Gath: The Place of Panic
Cave of Adullam: The Place of Prayer

Even in their most desperate moments, the Lord doesn't let go of his servants.

He keeps all his bones; Not one of them is broken. - Psalm 34:20 -

"All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away." - Jesus Christ (John 6:37)

The Security of Covenant 1 Samuel 20:1-42

True security is found in The New Covenant established not by man, but by God through His Son.

The Covenant Provides Help in the Midst of Uncertainty
The Covenant Is A Vehicle for Uncommon Faithfulness
The Covenant Demands Costly Commitment
The Covenant Provides Peace in the Middle of Confusion

God has many ways of preserving his people.

Saul tried to get the Philistines to kill David, but they were defeated by him.
Saul tried to get Jonathan to kill David, but he delighted in him.

We must be willing to hear reason, and to take all reproofs and good advice even from our inferiors, parents from their own children. How forcible are right words! - Matthew Henry

God has many ways of preserving his people.

Saul tried to kill David himself, but David dodged him.
Saul tried to use Michal to kill David, but she delivered him.
Saul tried to kill David again, but the Holy Spirit disabled him [Saul].

"O my Strength, I will sing praises to you, for you, O God, are my fortress, the God who shows me steadfast love." Psalm 59:17

During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Hebrews 5:7

Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne. Hebrews 12:1b-2

Whereby, so sweetly love burns in us ... We could never bend to any envy.... - Dante Alighieri "The Divine Comedy"

How we react to a peer's success reveals our character.

THE INSIDIOUS EVIL OF ENVY 1 Samuel 18:1-16

"Envy is the painful and oftentimes resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by someone else." - Jerry Bridges

Two Conditions That Tempt Us To Envy

We tend to envy those with whom we most closely identify.
We tend to envy in them the areas we value most.

How we react to a peer's success reveals our character.

Befriending the Lord's Servant 1 Samuel 18:1-5

It was a spiritual love.
It was a steadfast love.
It was a selfless love.

Our Lord has thus shown his love to us, that he stripped himself to clothe us, emptied himself to enrich us; nay, he did more than Jonathan: he clothed himself with our rags whereas Jonathan did not put on David's. - Matthew Henry

I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. Isaiah 61:10

How we react to a peer's success reveals our character.

Begrudging the Lord's Servant 1 Samuel 18:6-16

Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless and seek the life of the upright. Proverbs 29:10

Whereby, so sweetly love burns in us ... We could never bend to any envy....

Recognize the sovereignty of God.
Remember we're all on the same team.
Realize your own potential and opportunities.

And when he [God] had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, of whom he testified and said, "I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after my heart, who will do all my will." Acts 13:22

Encountering the Enemy

Invasion 1 Samuel 17:1-3

"Sin has a tendency to exert an ever-increasing power on us if it is not resisted on every occasion." - Jerry Bridges

Intimidation 1 Samuel 17:4-11

The difference between courage and cowardice is the presence of God.

Experiencing the Victory

David's Trip 1 Samuel 17:12-22
David's Trust 1 Samuel 17:23-47

He was not discouraged by the hurtful remarks of a bitter brother 1 Samuel 17:28-30

He was not dissuaded by the human reasoning of a carnal king.

He was not deterred by the hollow rants of a defeated foe 1 Samuel 17:41-47

David's Triumph 1 Samuel 17:48-58

For God's honor to be upheld, the enemy must be silenced.

The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8

Because God's children are human beings - made of flesh and blood - the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying. Hebrews 2:14-15

For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God. 1 John 5:4-5

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Soft Music for a Hard Heart 1 Samuel 16;14-23

The Plague of a Harmful Spirit
The Presence of the Holy Spirit

And David had success in all his undertakings, for the LORD was with him. 1 Samuel 18:22

Spirit-filled believers are God's instruments of blessing to others.

"Believers keep the world from drowning in its own vomit, which, strangely enough, it craves." - Dale Ralph Davis

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Romans 15:4

And they sang in a mighty chorus: "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!" Revelation 5:12

Show series logo

Soft Music for a Hard Heart 1 Samuel 16;14-23

The Plague of a Harmful Spirit
The Presence of the Holy Spirit

And David had success in all his undertakings, for the LORD was with him. 1 Samuel 18:22

Spirit-filled believers are God's instruments of blessing to others.

"Believers keep the world from drowning in its own vomit, which, strangely enough, it craves." - Dale Ralph Davis

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Romans 15:4

And they sang in a mighty chorus: "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!" Revelation 5:12

God often uses the least likely to accomplish his purposes.

ONLY A BOY NAMED DAVID

"Stop mourning and get moving."

And Samuel said to Saul, "You have done foolishly. You have not kept the command of the LORD your God, with which he commanded you. For then the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. But now your kingdom shall not continue. The LORD has sought out a man after his own heart, and the LORD has commanded him to be prince over his people, because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you." 1 Samuel 13:13-14

"I have provided for myself a king." Versus "Make them [the people] a king."

Stop judging by appearances and develop a God-perspective.

