First Baptist Church Tullahoma: Recent Episodes
And after the two days He went from there into Galilee. 44 For Jesus Himself bore witness that a prophet has no honor in his own country. 45 So when He came to Galilee, the Galileans received Him, having seen all the things that He did in Jerusalem at the feast; for they themselves also went to the feast. 46 Then He came again to Cana of Galilee where He had made the water wine. And there was a royal official whose son was sick at Capernaum. 47 When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judea into Galilee, he went to Him and was asking Him to come down and heal his son; for he was about to die. 48 So Jesus said to him, "Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will never believe." 49 The royal official said to Him, "Sir, come down before my child dies." 50 Jesus said to him, "Go; your son lives." The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and started on his way. 51 And while he was still going down, his slaves met him, saying that his son was alive. 52 So he inquired of them the hour when he began to get better. Then they said to him, "Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him." 53 So the father knew that it was at that hour in which Jesus said to him, "Your son lives"; and he himself believed and his whole household. 54 This is again a second sign that Jesus did when He had come out of Judea into Galilee.
Jesus is a better well, a better place of worship, has a better work to do, and produces better witnesses...He is better!
22 After these things Jesus and His disciples came into the land of Judea, and there He was spending time with them and baptizing. 23 And John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there; and people were coming and were being baptized— 24 for John had not yet been thrown into prison. 25 Therefore there arose a debate between John's disciples and a Jew about purification. 26 And they came to John and said to him, "Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have borne witness, behold, He is baptizing and all are coming to Him." 27 John answered and said, "A man can receive nothing unless it has been given him from heaven. 28 You yourselves are my witnesses that I said, 'I am not the Christ,' but, 'I have been sent ahead of Him.' 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice. So this joy of mine has been made full. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease. 31 "He who comes from above is above all, he who is of the earth is from the earth and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 What He has seen and heard, of that He bears witness; and no one receives His witness. 33 He who has received His witness has set his seal to this, that God is true. 34 For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God; for He gives the Spirit without measure. 35 The Father loves the Son and has given all things into His hand. 36 He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him."
Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews; 2 this man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, "Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him." 3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." 4 Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" 5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which has been born of the flesh is flesh, and that which has been born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' 8 The wind blows where it wishes and you hear its sound, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who has been born of the Spirit." 9 Nicodemus answered and said to Him, "How can these things be?" 10 Jesus answered and said to him, "Are you the teacher of Israel and do not understand these things? 11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know and bear witness of what we have seen, and you do not accept our witness. 12 If I told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 And no one has ascended into heaven, but He who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; 15 so that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life. 16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son...
After this He went down to Capernaum, He and His mother and His brothers and His disciples; and they stayed there a few days. 13 And the Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 14 And He found in the temple those who were selling oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers seated at their tables. 15 And He made a scourge of cords, and drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen; and He poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables; 16 and to those who were selling the doves He said, "Take these things away; stop making My Father's house a place of business." 17 His disciples remembered that it was written, "Zeal for Your house will consume me." 18 The Jews then said to Him, "What sign do You show us as your authority for doing these things?" 19 Jesus answered them, "Destroy this sanctuary, and in three days I will raise it up." 20 The Jews then said, "It took forty-six years to build this sanctuary, and will You raise it up in three days?" 21 But He was speaking about the sanctuary of His body. 22 So when He was raised from the dead, His disciples remembered that He said this; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had spoken. 23 Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name, when they saw His signs which He was doing. 24 But Jesus, on His part, was not entrusting Himself to them, for He knew all men, 25 and because He had no need that anyone bear witness concerning man, for He Himself knew what was in man.
And on the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there; 2 and both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding. 3 And when the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to Him, "They have no wine." 4 And Jesus said to her, "Woman, what do I have to do with you? My hour has not yet come." 5 His mother said to the servants, "Whatever He says to you, do it." 6 Now there were six stone water jars set there for the Jewish custom of purification, containing two or three measures each. 7 Jesus said to them, "Fill the water jars with water." So they filled them up to the brim. 8 And He said to them, "Draw some out now and take it to the headwaiter." So they took it to him. 9 Now when the headwaiter tasted the water which had become wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the headwaiter called the bridegroom, 10 and said to him, "Every man serves the good wine first, and when the people have drunk freely, then the inferior wine; but you have kept the good wine until now." 11 Jesus did this in Cana of Galilee as the beginning of His signs, and manifested His glory, and His disciples believed in Him. 12 After this He went down to Capernaum, He and His mother and His brothers and His disciples; and they stayed there a few days.
