Venice church of Christ: Recent Episodes
Venice church of Christ
The Word of God from Scripture preached at the Venice church of Christ, Los Angeles, California.
All lessons by Ethan R. Longhenry unless otherwise noted.
What difficulties attend to drugs and their use?
How should Christians approach drugs in light of what God has made known in Christ?
Drugs | Chemical Temptations
Outline | Conversation
Photo by Myriam Zilles on Unsplash
What does the Bible have to say about alcohol?
When does alcohol become a problem?
Should Christians make a blanket condemnation of any and all consumption of alcohol?
Alcohol | Chemical Temptations
Outline | Conversation
What is 1 Samuel about?
What was the promise, and the ultimate tragedy, of the reign of Saul?
The First Letter of Samuel | Books of the Bible
Outline | Conversation
How can we best walk according to the Spirit as we relate toward one another?
How can we be part of the Israel of God?
Peace Upon the Israel of God | Galatians 6:1-18 | Paul's Letter to the Galatians
Outline | Conversation
Brothers and sisters, if a person is discovered in some sin, you who are spiritual restore such a person in a spirit of gentleness. Pay close attention to yourselves, so that you are not tempted too. Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Let each one examine his own work. Then he can take pride in himself and not compare himself with someone else. For each one will carry his own load.
Now the one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with the one who teaches it. Do not be deceived. God will not be made a fool. For a person will reap what he sows, because the person who sows to his own flesh will reap corruption from the flesh, but the one who sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life from the Spirit. So we must not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who belong to the family of faith.
See what big letters I make as I write to you with my own hand! Those who want to make a good showing in external matters are trying to force you to be circumcised. They do so only to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. For those who are circumcised do not obey the law themselves, but they want you to be circumcised so that they can boast about your flesh.
But may I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything; the only thing that matters is a new creation! And all who will behave in accordance with this rule, peace and mercy be on them, and on the Israel of God.
From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear the marks of Jesus on my body.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen.
How could Jesus liberate us to serve one another in love?
How can Paul speak of loving neighbor as oneself as the fulfillment of the Law?
Called to Freedom | Galatians 5:1-26 | Paul's Letter to the Galatians
Outline | Conversation
For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be subject again to the yoke of slavery.
Listen! I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no benefit to you at all! And I testify again to every man who lets himself be circumcised that he is obligated to obey the whole law. You who are trying to be declared righteous by the law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace! For through the Spirit, by faith, we wait expectantly for the hope of righteousness. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision carries any weight – the only thing that matters is faith working through love.
You were running well; who prevented you from obeying the truth? This persuasion does not come from the one who calls you! A little yeast makes the whole batch of dough rise! I am confident in the Lord that you will accept no other view. But the one who is confusing you will pay the penalty, whoever he may be. Now, brothers and sisters, if I am still preaching circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been removed. I wish those agitators would go so far as to castrate themselves!
For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity to indulge your flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law can be summed up in a single commandment, namely, “You must love your neighbor as yourself.”
However, if you continually bite and devour one another, beware that you are not consumed by one another.
But I say, live by the Spirit and you will not carry out the desires of the flesh. For the flesh has desires that are opposed to the Spirit, and the Spirit has desires that are opposed to the flesh, for these are in opposition to each other, so that you cannot do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, depravity, idolatry, sorcery, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish rivalries, dissensions, factions, envying, murder, drunkenness, carousing, and similar things. I am warning you, as I had warned you before: Those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God! But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Now those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also behave in accordance with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, being jealous of one another.
What is the book of Ruth all about?
What made Ruth's story of life and faith so extraordinary?
Ruth | Books of the Bible
Outline | Conversation
From what did Jesus liberate all of us?
In what controversial and shocking ways did Paul characterize the Law of Moses and the old covenant?
Children of Freedom | Galatians 4:1-5:1 | Paul's Letter to the Galatians
Outline | Conversation
Now I mean that the heir, as long as he is a minor, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything. But he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. So also we, when we were minors, were enslaved under the basic forces of the world. But when the appropriate time had come, God sent out his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we may be adopted as sons with full rights. And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, who calls “Abba! Father!” So you are no longer a slave but a son, and if you are a son, then you are also an heir through God. Formerly when you did not know God, you were enslaved to beings that by nature are not gods at all. But now that you have come to know God (or rather to be known by God), how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless basic forces? Do you want to be enslaved to them all over again? You are observing religious days and months and seasons and years. I fear for you that my work for you may have been in vain. I beg you, brothers and sisters, become like me, because I have become like you. You have done me no wrong! But you know it was because of a physical illness that I first proclaimed the gospel to you, and though my physical condition put you to the test, you did not despise or reject me. Instead, you welcomed me as though I were an angel of God, as though I were Christ Jesus himself! Where then is your sense of happiness now? For I testify about you that if it were possible, you would have pulled out your eyes and given them to me! So then, have I become your enemy by telling you the truth? They court you eagerly, but for no good purpose; they want to exclude you, so that you would seek them eagerly. However, it is good to be sought eagerly for a good purpose at all times, and not only when I am present with you. My children – I am again undergoing birth pains until Christ is formed in you! I wish I could be with you now and change my tone of voice, because I am perplexed about you.Tell me, you who want to be under the law, do you not understand the law? For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by the slave woman and the other by the free woman. But one, the son by the slave woman, was born by natural descent, while the other, the son by the free woman, was born through the promise. These things may be treated as an allegory, for these women represent two covenants. One is from Mount Sinai bearing children for slavery; this is Hagar. Now Hagar represents Mount Sinai in Arabia and corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children. But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is our mother. For it is written: “Rejoice, O barren woman who does not bear children; break forth and shout, you who have no birth pains, because the children of the desolate woman are more numerous than those of the woman who has a husband.” But you, brothers and sisters, are children of the promise like Isaac. But just as at that time the one born by natural descent persecuted the one born according to the Spirit, so it is now. But what does the scripture say? “Throw out the slave woman and her son, for the son of the slave woman will not share the inheritance with the son” of the free woman. Therefore, brothers and sisters, we are not children of the slave woman but of the free woman.For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be subject again to the yoke of slavery (Galatians 5:1).
What does it mean for all Christians to be clothed with Christ and equal in Him?
How did Paul well demonstrate how the Law of Moses was not applicable to Gentile Christians?
Clothed With Christ | Galatians 3:1-29 | Paul's Letter to the Galatians
Outline | Conversation
You foolish Galatians! Who has cast a spell on you? Before your eyes Jesus Christ was vividly portrayed as crucified! The only thing I want to learn from you is this: Did you receive the Spirit by doing the works of the law or by believing what you heard? Are you so foolish? Although you began with the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by human effort? Have you suffered so many things for nothing? – if indeed it was for nothing. Does God then give you the Spirit and work miracles among you by your doing the works of the law or by your believing what you heard? Just as Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness, so then, understand that those who believe are the sons of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, proclaimed the gospel to Abraham ahead of time, saying, “All the nations will be blessed in you.” So then those who believe are blessed along with Abraham the believer. For all who rely on doing the works of the law are under a curse, because it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not keep on doing everything written in the book of the law.” Now it is clear no one is justified before God by the law, because the righteous one will live by faith. But the law is not based on faith, but the one who does the works of the law will live by them. Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us (because it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”) in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles, so that we could receive the promise of the Spirit by faith. Brothers and sisters, I offer an example from everyday life: When a covenant has been ratified, even though it is only a human contract, no one can set it aside or add anything to it. Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his descendant. Scripture does not say, “and to the descendants,” referring to many, but “and to your descendant,” referring to one, who is Christ. What I am saying is this: The law that came four hundred thirty years later does not cancel a covenant previously ratified by God, so as to invalidate the promise. For if the inheritance is based on the law, it is no longer based on the promise, but God graciously gave it to Abraham through the promise. Why then was the law given? It was added because of transgressions, until the arrival of the descendant to whom the promise had been made. It was administered through angels by an intermediary. Now an intermediary is not for one party alone, but God is one. Is the law therefore opposed to the promises of God? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that was able to give life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law. But the scripture imprisoned everything under sin so that the promise could be given – because of the faithfulness of Jesus Christ – to those who believe. Now before faith came we were held in custody under the law, being kept as prisoners until the coming faith would be revealed. Thus the law had become our guardian until Christ, so that we could be declared righteous by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian. For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God through faith. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female – for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to the promise.
How did Paul demonstrate the consistency of the Gospel between himself and those in Jerusalem?
What does it mean to be crucified with Christ?
Crucified With Christ | Galatians 2:1-21 | Paul's Letter to the Galatians
Outline | Conversation
Then after fourteen years I went up to Jerusalem again with Barnabas, taking Titus along too. I went there because of a revelation and presented to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I did so only in a private meeting with the influential people, to make sure that I was not running – or had not run – in vain.
Yet not even Titus, who was with me, was compelled to be circumcised, although he was a Greek. Now this matter arose because of the false brothers with false pretenses who slipped in unnoticed to spy on our freedom that we have in Christ Jesus, to make us slaves. But we did not surrender to them even for a moment, in order that the truth of the gospel would remain with you.
But from those who were influential (whatever they were makes no difference to me; God shows no favoritism between people) – those influential leaders added nothing to my message. On the contrary, when they saw that I was entrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised just as Peter was entrusted with the gospel to the circumcised (for he who empowered Peter for his apostleship to the circumcised also empowered me for my apostleship to the Gentiles) and when James, Cephas, and John, who had a reputation as pillars, recognized the grace that had been given to me, they gave to Barnabas and me the right hand of fellowship, agreeing that we would go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised. They requested only that we remember the poor, the very thing I also was eager to do.But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he had clearly done wrong. Until certain people came from James, he had been eating with the Gentiles. But when they arrived, he stopped doing this and separated himself because he was afraid of those who were pro-circumcision. And the rest of the Jews also joined with him in this hypocrisy, so that even Barnabas was led astray with them by their hypocrisy.
But when I saw that they were not behaving consistently with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in front of them all, “If you, although you are a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you try to force the Gentiles to live like Jews?”
We are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners, yet we know that no one is justified by the works of the law but by the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. And we have come to believe in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by the faithfulness of Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified. But if while seeking to be justified in Christ we ourselves have also been found to be sinners, is Christ then one who encourages sin? Absolutely not!
But if I build up again those things I once destroyed, I demonstrate that I am one who breaks God’s law. For through the law I died to the law so that I may live to God. I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So the life I now live in the body, I live because of the faithfulness of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside God’s grace, because if righteousness could come through the law, then Christ died for nothing! (Galatians 2:1-21).
What can we know about Paul's letter to the Galatians?
Why was Paul so frustrated with the Galatian Christians?
Why did Paul insist so strenuously on having received the Gospel by revelation?
A Different Gospel | Galatians 1:1-24
Outline | Conversation
From Paul, an apostle (not from men, nor by human agency, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised him from the dead) and all the brothers with me, to the churches of Galatia.
Grace and peace to you from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from this present evil age according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory forever and ever! Amen.I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are following a different gospel – not that there really is another gospel, but there are some who are disturbing you and wanting to distort the gospel of Christ.
But even if we (or an angel from heaven) should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be condemned to hell! As we have said before, and now I say again, if any one is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, let him be condemned to hell! Am I now trying to gain the approval of people, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a slave of Christ!Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. For I did not receive it or learn it from any human source; instead I received it by a revelation of Jesus Christ.
For you have heard of my former way of life in Judaism, how I was savagely persecuting the church of God and trying to destroy it. I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries in my nation, and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my ancestors.
But when the one who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I could preach him among the Gentiles, I did not go to ask advice from any human being, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before me, but right away I departed to Arabia, and then returned to Damascus.
Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and get information from him, and I stayed with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. I assure you that, before God, I am not lying about what I am writing to you!
Afterward I went to the regions of Syria and Cilicia. But I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ.
They were only hearing, "The one who once persecuted us is now proclaiming the good news of the faith he once tried to destroy."
So they glorified God because of me (Galatians 1:1-24).
What is the book of Judges all about?
How well did it go for Israel as twelve autonomous tribes ruled over by YHWH?
Judges | Books of the Bible
Outline | Conversation
Why are Americans so interested in ancestry and genealogy?
How can we root ourselves in God and His people?
Finding Our Roots
Outline | Conversation
Photo by Zoltan Tasi on Unsplash
What is the book of Joshua about?
How did God prove faithful to His promises in Joshua?
Joshua | Books of the Bible
Outline | Conversation
How can the people of God do better when it comes to treating people with disabilities?
How can we make sense of the treatment of the disabled and ill in the Old Testament?
What hope can animate us regarding disability and faith?
Disability and Faith
Outline | Conversation
How can disability exist if God made all things well?
How do we all experience disability and limitation?
What hope can we cherish regarding disability in the resurrection?
Theology and Disability | Disability and Faith
Outline | Conversation
What makes the prosperity gospel so pernicious?
Why does the prosperity gospel show up in strange places?
How can we resist the siren song of the prosperity gospel in all its forms?
The Prosperity Gospel | Disability and Faith
Outline | Conversation
What is Deuteronomy all about?
Why did Moses rehearse the Law again for Israel?
What can we gain from Deuteronomy?
Deuteronomy | Books of the Bible
Outline | Conversation
What is grief?
Why must we grieve?
How can we best support those who grieve?
Grief | Death and Grief
Outline | Conversation
Why do we die?
How have we become so death afraid and avoidant?
How can we live in the face of death?
Death | Death and Grief
Outline | Conversation
Which promises has God fulfilled in Jesus?
Which promises have yet to find their fulfillment?
Can we have confidence God will do what He has promised?
The Promise in Christ | The Promise
Outline | Conversation
How did Israel maintain faith in YHWH despite the existential crisis of exile?
What promises did YHWH make to Israel?
How did YHWH accomplish the restoration promised to Israel?
The Promise to Israel | The Promise
Outline | Conversation
What did YHWH promise to David?
How did it seem the promise failed?
How would the promise find its fulfillment?
The Promise to David | The Promise
Outline | Conversation
What did God promise to Abraham?
How did God prove faithful to His promises to Abraham?
By what means has God blessed the nations through the Descendant of Abraham?
The Promise to Abraham | The Promise
Outline | Conversation
What is Numbers all about?
How can we maintain strong faith in God in times of difficulty?
Numbers | Books of the Bible
Outline | Conversation
What can we learn from how people in the Scriptures responded to God's call?
How can we best respond to God's call?
Responding to God's Call | Salvation
Outline | Conversation
What is involved in conversion?
How should our lives in faith be continually shaped by conversion and repentance?
Conversion | Salvation
Outline | Conversation
What is Leviticus all about?
Is Leviticus just boring? Are there important things for Christians to understand in Leviticus?
Leviticus | Books of the Bible
Outline | Conversation
What happened to Nineveh, Assyria, and Nahum?
How was Nineveh a prostitute, and how would later cities imitate her?
Nineveh the Prostitute | Nahum 3:1-19 | The Vision of Nahum
Outline | Conversation
Woe to the city guilty of bloodshed! She is full of lies; she is filled with plunder; she has hoarded her spoil!
The chariot drivers will crack their whips; the chariot wheels will shake the ground; the chariot horses will gallop; the war chariots will bolt forward! The charioteers will charge ahead; their swords will flash and their spears will glimmer! There will be many people slain; there will be piles of the dead, and countless casualties – so many that people will stumble over the corpses.
"Because you have acted like a wanton prostitute – a seductive mistress who practices sorcery, who enslaves nations by her harlotry, and entices peoples by her sorcery – I am against you,"declares YHWH of Heaven's Armies. "I will strip off your clothes! I will show your nakedness to the nations and your shame to the kingdoms; I will pelt you with filth; I will treat you with contempt; I will make you a public spectacle.
Everyone who sees you will turn away from you in disgust; they will say, 'Nineveh has been devastated! Who will lament for her?'