For the eyes of the LORD roam throughout the earth to show himself strong for those who are wholeheartedly devoted to him. 2 Chronicles 16:9

This is the LORD's declaration: I will look favorably on this kind of person: one who is humble, submissive in spirit, and trembles at my word." Isaiah 66:2

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord's favor has come.... Isaiah 61:1-2

He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Isaiah 53:2-3

Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure. All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him." Matthew 11:25-27

God often uses the least likely to accomplish his purposes.

God often uses the least likely to accomplish his purposes.

ONLY A BOY NAMED DAVID

"Stop mourning and get moving."

And Samuel said to Saul, "You have done foolishly. You have not kept the command of the LORD your God, with which he commanded you. For then the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. But now your kingdom shall not continue. The LORD has sought out a man after his own heart, and the LORD has commanded him to be prince over his people, because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you." 1 Samuel 13:13-14

"I have provided for myself a king." Versus "Make them [the people] a king."

Stop judging by appearances and develop a God-perspective.

For the eyes of the LORD roam throughout the earth to show himself strong for those who are wholeheartedly devoted to him. 2 Chronicles 16:9

This is the LORD's declaration: I will look favorably on this kind of person: one who is humble, submissive in spirit, and trembles at my word." Isaiah 66:2

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord's favor has come.... Isaiah 61:1-2

He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Isaiah 53:2-3

Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure. All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him." Matthew 11:25-27

God often uses the least likely to accomplish his purposes.

[God] has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:13-14

[Jesus] is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment. 1 Thessalonians 1:10

This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me. 1 Corinthians 11:25

The Essence of the Lord's Supper

The Lord's Supper is a thankful remembrance of Christ and his death, symbolized by the bread and cup, that nourishes us spiritually, brings us into communion with God and one another, and fills us with joyful anticipation of the glory to come.

The Lord's supper is a thankful remembrance of Christ and his death.
The Lord's Supper nourishes us spiritually.

Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. John 6:53-57

The Lord's Supper brings us into communion with God and one another.

The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation [koinonia, "sharing, communion, fellowship"] in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17

But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. For in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you.... When you come together, it is not the Lord's supper that you eat. 1 Corinthians 11:17-18, 20

For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. 1 Corinthians 11:29

Walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:2

The Lord's Supper fills us with a joyful anticipation of the glory to come.

Key Errors Concerning the Lord's Supper

Transubstantiation

He did not enter heaven to offer himself again and again.... But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the age to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.... Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many. Hebrews 9:25-26, 28

Consubstantiation
The Mere Memorial View

Our Experience of the Lord's Supper

The Lord's Supper is a thankful remembrance of Christ and his death, symbolized by the bread and cup, that nourishes us spiritually, brings us into communion with God and one another, and fills us with joyful anticipation of the glory to come.

[God] has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:13-14

[Jesus] is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment. 1 Thessalonians 1:10

This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me. 1 Corinthians 11:25

The Essence of the Lord's Supper

The Lord's Supper is a thankful remembrance of Christ and his death, symbolized by the bread and cup, that nourishes us spiritually, brings us into communion with God and one another, and fills us with joyful anticipation of the glory to come.

The Lord's supper is a thankful remembrance of Christ and his death.
The Lord's Supper nourishes us spiritually.

Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. John 6:53-57

The Lord's Supper brings us into communion with God and one another.

The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation [koinonia, "sharing, communion, fellowship"] in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17

But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. For in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you.... When you come together, it is not the Lord's supper that you eat. 1 Corinthians 11:17-18, 20

For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. 1 Corinthians 11:29

Walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:2

The Lord's Supper fills us with a joyful anticipation of the glory to come.

Key Errors Concerning the Lord's Supper

Transubstantiation

He did not enter heaven to offer himself again and again.... But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the age to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.... Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many. Hebrews 9:25-26, 28

Consubstantiation
The Mere Memorial View

Our Experience of the Lord's Supper

The Lord's Supper is a thankful remembrance of Christ and his death, symbolized by the bread and cup, that nourishes us spiritually, brings us into communion with God and one another, and fills us with joyful anticipation of the glory to come.

1-14 / There are UNIVERSAL & UNRELENTING temptations.
15-16 / There are UNFILLABLE voids in people’s souls.
18-19 / There are UNFATHOMABLE mysteries in life.
21-23 / There are UNFITTING realities in life.
24-28 / There is UNTAPPED wisdom in Creation all around you.
29-31 / There are UNLINKED similarities in life.
32-33 / There are UNAVOIDABLE consequences to our thoughts and actions.

Understanding the Ordinances: Baptism Part 2

Jesus came and said them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:18-20

The Essence of Christian Baptism

Baptism is the church's act of affirming a believer's profession of faith in Christ with the symbolic application of water.