Again the next day John was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and he looked at Jesus as He walked, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" 37 The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. 38 And Jesus turned and saw them following, and said to them, "What do you seek?" They said to Him, "Rabbi (which translated means Teacher), where are You staying?" 39 He said to them, "Come, and you will see." So they came and saw where He was staying; and they stayed with Him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. 40 One of the two who heard John speak and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41 He found first his own brother Simon and said to him, "We have found the Messiah" (which translated means Christ). 42 He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, "You are Simon the son of John; you shall be called Cephas" (which is translated Peter). 43 The next day He purposed to go into Galilee, and He found Philip. And Jesus said to him, "Follow Me." 44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, of the city of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the Law and also the Prophets wrote--Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." 46 Nathanael said to him, "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." 47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!" 48 Nathanael said to Him, "How do You know me?" Jesus answered and said to him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." 49 Nathanael answered Him, "Rabbi, You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel." 50 Jesus answered and said
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.2 He was in the beginning with God.3 All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.4 In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.5 And the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overtake it.6 There was a man having been sent from God, whose name was John.7 He came as a witness, to bear witness about the Light, so that all might believe through him.8 He was not the Light, but he came to bear witness about the Light.9 There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens everyone.10 He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him.11 He came to what was His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him.12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name,13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.15 John bore witness about Him and cried out, saying, "This was He of whom I said, 'He who comes after me has been ahead of me, for He existed before me.'"16 For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace.17 For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.18 No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him.
Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" 14 And they said, "Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets." 15 He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" 16 Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." 17 And Jesus said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. 18 I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven." 20 Then He warned the disciples that they should tell no one that He was the Christ. 21 From that time Jesus began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised up on the third day. 22 Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, "God forbid it, Lord! This shall never happen to You." 23 But He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God's interests, but man's." 24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. 25 For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what
1 John 5:13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.
How should approach Jesus? The Disciples rebuked the children coming to Jesus, but why? Let's listen to see having a faith like a child really intails.
What does it mean that Jesus came to fulfill the Law? We will look at how Jesus came not to abolish the Law but to demonstrate it's correct interpretation.
Jesus shares that He is the hope of the world to His followers by what a Christian is. We are the light to the world.
We will look at the prelude to the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus is a new king who brings a new kingdom.
Our Good Friday Service. Guest speaker Adam Cutshaw walks us through the Christ Hymn, Philippians 2, to show us the humility of Christ Jesus. Jesus emptied Himself for our sake.
What does serving one another in Church look like? Let's find out from the passage of Acts 6.
Have you ever made an exchange from one item for another? The cost of following Jesus ask us to exchange our lives for a life with Christ. Let's listen and hear how God calls us to the Normal Christian Life.
At times we can all be a hypocrite when it comes to our faith in Christ. However, a true believer in Christ will always seek forgiveness through repentance. The hypocrite will not. How do you find yourself with God today: saved by His grace or playing the hypocrite?
What troubles you today? Is there anything that you would do to sit at God's table. Let's hear how King David sought our a crippled man and give him a seat at his table. Christ has come to restore what was lost and to make found. He has a seat for you, too.
Becoming a Christ-like involves doing life together with other devoted followers of Christ. Begin by following Christ and joining the church, and then, take. the next step by joining a "life group" and serving others in Jesus' Name.
The eary church visibly depended on prayer as the means of releasing the power of God. The time is now to unite in praying for God's power in our church.
God has always been faithful in every aspect of our lives. Let's see how the Apostle Paul describes one church's act of faithfulness its' result in spreading the gospel.
Salvation is the working of God for His glory. Still, God is also personal when He calls us to His salvation. Our calling story is a great way to begin gospel conversations. We all have one, so why not share it with others to show how God has and is transforming your life for His glory?
How are we supposed to wait when we are waiting on the Lord? Today's sermon tells us how to seek God for His face and not just His hands when waiting for the Lord.
What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Do you know for certain that the Holy Spirit resides in your heart? Let's listen from Romans 8.
Have you worried yourelf by wandering what God's will in your life? Should I go here or there? Should I take this job or that one? These are are real choices we make, but to what extent do they have to do with God's will in your life? Let's listen to hear from Acts 9 how what is God's will for our life.
Have you ever wondered if God could ever love you? Jesus comes after lost sheep because He truly loves us. Maybe you find yourself lost and in need of a Savior, or in a place in your life where you believe there is no hope. As we will hear, Jesus has come for you.
We are called to live a different life when we give our lives to Christ. Still, we find ourselves in sin and we can begin to doubt our calling. Romans 6 reminds us that Christ took all of our sin, and through our faith, we continue to live a life of obedience through repentance. "For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
This series is a six-part lesson on growing with the family of God in sanctification recorded at our church retreat, Shocco Springs.
This series is a six-part lesson on growing with the family of God in sanctification recorded at our church retreat, Shocco Springs.
This series is a six-part lesson on growing with the family of God in sanctification recorded at our church retreat, Shocco Springs.
This series is a six-part lesson on growing with the family of God in sanctification recorded at our church retreat, Shocco Springs.
This series is a six-part lesson on growing with the family of God in sanctification recorded at our church retreat, Shocco Springs.
This series is a six-part lesson on growing with the family of God in sanctification recorded at our church retreat, Shocco Springs.
Why did Jesus have to die for us? Why could not God have just forgiven us? These two questions zero in on the atonement sacrifice that was necessary for our salvation.
What is our purpose and calling in life- Do you wish to see fruit, miracles, and be changed forever- Let's hear from pastor Michale on how abiding in Christ can change our perspective on anything we face.
During our hardships or times of confusion, do we still trust in Jesus- The disciple Philip was in the presence of Jesus but still was asking where is God. We pray that as you listing to this sermon, your faith will hold fast to our God is holding on to you.
What does Christ-like humilty look and sound like- Let's see how Jesus taught his disciples humility when they were in the upper room.