There will be no one to comfort you!"You are no more secure than Thebes – she was located on the banks of the Nile; the waters surrounded her, her rampart was the sea, the water was her wall. Cush and Egypt had limitless strength; Put and the Libyans were among her allies. Yet she went into captivity as an exile; even her infants were smashed to pieces at the head of every street. They cast lots for her nobility; all her dignitaries were bound with chains.
You too will act like drunkards; you will go into hiding; you too will seek refuge from the enemy.
All your fortifications will be like fig trees with first-ripe fruit: If they are shaken, their figs will fall into the mouth of the eater! Your warriors will be like women in your midst; the gates of your land will be wide open to your enemies; fire will consume the bars of your gates.
Draw yourselves water for a siege! Strengthen your fortifications! Trample the mud and tread the clay! Make mud bricks to strengthen your walls! There the fire will consume you; the sword will cut you down; it will devour you like the young locust would.Multiply yourself like the young locust; multiply yourself like the flying locust! Increase your merchants more than the stars of heaven! They are like the young locust which sheds its skin and flies away. Your courtiers are like locusts, your officials are like a swarm of locusts! They encamp in the walls on a cold day, yet when the sun rises, they fly away; and no one knows where they are.
Your shepherds are sleeping, O king of Assyria! Your officers are slumbering! Your people are scattered like sheep on the mountains and there is no one to regather them! Your destruction is like an incurable wound; your demise is like a fatal injury!
All who hear what has happened to you will clap their hands for joy, for no one ever escaped your endless cruelty! (Nahum 3:1-19)
How was Nineveh's fall just deserts for Assyria?
How does Nahum provide assurance regarding the prophetic word?
Nineveh's Downfall | Nahum 2:1-13 | The Vision of Nahum
Outline | Conversation
“An enemy who will scatter you, Nineveh, has advanced against you!”
“Guard the rampart! Watch the road! Prepare yourselves for battle! Muster your mighty strength!”
For YHWH is about to restore the majesty of Jacob, as well as the majesty of Israel, though their enemies have plundered them and have destroyed their fields.
The shields of his warriors are dyed red; the mighty soldiers are dressed in scarlet garments. The chariots are in flashing metal fittings on the day of battle; the soldiers brandish their spears. The chariots race madly through the streets, they rush back and forth in the broad plazas; they look like lightning bolts, they dash here and there like flashes of lightning. The commander orders his officers; they stumble as they advance; they rush to the city wall and they set up the covered siege tower. The sluice gates are opened; the royal palace is deluged and dissolves.
Nineveh is taken into exile and is led away; her slave girls moan like doves while they beat their breasts. Nineveh was like a pool of water throughout her days, but now her people are running away; she cries out: “Stop! Stop!” – but no one turns back.
Her conquerors cry out: “Plunder the silver! Plunder the gold!”
There is no end to the treasure; riches of every kind of precious thing. Destruction, devastation, and desolation! Hearts faint; knees tremble; every stomach churns, all their faces have turned pale!Where now is the den of the lions, and the feeding place of the young lions, where the lion, lioness, and lion cub once prowled and no one disturbed them? The lion tore apart as much prey as his cubs needed and strangled prey for his lionesses; he filled his lairs with prey and his dens with torn flesh.
"I am against you!" declares YHWH of Heaven's Armies: "I will burn your chariots with fire; the sword will devour your young lions; you will no longer prey upon the land; the voices of your messengers will no longer be heard" (Nahum 2:1-13).
What is Nahum about?
How could the God of Jonah speak thus about Nineveh?
Why should we grapple with YHWH the Avenger?
YHWH the Avenger | Nahum 1:1-15 | The Vision of Nahum
Outline | Conversation
This is an oracle about Nineveh; the book of the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite:
YHWH is a zealous and avenging God; YHWH is avenging and very angry. YHWH takes vengeance against his foes; he sustains his rage against his enemies. YHWH is slow to anger but great in power; YHWH will certainly not allow the wicked to go unpunished. He marches out in the whirlwind and the raging storm; dark storm clouds billow like dust under his feet. He shouts a battle cry against the sea and makes it dry up; he makes all the rivers run dry. Bashan and Carmel wither; the blossom of Lebanon withers. The mountains tremble before him, the hills convulse; the earth is laid waste before him, the world and all its inhabitants are laid waste. No one can withstand his indignation! No one can resist his fierce anger! His wrath is poured out like volcanic fire, boulders are broken up as he approaches. YHWH is good – indeed, he is a fortress in time of distress, and he protects those who seek refuge in him. But with an overwhelming flood he will make a complete end of Nineveh; he will drive his enemies into darkness. Whatever you plot against YHWH, he will completely destroy! Distress will not arise a second time. Surely they will be totally consumed like entangled thorn bushes, like the drink of drunkards, like very dry stubble.
From you, O Nineveh, one has marched forth who plots evil against YHWH, a wicked military strategist. This is what YHWH says: "Even though they are powerful - and what is more, even though their army is numerous - nevertheless, they will be destroyed and trickle away! Although I afflicted you, I will afflict you no more. And now, I will break Assyria's yoke bar from your neck; I will tear apart the shackles that are on you."
YHWH has issued a decree against you: "Your dynasty will come to an end. I will destroy the idols and images in the temples of your gods. I will desecrate your grave - because you are accursed!"
Look! A herald is running on the mountains! A messenger is proclaiming deliverance: "Celebrate your sacred festivals, O Judah! Fulfill your sacred vows to praise God! For never again will the wicked Assyrians invade you, they have been completely destroyed" (Nahum 1:1-15).
What is Exodus all about?
How did God deliver Israel?
Why is there such emphasis on laws and building a tent?
Exodus | Books of the Bible
Outline | Conversation
What are extrasensory perception and paranormal phenomena?
How should we relate to extrasensory perception or paranormal phenomena?
What dangers might attend to extrasensory perception or paranormal phenomena?
Extrasensory Perception | The Senses
Outline | Conversation
What is touch all about?
How can touch be communal and relational?
Why do we associate sensation with emotion?
Touch | The Senses
Outline | Conversation
What is taste all about?
How can we taste that the Lord is good?
Why does God memorialize His saving acts with meals?
Taste | The Senses
Outline | Conversation
What is Genesis all about?
How does Genesis set forth the beginning of the story of God and His people?
Genesis | Books of the Bible
Outline | Conversation
How marvelous is our sense of smell?
What kind of smells are there?
How can we become a sweet aroma before God?
Smell | The Senses
Outline | Conversation
How marvelous is our sense of hearing?
How do music and language connect us to God and one another?
What happens when we do not hear God?
Hearing | The Senses
Outline | Conversation
How do light and sight testify to God our Creator?
What do we really "see"? How might we prove "blind"?
How can we walk in the light and avoid the darkness?
Sight | The Senses
Outline | Conversation
What did Peter emphasize as he concluded his first letter?
How can we stand firm in the grace of God?
Stand Firm | 1 Peter 5:6-14 | The First Letter of Peter
Outline | Conversation
And God will exalt you in due time, if you humble yourselves under his mighty hand by casting all your cares on him because he cares for you.
Be sober and alert. Your enemy the devil, like a roaring lion, is on the prowl looking for someone to devour. Resist him, strong in your faith, because you know that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are enduring the same kinds of suffering.
And, after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory in Christ will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him belongs the power forever. Amen.
Through Silvanus, whom I know to be a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, in order to encourage you and testify that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it.
The church in Babylon, chosen together with you, greets you, and so does Mark, my son.
Greet one another with a loving kiss.
Peace to all of you who are in Christ (1 Peter 5:6-14).
What are deacons all about?
How can we all serve the Lord Jesus Christ?
Aspiring to Be a Deacon | Aspiring to Service | Outline | Conversation
What are elders all about?
Why should men aspire to be elders?
Aspiring to Be an Elder | Aspiring to Service | Outline | Conversation
What would Paul say to exhort Christians who had no need to be reminded of how to serve God and love one another? Paul's answer is 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28.
Blameless on the Day of the Lord | 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 | Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians
Outline | Conversation
Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who labor among you and preside over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them most highly in love because of their work.
Be at peace among yourselves.
And we urge you, brothers and sisters, admonish the undisciplined, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient toward all.
See that no one pays back evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good for one another and for all.
Always rejoice, constantly pray, in everything give thanks. For this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Do not extinguish the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt. But examine all things; hold fast to what is good. Stay away from every form of evil.
Now may the God of peace himself make you completely holy and may your spirit and soul and body be kept entirely blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
He who calls you is trustworthy, and he will in fact do this.
Brothers and sisters, pray for us too.
Greet all the brothers and sisters with a holy kiss.
I call on you solemnly in the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you (1 Thessalonians 5:12-28).
Who are these "elders" Peter addressed? What should they be doing?
What should the youth do? In what would Peter have all Christians "dress"?
Elders and Youth | 1 Peter 5:1-5 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
So as your fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings and as one who shares in the glory that will be revealed, I urge the elders among you: Give a shepherd’s care to God’s flock among you, exercising oversight not merely as a duty but willingly under God’s direction, not for shameful profit but eagerly. And do not lord it over those entrusted to you, but be examples to the flock. Then when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that never fades away. In the same way, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (1 Peter 5:1-5).
What is known about the "times and seasons" of the Day of the Lord?
How should Christians live between now and the end?
The Awake | 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 | Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians
Outline | Conversation
Now on the topic of times and seasons, brothers and sisters, you have no need for anything to be written to you. For you know quite well that the day of the Lord will come in the same way as a thief in the night. Now when they are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction comes on them, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will surely not escape.
But you, brothers and sisters, are not in the darkness for the day to overtake you like a thief would. For you all are sons of the light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of the darkness. So then we must not sleep as the rest, but must stay alert and sober. For those who sleep, sleep at night and those who get drunk are drunk at night. But since we are of the day, we must stay sober by putting on the breastplate of faith and love and as a helmet our hope for salvation.
For God did not destine us for wrath but for gaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that whether we are alert or asleep we will come to life together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, just as you are in fact doing (1 Thessalonians 5:1-11).
What was causing consternation among the Christians of Thessalonica?
How did Paul comfort them in their grief?
What is the ultimate hope of the Christian?
The Asleep | 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 | Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians | Outline | Conversation
Now we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve like the rest who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, so also we believe that God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep as Christians. For we tell you this by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will surely not go ahead of those who have fallen asleep.
For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be suddenly caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord.
Therefore encourage one another with these words (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
What did Paul want reinforced for the Thessalonian Christians?
How can we best follow Jesus' commands, love one another, and aspire to live quietly?
Do So More and More | 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 | Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians | Outline | Conversation
Finally then, brothers and sisters, we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received instruction from us about how you must live and please God (as you are in fact living) that you do so more and more. For you know what commands we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
For this is God’s will: that you become holy, that you keep away from sexual immorality, that each of you know how to possess his own body in holiness and honor, not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God. In this matter no one should violate the rights of his brother or take advantage of him, because the Lord is the avenger in all these cases, as we also told you earlier and warned you solemnly. For God did not call us to impurity but in holiness. Consequently the one who rejects this is not rejecting human authority but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.
Now on the topic of brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another. And indeed you are practicing it toward all the brothers and sisters in all of Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more, to aspire to lead a quiet life, to attend to your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you. In this way you will live a decent life before outsiders and not be in need (1 Thessalonians 4:1-12).
How was Paul encouraged by the news he received about the Thessalonian Christians?
What did Paul pray for Jesus to do for the Thessalonian Christians?
Good News of Your Faith | 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13 | Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians | Outline | Conversation
But when we were separated from you, brothers and sisters, for a short time (in presence, not in affection) we became all the more fervent in our great desire to see you in person. For we wanted to come to you (I, Paul, in fact tried again and again) but Satan thwarted us.
For who is our hope or joy or crown to boast of before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not of course you? For you are our glory and joy!
So when we could bear it no longer, we decided to stay on in Athens alone. We sent Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for God in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen you and encourage you about your faith, so that no one would be shaken by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this. For in fact when we were with you, we were telling you in advance that we would suffer affliction, and so it has happened, as you well know.
So when I could bear it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith, for fear that the tempter somehow tempted you and our toil had proven useless.
But now Timothy has come to us from you and given us the good news of your faith and love and that you always think of us with affection and long to see us just as we also long to see you! So in all our distress and affliction, we were reassured about you, brothers and sisters, through your faith. For now we are alive again, if you stand firm in the Lord.
For how can we thank God enough for you, for all the joy we feel because of you before our God? We pray earnestly night and day to see you in person and make up what may be lacking in your faith.
Now may God our Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you.
And may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we do for you, so that your hearts are strengthened in holiness to be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints (1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13).
How could Paul consider himself as an infant, a nursing mother of children, and a father toward the Thessalonian Christians?
How can we imitate Paul in these ways?
A Nursing Mother of Children | 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16 | Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians
Outline | Conversation
For you yourselves know, brothers and sisters, about our coming to you – it has not proven to be purposeless. But although we suffered earlier and were mistreated in Philippi, as you know, we had the courage in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in spite of much opposition. For the appeal we make does not come from error or impurity or with deceit, but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we declare it, not to please people but God, who examines our hearts. For we never appeared with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed – God is our witness – nor to seek glory from people, either from you or from others, although we could have imposed our weight as apostles of Christ; instead we became little children among you. Like a nursing mother caring for her own children, with such affection for you we were happy to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.
For you recall, brothers and sisters, our toil and drudgery: By working night and day so as not to impose a burden on any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. You are witnesses, and so is God, as to how holy and righteous and blameless our conduct was toward you who believe. As you know, we treated each one of you as a father treats his own children, exhorting and encouraging you and insisting that you live in a way worthy of God who calls you to his own kingdom and his glory.
And so we too constantly thank God that when you received God’s message that you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human message, but as it truly is, God’s message, which is at work among you who believe. For you became imitators, brothers and sisters, of God’s churches in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, because you too suffered the same things from your own countrymen as they in fact did from the Jews, who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets and persecuted us severely. They are displeasing to God and are opposed to all people, because they hinder us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. Thus they constantly fill up their measure of sins, but wrath has come upon them completely (1 Thessalonians 2:1-16).
Why did Paul write to the Thessalonians?
Do we have any kind of similar witness to the Thessalonians?
Turning to God from Idols | 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 | Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians | Outline | Conversation
From Paul and Silvanus and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace and peace to you!
We thank God always for all of you as we mention you constantly in our prayers, because we recall in the presence of our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and endurance of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
We know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, in that our gospel did not come to you merely in words, but in power and in the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction (surely you recall the character we displayed when we came among you to help you). And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, when you received the message with joy that comes from the Holy Spirit, despite great affliction.
As a result you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. For from you the message of the Lord has echoed forth not just in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place reports of your faith in God have spread, so that we do not need to say anything. For people everywhere report how you welcomed us and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus our deliverer from the coming wrath (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10).
Should Christians expect persecution?
Is every difficulty or trial evidence of persecution?
What should Christians do when persecuted?
Time for Judgment | 1 Peter 4:12-19 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
Dear friends, do not be astonished that a trial by fire is occurring among you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice in the degree that you have shared in the sufferings of Christ, so that when his glory is revealed you may also rejoice and be glad. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory, who is the Spirit of God, rests on you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or thief or criminal or as a troublemaker. But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear such a name.
For it is time for judgment to begin, starting with the house of God. And if it starts with us, what will be the fate of those who are disobedient to the gospel of God? And if the righteous are barely saved, what will become of the ungodly and sinners?
So then let those who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator as they do good (1 Peter 4:12-19).
What can we know, and what remains ambiguous or unrevealed, about Junia, Phoebe, and Priscilla?
How should we grapple with Paul's affection for and commendation of Junia, Phoebe, and Priscilla?
Junia, Phoebe, and Priscilla | The Cloud of Witnesses | Outline | Conversation
Now I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, so that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints and provide her with whatever help she may need from you, for she has been a great help to many, including me.
Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life. Not only I, but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them. Also greet the church in their house....
Greet Andronicus and Junia, my compatriots and my fellow prisoners. They are well known to the apostles, and they were in Christ before me (Romans 16:1-3a, 7).
What do we know, and what is left unrevealed, about Bathsheba bat Eliam?
How does the way we characterize the wife of Uriah tell us about ourselves?
How was Bathsheba vindicated?
Bathsheba | The Cloud of Witnesses
Outline | Conversation
How are Leah and Rachel portrayed in the Bible?
Was Rachel that great?
How was Leah vindicated?
Leah and Rachel | The Cloud of Witnesses | Outline | Conversation
How is Rebekah characterized in Genesis?
What can we gain from her story?
Rebekah | The Cloud of Witnesses
Further Thoughts | Conversation
How does Hagar well represent the kind of people most often left unseen and unheard?
What does it mean for God to be the One who saw and heard Hagar?
Hagar | The Cloud of Witnesses
Outline | Conversation
How is Sarah the mother of the faithful?
What is Peter doing with his citation of Genesis 18:12 in 1 Peter 3:6?
Sarah | The Cloud of Witnesses | Outline | Conversation
How should Christians live in light of Jesus' imminent return?
How can Christians glorify God in Christ in their lives?
Working in the Kingdom | 1 Peter 4:7-11 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
For the culmination of all things is near. So be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of prayer. Above all keep your love for one another fervent, because love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without complaining. Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of the varied grace of God. Whoever speaks, let it be with God’s words. Whoever serves, do so with the strength that God supplies, so that in everything God will be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen (1 Peter 4:7-11).
What possible ways might people reconstruct after deconstruction?
How can Christians reconstruct in a healthy and God honoring way?
How can Christians support others going through seasons of deconstruction and reconstruction?
Reconstruction | Deconstruction and Reconstruction | Outline | Conversation
What does deconstruction look like?
What perils may attend to deconstruction? Are such perils only when we deconstruct?
The Experience and Peril of Deconstruction | Deconstruction and Reconstruction | Outline | Conversation
What is "deconstruction," and why are so many critical of it?
Why does deconstruction prove necessary?
How might we prove guilty of hearing but not doing what Jesus said?
The Necessity of Deconstruction | Deconstruction and Reconstruction | Outline | Conversation
"Everyone who hears these words of mine and does them is like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the flood came, and the winds beat against that house, but it did not collapse because its foundation had been laid on rock. Everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the flood came, and the winds beat against that house, and it collapsed – it was utterly destroyed!” (Matthew 7:24-27)
How should Christians look to Jesus to guide their lives?
What kind of reaction should Christians expect from people they know in the world?
In whom do Christians put all trust?
Ceasing From Sin | 1 Peter 4:1-6 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
So, since Christ suffered in the flesh, you also arm yourselves with the same attitude, because the one who has suffered in the flesh has finished with sin, in that he spends the rest of his time on earth concerned about the will of God and not human desires. For the time that has passed was sufficient for you to do what the non-Christians desire. You lived then in debauchery, evil desires, drunkenness, carousing, drinking bouts, and wanton idolatries. So they are astonished when you do not rush with them into the same flood of wickedness, and they vilify you. They will face a reckoning before Jesus Christ who stands ready to judge the living and the dead. Now it was for this very purpose that the gospel was preached to those who are now dead, so that though they were judged in the flesh by human standards they may live spiritually by God’s standards (1 Peter 4:1-6).
How should Christians relate to the nation-state?
What should Christians render unto Caesar?
What should Christians render unto God?
Rendering to Caesar and God | Matthew 22:15-22 | Jesus' Instruction | Outline | Conversation
Then the Pharisees went out and planned together to entrap him with his own words. They sent to him their disciples along with the Herodians, saying, "Teacher, we know that you are truthful, and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You do not court anyone’s favor because you show no partiality. Tell us then, what do you think? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"
But Jesus realized their evil intentions and said, "Hypocrites! Why are you testing me? Show me the coin used for the tax."
So they brought him a denarius.
Jesus said to them, "Whose image is this, and whose inscription?"
They replied, "Caesar's."
He said to them, "Then give to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."
Now when they heard this they were stunned, and they left him and went away (Matthew 22:15-22).
How can the Prince of Peace have brought a sword to the earth?
Why will following Jesus and embodying Him lead to division and conflict?
How can Christians glorify God in the midst of such division and conflict?
The Sword of Jesus Christ | Matthew 10:34-38 | Jesus' Instruction | Outline | Conversation
“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace but a sword! For I have come to 'set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law, and a man’s enemies will be the members of his household.'
Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me" (Matthew 10:34-38).
Why would Jesus have anything to do with a Roman military officer?
What led Jesus to marvel about that military officer?
How might we sit at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the Kingdom?
No Greater Faith | Matthew 8:5-13 | Jesus' Instruction | Outline | Conversation
When he entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him asking for help: “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, in terrible anguish.”
Jesus said to him, “I will come and heal him.”
But the centurion replied, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof! Instead, just say the word and my servant will be healed. For I too am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I say to this one, ‘Go!’ and he goes, and to another ‘Come!’ and he comes, and to my slave ‘Do this!’ and he does it.”
When Jesus heard this he was amazed and said to those who followed him, “I tell you the truth, I have not found such faith in anyone in Israel! I tell you, many will come from the east and west to share the banquet with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, but the sons of the kingdom will be thrown out into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go; just as you believed, it will be done for you.”
And the servant was healed at that hour (Matthew 8:5-13).
How did Peter want to encourage the Christians of Asia Minor with the message of Christ's suffering and exaltation?
What is going on in 1 Peter 3:19-20?
How does baptism save?
Christ's Suffering and Exaltation | 1 Peter 3:18-22 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
Because Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, to bring you to God, by being put to death in the flesh but by being made alive in the spirit. In it he went and preached to the spirits in prison, after they were disobedient long ago when God patiently waited in the days of Noah as an ark was being constructed. In the ark a few, that is eight souls, were delivered through water. And this prefigured baptism, which now saves you – not the washing off of physical dirt but the pledge of a good conscience to God – through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who went into heaven and is at the right hand of God with angels and authorities and powers subject to him (1 Peter 3:18-22).
What was so momentous about Joel's prophecy for Israel?
How did YHWH manifest His presence and give His Spirit to Israel?
How may Christians live boldly in faith by the assurance of the Spirit?
Assurance in the Spirit | It Shall Come to Pass | Outline | Conversation
On what basis was Israel to trust in YHWH?
Where was God? Would He deliver His people?
How can we have confidence in God in Christ through covenant loyalty?
Confidence Through Covenant Loyalty | It Shall Come to Pass | Outline | Conversation
Can there be any hope for this creation in its futility and decay?
What can we gain from the hope nourished by believers and the creation in patience?
Hope in the Creation | It Shall Come to Pass | Outline | Conversation
The Spirit himself bears witness to our spirit that we are God’s children. And if children, then heirs (namely, heirs of God and also fellow heirs with Christ) – if indeed we suffer with him so we may also be glorified with him. For I consider that our present sufferings cannot even be compared to the coming glory that will be revealed to us. For the creation eagerly waits for the revelation of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility – not willingly but because of God who subjected it – in hope that the creation itself will also be set free from the bondage of decay into the glorious freedom of God’s children. For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers together until now. Not only this, but we ourselves also, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we eagerly await our adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with endurance. (Romans 8:16-25).
Why should Christians be zealous to do good even if they suffer for it?
Why do we put our trust and hope in Jesus?
Zealous for Good | 1 Peter 3:8-17 | The First Letter of Peter | https://www.deusvitae.com/outlines/zealousgood.txt">Outline | Conversation
Finally, be ye all likeminded, compassionate, loving as brethren, tenderhearted, humbleminded: not rendering evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but contrariwise blessing; for hereunto were ye called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For,
He that would love life, And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips that they speak no guile: And let him turn away from evil, and do good; Let him seek peace, and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, And his ears unto their supplication: But the face of the Lord is upon them that do evil.
And who is he that will harm you, if ye be zealous of that which is good? But even if ye should suffer for righteousness' sake, blessed are ye: and fear not their fear, neither be troubled; but sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord: being ready always to give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, yet with meekness and fear: having a good conscience; that, wherein ye are spoken against, they may be put to shame who revile your good manner of life in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God should so will, that ye suffer for well-doing than for evil-doing (1 Peter 3:8-17).
What witness did Jesus and the Apostles bear regarding sexuality?
What witness have Christians and the church borne regarding sexuality?
How can we faithfully bear witness to Jesus regarding sexuality?
Sexuality | Faithful Witness | Outline | Conversation
How would Peter have Christian wives conduct themselves?
How would Peter have Christian husbands conduct themselves?
Wives and Husbands | 1 Peter 3:1-7 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
In the same way, wives, be subject to your own husbands. Then, even if some are disobedient to the word, they will be won over without a word by the way you live, when they see your pure and reverent conduct. Let your beauty not be external – the braiding of hair and wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes – but the inner person of the heart, the lasting beauty of a gentle and tranquil spirit, which is precious in God’s sight. For in the same way the holy women who hoped in God long ago adorned themselves by being subject to their husbands, like Sarah who obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. You become her children when you do what is good and have no fear in doing so.
Husbands, in the same way, treat your wives with consideration as the weaker partners and show them honor as fellow heirs of the grace of life. In this way nothing will hinder your prayers (1 Peter 3:1-7).
How are politics tearing apart the nation and the Kingdom?
What witness did Jesus and the Apostles bear regarding politics?
How can we bear faithful witness regarding the Reign of God in Jesus in the midst of the politics of this world?
Politics | Faithful Witness | Outline | Conversation
What has driven gender inequality in the world?
What witness did Jesus and the Apostles bear regarding gender inequality?
How can we bear faithful witness to Jesus in our modern world in terms of gender and inequality?
Gender Inequality | Faithful Witness | Outline | Conversation
What is economic inequality all about?
What witness did Jesus and the Apostles bear regarding economic inequality?
How can we today bear faithful witness to Jesus in a world awash in economic inequality?
Economic Inequality | Faithful Witness | Outline | Conversation
What witness has the church borne regarding racial inequality in America?
What must Christians and the church confess and lament regarding their participation in racial inequality in America?
How can Christians repent in order to better reflect Jesus to America regarding racial inequality?
Racial Inequality | Faithful Witness | Outline | Conversation
Why would Peter advise Christian slaves the way he did?
What example of Christ would Peter have Christians follow?
How can Christians be strengthened to endure evil without responding in kind?
Suffering With Christ | 1 Peter 2:18-25 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
Slaves, be subject to your masters with all reverence, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are perverse. For this finds God’s favor, if because of conscience toward God someone endures hardships in suffering unjustly. For what credit is it if you sin and are mistreated and endure it? But if you do good and suffer and so endure, this finds favor with God.
For to this you were called, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving an example for you to follow in his steps. He committed no sin nor was deceit found in his mouth. When he was maligned, he did not answer back; when he suffered, he threatened no retaliation, but committed himself to God who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we may cease from sinning and live for righteousness. By his wounds you were healed. For you were going astray like sheep but now you have turned back to the shepherd and guardian of your souls (1 Peter 2:18-25).
What witness is the church bearing to Jesus in the world?
How should the church more effectively bear witness to Jesus in the world?
The Witness of the Church | Faithful Witness | Outline | Conversation
What is tradition?
How is our faith really a tradition?
What challenges attend to traditions?
Tradition | Redeeming the Time | Outline | Conversation
Why should Christians avoid the passions of the flesh and serve God?
Why should Christians strive to keep their conduct honorable?
Honorable Conduct | 1 Peter 2:11-17 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
Dear friends, I urge you as foreigners and exiles to keep away from fleshly desires that do battle against the soul, and maintain good conduct among the non-Christians, so that though they now malign you as wrongdoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God when he appears.
Be subject to every human institution for the Lord's sake, whether to a king as supreme or to governors as those he commissions to punish wrongdoers and praise those who do good. For God wants you to silence the ignorance of foolish people by doing good. Live as free people, not using your freedom as a pretext for evil, but as God's slaves. Honor all people, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the king (1 Peter 2:11-17).
Why should we view everything we are and have in terms of stewardship?
How can we prove good stewards of our time, abilities, and opportunities?
Stewards of Time, Ability, and Opportunity | Redeeming the Time | Outline | Conversation
What is sacrifice all about?
How are we to sacrifice in Christ?
Sacrifice | Redeeming the Time | Outline | Conversation
As Christians, what are we to make of the past, the present, and the future?
Why must Christians embrace the need for now?
The Need For Now | Redeeming the Time | Outline | Conversation
In what ways did Peter want Christians to see themselves as distinct from what came before?
In what ways did Peter want Christians to see continuity with Israel?
How can we serve as a spiritual house, priests, and sacrifices before God?
The Spiritual House | 1 Peter 2:4-10 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
So as you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but chosen and precious in God's sight, you yourselves, as living stones, are built up as a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood and to offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
For it says in scripture, "Look, I lay in Zion a stone, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and whoever believes in him will never be put to shame."
So you who believe see his value, but for those who do not believe, the stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, and a stumbling-stone and a rock to trip over. They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may proclaim the virtues of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. You once were not a people, but now you are God’s people. You were shown no mercy, but now you have received mercy (1 Peter 2:4-10).
Why will there always be conflicts among Christians?
How should we handle conflicts?
Handling Conflict | Christian Attitudes | Outline | Conversation
What does forgiveness require?
Whom must we forgive, and why?
Forgiveness | Christian Attitudes | Outline | Conversation
What contrasts can be drawn between the Pharisee and the sinful woman?
How can we live in repentance more than judgmentalism?
Our Debt of Gratitude | Luke 7:36-50 | Christian Attitudes | Outline | Conversation
Now one of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so he went into the Pharisee's house and took his place at the table. Then when a woman of that town, who was a sinner, learned that Jesus was dining at the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfumed oil. As she stood behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. She wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with the perfumed oil.
Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner."
So Jesus answered him, "Simon, I have something to say to you."
He replied, "Say it, Teacher."
"A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed him five hundred silver coins, and the other fifty. When they could not pay, he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?"
Simon answered, "I suppose the one who had the bigger debt canceled."
Jesus said to him, "You have judged rightly."
Then, turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered your house. You gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss of greeting, but from the time I entered she has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with perfumed oil. Therefore I tell you, her sins, which were many, are forgiven, thus she loved much; but the one who is forgiven little loves little."
Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, "Who is this, who even forgives sins?"
He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace" (Luke 7:36-50).
To what end should Christians prove obedient?
What can truly sustain Christians in a difficult and corrupt world?
Growing Up Into Salvation | 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
You have purified your souls by obeying the truth in order to show sincere mutual love. So love one another earnestly from a pure heart. You have been born anew, not from perishable but from imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God.
For "all flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of the grass; the grass withers and the flower falls off, but the word of the Lord endures forever."
And this is the word that was proclaimed to you.
So get rid of all evil and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.
And yearn like newborn infants for pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up to salvation, "if you have experienced the Lord's kindness" (1 Peter 1:22-2:3).
Why is Elijah the embodiment of the prophet?
What were his high and low moments like?
What can we learn from Elijah?
Elijah | The Cloud of Witnesses | Outline | Conversation
Who was David, man after God's own heart?
How did he sin, and what can we learn from how he addressed his sin?
What kind of legacy did David maintain, and how can we build a legacy in Christ?
David | The Cloud of Witnesses | Outline | Conversation
Who was Moses?
How was Moses faithful in God's house?
Where did Moses fall short?
Moses | The Cloud of Witnesses | Outline | Conversation
How would Israel see itself in Jacob?
Why would God name Jacob "Israel," "wrestles with God"?
What might Jacob teach us as Christians?
Jacob | The Cloud of Witnesses | Outline | Conversation
Who was Abraham?
How is he the father of faith?