Key Errors Concerning Christian Baptism

The Roman Catholic View

Ex opere operato "by the work worked"

Because baptism was considered to effect the forgiveness of sins, and because infants are born with Adamic guilt and corruption (original sin), they must be baptized in order to be saved. With this theology firmly in place by the beginning of the fifth century, infant baptism became the official practice of the church. - Gregg R. Allison

For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift - not from works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

The Lutheran View

Of Baptism they teach that it is necessary to salvation, and that through Baptism is offered the grace of God, and that children are to be baptized who, being offered to God through Baptism are received into God's grace. - The Augsburg Confession Article 9, "Of Baptism"

The Reformed Paedobaptist View

10 So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. 11 When you came to Christ, you were "circumcised," but not by a physical procedure. Christ performed a spiritual circumcision - the cutting away of your sinful nature. 12 For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead. Colossians 2:10-12 NLT

Entrance into Old Covenant community

Involuntary Physical External

Entrance into New Covenant community

Voluntary Spiritual Internal

Baptism is the church's act of affirming a believer's profession of faith in Christ with the symbolic application of water.

Our Experience of Christian Baptism

Baptism honors the Lord.
Baptism strengthens your faith.
Baptism helps you share your faith.

And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. ... And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. Acts 2:42, 46-47

"If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples." - Jesus Christ (John 8:31)

There were many priests under the old system, for death prevented them from remaining in office. But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf. Hebrews 7:23-25 NLT

There is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:5

You yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:5

Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." Matthew 26:26-28

The Essence of Baptism

Baptism is the church's act of affirming a believer's profession of faith in Christ with the symbolic application of water.

Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. Romans 6:3-4

Baptism ... now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 3:21

God has revealed Himself through General Revelation in creation and through Special Revelation in the Scriptures.

General Revelation

Special Revelation

True, lasting contentment is found in the refuge of Christ and the joy that the Lord provides.

The Place of Refuge (v.1)
The Voice of Confidence (vv.2-8)
The Path of Life (vv. 9-11)

"The tendency of modern times has been to take punishment out of eternity or eternity out of punishment." - John Gerstner

The Eternal State We believe that God will raise the dead bodily and judge the world, assigning the unbeliever to condemnation and eternal conscious punishment and the believer to eternal blessedness and joy with the Lord in the new heaven and the new earth, to the praise of His glorious grace.

What happens at one's death? Does Hell even exist? What happens in Hell? Questions from Skeptics

Revelation 20:1-15

What happens at one's death?

The rich man also died and was buried, and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. And he called out, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame. Luke 16:22-24 (ESV)

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10 (ESV)

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 1 Peter 2:24 (ESV)

Does Hell even exist?

And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. Matthew 25:46 (ESV)

Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. Matthew 7:13-14 (ESV)

What happens in Hell?

Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.' Matthew 7:21-23 (ESV).

Questions Raised by Skeptics How does God's nature and His attributes reconcile with the Biblical concept of Hell?

Is God unjust to send "good" people to Hell?

How then shall we live, in light of the reality of Hell?

Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV)

"If sinners be damned, at least let them leap to Hell over our dead bodies. And if they perish, let them perish with our arms wrapped about their knees, imploring them to stay. If Hell must be filled, let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions, and let not one go unwarned and unprayed for." Charles Spurgeon

Our collaborative service for Christ strengthens our solidarity in Christ.

Paul's Co-laborers Romans 16:1-16, 21-23

Prisca Romans 16:3-5

Mary Romans 16:6

Junia Romans 16:7

Tryphena, Tryphosa, and Persis Romans 16:12

Mother of Rufus Romans 16:13

Julia and Nereus' sister Romans 16:15

Our collaborative service for Christ strengthens our solidarity in Christ.

Paul's Caution Romans 16:17-19

Scope them out.

Stay away from them.

Paul's Confidence Romans 16:20-21

... In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39

Paul's Conclusion Romans 16:25-27

God strengthens us through the gospel.

The gospel centers on Jesus Christ.

The gospel is for all nations.

Paul's Affirmation Romans 15:14

Paul's Accomplishments Romans 15:15-19

"... to the nations ... and to the distant islands that have not heard of my name or seen my glory. They will proclaim my glory among the nations. And they will bring all your people, from all the nations, to my holy mountain in Jerusalem as an offering to the Lord...." Isaiah 66:19-20

Paul's Ambition Romans 15:20-29

Paul's Appeal Romans 15:30-33

Be ambitious for the Lord in collaboration with his church.

Follow Jesus' example by pleasing your neighbor for God's glory.

The Precept Romans 15:1-2

"The stronger ... anyone is in Christ, the more bound he is to bear with the weak."

The Pattern Romans 15:3-4

May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

Encouragement + Endurance = Hope

The Purpose Romans 15:5-12

Christ came to confirm the promises of God.

Remember that Christ came as a servant to the Jews to show that God is true to the promises he made to their ancestors. Romans 15:8 NLT

... You are included in the covenant God promised to your ancestors. For God said to Abraham, "Through your offspring all the families on earth will be blessed." When God raised up his servant, Jesus, he sent him first to you people of Israel, to bless you by turning each of you back from your sinful ways. Acts 3:25-26 NLT

Christ came to combine our praise to God.

The Prayer Romans 15:13

Christian liberty is to be governed by love.