Have you ever wondered how God can punish sin and still offer redemption- Today, we hear from Bob Coder as we look through Isaiah 53 to discover the great riddle of the Old Tesetment.
When Paul and Silas was in prison we would assume that through their suffering they would be dismayed and have no hope. However, through the power of the Holy Spirit, they were able to have this joy through suffering.
God is more gracious than we can ever realize. Yet, we still can find ourselves doubting His goodness over our sins. Let's listen to hear about the marveouls wonder on the goodness of God.
What are the qulifications and duties of a deacon for a local body- Today, we hear from 1 Timothy and Acts 6 both the qualifications and duties of its' deacons.
Today, Adam gives insight and understanding to Psalm 5, verses 1 through three. Have you ever groaned for God to answer You- Does God have a way in which we may approach Him- Let's find out more as Adam teaches us through this Psalm passage.
Ever wonder what Jesus ment when he said about a new covenant- What is the Lord's supper and who may participate- Let's listen to today's message and see how crucially important is the Lord's Supper.
What could be more than knowing that God has put gladness in our hearts- As the Psalmist says,- O Lord, you make me to dwell in safety, and grant me peace what I lie down to sleep.-
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2 For by it the men of old gained approval. - 3 By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. 4 By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained the testimony that he was righteous, God testifying about his gifts, and through faith, though he is dead, he still speaks. 5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he would not see death- AND HE WAS NOT FOUND BECAUSE GOD TOOK HIM UP- for he obtained the witness that before his being taken up he was pleasing to God. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.
They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. - 43 Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe- and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. 44 And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common- 45 and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. 46 Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.
So they watched Him, and sent spies who pretended to be righteous, in order that they might catch Him in some statement, so that they could deliver Him to the rule and the authority of the governor. 21 They questioned Him, saying, -Teacher, we know that You speak and teach correctly, and You are not partial to any, but teach the way of God in truth. 22 Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar, or not-- 23 But He detected their trickery and said to them, 24 -Show Me a denarius. Whose likeness and inscription does it have-- They said, -Caesar's.- 25 And He said to them, -Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.- 26 And they were unable to catch Him in a saying in the presence of the people- and being amazed at His answer, they became silent. -Is There a Resurrection-- 27 Now there came to Him some of the Sadducees -who say that there is no resurrection-, 28 and they questioned Him, saying, -Teacher, Moses wrote for us that IF A MAN'S BROTHER DIES, having a wife, AND HE IS CHILDLESS, HIS BROTHER SHOULD MARRY THE WIFE AND RAISE UP CHILDREN TO HIS BROTHER. 29 Now there were seven brothers- and the first took a wife and died childless- 30 and the second 31 and the third married her- and in the same way all seven died, leaving no children. 32 Finally the woman died also. 33 In the resurrection therefore, which one's wife will she be- For all seven had married her.- - 34 Jesus said to them, -The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage, 35 but those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage- 36 for they cannot even die anymore, because
On one of the days while He was teaching the people in the temple and preaching the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes with the elders confronted Him, 2 and they spoke, saying to Him, -Tell us by what authority You are doing these things, or who is the one who gave You this authority-- 3 Jesus answered and said to them, -I will also ask you a question, and you tell Me- 4 Was the baptism of John from heaven or from men-- 5 They reasoned among themselves, saying, -If we say, 'From heaven,' He will say, 'Why did you not believe him-' 6 But if we say, 'From men,' all the people will stone us to death, for they are convinced that John was a prophet.- 7 So they answered that they did not know where it came from. 8 And Jesus said to them, -Nor will I tell you by what authority I do these things.- 9 And He began to tell the people this parable- -A man planted a vineyard and rented it out to vine-growers, and went on a journey for a long time. 10 At the harvest time he sent a slave to the vine-growers, so that they would give him some of the produce of the vineyard- but the vine-growers beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 11 And he proceeded to send another slave- and they beat him also and treated him shamefully and sent him away empty-handed. 12 And he proceeded to send a third- and this one also they wounded and cast out. 13 The owner of the vineyard said, 'What shall I do- I will send my beloved son- perhaps they will respect him.' 14 But when the vine-growers saw him, they reasoned with one another, saying, 'This is the heir- let us kill him so that the inheritance will be ours.' 15 So they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. What, then, will the owne...
After He had said these things, He was going on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 When He approached Bethphage and Bethany, near the mount that is called Olivet, He sent two of the disciples, 30 saying, -Go into the village ahead of you- there, as you enter, you will find a colt tied on which no one yet has ever sat- untie it and bring it here. 31 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it-' you shall say, 'The Lord has need of it.'- 32 So those who were sent went away and found it just as He had told them. 33 As they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, -Why are you untying the colt-- 34 They said, -The Lord has need of it.- 35 They brought it to Jesus, and they threw their coats on the colt and put Jesus on it. 36 As He was going, they were spreading their coats on the road. 37 As soon as He was approaching, near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen, 38 shouting- -BLESSED IS THE KING WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD- Peace in heaven and glory in the highest-- 39 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, -Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.- 40 But Jesus answered, -I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out-- 41 When He approached Jerusalem, He saw the city and wept over it, 42 saying, -If you had known in this day, even you, the things which make for peace- But now they have been hidden from your eyes. 43 For the days will come upon you when your enemies will throw up a barricade against you, and surround you and hem you in on every side.......