How can we navigate life as sojourners for God?
Abraham | The Cloud of Witnesses | Outline | Conversation
What can we know about Job of Uz?
What can we learn from him about endurance, suffering, faith, and God?
Job of Uz | The Cloud of Witnesses | Outline | Conversation
What did Peter want Christians to do on account of all God had done for them in Christ?
How can we be holy as God is holy?
How have we learned about God through Jesus?
Be Holy | 1 Peter 1:13-21 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
Therefore, get your minds ready for action by being fully sober, and set your hope completely on the grace that will be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed.
Like obedient children, do not comply with the evil urges you used to follow in your ignorance, but, like the Holy One who called you, become holy yourselves in all of your conduct, for it is written, "You shall be holy, because I am holy."
And if you address as Father the one who impartially judges according to each one’s work, live out the time of your temporary residence here in reverence. You know that from your empty way of life inherited from your ancestors you were ransomed – not by perishable things like silver or gold, but by precious blood like that of an unblemished and spotless lamb, namely Christ. He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was manifested in these last times for your sake. Through him you now trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God (1 Peter 1:13-21).
Why do you go to church? What motivates you to assemble with Christians?
Join us as we reflect on possible answers and challenge our frameworks.
Why Do You Go to Church? | The Assembly and You | Outline | Video
Why should we assemble?
Does it matter where we assemble?
How can we glorify God in our assembling?
Why Where You Assemble Matters | The Assembly and You | Outline | Conversation
What's so important about the assembly of Christians?
Why do people resist the assembly?
How can we glorify God most effectively in the assembly together?
The Value of the Assembly | The Assembly and You | Outline | Conversation
How did Peter encourage Christians in their love and faith in Jesus?
How did Peter encourage Christians with the witness of the prophets?
Faith and Salvation | 1 Peter 1:8-12 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
You have not seen him, but you love him. You do not see him now but you believe in him, and so you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, because you are attaining the goal of your faith – the salvation of your souls.
Concerning this salvation, the prophets who predicted the grace that would come to you searched and investigated carefully. They probed into what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating when he testified beforehand about the sufferings appointed for Christ and his subsequent glory. They were shown that they were serving not themselves but you, in regard to the things now announced to you through those who proclaimed the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven – things angels long to catch a glimpse of (1 Peter 1:8-12).
Who was Barabbas, and what did he represent?
What choice was Israel making when they saved Barabbas and condemned Jesus?
How is a similar choice continually before us?
Barabbas | The Predestined Offering | Outline | Conversation
Why did Moses lift up a serpent in the wilderness?
How was Jesus lifted up?
What dangers attend to objects through which God displays His grace and mercy?
The Serpent, the Son, and Deliverance | The Predestined Offering | Outline | Conversation
Why did Peter write to Christians in terms of Israel's Babylonian exile?
How were early Christians supposed to find encouragement in trials?
Encouragement in Trial | 1 Peter 1:1-7 | The First Letter of Peter | Outline | Conversation
From Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to those temporarily residing abroad (in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, the province of Asia, and Bithynia) who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father by being set apart by the Spirit for obedience and for sprinkling with Jesus Christ's blood. May grace and peace be yours in full measure!
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he gave us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, that is, into an inheritance imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. It is reserved in heaven for you, who by God's power are protected through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. This brings you great joy, although you may have to suffer for a short time in various trials. Such trials show the proven character of your faith, which is much more valuable than gold – gold that is tested by fire, even though it is passing away – and will bring praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed (1 Peter 1:1-7).
Why would Paul speak of Christ as a Rock of living water?
How can we come to drink of the water from the Rock?
The Rock of Living Water | The Predestined Offering | Outline | Conversation
How would Israel take comfort from the hope of a new heavens and a new earth?
How can Christians make sense of the hope of a new heavens and a new earth?
The New Heavens and the New Earth | Isaiah 65:16-25, 66:22-24 | Isaiah's Prophetic Hope | Outline | Conversation
"Whoever pronounces a blessing in the earth will do so in the name of the faithful God; whoever makes an oath in the earth will do so in the name of the faithful God. For past problems will be forgotten; I will no longer think about them. For look, I am ready to create new heavens and a new earth! The former ones will not be remembered; no one will think about them anymore. But be happy and rejoice forevermore over what I am about to create! For look, I am ready to create Jerusalem to be a source of joy, and her people to be a source of happiness. Jerusalem will bring me joy, and my people will bring me happiness. The sound of weeping or cries of sorrow will never be heard in her again. Never again will one of her infants live just a few days or an old man die before his time. Indeed, no one will die before the age of a hundred, anyone who fails to reach the age of a hundred will be considered cursed. They will build houses and live in them; they will plant vineyards and eat their fruit. No longer will they build a house only to have another live in it, or plant a vineyard only to have another eat its fruit, for my people will live as long as trees, and my chosen ones will enjoy to the fullest what they have produced. They will not work in vain, or give birth to children that will experience disaster. For YHWH will bless their children and their descendants. Before they even call out, I will respond; while they are still speaking, I will hear. A wolf and a lamb will graze together; a lion, like an ox, will eat straw, and a snake’s food will be dirt. They will no longer injure or destroy on my entire royal mountain," says YHWH (Isaiah 65:16-25)
"For just as the new heavens and the new earth I am about to make will remain standing before me," says YHWH, "so your descendants and your name will remain. From one month to the next and from one Sabbath to the next, all people will come to worship me," says YHWH. "They will go out and observe the corpses of those who rebelled against me, for the maggots that eat them will not die, and the fire that consumes them will not die out. All people will find the sight abhorrent" (Isaiah 66:22-24).
How did Isaiah provide encouragement to Israel?
How can we reach Zion and enjoy the verdant wilderness?
A Verdant Wilderness | Isaiah 35:1-10 | Isaiah's Prophetic Hope | Outline | Conversation
Let the wilderness and desert be happy; let the arid rift valley rejoice and bloom like a lily! Let it richly bloom; let it rejoice and shout with delight! It is given the grandeur of Lebanon, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the grandeur of YHWH, the splendor of our God.
Strengthen the hands that have gone limp, steady the knees that shake!
Tell those who panic, "Be strong! Do not fear! Look, your God comes to avenge! With divine retribution he comes to deliver you."
Then blind eyes will open, deaf ears will hear. Then the lame will leap like a deer, the mute tongue will shout for joy; for water will burst forth in the wilderness, streams in the arid rift valley. The dry soil will become a pool of water, the parched ground springs of water. Where jackals once lived and sprawled out, grass, reeds, and papyrus will grow.
A thoroughfare will be there – it will be called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not travel on it; it is reserved for those authorized to use it – fools will not stray into it. No lions will be there, no ferocious wild animals will be on it – they will not be found there. Those delivered from bondage will travel on it, those whom YHWH has ransomed will return that way. They will enter Zion with a happy shout. Unending joy will crown them, happiness and joy will overwhelm them; grief and suffering will disappear (Isaiah 35:1-10).
How did God prove to be with Judah?
How is Jesus our Immanuel?
Immanuel | Isaiah 7:10-25 | Isaiah's Prophetic Hope | Outline | Conversation
YHWH again spoke to Ahaz:
"Ask for a confirming sign from YHWH your God. You can even ask for something miraculous."
But Ahaz responded, "I don't want to ask; I don't want to put YHWH to a test."
So Isaiah replied, "Pay attention, family of David. Do you consider it too insignificant to try the patience of men? Is that why you are also trying the patience of my God? For this reason the Lord himself will give you a confirming sign. Look, this young woman is about to conceive and will give birth to a son. You, young woman, will name him Immanuel. He will eat sour milk and honey, which will help him know how to reject evil and choose what is right. Here is why this will be so: Before the child knows how to reject evil and choose what is right, the land whose two kings you fear will be desolate. YHWH will bring on you, your people, and your father's family a time unlike any since Ephraim departed from Judah - the king of Assyria!"
At that time YHWH will whistle for flies from the distant streams of Egypt and for bees from the land of Assyria. All of them will come and make their home in the ravines between the cliffs, and in the crevices of the cliffs, in all the thorn bushes, and in all the watering holes. At that time the Lord will use a razor hired from the banks of the Euphrates River, the king of Assyria, to shave the hair off the head and private parts; it will also shave off the beard. At that time a man will keep alive a young cow from the herd and a couple of goats. From the abundance of milk they produce, he will have sour milk for his meals. Indeed, everyone left in the heart of the land will eat sour milk and honey. At that time every place where there had been a thousand vines worth a thousand shekels will be overrun with thorns and briers. With bow and arrow men will hunt there, for the whole land will be covered with thorns and briers. They will stay away from all the hills that were cultivated, for fear of the thorns and briers. Cattle will graze there and sheep will trample on them (Isaiah 7:10-25)
How does the church collectively embody the Lord Jesus?
How do we live in the body of Christ both within and outside the assembly?
Life in the Body of Christ | Embodiment | Outline | Conversation
What does Christianity and the Christian life seem to be about based on what one hears preached and taught?
How is information transfer necessary but not sufficient for the Christian life?
How can we best embody the Christian life?
Embodying the Christian Life | Embodiment | Outline | Video
How does the Incarnation of Jesus reverberate throughout time?
What implications does Jesus' incarnation have for our faith, doctrine, and life?
Why are we made uncomfortable by the truth that Jesus remains fully human in His resurrection body?
The Incarnation | Embodiment | Outline | Video
Is the human body good? Is it irretrievably corrupted?
How can we live in the human body to God's glory?
Life in the Human Body | Embodiment | Outline | Conversation
What would sustain Israel through the dark days to come?
What was the last message which God left ringing in the ears of Israel? Of us in Christ?
The Great and Terrible Day of YHWH | Malachi 3:13-4:6 | Malachi's Burden | Outline | Video
"You have criticized me sharply," says YHWH, "but you ask, 'How have we criticized you?'
You have said, 'It is useless to serve God. How have we been helped by keeping his requirements and going about like mourners before YHWH of Heaven's Armies? So now we consider the arrogant to be happy; indeed, those who practice evil are successful. In fact, those who challenge God escape!'"
Then those who respected YHWH spoke to one another, and YHWH took notice. A scroll was prepared before him in which were recorded the names of those who respected YHWH and honored his name.
"They will belong to me," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies, "in the day when I prepare my own special property. I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him. Then once more you will see that I make a distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between the one who serves God and the one who does not."
"For indeed the day is coming, burning like a furnace, and all the arrogant evildoers will be chaff. The coming day will burn them up," says YHWH of Heaven’s Armies. "It will not leave them even a root or branch. But for you who respect my name, the sun of vindication will rise with healing wings, and you will skip about like calves released from the stall. You will trample on the wicked, for they will be like ashes under the soles of your feet on the day which I am preparing," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
"Remember the law of my servant Moses, to whom at Horeb I gave rules and regulations for all Israel to obey. Look, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and terrible day of YHWH arrives. He will encourage fathers and their children to return to me, so that I will not come and strike the earth with judgment" (Malachi 3:13-4:6).
Where is the God of justice? Should we want to find out?
How could our fears hinder us from receiving abundance and blessing from God?
Where Is the God of Justice? | Malachi 2:17-3:12 | Outline | Video
You have wearied YHWH with your words.
But you say, "How have we wearied him?"
Because you say, "Everyone who does evil is good in YHWH's opinion, and he delights in them," or "Where is the God of justice?"
"I am about to send my messenger, who will clear the way before me. Indeed, the Lord you are seeking will suddenly come to his temple, and the messenger of the covenant, whom you long for, is certainly coming," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
Who can endure the day of his coming? Who can keep standing when he appears? For he will be like a refiner's fire, like a launderer's soap. He will act like a refiner and purifier of silver and will cleanse the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then they will offer YHWH a proper offering. The offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to YHWH as in former times and years past.
"I will come to you in judgment. I will be quick to testify against those who practice divination, those who commit adultery, those who break promises, and those who exploit workers, widows, and orphans, who refuse to help the resident foreigner and in this way show they do not fear me," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
"Since, I, YHWH, do not go back on my promises, you, sons of Jacob, have not perished. From the days of your ancestors you have ignored my commandments and have not kept them! Return to me, and I will return to you," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies.
"But you say, 'How should we return?'
Can a person rob God?
You indeed are robbing me, but you say, 'How are we robbing you?'
In tithes and contributions! You are bound for judgment because you are robbing me - this whole nation is guilty."
"Bring the entire tithe into the storehouse so that there may be food in my temple. Test me in this matter," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies, "to see if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out blessing for you until there is no room for it all. Then I will stop the plague from ruining your crops, and the vine will not lose its fruit before harvest," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
"All nations will call you happy, for you indeed will live in a delightful land," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies (Malachi 2:17-3:12).
How did Israel in Malachi's day prove faithless to covenant?
Why is it so important for us to prove faithful to God and to one another?
Turned From the Way | Malachi 2:1-16 | Malachi's Burden | Outline | Video
"Now, you priests, this commandment is for you. If you do not listen and take seriously the need to honor my name," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies, "I will send judgment on you and turn your blessings into curses - indeed, I have already done so because you are not taking it to heart. I am about to discipline your children and will spread offal on your faces, the very offal produced at your festivals, and you will be carried away along with it. Then you will know that I sent this commandment to you so that my covenant may continue to be with Levi," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
"My covenant with him was designed to bring life and peace. I gave its statutes to him to fill him with awe, and he indeed revered me and stood in awe before me. He taught what was true; sinful words were not found on his lips. He walked with me in peace and integrity, and he turned many people away from sin. For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge of sacred things, and people should seek instruction from him because he is the messenger of YHWH of Heaven's Armies. You, however, have turned from the way. You have caused many to violate the law; you have corrupted the covenant with Levi," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
"Therefore, I have caused you to be ignored and belittled before all people to the extent to which you are not following after me and are showing partiality in your instruction."
Do we not all have one father? Did not one God create us? Why do we betray one another, in this way making light of the covenant of our ancestors?
Judah has become disloyal, and unspeakable sins have been committed in Israel and Jerusalem. For Judah has profaned the holy things that YHWH loves and has turned to a foreign god! May YHWH cut off from the community of Jacob every last person who does this, as well as the person who presents improper offerings to YHWH of Heaven's Armies!
You also do this: You cover the altar of YHWH with tears as you weep and groan, because he no longer pays any attention to the offering nor accepts it favorably from you. Yet you ask, "Why?"
YHWH is testifying against you on behalf of the wife you married when you were young, to whom you have become unfaithful even though she is your companion and wife by law. No one who has even a small portion of the Spirit in him does this. What did our ancestor do when seeking a child from God? Be attentive, then, to your own spirit, for one should not be disloyal to the wife he took in his youth.
"I hate divorce," says YHWH God of Israel, "and the one who is guilty of violence," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
Pay attention to your conscience, and do not be unfaithful" (Malachi 2:1-16).
What is Malachi about?
How could Israel perceive God's love in His choice of Jacob?
How can we dishonor God in how we give?
How was God's name declared as awesome among the nations?
Awesome Among the Nations | Malachi 1:1-14 | Malachi's Burden | Outline | Video
This is an oracle, YHWH's message to Israel through Malachi:
"I have shown love to you," says YHWH, but you say, "How have you shown love to us?"
"Esau was Jacob’s brother," YHWH explains, "yet I chose Jacob and rejected Esau. I turned Esau's mountains into a deserted wasteland and gave his territory to the wild jackals."
Edom says, "Though we are devastated, we will once again build the ruined places."
So YHWH of Heaven's Armies responds, "They indeed may build, but I will overthrow. They will be known as the land of evil, the people with whom YHWH is permanently displeased. Your eyes will see it, and then you will say, 'May YHWH be magnified even beyond the border of Israel!'"
"A son naturally honors his father and a slave respects his master. If I am your father, where is my honor? If I am your master, where is my respect?" YHWH of Heaven's Armies asks you this, you priests who make light of my name!