For the sake of your brother
For the sake of Christ's bride

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied." - Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:6)

"I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on faith." - Paul the Apostle (Phil. 3:9-10 NLT)

Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:15 NLT

Show the Royal Standard pic

Christian liberty is to be governed by love.

For the sake of God's blessing

Since God welcomes us, we should welcome one another.

The Problem

The Prescription

To the strong: Welcome your weaker brother (v. 1). Do not despise him (vv. 3a, 10b).

To the weak: Stop passing judgment (vv. 3b, 4a, 10a)

Should a man not lay his hand upon his mouth before he criticizes his brethren? When we pass swift, uninformed, unloving and ungenerous judgments, surely we have forgotten that if we speak evil of them, at the same time we speak evil of the Lord whose name they bear.

The Principles

God welcomes all believers. Romans 14:3
The Lord upholds every believer. Romans 14:4
The Lord is sovereign over every believer. Romans 14:5-9

"To deny the lordship of Jesus Christ in the life of any believer is to subvert the full work, power, and purpose of His crucifixion and resurrection."

The Lord alone will judge each believer. Romans 14:10-12

Since God welcomes us, we should welcome one another.

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:34-35

Love Your Neighbor Romans 13:8-10

"Paul reserves the word 'fulfill' for Christian experience; only Christians, as a result of the work of Christ and through the Spirit, can 'fulfill' the law." - Douglas J. Moo

Look to Yourself Romans 13:11-14

Wake up!
Get dressed.
Walk properly.

Love others today by clothing yourself with Christ.

Submit to governing authorities, for they are God's servants for our good.

Our Responsibility to Submit to Governing Authorities

The Reasons to Submit to Governing Authorities

They have been established by God.

"From his fellow man I will require a reckoning for the life of man. Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image." Genesis 9:6

They have been empowered to punish.

Submit to governing authorities, for they are God's servants for our good.

Our reluctance/refusal to submit to governing authorities.

(v. 14) The Command: A Call to Divine Love
(v.15-18) The Caution: Persecution’s Peculiar Temptations
(v. 19-20) The Commitment: Living out This Divine Love
(v. 21) The Conquering Principle: Overcoming evil with good

Believers are to use their gifts humbly and corporately to build up the body of Christ and bring glory to God.

True worship entails dedicating your whole self to God.

"I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." - Jesus Christ (John 13:34-35)

Love one another genuinely, like Jesus, from the inside out.

Therefore, be imitators of God, as dearly loved children, and walk in love, as Christ also loved us and gave himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God. - Ephesians 5:1-2

"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends." - John 15:12-13

Our allegiance (v. 9)
Our affection (v. 10)

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. - Romans 12:10 NIV

Our actions (vv. 11-13)

The temptation to lose steam in our lifelong responsibility to reverence God in every aspect of our lives, to become lazy and complacent in our pursuit of what is "good, well pleasing to God, and perfect," is a natural one - but it must be resisted. - Douglas Moo

"treating a person, perhaps a stranger, nobly and magnanimously in the context of one's home, joyfully seeking to bring that person refreshment."

Love one another genuinely, like Jesus, from the inside out.

"Believers are to use their gifts humbly and corporately to build up the body of Christ and bring glory to God."

Think Rightly About Ourselves Romans 12:3
Think Rightly About Fellow Believers Romans 12:4-5
Think Rightly About our Gifts Romans 12:6-8

True worship entails dedicating your whole self to God.

The Appeal Romans 12:1

True worship entails dedicating your whole self to God.

The Admonition Romans 12:2a

"Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold."

We all, with unveiled faces, are looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord and are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory; this is from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18

But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:14

The Aftereffect Romans 12:2b

True worship entails dedicating your whole self to God.

What is Truth?

Then Pilate said to him, "So you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world-to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice."Pilate said to him, "What is truth?"

After he had said this, he went back outside to the Jews... John 18:37-38

None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one. Romans 3:10-12

And a ruler asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" And Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.'" And he said, "All these I have kept from my youth." When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich. Luke 18:18-23

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved - and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, Ephesians 2:4-8

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.' Matthew 7:21-23

Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?-unless indeed you fail to meet the test! 2 Corinthians 13:5

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. 1 John 5:13

1 - You Believe

if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. Romans 10:9-10

2 - Your Life Is Changed

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17

In him [him being Christ] you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:13-14

3 - Your Love Is Active

Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. 1 John 4:11-12

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25

4 - You Face Persecution

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted 2 Timothy 3:2

5 - Your Conduct Increasingly Pleases God

No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God. 1 John 3:9

Seeing Jesus alive was the last thing his followers expected to see.

Vs. 1: Mary "saw that the stone had been taken away."

Vs. 5: John "saw the linen cloths lying there."

Vs. 6: Peter "Peter saw the linen cloths lying there..." (3 slide series)

Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying apart from the other wrappings. John 20:6 NLT

He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, "Thus it is written that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead...." Luke 24:45-46

"Hosanna in the highest!"