While they were listening to these things, Jesus went on to tell a parable, because He was near Jerusalem, and they supposed that the kingdom of God was going to appear immediately. 12 So He said, -A nobleman went to a distant country to receive a kingdom for himself, and then return. 13 And he called ten of his slaves, and gave them ten minas and said to them, 'Do business with this until I come back.' 14 But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, 'We do not want this man to reign over us.' 15 When he returned, after receiving the kingdom, he ordered that these slaves, to whom he had given the money, be called to him so that he might know what business they had done. 16 The first appeared, saying, 'Master, your mina has made ten minas more.' 17 And he said to him, 'Well done, good slave, because you have been faithful in a very little thing, you are to be in authority over ten cities.' 18 The second came, saying, 'Your mina, master, has made five minas.' 19 And he said to him also, 'And you are to be over five cities.' 20 Another came, saying, 'Master, here is your mina, which I kept put away in a handkerchief- 21 for I was afraid of you, because you are an exacting man- you take up what you did not lay down and reap what you did not sow.' 22 He said to him, 'By your own words I will judge you, you worthless slave. Did you know that I am an exacting man, taking up what I did not lay down and reaping what I did not sow- 23 Then why did you not put my money in the bank, and having come, I would have collected it with interest-' 24 Then he said to the bystanders, 'Take the mina away from him and give it to the one who has the ten minas.' .....
A ruler questioned Him, saying, -Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life-- 19 And Jesus said to him, -Why do you call Me good- No one is good except God alone. 20 You know the commandments, 'DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, DO NOT MURDER, DO NOT STEAL, DO NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS, HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER.'- 21 And he said, -All these things I have kept from my youth.- 22 When Jesus heard this, He said to him, -One thing you still lack- sell all that you possess and distribute it to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven- and come, follow Me.- 23 But when he had heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich. 24 And Jesus looked at him and said, -How hard it is for those who are wealthy to enter the kingdom of God- 25 For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.- 26 They who heard it said, -Then who can be saved-- 27 But He said, -The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.- - 28 Peter said, -Behold, we have left our own homes and followed You.- 29 And He said to them, -Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, 30 who will not receive many times as much at this time and in the age to come, eternal life.-
And He also told this parable to some people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt- 10 -Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself- 'God, I thank You that I am not like other people- swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week- I pay tithes of all that I get.' 13 But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, the sinner-' 14 I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other- for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.- - 15 And they were bringing even their babies to Him so that He would touch them, but when the disciples saw it, they began rebuking them. 16 But Jesus called for them, saying, -Permit the children to come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 17 Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.-
Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart, 2 saying, -In a certain city there was a judge who did not fear God and did not respect man. 3 There was a widow in that city, and she kept coming to him, saying, 'Give me legal protection from my opponent.' 4 For a while he was unwilling- but afterward he said to himself, 'Even though I do not fear God nor respect man, 5 yet because this widow bothers me, I will give her legal protection, otherwise by continually coming she will wear me out.'- 6 And the Lord said, -Hear what the unrighteous judge said- 7 now, will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry to Him day and night, and will He delay long over them- 8 I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth--
Now having been questioned by the Pharisees as to when the kingdom of God was coming, He answered them and said, -The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed- 21 nor will they say, 'Look, here it is-' or, 'There it is-' For behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst.- -22 And He said to the disciples, -The days will come when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. 23 They will say to you, 'Look there- Look here-' Do not go away, and do not run after them. 24 For just like the lightning, when it flashes out of one part of the sky, shines to the other part of the sky, so will the Son of Man be in His day. 25 But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. 26 And just as it happened in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man- 27 they were eating, they were drinking, they were marrying, they were being given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. 28 It was the same as happened in the days of Lot- they were eating, they were drinking, they were buying, they were selling, they were planting, they were building- 29 but on the day that Lot went out from Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all. 30 It will be just the same on the day that the Son of Man is revealed. 31 On that day, the one who is on the housetop and whose goods are in the house must not go down to take them out- and likewise the one who is in the field must not turn back. 32 Remember Lot's wife. 33 Whoever seeks to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it. 34 I tell you, on that night.....
He said to His disciples, -It is inevitable that stumbling blocks come, but woe to him through whom they come- 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea, than that he would cause one of these little ones to stumble. 3 Be on your guard- If your brother sins, rebuke him- and if he repents, forgive him. 4 And if he sins against you seven times a day, and returns to you seven times, saying, 'I repent,' forgive him.- - 5 The apostles said to the Lord, -Increase our faith-- 6 And the Lord said, -If you had faith like a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and be planted in the sea'- and it would obey you. - 7 -Which of you, having a slave plowing or tending sheep, will say to him when he has come in from the field, 'Come immediately and sit down to eat'- 8 But will he not say to him, 'Prepare something for me to eat, and properly clothe yourself and serve me while I eat and drink- and afterward you may eat and drink'- 9 He does not thank the slave because he did the things which were commanded, does he- 10 So you too, when you do all the things which are commanded you, say, 'We are unworthy slaves- we have done only that which we ought to have done.'- -11 While He was on the way to Jerusalem, He was passing between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As He entered a village, ten leprous men who stood at a distance met Him- 13 and they raised their voices, saying, -Jesus, Master, have mercy on us-- 14 When He saw them, He said to them, -Go and show yourselves to the priests.- And as they were going, they were cleansed. 15 Now one of them, when he saw that he had been....