"But you reply, 'How have we made light of your name?'
You are offering improper sacrifices on my altar, yet you ask, 'How have we offended you?'
By treating the table of YHWH as if it is of no importance! For when you offer blind animals as a sacrifice, is that not wrong? And when you offer the lame and sick, is that not wrong as well? Indeed, try offering them to your governor! Will he be pleased with you or show you favor?" asks YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
But now plead for God’s favor that he might be gracious to us.
"With this kind of offering in your hands, how can he be pleased with you?" asks YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
"I wish that one of you would close the temple doors, so that you no longer would light useless fires on my altar. I am not pleased with you," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies, "and I will no longer accept an offering from you. For from the east to the west my name will be great among the nations. Incense and pure offerings will be offered in my name everywhere, for my name will be great among the nations," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies.
"But you are profaning it by saying that the table of the Lord is common and its offerings despicable. You also say, 'How tiresome it is.'
You turn up your nose at it," says YHWH of Heaven’s Armies, "and instead bring what is stolen, lame, or sick. You bring these things for an offering! Should I accept this from you?" asks YHWH.
"There will be harsh condemnation for the hypocrite who has a valuable male animal in his flock but vows and sacrifices something inferior to the Lord. For I am a great king," says YHWH of Heaven's Armies, "and my name is awesome among the nations" (Malachi 1:1-14).
What if we are living through an apocalypse?
Are apocalypses always the end of the world?
How are we supposed to endure apocalypses?
Apocalypses | Faith in the Days of COVID-19 | Outline | Video
What does it mean to "love your neighbor as yourself"?
What ancient and modern challenges hinder us from doing so?
How can we become the neighbor to our fellow human beings?
Love Your Neighbor | Faith in the Days of COVID-19 | Outline | Conversation
What's wrong with how we talk about "fear" and "faith"?
What does "faith over fear" look like?
Faith Over Fear | Faith in the Days of COVID-19 | Outline | Conversation
The world suffers a pandemic; Christians wonder what it's all about, how it could happen, why they were also dying, and were tempted toward selfishness.
The days of COVID-19? Perhaps; but it also well described the situation in which Cyprian of Carthage found himself in the middle of the third century. How are we, as Christians, to consider and endure pandemics?
Pandemics and the Christian Faith | Faith in the Days of COVID-19 | Outline | Video
On Mortality by Cyprian of Carthage
How and why should Christians exhort and encourage one another?
Join Gerald Johnson as he encourages us with his message.
Let Us Exhort One Another | Gerald Johnson | Video
It's a question many ask when coming to the faith or even after years of being a Christian: what must I know to be saved?
Are we saved by knowledge or by faith?
What Must I Know to Be Saved? | The Bible and Life | Outline | Video
Why should we insist on the language God has used?
What dangers might attend to how we use the language we find in Scripture?
The Value of Biblical Language | The Bible and Life | Outline | Video
How are we to properly use the Old Testament?
What are we to gain from the story of Israel, and what must we avoid?
The Use of the Old Testament | The Bible and Life | Outline | Video
How valuable is the Word of God?
How do we best honor and value the Word?
The Value of the Word of God | The Bible and Life | Outline | Video
Why will there be the judgment, and what is the judgment about?
How will the judgment take place?
The Judgment | In the End | Outline | Video
What does the Bible have to say about the "end times"?
What should we expect to see in these last days?
In the Last Days... | In the End | Outline | Video
What is apocalyptic all about?
How did Jesus and the Apostles speak of His return?
Jesus' Return | The Gospel | Outline | Video
How was Jesus made Lord and Christ?
What does Jesus' Lordship mean for us?
Jesus' Lordship | The Gospel | Outline | Video
What is resurrection about, and how was Jesus raised from the dead?
Why is it the resurrection of Jesus that changed everything? What does it mean for us?
Jesus' Resurrection | The Gospel | Outline | Video
Was Jesus not the Christ, the Son of God?
Why did Jesus have to die?
Why Jesus Died | The Gospel | Outline | Video
How did Jesus die? What exactly did He suffer?
Trigger warning: description of violent suffering and death.
How Jesus Died | The Gospel | Outline | Video
What did Jesus accomplish in His life?
What should Jesus' life mean for the Christian?
Jesus' Life | The Gospel | Outline | Video
Why did Jesus come and suffer?
Why must we suffer in Him?
Please join Jim Mikkelsen as he speaks from the Word and tells his story.
Why Jesus Came and Suffered | Jim Mikkelsen | Video
What are we to learn from the potter and the clay?
Why are the religious so easily tempted to become hardened of heart before God?
The Potter and the Clay | Jeremiah 18:1-12 | Written For Our Learning | Outline | Video
The word which came to Jeremiah from YHWH, saying, "Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words."
Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he was making a work on the wheels. And when the vessel that he made of the clay was marred in the hand of the potter, he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.
Then the word of YHWH came to me, saying, "'O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter?' saith YHWH.
'Behold, as the clay in the potter's hand, so are ye in my hand, O house of Israel. At what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up and to break down and to destroy it; if that nation, concerning which I have spoken, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them. And at what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant it; if they do that which is evil in my sight, that they obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them.
Now therefore, speak to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, saying, "Thus saith YHWH: Behold, I frame evil against you, and devise a device against you: return ye now every one from his evil way, and amend your ways and your doings."
But they say, "It is in vain; for we will walk after our own devices, and we will do every one after the stubbornness of his evil heart"'" (Jeremiah 18:1-12).
Why did the Law make provision for ritual impurity and uncleanness?
How should we treat those deemed unclean?
The Unclean People | Written For Our Learning | Outline | Video
Why did God want Israel to remember how He brought their ancestors out of Egypt?
What does it mean for us in Christ?
Epithets of God: YHWH Who Brought You From Egypt | Written For Our Learning | Outline | Video
What happened to Lot's wife?
Why did Jesus tell us to remember her?
Remember Lot's Wife | Written For Our Learning | Outline | Video
Who is the Ethiopian eunuch?
What can we gain from his example?
The Ethiopian Eunuch | Acts 8:26-40 | Examples in Faith | Outline | Video
But an angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, "Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza": the same is desert.
And he arose and went: and behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was over all her treasure, who had come to Jerusalem to worship; and he was returning and sitting in his chariot, and was reading the prophet Isaiah.
And the Spirit said unto Philip, "Go near, and join thyself to this chariot."
And Philip ran to him, and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and said, "Understandest thou what thou readest?"
And he said, "How can I, except some one shall guide me?"
And he besought Philip to come up and sit with him.
Now the passage of the Scripture which he was reading was this, "He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; And as a lamb before his shearer is dumb, So he openeth not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: His generation who shall declare? For his life is taken from the earth."
And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, "I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? Of himself, or of some other?"
And Philip opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture, preached unto him Jesus.
And as they went on the way, they came unto a certain water; and the eunuch saith, "Behold, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?"
*And Philip said, "If thou believest with all thy heart, thou mayest."
And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."*
And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they both went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him.
And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip; and the eunuch saw him no more, for he went on his way rejoicing. But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached the gospel to all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.
Who is Stephen, and how does he influence the faith in profound ways?
What can we gain from Stephen's example?
The Example of Stephen | Acts 6:1-7:60 | Examples in Faith | Outline | Video
How would you expect centurions to treat the people of God and His purposes?
What can we gain in our faith from the example of centurions in the New Testament?
Centurions | Examples in Faith | Outline | Video
What good thing must we do to obtain eternal life?
How can anyone be saved?
The Rich Young Ruler | Matthew 19:16-30 | Examples in Faith | Outline | Video
And behold, one came to him and said, "Teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"
And he said unto him, "Why askest thou me concerning that which is good? One there is who is good: but if thou wouldest enter into life, keep the commandments."
He saith unto him, "Which?"
And Jesus said, "Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honor thy father and thy mother; and, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."
The young man saith unto him, "All these things have I observed: what lack I yet?"
Jesus said unto him, "If thou wouldest be perfect, go, sell that which thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me."
But when the young man heard the saying, he went away sorrowful; for he was one that had great possessions.
And Jesus said unto his disciples, "Verily I say unto you, It is hard for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God."
And when the disciples heard it, they were astonished exceedingly, saying, "Who then can be saved?"
And Jesus looking upon them said to them, "With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."
Then answered Peter and said unto him, "Lo, we have left all, and followed thee; what then shall we have?"
And Jesus said unto them, "Verily I say unto you, that ye who have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit on the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath left houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and shall inherit eternal life. But many shall be last that are first; and first that are last."
What can we gain from Paul's greetings to Roman Christians beyond anxiety about reading such names aloud?
How did Paul celebrate and honor his sisters in Christ?
Greeting the Christians in Rome | Romans 16:3-16 | Roman Exhortations | Outline | Video
Salute Prisca and Aquila my fellow-workers in Christ Jesus, who for my life laid down their own necks; unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles: and salute the church that is in their house.
Salute Epaenetus my beloved, who is the first-fruits of Asia unto Christ. Salute Mary, who bestowed much labor on you.
Salute Andronicus and Junias, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also have been in Christ before me.
Salute Ampliatus my beloved in the Lord. Salute Urbanus our fellow-worker in Christ, and Stachys my beloved. Salute Apelles the approved in Christ.
Salute them that are of the household of Aristobulus. Salute Herodion my kinsman. Salute them of the household of Narcissus, that are in the Lord.
Salute Tryphaena and Tryphosa, who labor in the Lord. Salute Persis the beloved, who labored much in the Lord.
Salute Rufus the chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.
Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brethren that are with them.
Salute Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints that are with them.
Salute one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ salute you.
How are Christians supposed to work together even if there are disagreements about matters of no concern to God?
Why is there so much disagreement about the passages teaching us how to manage disagreement?
Understanding Romans 14 | Romans 14:1-15:7 | Roman Exhortations | Outline | Video
What is the difficulty with debt?
How can we glorify God through how we use our finances?
Owe No One Anything | Romans 13:8 | Roman Exhortations | Outline | Video
Owe no man anything, save to love one another: for he that loveth his neighbor hath fulfilled the law.
Once we have become Christians, what then?
How can we live to glorify Jesus?
A Living and Holy Sacrifice | Romans 12:1-2 | Roman Exhortations | Outline | Video
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. And be not fashioned according to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
What is spiritual warfare?
Who is our enemy? Who is not our enemy?
Who is the hero of this story?
Spiritual Warfare and Society | The Spiritual Life | Outline | Video
What is spiritual errancy?
What should we do about the error in our lives?
How can we glorify God in how we address the errors of others?
Spiritual Errancy | The Spiritual Life | Outline | Video
What is spiritual weakness?
What challenges come with spiritual weakness?
How are we all weak, and why is it important to remember our weakness?
Spiritual Weakness | The Spiritual Life | Outline | Video
What is spiritual strength?
How can we obtain it?
How are we supposed to exercise it?
Spiritual Strength | The Spiritual Life | Outline | Video
Why is health a good metaphor to assess our spiritual lives?
How is our spiritual health? Are we sustained by God's Word? Do we exercise unto godliness? Do we seek holistic wellness? In what ways are we healthy spiritually, and in what ways are we more unhealthy?
Spiritual Health | The Spiritual Life | Outline | Video
Photo by Hush Naidoo on Unsplash
What is spiritual meat?
Why is it important for Christians to grow and find sustenance in spiritual meat?
What dangers come about on account of matters of spiritual meat?
Spiritual Meat | The Spiritual Life | Outline | Video
What is spiritual milk?
Why is spiritual milk important for all Christians?
Why is spiritual milk, on its own, insufficient?
Spiritual Milk | The Spiritual Life | Outline | Video
Photo by Eiliv-Sonas Aceron on Unsplash
What should the "spiritual life" look like?
What should Christians be "for"?
The Spiritual Life | Outline | Video
Photo credit: Jonas Ferlin, Pexels.com
Why is compassion a fundamental characteristic of righteousness in the Christian life?
Why do we resist compassion?
How can we make sure we continue to feel?
Compassion | Righteousness | Outline | Video
Why, and what, did Simeon testify regarding the Christ child?
How is Jesus the Sword that reveals hearts and minds?
Simeon Testifies | Luke 2:25-35 | Heralding the King | Outline | Video
And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed unto him by the Holy Spirit, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
And he came in the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, that they might do concerning him after the custom of the law, then he received him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,
Now lettest thou thy servant depart, Lord, According to thy word, in peace;
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation / Which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples;
A light for revelation to the Gentiles / And the glory of thy people Israel."
And his father and his mother were marvelling at the things which were spoken concerning him.
And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel; and for a sign which is spoken against; yea and a sword shall pierce through thine own soul; that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed."
Why would God provide prophecy through the mouth of Zechariah, father of John?
Why does Zechariah speak as if it all has already taken place?
Zechariah Prophesies | Luke 1:67-79 | Heralding the King | Outline | Video
And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying,
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel / For he hath visited and wrought redemption for his people
And hath raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of his servant David / As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets that have been from of old
Salvation from our enemies / and from the hand of all that hate us
To show mercy towards our fathers / And to remember his holy covenant
The oath which he sware unto Abraham our father / To grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies
Should serve him without fear / In holiness and righteousness before him all our days.
Yea and thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Most High / For thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to make ready his ways
To give knowledge of salvation unto his people In the remission of their sins / Because of the tender mercy of our God
Whereby the dayspring from on high shall visit us / To shine upon them that sit in darkness and the shadow of death / To guide our feet into the way of peace.
Why would Mary sing a new psalm of praise to God?
How was Mary's song fulfilled by her Son in ways she might never have imagined?
Mary Sings | Luke 1:46-55 | Heralding the King | Outline | Video
And Mary said,
My soul doth magnify the Lord / And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
For he hath looked upon the low estate of his handmaid / For behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
For he that is mighty hath done to me great things/ And holy is his name.
And his mercy is unto generations and generations / On them that fear him.
He hath showed strength with his arm / He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their heart.
He hath put down princes from their thrones / And hath exalted them of low degree.
The hungry he hath filled with good things / And the rich he hath sent empty away.
He hath given help to Israel his servant / That he might remember mercy
As he spake unto our fathers / Toward Abraham and his seed for ever.
Jonah is mostly known on account of the big fish; yet much is to be learned from the power of this short message in the prophets. Join Adam Gyrion as he encourages us with some lessons from Jonah.
Lessons From Jonah | Adam Gyrion
What's self-control and sobriety all about?
Why do we find it so difficult to display self-control?
Why is sobriety so important in light of Jesus' return?
Self-Control and Sobriety | Fruit of the Spirit | Righteousness | Outline | Video
What should Christians do in the face of distress and trial? How should Christians treat those who are falling away?
Remain in God's Love | Jude 1:20-23 | Stumbling Blocks for God's People | Outline | Video
But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
And on some have mercy, who are in doubt; and some save, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
Hey, did you hear about so-and-so? I heard...
Why do we find gossip so appealing?
How can we avoid gossip?
The Devastating Fire | Stumbling Blocks for God's People | Outline | Video
How do we fall prey to sin just like Adam and Eve did?
How can we avoid becoming like those in the world?
Stumbling Blocks to Faith: The World | Stumbling Blocks for God's People | Outline | Video
Why does the world think little of gentleness and meekness?
How can Christians strive to display more gentleness and meekness among themselves and in the world?
Gentleness and Meekness | Fruit of the Spirit | Righteousness | Outline | Video
What happens if people no longer act as if they know God? Why are people destroyed for a lack of knowledge?
Destroyed for a Lack of Knowledge | Challenges of Faith for God's People | Outline | Video
Is it always a good thing when God gives you what you ask for? Why would the people of God want to be like the nations around them?
Give Us a King! | 1 Samuel 8:1-22 | Challenges of Faith for God's People | Outline | Video
In the days of Micah, the Levite, and the Danites, there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes. It wasn't pretty. We can learn much from their examples.