As it is written, '"God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that would not see and ears that would not hear, down to this very day." Romans 11:8 (cf. Isa. 29:10; Deut. 29:4)

God's Glorious Plan Romans 11:11-36

Providential Strategy Romans 11:11-16

This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God's wonderful grace. Colossians 1:6 NLT

Privileged Status Romans 11:17-24

"Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a people producing its fruits." Jesus Christ (Matt. 21:43)

So also Abraham "believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham. Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: "All nations will be blessed through you." So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. Galatians 3:6-9 NIV

Promised Salvation Romans 11:25-32

Praise God for his marvelous plan to save all Israel!

Praise-filled Summary Romans 11:33-36

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

This is what the Lord says: "Only if the heavens above can be measured and the foundations of the earth below explored, will I reject all of Israel's descendants because of all they have done - this is the Lord's declaration." Jeremiah 31:37

God has not rejected his people, "a remnant chosen by grace."

"It is not fitting that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables." Acts 6:3

Always a remnant Romans 11:1-5a

"For the LORD will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance." Psalm 94:14 NLT

"For the LORD will not forsake his people, for his great name's sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you a people for himself." 1 Samuel 12:22

In 1900, more than half the world's population (54.3%) was unevangelized. That has now fallen to 28%. - 2022 Status of Global Christianity report

This year, 93 million copies of God's Word will be printed, up from 54 million in 2000 and 5 million in 1900. - 2022 Status of Global Christianity report

Christianity is growing faster in Africa than any other place in the world, and more Christians live in Africa than any other continent. - 2022 Status of Global Christianity report

All of grace Romans 11:5b-6a
Accounting for the rest Romans 11:7-10

As it belongs to him to give eyes to see, and to enlighten minds by the spirit of judgment and understanding, so he alone deprives us of all light, when he sees that by a wicked and depraved heart of the truth we of our own accord wish for darkness. - John Calvin

"But it is not as though the word of God has failed...." Romans 9:6

... They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do. 1 Peter 2:8

Salvation is yours if you want it.

The Message of Salvation Romans 10:5-13

Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one con-fesses and is saved. - Romans 10:9-10

Confess with your mouth... Believe in your heart.... You will be saved. With the heart one believes... With the mouth one confesses....

The Messengers of Salvation Romans 10:14-15

Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages ... proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom.... When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest." Matthew 9:35-38

Those Missing Out on Salvation Romans 10:16-21

To be right with God, you must bank on Jesus.

The Faith of the Gentiles (Rom. 9:30)

21 But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. 22 We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. Romans 3:21-22 NLT

And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed.

The Failure of the Jews (9:31 - 10:3)

For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his [God's] sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.

The Fact of the Gospel (Rom. 10:4)

To be right with God, you must bank on Jesus.

Morality and religiosity kill spiritual life unless grounded in the gospel. ... Moral and religious activity are like radiation - very dangerous unless properly contained. The gospel is the container that lets us put morality and religious deeds to good use. - Daniel Doriani

Lord, 'tis not that I did choose you; That, I know, could never be, For this heart would still refuse you Had your grace not chosen me.

Salvation depends ultimately on God's sovereign choice.

Mercy is God's to dispense as he wills.

God has the final say. Romans 9:14-18

We do not. Romans 9:19-21

"What if ...?" Romans 9:22-29

"I will surely bless you, and I will surely multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and has the sand that is on the seashore." Genesis 22:17

If you are a Christian, then thank God - don't judge him.

If you are not a Christian, then receive Christ - don't reject him.

The hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. John 4:24

PAUL'S ANGUISH: Most Jews are not saved Romans 9:1-5

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us - for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree." Galatians 3:13

But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned-everyone-to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:5,6

PAUL'S ASSURANCE: God's Word has not failed Romans 8:6-13

a. God's choice of Isaac over Ishmael (vv. 7-9)

b. God's choice of Jacob over Esau (vv. 10-13)

Salvation depends ultimately on God's calling and nothing else.

Who can be against us? Romans 8:31-32
Who can bring a charge against us? Romans 8:33
Who can condemn us? Romans 8:34
What can separate us? Romans 8:35-39

Transforming Truth: Nothing can separate believers from the love of God

Our present suffering is nothing compared to our future glory.

Anger

Avoidance

Apathy

If you are suffering as a Christian, and because you are a Christian, it is one of the surest proofs you can ever have of the fact that you are a child of God.

For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. 2 Corinthians 4:17

the weight of glory . . .

the wait for glory . . .

The Groan of Creation Romans 8:19-22
The Groan of Christians Romans 8:23-25

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:13-14

Our present suffering is nothing compared to our future glory.

The Groan of the Holy Spirit Romans 8:26-27

No one knows a person's thoughts except that person's own spirit, and no one can know God's thoughts except God's own Spirit. 1 Corinthians 2:11 NLT

The Glory That's Sure to Come! Romans 8:28-30

a. God foreknew his people Romans 8:29a

b. God predestined his people Romans 8:29b

"That ungodly sinners should one day be transformed into the image of Christ by a miracle of grace is one of the most astounding truths of divine revelation." - William MacDonald

c. God called his people Romans 8:30a

d. God justified his people Romans 8:30b

e. God glorified his people Romans 8:30c

Our present suffering is nothing compared to our future glory.