-The Law and the Prophets were proclaimed until John- since that time the gospel of the kingdom of God has been preached, and everyone is forcing his way into it. 17 But it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one stroke of a letter of the Law to fail. -----18 -Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery, and he who marries one who is divorced from a husband commits adultery. -----19 -Now there was a rich man, and he habitually dressed in purple and fine linen, joyously living in splendor every day. 20 And a poor man named Lazarus was laid at his gate, covered with sores, 21 and longing to be fed with the crumbs which were falling from the rich man's table- besides, even the dogs were coming and licking his sores. 22 Now the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham's bosom- and the rich man also died and was buried. 23 In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 And he cried out and said, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in this flame.' 25 But Abraham said, 'Child, remember that during your life you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus bad things- but now he is being comforted here, and you are in agony. 26 And besides all this, between us and you there is a great chasm fixed, so that those who wish to come over from here to you will not be able, and that none may cross over from there to us.' 27 And he said, 'Then I beg you, father, that you send him to my father's house-- 28 for I have five brothers--in order that he may warn....
Now He was also saying to the disciples, -There was a rich man who had a manager, and this manager was reported to him as squandering his possessions. 2 And he called him and said to him, 'What is this I hear about you- Give an accounting of your management, for you can no longer be manager.' 3 The manager said to himself, 'What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me- I am not strong enough to dig- I am ashamed to beg. 4 I know what I shall do, so that when I am removed from the management people will welcome me into their homes.' 5 And he summoned each one of his master's debtors, and he began saying to the first, 'How much do you owe my master-' 6 And he said, 'A hundred measures of oil.' And he said to him, 'Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.' 7 Then he said to another, 'And how much do you owe-' And he said, 'A hundred measures of wheat.' He said to him, 'Take your bill, and write eighty.' 8 And his master praised the unrighteous manager because he had acted shrewdly- for the sons of this age are more shrewd in relation to their own kind than the sons of light. 9 And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by means of the wealth of unrighteousness, so that when it fails, they will receive you into the eternal dwellings. 10 -He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much- and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much. 11 Therefore if you have not been faithful in the use of unrighteous wealth, who will entrust the true riches to you- 12 And if you have not been faithful in the use of that which is another's, who will give you that which is your own- 13 No servant....
Now all the tax collectors and the sinners were coming near Him to listen to Him. 2 Both the Pharisees and the scribes began to grumble, saying, -This man receives sinners and eats with them.- - 3 So He told them this parable, saying, 4 -What man among you, if he has a hundred sheep and has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open pasture and go after the one which is lost until he finds it- 5 When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost-' 7 I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. - 8 -Or what woman, if she has ten silver coins and loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it- 9 When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin which I had lost-' 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.-
Now large crowds were going along with Him- and He turned and said to them, 26 -If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple. 27 Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. 28 For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it- 29 Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, 30 saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish.' 31 Or what king, when he sets out to meet another king in battle, will not first sit down and consider whether he is strong enough with ten thousand men to encounter the one coming against him with twenty thousand- 32 Or else, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace. 33 So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. - 34 -Therefore, salt is good- but if even salt has become tasteless, with what will it be seasoned- 35 It is useless either for the soil or for the manure pile- it is thrown out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.-
It happened that when He went into the house of one of the leaders of the Pharisees on the Sabbath to eat bread, they were watching Him closely. 2 And there in front of Him was a man suffering from dropsy. 3 And Jesus answered and spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, -Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath, or not-- 4 But they kept silent. And He took hold of him and healed him, and sent him away. 5 And He said to them, -Which one of you will have a son or an ox fall into a well, and will not immediately pull him out on a Sabbath day-- 6 And they could make no reply to this. -- 7 And He began speaking a parable to the invited guests when He noticed how they had been picking out the places of honor at the table, saying to them, 8 -When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor, for someone more distinguished than you may have been invited by him, 9 and he who invited you both will come and say to you, 'Give your place to this man,' and then in disgrace you proceed to occupy the last place. 10 But when you are invited, go and recline at the last place, so that when the one who has invited you comes, he may say to you, 'Friend, move up higher'- then you will have honor in the sight of all who are at the table with you. 11 For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.- - 12 And He also went on to say to the one who had invited Him, -When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, otherwise they may also invite you in return and that will be your repayment. 13 But when you give a reception....
And He was passing through from one city and village to another, teaching, and proceeding on His way to Jerusalem. 23 And someone said to Him, -Lord, are there just a few who are being saved-- And He said to them, 24 -Strive to enter through the narrow door- for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. 25 Once the head of the house gets up and shuts the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock on the door, saying, 'Lord, open up to us-' then He will answer and say to you, 'I do not know where you are from.' 26 Then you will begin to say, 'We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets'- 27 and He will say, 'I tell you, I do not know where you are from- DEPART FROM ME, ALL YOU EVILDOERS.' 28 In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but yourselves being thrown out. 29 And they will come from east and west and from north and south, and will recline at the table in the kingdom of God. 30 And behold, some are last who will be first and some are first who will be last.- - 31 Just at that time some Pharisees approached, saying to Him, -Go away, leave here, for Herod wants to kill You.- 32 And He said to them, -Go and tell that fox, 'Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I reach My goal.' 33 Nevertheless I must journey on today and tomorrow and the next day- for it cannot be that a prophet would perish outside of Jerusalem. 34 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those sent to her- How often I wanted to gather your children together, just as a hen gathers...