Religion According to Man | Judges 17:1-18:31 | Challenges of Faith for God's People | Outline | Video
The Christian faith demands faithfulness. Christians ought to be full of faith and dependable, faithful to covenant as God has been faithful to them. To be faithful to God demands proving faithful in life, conduct, and especially in relationship with the people of God.
Faithfulness | Righteousness | Outline | Video
God has loved us, and we are to love one another as God has loved us. When we love one another as God has loved us, people will know we are Jesus' disciples, and we can love them and proclaim the life that is in Jesus to them. It's that simple. And it doesn't need systems, institutions, or hierarchies to do so.
The Simplicity of the Gospel | Thoughts on Evangelism | Outline | Video
Jesus reigns as Lord in His Kingdom. We do well to learn about the nature of that Kingdom and how we are to advance God's purposes in the Kingdom of His Christ!
The Nature of the Kingdom | Some Thoughts on Evangelism | Outline | Video
To Jewish people the Gospel was a stumbling-block; to Greeks, foolishness. But to those who heard and obeyed the Gospel was God's power and wisdom to save. These categories remain to this day; join us as we explore them.
The Gospel and the World | 1 Corinthians 1:18-24 | Thoughts on Evangelism | Outline | Video
For the word of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us who are saved it is the power of God. For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And the discernment of the discerning will I bring to nought."
Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For seeing that in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom knew not God, it was God's good pleasure through the foolishness of the preaching to save them that believe. Seeing that Jews ask for signs, and Greeks seek after wisdom: but we preach Christ crucified, unto Jews a stumbling block, and unto Gentiles foolishness; but unto them that are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
The COVID-19 pandemic has powerfully demonstrated the need for patience. Join Dan Szeto as he explores, from Scripture, why patience is so important for all of us during this challenging time.
Patience in a Pandemic | Dan Szeto | Video
We like "good" things; we want to be known as "good" people. But what has God said about who, and what, is good? How can we pursue and embody what is good?
Goodness | Righteousness | Outline | Video
"Ministry" is strongly associated with the Christian faith. These days most think of "ministers" in terms of the "clergy," and ministries in terms of various organizations and structures. Yet what do the Scriptures teach about ministers and ministry?
Ministry | Thoughts on Evangelism | Outline | Video
God has called us to participate in the work of the Kingdom of Jesus to embody the Lord and proclaim the Gospel. Join us as we explore the work of evangelism.
The Work of Evangelism | Thoughts on Evangelism | Outline | Video
Christians have been called upon to proclaim the Gospel of the Lord Jesus. Join us as we talk about many important principles regarding telling others about Jesus.
Preaching the Gospel | Thoughts on Preaching | Outline | Video
We depend on God's kindness and mercy toward us. If we refuse to be kind and merciful, we should expect nothing but merciless judgment.
Kindness | Fruit of the Spirit | Righteousness | Outline | Video
Do you trust in God? Christians will invariably answer that they do. But what happens in the difficult moments? Do you still trust in God when His will proves hard to understand, trying to accomplish, countercultural and counterintuitive? Or will you turn aside to follow your own ways, the ways of culture, the idols of the heart, or a false picture of God in Christ?
Do You Trust in God? | Trust in Difficult Times | Outline | Video
Elijah endured difficult days. Even after great success, a setback sent him into despair. In his flight to the desert he learned much regarding God and His purposes. We do well to learn from his experience.
Elijah's Flight | Trust in Difficult Times | 1 Kings 19:1-21 | Outline | Video
The fear was palpable. Conspiracy theories blossomed. Ahaz would make a fateful short-term decision with a lot of long-term consequences for Judah. So it always goes when a people falls prey to conspiracy theories and fear.
Conspiracy! | Trust in Difficult Times | Outline | Video
For YHWH spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me not to walk in the way of this people, saying, "Say ye not, 'A conspiracy', concerning all whereof this people shall say, 'A conspiracy'; neither fear ye their fear, nor be in dread thereof.
YHWH of hosts, him shall ye sanctify; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many shall stumble thereon, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken" (Isaiah 8:11-15).
Patience, or longsuffering, is a rare virtue in the 21st century. We all seek it from others; we should show it as well.
Longsuffering | Fruit of the Spirit | Righteousness | Outline
All of us learn from sources we trust. Thus, the quality of what we know is dependent on the quality of our sources. Thus, when it comes to what God has made known in Christ, to whom are you listening?
To Whom Are You Listening? | Trust in Difficult Times | Outline | Video
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but prove the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: and every spirit that confesseth not Jesus is not of God: and this is the spirit of the antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it cometh; and now it is in the world already. Ye are of God, my little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they as of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he who is not of God heareth us not. By this we know the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error (1 John 4:1-6).
How do we know anything, and how can we have any confidence that what we think we know is true? The study of epistemology is important yet involved. Challenges abound; and yet, after all has been pursued, we end up in a place of trust. God is trustworthy, and we ought to trust in Him.
Knowledge and Trust | Trust in Difficult Times | Outline | Video
Hurricane Katrina in 2005; the Great Recession of 2008: a natural and an artificial calamity which shook many Americans to their core. We can learn much from these events and what came after them as it relates to our lives before God in Christ.
Security Amidst the Tempest | Trust in Difficult Times | Outline | Video
The question regarding how you will respond to Jesus of Nazareth comes to each and every one of us, believer or unbeliever. Join Gerald as he explores this very important question.
God gives peace through Christ; it is far more profound than the pale imitation preferred in the world. Let us seek this peace and then manifest it!
Peace | The Fruit of the Spirit | Righteousness | Outline | Video
Jesus concluded His teaching in Matthew's Gospel with a portrayal of the final judgment scene. How you treat the least among you would tell if you truly embodied God's purposes in Jesus or if you went your own way to perdition.
Judgment Before the Throne of Glory | Matthew 25:31-46 | Jesus' Parables | Sermon Outline | Video
"But when the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the angels with him, then shall he sit on the throne of his glory: and before him shall be gathered all the nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as the shepherd separateth the sheep from the goats; and he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, 'Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry, and ye gave me to eat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in; naked, and ye clothed me; I was sick, and ye visited me; I was in prison, and ye came unto me.'
Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, 'Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee? or athirst, and gave thee drink? And when saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? And when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?'
And the King shall answer and say unto them, 'Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it unto one of these my brethren, even these least, ye did it unto me.'
Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, 'Depart from me, ye cursed, into the eternal fire which is prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was hungry, and ye did not give me to eat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me not in; naked, and ye clothed me not; sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. '
Then shall they also answer, saying, 'Lord, when saw we thee hungry, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?'
Then shall he answer them, saying, 'Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not unto one of these least, ye did it not unto me.'
And these shall go away into eternal punishment: but the righteous into eternal life".
Jesus prepared His people to live in light of the judgment to come. They had received gifts; there would be an accounting regarding how they were used. We can trust in God and strive to bear fruit for Him or live in paralyzing fear. The judgment does not go well for those who bury what God gave them.
The Parable of the Talents | Matthew 25:14-30 | Jesus' Parables | Outline | Video
"For it is as when a man, going into another country, called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one; to each according to his several ability; and he went on his journey. Straightway he that received the five talents went and traded with them, and made other five talents. In like manner he also that received the two gained other two. But he that received the one went away and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. Now after a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and maketh a reckoning with them.
And he that received the five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, 'Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: lo, I have gained other five talents.'
His lord said unto him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will set thee over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord.'
And he also that received the two talents came and said, 'Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: lo, I have gained other two talents.'
His lord said unto him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will set thee over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord.'
And he also that had received the one talent came and said, 'Lord, I knew thee that thou art a hard man, reaping where thou didst not sow, and gathering where thou didst not scatter; and I was afraid, and went away and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, thou hast thine own.'
But his lord answered and said unto him, 'Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I did not scatter; thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the bankers, and at my coming I should have received back mine own with interest. Take ye away therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him that hath the ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not, even that which he hath shall be taken away. And cast ye out the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.'"
Jesus wished to reinforce to His disciples the importance of being ready for the Lord to return at any time. He thus spoke the parable of the ten virgins. Faithfulness at the beginning is good; but will we continue to be prepared for the Lord's return after some time, or will we have empty lamps when the Lord returns?
The Parable of the Ten Virgins | Matthew 25:1-13 | Jesus' Parables | Outline | Video
"Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were foolish, and five were wise. For the foolish, when they took their lamps, took no oil with them: but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. Now while the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. But at midnight there is a cry, 'Behold, the bridegroom! Come ye forth to meet him.' Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, 'Give us of your oil; for our lamps are going out.' But the wise answered, saying, 'Peradventure there will not be enough for us and you: go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.' And while they went away to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage feast: and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, 'Lord, Lord, open to us.' But he answered and said, 'Verily I say unto you, I know you not.' Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour."
Christians are to rejoice in the Lord always: in the good times, and especially in the bad times.
Rejoicing in the Lord doesn't demand plastic smiles. It's a disposition to be maintained no matter what the circumstances, for the Lord will strengthen and sustain us through all we must endure, and will glorify us beyond anything we can imagine in the end.
Rejoice! | The Fruit of the Spirit | Righteousness | Outline | Video
The chief priests and elders had challenged Jesus. He would now thoroughly provoke and instigate them with the parable of the two sons. Which "son" will we prove to be?
The Parable of the Two Sons | Matthew 21:28-32 | Jesus' Parables | Outline | Video
"But what think ye? A man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, 'Son, go work to-day in the vineyard.' And he answered and said, 'I will not': but afterward he repented himself, and went. And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, 'I go, sir': and went not. Which of the two did the will of his father?" They say, "The first." Jesus saith unto them, "Verily I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not; but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye saw it, did not even repent yourselves afterward, that ye might believe him."
Jesus knew that difficult days lay ahead for His disciples. They might well grow weary and lose spirit in praying for justice to come in the Lord's Kingdom. And so He proclaimed the parable of the persistent widow (or parable of the importunate widow, or parable of the unjust judge). God's purposes will be accomplished speedily. But will the Son of Man find faith on the Day on which He returns?
The Parable of the Persistent Widow | Luke 18:1-8 | Jesus' Parables | Outline | Video
And he spake a parable unto them to the end that they ought always to pray, and not to faint; saying,
"There was in a city a judge, who feared not God, and regarded not man: and there was a widow in that city; and she came oft unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary. And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, 'Though I fear not God, nor regard man; yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest she wear me out by her continual coming.'"
And the Lord said, "Hear what the unrighteous judge saith. And shall not God avenge his elect, that cry to him day and night, and yet he is longsuffering over them? I say unto you, that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?"
The Pharisees loved money, trusted in their standing before God, and considered themselves holy. Jesus proclaimed to them the grand reversal in the story of the rich man and Lazarus. We do well to also heed His message.
The Rich Man and Lazarus | Luke 16:19-31 | Jesus' Parables | Outline | Video
"Now there was a certain rich man, and he was clothed in purple and fine linen, faring sumptuously every day: and a certain beggar named Lazarus was laid at his gate, full of sores, and desiring to be fed with the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table; yea, even the dogs came and licked his sores. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and that he was carried away by the angels into Abraham's bosom: and the rich man also died, and was buried. And in Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
And he cried and said, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame.'
But Abraham said, 'Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things: but now here he is comforted, and thou art in anguish. And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, that they that would pass from hence to you may not be able, and that none may cross over from thence to us.'
And he said, 'I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house; for I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.'
But Abraham saith, 'They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.'
And he said, 'Nay, father Abraham: but if one go to them from the dead, they will repent.'
And he said unto him, 'If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, if one rise from the dead.'"
Days of YHWH have come before; they are dark days, full of judgment and wrath. They come from disasters natural and artificial, from internal and external threats. They were not the end of the world; but they were the end of a world. We have much to learn from them.
The Day of YHWH | Outline | Video
The world has never really thought much of humility, yet it remains the essential posture for the servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. Those who humble themselves like Jesus will be exalted with Him; those who exalt themselves will be humiliated on the final day.
Humility | Fruit of the Spirit | Righteousness | Sermon Outline
The New Testament indicates local churches were autonomous relative to one another. What does that mean? Why does it matter? How should it influence the work of the local church?
Seeking Autonomy | Association in the Faith | Outline | Video
Christians are to jointly participate in the faith. But what are the limits of that association? On what basis, and to what end?
Defining Our Spiritual Association | Association in the Faith | Sermon Outline
Jesus prayed for all believers to be one with one another as Jesus is with the Father (John 17:20-23). Those who belong to Jesus will share in that unity. But why is the world of Christendom so divided? How can Christians strive to better manifest the unity of the faith?
Seeking Biblical Unity | Association in the Faith | Sermon Outline
"All you need is love," they say. Who would disagree? But what is love? How can we know of it? Why is it often so hard?
Love | Fruit of the Spirit | Righteousness | Sermon Outline
It's not just a great political slogan. It's the Gospel truth. We are the ones for whom we have been waiting to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ and serve actively in His Kingdom!
We Are the Ones For Whom We Have Been Waiting | Sermon Outline
Paul summed up all he was saying in Romans 8:1-39: in Christ God is for us. No other created thing can separate us from His love. We may encounter difficulty and distress; God remains for us, and there is no condemnation if we remain in Christ Jesus. What other message could prove more encouraging?
God's Love | Romans 8:31-39 | Romans 8:1-39: A Most Encouraging Chapter | Sermon Outline
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not also with him freely give us all things? Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth; who is he that condemneth? It is Christ Jesus that died, yea rather, that was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or anguish, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Even as it is written,
"For thy sake we are killed all the day long; We were accounted as sheep for the slaughter."
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Righteousness: is it only about lists of things to do or not to do? Is it an insurance policy for prosperity? Is righteousness the particular provenance of a specific group? We do well to explore the textures inherent in understanding righteousness in the sight of God.
Righteousness | Righteousness | Sermon Outline
Christians have hope in Jesus for redemption and resurrection. The Spirit intercedes for them in prayer. All will work together for good for them: they are being conformed to the image of Jesus, and will obtain His glory.
Our Hope | Romans 8:24-30 | Romans 8:1-39: A Most Encouraging Chapter | Sermon Outline
For in hope were we saved: but hope that is seen is not hope: for who hopeth for that which he seeth? But if we hope for that which we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
And in like manner the Spirit also helpeth our infirmity: for we know not how to pray as we ought; but the Spirit himself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered; and he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
And we know that to them that love God all things work together for good, even to them that are called according to his purpose. For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren: and whom he foreordained, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
God has given us life in Christ through the Spirit; we are to live like it. God has adopted us as His children in Christ; we will inherit God's Kingdom with Christ if we suffer with Him. Fear not; the sufferings we endure cannot compare to the glory God will give us when we obtain the resurrection of life.
Adoption and Redemption | Romans 8:12-23 | Romans 8:1-39: A Most Encouraging Chapter | Sermon Outline
So then, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh: for if ye live after the flesh, ye must die; but if by the Spirit ye put to death the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For ye received not the spirit of bondage again unto fear; but ye received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified with him.
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed to us-ward. For the earnest expectation of the creation waiteth for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to vanity, not of its own will, but by reason of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the liberty of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only so, but ourselves also, who have the first-fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for our adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
Finally, in Christ, mankind can finally be freed from the shackles of sin and death and find life. Those who are in Christ walk according to the Spirit, and in the Spirit have life. Those who live according to the flesh will not find life.
No Condemnation | Romans 8:1-11 | Romans 8:1-39: A Most Encouraging Chapter | Sermon Outline
There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus made me free from the law of sin and of death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God, sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the ordinance of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For the mind of the flesh is death; but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace: because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be: and they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you. But if any man hath not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwelleth in you, he that raised up Christ Jesus from the dead shall give life also to your mortal bodies through his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
Differing personality types which are catalyzing great changes in politics and culture also exist within the church. Authoritarianism and nonauthoritarianism, even with all the challenges in the framework and terminology, has great explanatory power. There is room for both in the Kingdom; each needs the strengths and critiques of the other.