Adoption: "An act of God whereby he makes us members of his family."

The Holy Spirit assures believers that we are God's children.

We are debtors to God, not to the flesh.
We must depend on the Spirit, not on ourselves.

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. John 3:17-18

Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. John 3:36

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. Romans 8:14

We are adopted by God and are therefore heirs.

"I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you." - Jesus Christ (John 14:18)

And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory.... Romans 8:17

Life in the Spirit entails breathtaking privileges.

No condemnation from God Romans 8:1-4

Our pattern of life is proof of our faith.

As far as the Christian life is concerned, everything that is a spiritual reality is also a spiritual responsibility.

The capacity to please God Romans 8:5-9

There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. Proverbs 14:12

"I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." -Jesus Christ John 14:6

"If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him." -Jesus Christ John 14:23

For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Philippians 2:13 NLT

For the Lord takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with salvation. Psalm 149:4

May [God] produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen. Hebrews 13:21 NLT

Through their identity in Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit working in their lives, a believer can live in a way that brings great pleasure to the Lord. Truly, believers will find great joy and spiritual fullness in living to glorify God.

Our coming resurrection by God Romans 8:10-11

Our Failures in Life Romans 7:14-23

The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. 1 Timothy 1:15

"The person depicted in Romans 7 has a deep awareness of his own sin and an equally deep desire to please his Lord in all things. Only a mature Christian could be so characterized." - John MacArthur

The reality of the conflict
The reason for the conflict

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. Galatians 5:16-17

Left to ourselves, we fight a losing battle with sin.

Our Faith in the Lord Romans 7:24-25

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:56-58

Our Freedom from the Law Romans 7:1-6

The shocking statement in Romans 7:5 is that such desires for sin were aroused by the law.... The typical Jewish view was that the law helped to prevent people from sinning. Paul contends that the law aids and abets sin, that sin is provoked and stimulated by means of the law. Jewish history supports Paul's contention, for under the law Israel ended up in exile because of its sins. --Tom Schreiner.

The Force of the Law Romans 7:7-13

a. The Law reveals sin.

You have heard the commandment that says, 'You must not commit adultery." But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Matthew 5:27-28 NLT

"The tenth commandment makes explicit what the other commandments imply: obedience is a matter of the heart." - Tim Challies

b. The Law arouses sin.

c. The Law ruins the sinner.

God frees us from sin so we can serve Him.

Answer to a Question Romans 6:15

ANALOGY OF SLAVERY Romans 6:16-23

God frees us from sin so we can serve Him.

Baptism portrays death to sin and new life in Christ.

What happened to us?
Why is this significant?

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. Titus 2:11-14

What do we do now?

Outline: 1. The Command Against Anxiety (25) 2. Some Considerations About Anxiety (25-32) a. It is Reductionistic b. It is Ridiculous c. It is Unproductive d. It is Unbelief e. It is Worldly 3. The Cure for Anxiety (33-34)

Transforming Truth: Those who press on will receive the promised reward 1. Why We Press On 2. How We Press On 3. Weeping We Press On 4. Hopeful We Press On

BLESSED BE THE NAME: Part Three: "Everlasting Father" Isaiah 9:6-7

And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." Matthew 3:16-17

Jesus Christ is the founder and head of the household of faith.

Yet it was the will of the LORD to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. Isaiah 53:10

2. Jesus Christ is the benevolent protector and provider for his people.

"I was a father to the poor and assisted strangers who needed help." Job 29:16

Jesus Christ will never let us down.

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." So we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?" Hebrews 13:5-6

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

BLESSED BE THE NAME: Part Two: "Mighty God" Isaiah 9:6

"Mighty God" on Earth

I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 1:19 NLT

"Mighty God" in Heaven

Look to Jesus as the "Mighty God" and live accordingly.

He is able to save us Hebrews 7:25
He is able to keep us 2 Timothy 1:12

For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day. 2 Timothy 1:12 NKJV

"For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day." - Jesus Christ John 6:40

He is able to help us Hebrews 2:18

Look to Jesus as the "Mighty God" and live accordingly.

"Mighty God" in heaven and on earth together

He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might on the day he comes to be glorified in his holy people and be marveled at among all those who have believed. 2 Thessalonians 1:8-10

BLESSED BE THE NAME: Part One: "Wonderful Counselor" Isaiah 9:6

"The book of Isaiah is a vision of hope for sinners through the coming Messiah, promising for the 'ransomed' people of God a new world where sin and sorrow will be forever forgotten." - Ray Ortlund, Jr.

Matthew 4:12-13 12 Now when he heard that John [the Baptist] had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee. 13 And leaving Nazareth he went and lived in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali....

Matthew 4:14-17 14 so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: 15 "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles- 16 the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned." 17 From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given....

Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. ... If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:34, 36

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life. John 8:12

"A church is a group of Christians who assemble as an earthly embassy of Christ's heavenly kingdom...." - Hansen and Leeman, Rediscover Church

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder....

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

He possesses absolute wisdom.

Jesus Christ is the Wonderful Counselor.

He speaks to us as friends.

I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. John 15:15

I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. Romans 15:14

Christ gives us far more than we lost in Adam.

The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, "You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." Genesis 2:15-17

"The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy - the Son of God." Luke 1:35

Yes, people sinned even before the law was given. But it was not counted as sin because there was not yet any law to break. Still, everyone died -from the time of Adam to the time of Moses - even those who did not disobey an explicit commandment of God, as Adam did. Romans 5:13-14 NLT

15 But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. 16 And the free gift is not like the result of that one man's sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brought justification. 17 For if, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. Romans 5:15-17

For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous. Romans 5:19

He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might. 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9 NIV

For if, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness.... Romans 3:23-25

Christ gives us far more than we lost in Adam.

Being reconciled to God gives us reasons to rejoice.

Being reconciled to God gives us reasons to rejoice.

Because of where we stand, we rejoice in our future glory.

For through him [Christ] we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. Ephesians 2:18

In him [Christ] we have boldness and confident access through faith in him. Ephesians 3:12

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16

When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:4

Because of what we know, we rejoice in our present sufferings.

a. Suffering produces endurance.

b. Endurance produces character.

c. Character produces hope.

d. Hope does not put shame.

Because of God's great love, we rejoice over a past event.

We shall not cease from exploration, And the end of all our exploring Will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.

THE GOD OF ABRAHAM PRAISE Part Two Romans 4:13-25

All true believers, like Abraham, trust God no matter what.

Our Failure: Why God's promise did not come through the law Romans 4:13-15

For by works of the law no human being will be justified in [God's] sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. Romans 2:20

God's Faithfulness: Why God's promise is received through faith Romans 4:16-25

Whereas works depend on human performance, faith depends on God's promise.

Abraham considered his predicament.
Abraham was convinced of God's power.

By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born descendants as many as the stars of heaven and as many as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore. Hebrews 11:11-12

THE GOD OF ABRAHAM PRAISE Part One Romans 4:1-12

For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are justified [declared righteous] by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation [wrath-bearing sacrifice] by his blood, to be received by faith. Romans 3:22-25

God's way of salvation has always been the same.

The Trust of Abraham Romans 4:1-5

The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Scripture does not say "and to seeds," meaning many people, but "and to your seed," meaning one person, who is Christ. Galatians 3:16 NIV

The Testimony of David Romans 4:6-8

God's way of salvation has always been the same.

The Timing of Circumcision Romans 4:9-12

God's way of salvation has always been the same.

Title: The Righteousness of God

Transforming Truth: Right standing with God comes only through faith in Christ

Intervention

Justification

An instantaneous legal act of God in which He thinks of our sins as forgiven and Christ's righteousness as belonging to us, and declares us to be righteous in His sight.

Redemption

Propitiation

Demonstration

Implications

The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. Genesis 6:5

Every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood. Genesis 8:21

God alone is righteous, and we are accountable to him.

God is perfectly righteous (Roman 3:1-8).

Now, therefore, our God, the great God, mighty and awesome, who keeps his covenant of love, ... In all that has happened to us, you have remained righteous; you have acted faithfully, while we have acted wickedly. Nehemiah 9:32-33

The Lord sits enthroned forever; he has established his throne for justice, and he judges the world with righteousness; he judges the people with uprightness. Psalm 9:7-8

All people are sinful (Romans 3: 9-18).

Indeed, there is no one on earth who is righteous, no one who does what is right and never sins. Ecclesiastes 7:20

Works done by unregenerate men, although for the matter of them they may be things which God commands, and of good use both in themselves and others; yet, because they proceed not from a heart purified by faith; nor are done in a right manner, according to the Word; nor to a right end, the glory of God; they are therefore sinful and cannot please God, or make a man meet [suitable] to receive grace from God. And yet their neglect of them is more sinful and displeasing unto God. - Westminster Confession of Faith Chapter 16, "Of Good Works," Section 7

Everyone must answer to God (Romans 3:19-20).

But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. Galatians 3:22

Admit

Believe

Confess

God alone is righteous, and we are accountable to him.

Real righteousness works from the inside out.

Unmasking the conceit of the self-righteous Romans 2:17-24

Terrifying New Halloween Mask Depicts a Human Face Not Wearing a Mask (with BabylonBee pic)

a. their privileges Romans 2:17-18

Thus says the LORD: "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD." Jeremiah 9:23-24

b. their perception Romans 2:19-20

c. their practice Romans 2:21-24

We are here warned, first, not to flatter ourselves and to despise others, when we have performed only some portions of the law - and, secondly, not to glory in having outward idolatry removed, while we care not to drive away and to eradicate the impiety that lieth hid in our hearts. - John Calvin

Real righteousness works from the inside out.