And He was passing through from one city and village to another, teaching, and proceeding on His way to Jerusalem. 23 And someone said to Him, -Lord, are there just a few who are being saved-- And He said to them, 24 -Strive to enter through the narrow door- for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. 25 Once the head of the house gets up and shuts the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock on the door, saying, 'Lord, open up to us-' then He will answer and say to you, 'I do not know where you are from.' 26 Then you will begin to say, 'We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets'- 27 and He will say, 'I tell you, I do not know where you are from- DEPART FROM ME, ALL YOU EVILDOERS.' 28 In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but yourselves being thrown out. 29 And they will come from east and west and from north and south, and will recline at the table in the kingdom of God. 30 And behold, some are last who will be first and some are first who will be last.- 31 Just at that time some Pharisees approached, saying to Him, -Go away, leave here, for Herod wants to kill You.- 32 And He said to them, -Go and tell that fox, 'Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I reach My goal.' 33 Nevertheless I must journey on today and tomorrow and the next day- for it cannot be that a prophet would perish outside of Jerusalem. 34 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those sent to her- How often I wanted to gather your children together, just as a hen gathers her...
And He was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. 11 And there was a woman who for eighteen years had had a sickness caused by a spirit- and she was bent double, and could not straighten up at all. 12 When Jesus saw her, He called her over and said to her, -Woman, you are freed from your sickness.- 13 And He laid His hands on her- and immediately she was made erect again and began glorifying God. 14 But the synagogue official, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, began saying to the crowd in response, -There are six days in which work should be done- so come during them and get healed, and not on the Sabbath day.- 15 But the Lord answered him and said, -You hypocrites, does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the stall and lead him away to water him- 16 And this woman, a daughter of Abraham as she is, whom Satan has bound for eighteen long years, should she not have been released from this bond on the Sabbath day-- 17 As He said this, all His opponents were being humiliated- and the entire crowd was rejoicing over all the glorious things being done by Him. - 18 So He was saying, -What is the kingdom of God like, and to what shall I compare it- 19 It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and threw into his own garden- and it grew and became a tree, and THE BIRDS OF THE AIR NESTED IN ITS BRANCHES.- - 20 And again He said, -To what shall I compare the kingdom of God- 21 It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three pecks of flour until it was all leavened.-
Now on the same occasion there were some present who reported to Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2 And Jesus said to them, -Do you suppose that these Galileans were greater sinners than all other Galileans because they suffered this fate- 3 I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. 4 Or do you suppose that those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them were worse culprits than all the men who live in Jerusalem- 5 I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.- - 6 And He began telling this parable- -A man had a fig tree which had been planted in his vineyard- and he came looking for fruit on it and did not find any. 7 And he said to the vineyard-keeper, 'Behold, for three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree without finding any. Cut it down- Why does it even use up the ground-' 8 And he answered and said to him, 'Let it alone, sir, for this year too, until I dig around it and put in fertilizer- 9 and if it bears fruit next year, fine- but if not, cut it down.'-
Now on the same occasion there were some present who reported to Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2 And Jesus said to them, -Do you suppose that these Galileans were greater sinners than all other Galileans because they suffered this fate- 3 I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. 4 Or do you suppose that those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them were worse culprits than all the men who live in Jerusalem- 5 I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.- - 6 And He began telling this parable- -A man had a fig tree which had been planted in his vineyard- and he came looking for fruit on it and did not find any. 7 And he said to the vineyard-keeper, 'Behold, for three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree without finding any. Cut it down- Why does it even use up the ground-' 8 And he answered and said to him, 'Let it alone, sir, for this year too, until I dig around it and put in fertilizer- 9 and if it bears fruit next year, fine- but if not, cut it down.'-
Now I say, as long as the heir is a child, he does not differ at all from a slave although he is owner of everything, 2 but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by the father. 3 So also we, while we were children, were held in bondage under the elemental things of the world. 4 But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, 5 so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. 6 Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, -Abba- Father-- 7 Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son- and if a son, then an heir through God.
They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. - 43 Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe- and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. 44 And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common- 45 and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. 46 Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart, 2 but we have renounced the things hidden because of shame, not walking in craftiness or adulterating the word of God, but by the manifestation of truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 3 And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, 4 in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5 For we do not preach ourselves but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your bond-servants for Jesus' sake. 6 For God, who said, -Light shall shine out of darkness,- is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord- 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you- for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble- 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. - 12 Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. 13 I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling is....
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord- 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you- for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble- 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. - 12 Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. 13 I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling is imminent
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord- seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you- for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble- for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling is imminent, And I will also be diligent...
This is a sermon preached at an associational missions conference in Manchester, TN. The goal was to move people to embrace a three fold cord of missions- going, praying, and giving.
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord- 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you- for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble- 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. - 12 Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. 13 I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling.....