Authoritarianism | Authority | Sermon Outline
Kids these days, right?
OK boomer.
There's a lot of generational warfare right now. Yet no one age or generation is better or worse than another; each has its strengths and weaknesses. We all do better to use what we have in our situation to benefit one another.
Youth and Age | Life in Faith | Sermon Outline
Life has its ups and downs; so does life in faith. Experiencing discouragement does not make a person a bad Christian. It's all about how we handle discouragement: whether we give up or we persevere in faith in God in Christ.
Down in Christ | Life in Faith | Sermon Outline
Among the Lord's people we speak of "encouragement" frequently. What is "encouragement"? Why is it necessary? And how do we most effectively encourage one another in Jesus?
Encouragement | Life in Faith | Sermon Outline
Christians who seek Biblical authority for all they do will often be called "legalists." To seek authority need not make one a legalist; nevertheless, legalism and a law-based posture represent dangerous temptations for Christians as it proved to be for the Pharisees of the past. We cannot earn our salvation; we do well to maintain a faith-based posture before God in Christ!
Legalism | Authority | Sermon Outline
Most of us are not spending our time in wanton sin. But we are saturated with all kinds of good works that consume much of our time. Yet there is the better part, to sit at the feet of Jesus. How well do we prioritize the better part over the good part?
Establishing Priorities | Luke 10:38-42 | Jesus' Instruction | Sermon Outline
Now as they went on their way, he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at the Lord's feet, and heard his word.
But Martha was cumbered about much serving; and she came up to him, and said, "Lord, dost thou not care that my sister did leave me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me."
But the Lord answered and said unto her, "Martha, Martha, thou art anxious and troubled about many things: but one thing is needful: for Mary hath chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
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Jesus demands full commitment and the renunciation of all things. God gives salvation in Jesus as a free gift, but it costs us everything. To this end we all do well to count the cost to see whether we will follow the Lord and obtain life or turn aside in our own ways unto death.
Counting the Cost | Luke 14:25-33 | Jesus' Instruction | Sermon Outline
Now there went with him great multitudes: and he turned, and said unto them, "If any man cometh unto me, and hateth not his own father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. Whosoever doth not bear his own cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.
For which of you, desiring to build a tower, doth not first sit down and count the cost, whether he have wherewith to complete it? Lest haply, when he hath laid a foundation, and is not able to finish, all that behold begin to mock him, saying, 'This man began to build, and was not able to finish.' Or what king, as he goeth to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and take counsel whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and asketh conditions of peace.
So therefore whosoever he be of you that renounceth not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.
God has given authority to people as a stewardship; they are to serve those under their charge as those who will have to give an account. Yet people are sinners, and authority gets abused. Why do people abuse authority? What does abuse of authority look like? What should Christians do about the abuse of authority?
Abuse of Authority | Authority | Sermon Outline
The Christian's relationship with any nation-state is fraught with tension and difficulty: presenting oneself as an obedient subject while maintaining a greater loyalty to God and the Kingdom of Jesus. This challenge is all the more complicated in the United States of America, a representative republic. How can we most effectively serve Jesus in America?
Serving Jesus in America | Serving Jesus Today | Outline | Related video
Christians are to see themselves as in exile, but also are to do good to those around them. How do we most effectively serve Jesus in the community? His parable of the good Samaritan provides the way.
Serving Jesus in the Community | Serving Jesus Today | Outline | Related Video
And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and made trial of him, saying, "Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?"
And he said unto him, "What is written in the law? how readest thou?"
And he answering said, "'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.'"
And he said unto him, "Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live."
But he, desiring to justify himself, said unto Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
Jesus made answer and said, "A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho; and he fell among robbers, who both stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance a certain priest was going down that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And in like manner a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he was moved with compassion, and came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on them oil and wine; and he set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.
And on the morrow he took out two shillings, and gave them to the host, and said, 'Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, I, when I come back again, will repay thee.'
Which of these three, thinkest thou, proved neighbor unto him that fell among the robbers?"
And he said, "He that showed mercy on him."
And Jesus said unto him, "Go, and do thou likewise."
Jesus is to be Lord of the church. The church is to embody Jesus to the world. Do we reflect the love of God in Christ to one another and to the world? How else can the world know of Him?
Serving Jesus in His Church | Serving Jesus Today | Outline | Related video
All of us live under some kind of authority. How can we do so in ways which glorify and honor God in Christ?
Living Under Authority | Authority | Sermon Outline | Related video
Today seems all about "your best you," the cult of the individual. Yet we were not made to live alone. We were made to live in relationships with fellow human beings: in marriage, in family, among friends. We do well to serve Jesus in our relationships.
Serving Jesus in Relationships | Serving Jesus Today | Outline | Related Video
Work is a major part of human existence. Work can be good; yet work can become an idol, and lead to covetousness and great anxiety. If the Lord Jesus returned today, would He have been honored by our conduct at work, in our relationships at work, and with the fruits of the produce of our labor?
Serving Jesus at Work | Serving Jesus Today | Outline | Related Video
As discussed in lesson:
— Good Tweetman (@Goodtweet_man) August 24, 2019
Mammon: the photo! pic.twitter.com/Gf29HAE2K6
Education is a critical aspect of life in the modern world. Many assume it is a place one will lose their faith in Christ; and yet, if Jesus is the truth, and the Treasury of wisdom and knowledge, then we have nothing to fear. Students and educators do well to serve Jesus as Lord in education, and embody His character and principles in the classroom.
Serving Jesus in Education | Serving Jesus Today | Outline | Related Video
God has given to each and every person a measure of authority. All will be held accountable for what they have thought, said, felt, and done. We do well to consider the contours and nature of our empowerment by God.
Personal Empowerment | Authority | Sermon Outline
The Day of YHWH would come for Judah if they would not repent. God promised a future restoration, and an even greater promise in the latter days: He would pour out His Spirit on all His people. And so it would come to be when Jesus died, rose from the dead, ascended, and was made Lord of all.
Outpouring of the Spirit | Joel 2:1-32 | Prophetic Restoration | Sermon Outline
Jeremiah has a message of hope in the midst of the gloom. God does not abandon His covenant people, even if His covenant people abandon Him. He yet has a purpose for those whom He exiled. There will be a new covenant, with better promises, and a better hope.
The New Covenant | Jeremiah 31:1-40 | Prophetic Restoration | Sermon Outline
The Judahites had been in exile awhile. Where was YHWH and His promises? Was He asleep, or too feeble in the face of Babylon and Marduk to save? Isaiah had a message of comfort and hope if they would only remain patient and trust in YHWH.
Comfort My People | Isaiah 40:1-31 | Prophetic Restoration | Sermon Outline
It is rightly recognized that the household is the basic unit of society. Households look different today than they did in the past. God is concerned primarily with how those in the household relate to each other, and in Christ.
Authority in the Household | Authority | Sermon Outline
God chose His people not because of anything wonderful about them in particular but because of His love and covenant loyalty to their fathers so that they might be His holy and special people, devoted to Himself, and He would do mighty things for them and through them. So it was for Israel; so it is for Christians to this day.
A People Holy to YHWH | Deuteronomy 7:1-26 | Sermon Outline
We go through many trials and traumas in life. We yearn for healing and wholeness. There can be no way forward without lament.
The Power of Lament | Lament | Sermon Outline
Life is full of challenges, difficulties, trials, and moments of distress and pain. We can go on and pretend these types of things do not affect us. Or we can lament our failures, trials, and distress, and live in healthy faith.
The Necessity of Lament | Lament | Sermon Outline
In His wisdom God established elders to rule and shepherd a local church and deacons to serve at their discretion. We do well to explore what God has established regarding elders and deacons.
Elders and Deacons | Authority | Sermon Outline
After setting forth what it looks like to serve Jesus in household relationships, Paul concluded his message to the Ephesians with an important exhortation. There's a big spiritual struggle going on. We do well to stand firm in the Lord and the strength of His might!
Strong in the Lord | Ephesians 6:1-24 | Paul's Letter to the Ephesians | Sermon Outline
Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honor thy father and mother (which is the first commandment with promise), that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but nurture them in the chastening and admonition of the Lord.
Servants, be obedient unto them that according to the flesh are your masters, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; not in the way of eyeservice, as men-pleasers; but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service, as unto the Lord, and not unto men: knowing that whatsoever good thing each one doeth, the same shall he receive again from the Lord, whether he be bond or free. And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, and forbear threatening: knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no respect of persons with him.
Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world-rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Wherefore take up the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; withal taking up the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: with all prayer and supplication praying at all seasons in the Spirit, and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints, and on my behalf, that utterance may be given unto me in opening my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
But that ye also may know my affairs, how I do, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things: whom I have sent unto you for this very purpose, that ye may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts. Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ with a love incorruptible.
God has ordained government to uphold justice and given its agents power; governments are empowered by Satan to advance the purposes of the powers and principalities of this age. These statements seem contradictory, and yet are both revealed in the New Testament and operative at the same time. We do well to consider the fraught nature and challenges of the relationship between Christians and civil government.
Civil Government | Authority | Sermon Outline
Turning from sin and darkness to light; walking wisely; knowing the will of the Lord; manifesting Jesus in relationships: in so doing Christians imitate God, and walk in love, as Christ loved them.
Walking in Love | Ephesians 5:1-33 | Paul's Letter to the Ephesians | Sermon Outline
Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of a sweet smell.
But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as becometh saints; nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, or jesting, which are not befitting: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know of a surety, that no fornicator, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no man deceive you with empty words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the sons of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them; for ye were once darkness, but are now light in the Lord: walk as children of light (for the fruit of the light is in all goodness and righteousness and truth), proving what is well-pleasing unto the Lord; and have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather even reprove them; for the things which are done by them in secret it is a shame even to speak of. But all things when they are reproved are made manifest by the light: for everything that is made manifest is light. Wherefore he saith, Awake, thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall shine upon thee.
Look therefore carefully how ye walk, not as unwise, but as wise; redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunken with wine, wherein is riot, but be filled with the Spirit; speaking one to another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; subjecting yourselves one to another in the fear of Christ.
Wives, be in subjection unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, being himself the saviour of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives also be to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it; that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water with the word, that he might present the church to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. Even so ought husbands also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his own wife loveth himself: for no man ever hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as Christ also the church; because we are members of his body. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is great: but I speak in regard of Christ and of the church. Nevertheless do ye also severally love each one his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see that she fear her husband.
God has provided a powerful calling for Christians in Christ. They do well to work to preserve the unity of the Spirit, in all things working to become one with God and one another as God is one in Himself.
Preserving the Unity of the Spirit | Ephesians 4:1-32 | Paul's Letter to the Ephesians | Sermon Outline
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beseech you to walk worthily of the calling wherewith ye were called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; giving diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as also ye were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all. But unto each one of us was the grace given according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended on high, he led captivity captive, And gave gifts unto men. (Now this, He ascended, what is it but that he also descended into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, unto the work of ministering, unto the building up of the body of Christ: till we all attain unto the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a fullgrown man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: that we may be no longer children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, in craftiness, after the wiles of error; but speaking truth in love, may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, even Christ; from whom all the body fitly framed and knit together through that which every joint supplieth, according to the working in due measure of each several part, maketh the increase of the body unto the building up of itself in love.
This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye no longer walk as the Gentiles also walk, in the vanity of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardening of their heart; who being past feeling gave themselves up to lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But ye did not so learn Christ; if so be that ye heard him, and were taught in him, even as truth is in Jesus: that ye put away, as concerning your former manner of life, the old man, that waxeth corrupt after the lusts of deceit; and that ye be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new man, that after God hath been created in righteousness and holiness of truth. Wherefore, putting away falsehood, speak ye truth each one with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have whereof to give to him that hath need. Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for edifying as the need may be, that it may give grace to them that hear. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, in whom ye were sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and railing, be put away from you, with all malice: and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, even as God also in Christ forgave you.
Paul made explicit the mystery God had made known to the apostles and prophets: Gentiles are made fellow-citizens with the people of God. God has worked powerfully to accomplish His purposes in Christ, and would use that same power to advance His purposes through His people!
Revelation of the Mystery of Christ | Ephesians 3:1-21 | Paul's Letter to the Ephesians | Sermon Outline
For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus in behalf of you Gentiles,-- if so be that ye have heard of the dispensation of that grace of God which was given me to you-ward; how that by revelation was made known unto me the mystery, as I wrote before in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye can perceive my understanding in the mystery of Christ; which in other generations was not made known unto the sons of men, as it hath now been revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit; to wit, that the Gentiles are fellow-heirs, and fellow-members of the body, and fellow-partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel, whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of that grace of God which was given me according to the working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, was this grace given, to preach unto the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the dispensation of the mystery which for ages hath been hid in God who created all things; to the intent that now unto the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places might be made known through the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: in whom we have boldness and access in confidence through our faith in him. Wherefore I ask that ye may not faint at my tribulations for you, which are your glory.
For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, that ye may be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inward man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; to the end that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be strong to apprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye may be filled unto all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever. Amen.
God has spoken through the Spirit to our fathers in the prophets and now in Christ (Hebrews 1:1-3). There's a lot of profound truth in there which is all too easy to elide; we do well to unpack the authority present in the Spirit and the Word of God.
Authority, the Spirit, and the Word | Authority | Sermon Outline
On our own we ended up lost in sin and alienated from one another. God poured out His extravagant mercy and grace in Jesus, and now can be part of God's household and built up to be a holy Temple for Him in the Spirit. How humbling! How awesome! May we praise God, and do the works for which He has created us in Jesus!
Salvation and Reconciliation | Ephesians 2:1-22 | Paul's Letter to the Ephesians | Sermon Outline | Image of Stone Warning Gentiles Regarding Entrance to Temple
And you did he make alive, when ye were dead through your trespasses and sins, wherein ye once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the powers of the air, of the spirit that now worketh in the sons of disobedience; among whom we also all once lived in the lusts of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest:-- but God, being rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace have ye been saved), and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus: for by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no man should glory. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God afore prepared that we should walk in them.
Wherefore remember, that once ye, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision, in the flesh, made by hands; that ye were at that time separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus ye that once were far off are made nigh in the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who made both one, and brake down the middle wall of partition, having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; that he might create in himself of the two one new man, so making peace; and might reconcile them both in one body unto God through the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: and he came and preached peace to you that were far off, and peace to them that were nigh: for through him we both have our access in one Spirit unto the Father.
So then ye are no more strangers and sojourners, but ye are fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God, being built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief corner stone; in whom each several building, fitly framed together, groweth into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God in the Spirit.
Paul wrote to Christians to encourage them in their faith. It is hard not to be overwhelmed by how Paul spoke of every spiritual blessing which we have received from God in Christ.
Every Spiritual Blessing in Christ | Ephesians 1:1-23 | Paul's Letter to the Ephesians | Sermon Outline
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, to the saints that are at Ephesus, and the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ: even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love: having foreordained us unto adoption as sons through Jesus Christ unto himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, which he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved: in whom we have our redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, making known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he purposed in him unto a dispensation of the fulness of the times, to sum up all things in Christ, the things in the heavens, and the things upon the earth; in him, I say, in whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his will; to the end that we should be unto the praise of his glory, we who had before hoped in Christ: in whom ye also, having heard the word of the truth, the gospel of your salvation,--in whom, having also believed, ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, which is an earnest of our inheritance, unto the redemption of God's own possession, unto the praise of his glory.
For this cause I also, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which is among you, and the love which ye show toward all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him; having the eyes of your heart enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to that working of the strength of his might which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and made him to sit at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule, and authority, and power, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: and he put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
There is a legacy of white supremacy among the people of God. It did not involve everyone, but it was accepted and tolerated for all sorts of reasons, and remains to us until this day. We do well to consider it in all its discomfort if we would properly lament and learn.