Understanding true conversion by the Spirit Romans 2:25-29

"Run, John, run!" the Law commands But gives neither feet nor hands. Better news the Gospel brings: It bids me fly and gives me wings.

When you came to Christ, you were "circumcised," but not by a physical procedure. Christ performed a spiritual circumcision - the cutting away of your sinful nature. For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead.

13 You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. 14 He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. Colossians 2:11-14 NLT

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above. ... Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. ...

Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry ... put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its creator ...

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness and patience, ... put on love. Colossians 3:1-2, 5, 10, 12, 14

Real righteousness works from the inside out.

Self-righteous critics are also subject to God's wrath.

"Who, me?" "Yes, you too!" Romans 2:1-16

You have no excuse.

That's the first point Paul makes in verses 1-5. By condemning others for their sins, knowing that God's judgment rightly falls on them, you thereby condemn yourself, because you're guilty of all sorts of sins too.

GRAPHIC: Show 'Hand_Pointing pic

God shows no partiality.

a. two outcomes affirmed Romans 2:6-11

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Ephesians 2:8-10 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. Titus 2:11-14

b. key objection answered Romans 2:12-16

There is something deep within them that echoes God's yes and no, right and wrong. Their response to God's yes and no will become public knowledge on the day God makes his final decision about every man and woman. The Message from God that I proclaim through Jesus Christ takes into account all these differences. Romans 2:15-16 MSG

You can have no fear.

This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners"-and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! 1 Timothy 1:15-17a NLT

To Hell in a Handbasket: The Catastrophic Course of Humanity Romans 1:24-32

God judges sinners by handing them over to their desires.

God gave them up to moral filthiness.

They are darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them and because of the hardness of their hearts. They became callous and gave themselves over to promiscuity for the practice of every kind of impurity with a desire for more and more. Ephesians 4:18-19 CSB

God gave them up to homosexual relations.

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27

God gave them up to a depraved mind.

God judges sinners by handing them over to their desires.

"Until sin is bitter, Christ will not be sweet."

Our worthiness

Our witness

Our worship

God's righteousness is revealed as sinners respond to the gospel in faith.

God's Righteousness Revealed in the Gospel Romans 1:16-17

the power of the gospel

This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God's wonderful grace. Colossians 1:6 NLT

the provision of the gospel
the proffer of the gospel

The one who believes in the Son has eternal life, but the one who rejects the Son will not see life; instead, the wrath of God remains on him. John 3:36

the purpose of the gospel

a. "God's righteousness" - an attribute of God.

b. "Righteousness from God" - a status given to people by God.

I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law, but that which is through faith in Christ - the righteousness from God based on faith. Philippians 3:9

c. "Righteousness done by God" - God's saving activity.

I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed. Isaiah 46:13 NIV

My righteousness draws near speedily, my salvation is on the way.... My salvation will last forever, my righteousness will never fail. My righteousness will last forever, my salvation through all generations. Isaiah 51:5, 6, 8

For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed - a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith.'" Romans 1:17 NIV

The one who is righteous by faith shall live.

God's righteousness is revealed as sinners respond to the gospel in faith.

God's wrath revealed in human experience Romans 1:18-23

The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? Jeremiah 17:9

I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to give to all according to their ways, according to the fruit of their doings. Jeremiah 17:10

God's righteousness is revealed as sinners respond to the gospel in faith.

God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21

The gospel of Christ binds us together.

"I thank my God for you."

We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters, as is right... 2 Thessalonians 1:3

The gospel of Christ binds us together.

"I constantly pray for you."

Pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people. Ephesians 6:18 NIV

"I long to see you."

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:10-11

"I am eager to preach the gospel to you."

All Scripture is breathed out by God and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

It tells us the truth about God and ourselves.
It shows us the way of salvation - how we can be right with God.
It connects the promises of God in the Old Testament to the gospel of Christ in the New Testament.
It provides the key to overcoming sin.
It puts our present sufferings into perspective.
It points believers to our future glory.
It fuels our love for God and others.
It helps us to live and die well.
It highlights the value of every person.
It exalts the triune God from whom all blessings flow.

I have fully presented the Good News of Christ from Jerusalem all the way to Illyricum. Romans 15:19 NLT

Gospel Identity and Relationships Part One Romans 1:1-7

God calls every believer to serve his Son, Jesus Christ.

God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. 1 Corinthians 1:9

The Spirit and the Bride say, "Come." And let him who hears say, "Come." And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. Revelation 22:17

All people have sinned (Rom. 3:23). The penalty for our sin is death (Rom. 6:23). Jesus Christ died to pay the penalty for our sin (Rom. 5:8).

Salvation is a gift to be received by faith (Rom. 3:24-45; 6:23).

Effective calling is an act of God the Father, speaking through the human proclamation of the gospel, in which he summons people to himself in such a way that they respond in saving faith. - Wayne Grudem

It is a high calling.

God calls every believer to serve his Son, Jesus Christ.

"Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exists because worship doesn't. Worship is ultimate, not missions, because God is ultimate, not man." - John Piper

It is a holy calling.
It is a happy calling.