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord- 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you- for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble- 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. - 12 Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. 13 I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling.....
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord- 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you- for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble- 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. - 12 Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. 13 I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling.....
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord- 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you- for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble- 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. - 12 Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. 13 I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling.....
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord- 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you- for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble- 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. - 12 Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. 13 I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling.....
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord- 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you- for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble- 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. - 12 Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. 13 I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 knowing that the laying aside of my earthly dwelling.....
They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. - 43 Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe- and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. 44 And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common- 45 and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. 46 Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.
May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble--May the name of the God of Jacob set you securely on high--2-May He send you help from the sanctuary-And support you from Zion--3-May He remember all your meal offerings-And find your burnt offering acceptable- Selah.--4-May He grant you your heart's desire-And fulfill all your counsel--5-We will sing for joy over your victory,-And in the name of our God we will set up our banners.-May the LORD fulfill all your petitions.--6-Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed--He will answer him from His holy heaven-With the saving strength of His right hand.-7-Some boast in chariots and some in horses,-But we will boast in the name of the LORD, our God.-8-They have bowed down and fallen,-But we have risen and stood upright.-9-Save, O LORD--May the King answer us in the day we call.
-I have come to cast fire upon the earth- and how I wish it were already kindled- 50 But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is accomplished- 51 Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth- I tell you, no, but rather division- 52 for from now on five members in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.- - 54 And He was also saying to the crowds, -When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, 'A shower is coming,' and so it turns out. 55 And when you see a south wind blowing, you say, 'It will be a hot day,' and it turns out that way. 56 You hypocrites- You know how to analyze the appearance of the earth and the sky, but why do you not analyze this present time- - 57 -And why do you not even on your own initiative judge what is right- 58 For while you are going with your opponent to appear before the magistrate, on your way there make an effort to settle with him, so that he may not drag you before the judge, and the judge turn you over to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison. 59 I say to you, you will not get out of there until you have paid the very last cent.-
The Works and the Word of God.-For the choir director. A Psalm of David.-19-1-The heavens are telling of the glory of God--And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.-2-Day to day pours forth speech,-And night to night reveals knowledge.-3-There is no speech, nor are there words--Their voice is not heard.-4-Their line has gone out through all the earth,-And their utterances to the end of the world.-In them He has placed a tent for the sun,-5-Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber--It rejoices as a strong man to run his course.-6-Its rising is from one end of the heavens,-And its circuit to the other end of them--And there is nothing hidden from its heat.--7-The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul--The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.-8-The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart--The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.-9-The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever--The judgments of the LORD are true- they are righteous altogether.-10-They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold--Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.-11-Moreover, by them Your servant is warned--In keeping them there is great reward.-12-Who can discern his errors- Acquit me of hidden faults.-13-Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous sins--Let them not rule over me--Then I will be blameless,-And I shall be acquitted of great transgression.-14-Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart-Be acceptable in Your sight,-O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.
Blessed are those slaves whom the master will find on the alert when he comes- truly I say to you, that he will gird himself to serve, and have them recline at the table, and will come up and wait on them. 38 Whether he comes in the second watch, or even in the third, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. - 39 -But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have allowed his house to be broken into. 40 You too, be ready- for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect.- - 41 Peter said, -Lord, are You addressing this parable to us, or to everyone else as well-- 42 And the Lord said, -Who then is the faithful and sensible steward, whom his master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their rations at the proper time- 43 Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes. 44 Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions. 45 But if that slave says in his heart, 'My master will be a long time in coming,' and begins to beat the slaves, both men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk- 46 the master of that slave will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces, and assign him a place with the unbelievers. 47 And that slave who knew his master's will and did not get ready or act in accord with his will, will receive many lashes, 48 but the one who did not know it, and committed deeds worthy of a flogging, will receive but few. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required- and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more.
For the choir director. A Psalm of David the servant of the LORD, who spoke to the LORD the words of this song in the day that the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. And he said,-18-1--I love You, O LORD, my strength.--2-The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,-My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge--My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.-3-I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised,-And I am saved from my enemies.--4-The cords of death encompassed me,-And the torrents of ungodliness terrified me.-5-The cords of Sheol surrounded me--The snares of death confronted me.-6-In my distress I called upon the LORD,-And cried to my God for help--He heard my voice out of His temple,-And my cry for help before Him came into His ears.--7-Then the earth shook and quaked--And the foundations of the mountains were trembling-And were shaken, because He was angry.-8-Smoke went up out of His nostrils,-And fire from His mouth devoured--Coals were kindled by it.-9-He bowed the heavens also, and came down-With thick darkness under His feet.-10-He rode upon a cherub and flew--And He sped upon the wings of the wind.-11-He made darkness His hiding place, His canopy around Him,-Darkness of waters, thick clouds of the skies.-12-From the brightness before Him passed His thick clouds,-Hailstones and coals of fire.-13The LORD also thundered in the heavens,-And the Most High uttered His voice,-Hailstones and coals of fire.-14He sent out His arrows, and scattered them,-And lightning flashes in abundance, and routed them.-15Then the channels of water appeared,-And the foundations of the world were laid bare
-Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps lit. 36 Be like men who are waiting for their master when he returns from the wedding feast, so that they may immediately open the door to him when he comes and knocks.
Under these circumstances, after so many thousands of people had gathered together that they were stepping on one another, He began saying to His disciples first of all, -Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 But there is nothing covered up that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known. 3 Accordingly, whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in the inner rooms will be proclaimed upon the housetops. - 4 -I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom to fear- fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell- yes, I tell you, fear Him- 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two cents- Yet not one of them is forgotten before God. 7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear- you are more valuable than many sparrows. - 8 -And I say to you, everyone who confesses Me before men, the Son of Man will confess him also before the angels of God- 9 but he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God. 10 And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him- but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him. 11 When they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not worry about how or what you are to speak in your defense, or what you are to say- 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.- - 13 Someone in the crowd said to Him, -Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.- 14 But....
A Prayer of David.-17-1-Hear a just cause, O LORD, give heed to my cry--Give ear to my prayer, which is not from deceitful lips.-2-Let my judgment come forth from Your presence--Let Your eyes look with equity.-3-You have tried my heart--You have visited me by night--You have tested me and You find nothing--I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.-4-As for the deeds of men, by the word of Your lips-I have kept from the paths of the violent.-5-My steps have held fast to Your paths.-My feet have not slipped.--6-I have called upon You, for You will answer me, O God--Incline Your ear to me, hear my speech.-7-Wondrously show Your lovingkindness,-O Savior of those who take refuge at Your right hand-From those who rise up against them.-8-Keep me as the apple of the eye--Hide me in the shadow of Your wings-9-From the wicked who despoil me,-My deadly enemies who surround me.-10-They have closed their unfeeling heart,-With their mouth they speak proudly.-11-They have now surrounded us in our steps--They set their eyes to cast us down to the ground.-12-He is like a lion that is eager to tear,-And as a young lion lurking in hiding places.--13-Arise, O LORD, confront him, bring him low--Deliver my soul from the wicked with Your sword,-14-From men with Your hand, O LORD,-From men of the world, whose portion is in this life,-And whose belly You fill with Your treasure--They are satisfied with children,-And leave their abundance to their babes.-15-As for me, I shall behold Your face in righteousness--I will be satisfied with Your likeness when I awake.
Now when He had spoken, a Pharisee asked Him to have lunch with him- and He went in, and reclined at the table. 38 When the Pharisee saw it, he was surprised that He had not first ceremonially washed before the meal. 39 But the Lord said to him, -Now you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and of the platter- but inside of you, you are full of robbery and wickedness. 40 You foolish ones, did not He who made the outside make the inside also- 41 But give that which is within as charity, and then all things are clean for you. - 42 -But woe to you Pharisees- For you pay tithe of mint and rue and every kind of garden herb, and yet disregard justice and the love of God- but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others. 43 Woe to you Pharisees- For you love the chief seats in the synagogues and the respectful greetings in the market places. 44 Woe to you- For you are like concealed tombs, and the people who walk over them are unaware of it.- - 45 One of the lawyers said to Him in reply, -Teacher, when You say this, You insult us too.- 46 But He said, -Woe to you lawyers as well- For you weigh men down with burdens hard to bear, while you yourselves will not even touch the burdens with one of your fingers. 47 Woe to you- For you build the tombs of the prophets, and it was your fathers who killed them. 48 So you are witnesses and approve the deeds of your fathers- because it was they who killed them, and you build their tombs. 49 For this reason also the wisdom of God said, 'I will send to them prophets and apostles, and some of them they will kill and some they will persecute, 50 so that the blood of all the prophets, shed since....
Preserve me, O God, for I take refuge in You.-2-I said to the LORD, -You are my Lord--I have no good besides You.--3-As for the saints who are in the earth,-They are the majestic ones in whom is all my delight.-4-The sorrows of those who have bartered for another god will be multiplied--I shall not pour out their drink offerings of blood,-Nor will I take their names upon my lips.--5-The LORD is the portion of my inheritance and my cup--You support my lot.-6-The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places--Indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me.--7-I will bless the LORD who has counseled me--Indeed, my mind instructs me in the night.-8-I have set the LORD continually before me--Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.-9-Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices--My flesh also will dwell securely.-10-For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol--Nor will You allow Your Holy One to undergo decay.-11-You will make known to me the path of life--In Your presence is fullness of joy--In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.
14 And He was casting out a demon, and it was mute- when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke- and the crowds were amazed. 15 But some of them said, -He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons.- 16 Others, to test Him, were demanding of Him a sign from heaven. 17 But He knew their thoughts and said to them, -Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste- and a house divided against itself falls. 18 If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand- For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. 19 And if I by Beelzebul cast out demons, by whom do your sons cast them out- So they will be your judges. 20 But if I cast out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. 21 When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are undisturbed. 22 But when someone stronger than he attacks him and overpowers him, he takes away from him all his armor on which he had relied and distributes his plunder. 23 He who is not with Me is against Me- and he who does not gather with Me, scatters. - 24 -When the unclean spirit goes out of a man, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and not finding any, it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' 25 And when it comes, it finds it swept and put in order. 26 Then it goes and takes along seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they go in and live there- and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first.- - 27 While Jesus was saying these things, one of the women in the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, -Blessed is the womb that bore You and the breasts at which You nursed.- 28 But He said, -On the.....