White Supremacy and the People of God | The Restoration Plea in the 21st Century | Sermon Outline | Primary Sources
Almost all Christians will sign onto the premise that Jesus is Lord and Christ. But what do those terms mean? What do they demand of Christians, and of the entire world?
The Lord Jesus Christ | Authority | Sermon Outline
You have probably heard someone speak of a person or a church as "sound" or "unsound." What do we mean by those terms? What do the Scriptures mean when they use them? How should we view "soundness" in individuals and churches, and how might we avoid self-deception in these matters?
Soundness | The Restoration Plea in the 21st Century | Sermon Outline
Speak where the Bible speaks; be silent where the Bible is silent. We can understand how this slogan came about on account of the various competing sources of authority in "Christendom." Yet the premise is only as good as it is truly followed, for it proves far too easy to be silent where the Bible speaks, and speak where the Bible is silent.
Speak Where the Bible Speaks; Be Silent Where the Bible Is Silent | The Restoration Plea in the 21st Century | Sermon Outline
In a world of religious confusion the call went out to use "Bible names for Bible doctrines." The statement sounds appealing; the concerns it critiques are most valid. And yet "Bible names" could become just as problematic depending how they are used. We do well to explore how language is to be used to communicate the purposes of God.
Bible Names for Bible Doctrines | The Restoration Plea in the 21st Century | Sermon Outline
God has all authority, and is the Source of all authority (Romans 13:1). Lesson over, right? By no means! We do well to explore how God exercises His authority, and to what end.
The Authority of God the Father | Authority | Sermon Outline
"I believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God" was the expected confession of early Christians, and they were to make good on that confession in their lives. Heresies would develop; it became very easy to insist on certain formulations of the faith in order to be seen as faithful and orthodox. Creeds and creedalism have defined "Christendom" for the better part of 1700 years; let us explore why we do better to insist on no creed but Christ.
No Creed But Christ | The Restoration Plea in the 21st Century | Sermon Outline
A Study of Denominations: Creeds
Jesus did not come and die to create a fractured, denominated kaleidoscope of organizations. He came to save people from their sins. The path of Christ is not found in a denomination or an anti-denomination; we must transcend denominationalism entirely if we would become one with God and His people.
Undenominational Christianity | The Restoration Plea in the 21st Century | Sermon Outline
Thus saith YHWH, "Stand ye in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way; and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls: but they said, 'We will not walk therein'" (Jeremiah 6:16).
The call has been made to "seek the old paths" of the Gospel of Jesus and His Kingdom as set forth by the Apostles and their associates in the New Testament. Does this call still hold value in the 21st century? What shall we make of it? How shall we grapple with our heritage in Christ?
Seek the Old Paths | The Restoration Plea in the 21st Century | Sermon Outline
The Western world is in a crisis of authority. We are skeptical of all authority except our own. It has not always been so, but the way authority has been used and abused is an age old story. A way out of the crisis exists, but it is surprising and not very easy.
A Crisis of Authority | Authority | Sermon Outline
Our God is a consuming fire; it is dangerous to draw near to Him. How could we trust to venture to draw near if it were not for our confidence in God's covenant loyalty? God mediates His relationships with people through covenants; we do well to understand what covenant is all about.
Covenant in the Bible | Community and Covenant | Sermon Outline
We hear a lot about declining church attendance and the exodus of young people from the church. Many reasons exist for such trends, but one in particular is well-illustrated by an interesting and surprising contrast. Community proves important: if many do not feel any pain about what the relationships are leaving or losing when departing from the faith, why would we be surprised to find them departing?
The Importance of Community | Community and Covenant | Sermon Outline
Much is riding on our ability to properly discern what God would have us accomplish in Jesus. We do well to strive to diligently interpret and apply the New Testament; join us as we explore how we may best do so.
Interpreting the Bible: New Testament Interpretation | The Bible | Sermon Outline
Jesus concluded His discourse with His disciples with a prayer to His Father. He entrusted His disciples and all Christians to His Father's care; He had made the Father known so that they could go and make God's purposes known to all.
The High Priestly Prayer | John 17:1-26 | Jesus' Final Discourse | Sermon Outline
These things spake Jesus; and lifting up his eyes to heaven, he said, "Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that the Son may glorify thee: even as thou gavest him authority over all flesh, that to all whom thou hast given him, he should give eternal life. And this is life eternal, that they should know thee the only true God, and him whom thou didst send, even Jesus Christ. I glorified thee on the earth, having accomplished the work which thou hast given me to do. And now, Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. I manifested thy name unto the men whom thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them to me; and they have kept thy word. Now they know that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are from thee: for the words which thou gavest me I have given unto them; and they received them, and knew of a truth that I came forth from thee, and they believed that thou didst send me. I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for those whom thou hast given me; for they are thine: and all things that are mine are thine, and thine are mine: and I am glorified in them. And I am no more in the world, and these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep them in thy name which thou hast given me, that they may be one, even as we are. While I was with them, I kept them in thy name which thou hast given me: and I guarded them, and not one of them perished, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. But now I come to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy made full in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them from the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth: thy word is truth. As thou didst send me into the world, even so sent I them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth.
Neither for these only do I pray, but for them also that believe on me through their word; that they may all be one; even as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be in us: that the world may believe that thou didst send me. And the glory which thou hast given me I have given unto them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be perfected into one; that the world may know that thou didst send me, and lovedst them, even as thou lovedst me.
Father, I desire that they also whom thou hast given me be with me where I am, that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world knew thee not, but I knew thee; and these knew that thou didst send me; and I made known unto them thy name, and will make it known; that the love wherewith thou lovedst me may be in them, and I in them."
In only a little while, Jesus would go. There would be trial in the world, but Jesus had the victory, and in Him the disciples would too.
Tribulation and Victory | John 16:16-33 | Jesus' Final Discourse | Sermon Outline
"A little while, and ye behold me no more; and again a little while, and ye shall see me."
Some of his disciples therefore said one to another, "What is this that he saith unto us, 'A little while, and ye behold me not; and again a little while, and ye shall see me': and, 'Because I go to the Father?'" They said therefore, "What is this that he saith, 'A little while?' We know not what he saith."
Jesus perceived that they were desirous to ask him, and he said unto them, "Do ye inquire among yourselves concerning this, that I said, A little while, and ye behold me not, and again a little while, and ye shall see me? Verily, verily, I say unto you, that ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but when she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for the joy that a man is born into the world. And ye therefore now have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no one taketh away from you. And in that day ye shall ask me no question. Verily, verily, I say unto you, if ye shall ask anything of the Father, he will give it you in my name. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be made full.
These things have I spoken unto you in dark sayings: the hour cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in dark sayings, but shall tell you plainly of the Father. In that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you; for the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came forth from the Father. I came out from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go unto the Father. His disciples say, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no dark saying. Now know we that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God. Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe? Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye may have peace. In the world ye have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
Jesus encountered opposition and hostility unto death for manifesting God's character to the world and upholding truth and righteousness. He wished to prepare His disciples to prepare for the same. The potential is always there; we must always be ready to bear witness to Jesus in word and life even unto death.
The Hatred of the World | John 15:18-16:3 | Jesus' Final Discourse | Sermon Outline
"If the world hateth you, ye know that it hath hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love its own: but because ye are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, A servant is not greater than his lord. If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me. If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no excuse for their sin. He that hateth me hateth my Father also. If I had not done among them the works which none other did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. But this cometh to pass, that the word may be fulfilled that is written in their law, 'They hated me without a cause.'
But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall bear witness of me: and ye also bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.
These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be caused to stumble. They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the hour cometh, that whosoever killeth you shall think that he offereth service unto God. And these things will they do, because they have not known the Father, nor me."
The Old Testament is a wealth of treasure for the Christian if he or she is willing to explore it. We do well to understand how to best handle the Old Testament and its interpretation.
Interpreting the Bible: Old Testament Interpretation | The Bible | Sermon Outline
Jesus had much to say to the disciples regarding their relationship with God and their dependence on Him. And so He turned to the grape vine for illustration and inspiration. It's now perhaps one of the most famous illustrations of Jesus, and for good reason. We do well to explore Jesus' discourse on the vine and its branches.
The Vine | John 15:1-17 | Jesus' Final Discourse | Sermon Outline
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he taketh it away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he cleanseth it, that it may bear more fruit. Already ye are clean because of the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; so neither can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit: for apart from me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatsoever ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; and so shall ye be my disciples.
Even as the Father hath loved me, I also have loved you: abide ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full. This is my commandment, that ye love one another, even as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do the things which I command you. No longer do I call you servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I heard from my Father, I have made known unto you. Ye did not choose me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that ye should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye may love one another."
Jesus was leaving, yes, but would not abandon His disciples as orphans. They had no reason to fear; the Comforter would come. We have much to gain from what Jesus told the disciples.
The Comforter | John 14:15-31, 16:4-15 | Jesus' Final Discourse | Sermon Outline
"If ye love me, ye will keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may be with you for ever, even the Spirit of truth: whom the world cannot receive; for it beholdeth him not, neither knoweth him: ye know him; for he abideth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you desolate: I come unto you. Yet a little while, and the world beholdeth me no more; but ye behold me: because I live, ye shall live also. In that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself unto him.
Judas (not Iscariot) saith unto him, Lord, what is come to pass that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my word: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my words: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's who sent me. These things have I spoken unto you, while yet abiding with you. But the Comforter, even the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said unto you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful. Ye heard how I said to you, I go away, and I come unto you. If ye loved me, ye would have rejoiced, because I go unto the Father: for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe. I will no more speak much with you, for the prince of the world cometh: and he hath nothing in me; but that the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do.
Arise, let us go hence."
"But these things have I spoken unto you, that when their hour is come, ye may remember them, how that I told you. And these things I said not unto you from the beginning, because I was with you. But now I go unto him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, 'Whither goest thou?' But because I have spoken these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart. Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is expedient for you that I go away; for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I go, I will send him unto you. And he, when he is come, will convict the world in respect of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to the Father, and ye behold me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world hath been judged. I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he shall guide you into all the truth: for he shall not speak from himself; but what things soever he shall hear, these shall he speak: and he shall declare unto you the things that are to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall take of mine, and shall declare it unto you. All things whatsoever the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he taketh of mine, and shall declare it unto you."
Jesus had one last chance to encourage His disciples before His death and He took full advantage of the situation. He wished to encourage His disciples with the most important message: love one another as He loved them, for He is the embodiment of the character of God, the way of our salvation, and would die so we could be reconciled to God and abide in His household.
The Way, the Truth, and the Life | John 13:31-14:14 | Jesus' Final Discourse | Sermon Outline
When therefore he was gone out, Jesus saith, "Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him; and God shall glorify him in himself, and straightway shall he glorify him. Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say unto you. A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; even as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."
Simon Peter saith unto him, "Lord, whither goest thou?"
Jesus answered, "Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow afterwards."
Peter saith unto him, "Lord, why cannot I follow thee even now? I will lay down my life for thee."
Jesus answereth, "Wilt thou lay down thy life for me? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice."
Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I come again, and will receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go, ye know the way."
Thomas saith unto him, "Lord, we know not whither thou goest; how know we the way?"
Jesus saith unto him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye would have known my Father also: from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him."
Philip saith unto him, "Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us."
Jesus saith unto him, "Have I been so long time with you, and dost thou not know me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; how sayest thou, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I say unto you I speak not from myself: but the Father abiding in me doeth his works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto the Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name, that will I do."
The Bible can be understood; God has communicated His purposes so that people can come to a knowledge of the truth and be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). God communicated according to human conventions of language, including in both literal and figurative ways. We do well to explore literal and figurative language in Scripture.
Interpreting the Bible: Literal and Figurative Language | The Bible | Sermon Outline
When most people in the world think of a "church," they think of a building. The Greek word ekklesia, which is most often translated as "church" in the Bible, never refers to a building, but always a group of people. The church is not a building: this is a message which requires proclamation to the world and reinforcement among the people of God.
The Church Is Not a Building | Musings on the Local Church | Sermon Outline
(Sermon, ironically, delivered in a meeting of the church in a home since the Senior Center was unavailable that day)
Christians in a local church are to meet together to encourage one another (Hebrews 10:25); local churches therefore must give some thought to facilities. But what kind of facilities are necessary for the church to do its work? Such has proven to be a contentious and divisive matter, sadly. We do well to search the Scriptures and gain principles from its pages.
The Local Church and Facilities | Musings on the Local Church | Sermon Outline
God has an eternal purpose in Christ for the church. The local church has its place in that purpose; we do well to explore it and manifest it to the glory of God.
The Local Church in God's Purpose | Musings on the Local Church | Sermon Outline
God has communicated His will and purposes through the prophets and Apostles; they recorded those messages in the Old and New Testaments (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Hebrews 1:1). God communicated His purposes to be understood: good guidelines exist which help us properly make sense of what God has said. We do well to explore these guidelines for interpretation, known as basic hermeneutics.
Interpreting the Bible: Basic Hermeneutics | The Bible | Sermon Outline
Israel had its choice: would they follow the Messiah God had sent them and seek after God's purposes? Or would they raise up for themselves a "messiah" of their own desires and seek after what they expected the Messiah to do? In 30, and again in 66-70, and finally again in 132, Israel rejected Jesus the Christ and His way and raised up for themselves messiahs in their own image. The Day of YHWH came for Israel yet again; all was destroyed; Judaism would never be the same. Jesus, the Son of Man, was vindicated.
The Day of YHWH in 70 | The Day of YHWH | Sermon Outline
And Pilate called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people, and said unto them, "Ye brought unto me this man, as one that perverteth the people: and behold, I, having examined him before you, found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him: no, nor yet Herod: for he sent him back unto us; and behold, nothing worthy of death hath been done by him. I will therefore chastise him, and release him."
Now he must needs release unto them at the feast one prisoner.
But they cried out all together, saying, "Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas":-- one who for a certain insurrection made in the city, and for murder, was cast into prison.
And Pilate spake unto them again, desiring to release Jesus; but they shouted, saying, "Crucify, crucify him."
And he said unto them the third time, "Why, what evil hath this man done? I have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him and release him."
But they were urgent with loud voices, asking that he might be crucified. And their voices prevailed. And Pilate gave sentence that what they asked for should be done. And he released him that for insurrection and murder had been cast into prison, whom they asked for; but Jesus he delivered up to their will.
And when they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon of Cyrene, coming from the country, and laid on him the cross, to bear it after Jesus. And there followed him a great multitude of the people, and of women who bewailed and lamented him.
But Jesus turning unto them said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. For behold, the days are coming, in which they shall say, 'Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the breasts that never gave suck. Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.' For if they do these things in the green tree, what shall be done in the dry?" (Luke 23:13-31).
The prophets warned Judah. Israel served as an example. Yet Judah persisted in idolatry and ruinous foreign policy. The Day of YHWH came for them in 586 BCE. It was a destructive end. But it also proved to be a new beginning.
The Day of YHWH in 586 | The Day of YHWH | Sermon Outline
In 753 BCE, all seemed well in the northern Kingdom of Israel: the integrity of their territory was restored, the land was at peace, the people prospered.
Forty years later it was all gone.
What happened? The Day of YHWH in 722. How did it go down, and what can we as Christians learn from it?
The Day of YHWH in 722 | The Day of YHWH | Sermon Outline
Anyone who would read the Bible in English is confronted with an alphabet soup of translations and versions. What are the differences among them? What Bibles should we read? Today we explore the differences among versions based in translation of the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek.
Bible Versions and Differences in Translation | The Bible | Sermon Outline
Satan; the Devil; the Evil One. From beginning to end of the New Testament he is the Adversary of mankind. We learn much about his temptations and deceptions in the New Testament, as well as how to stand firm against his devices.
Satan in the New Testament | Satan | Sermon Outline
The very name evokes fear, pain, frustration, and misery: Satan.
Many have many views and ideas about who Satan is and what he is about. From the Old Testament we get a picture of Satan not as familiar to many, but unfortunately all too real in temptation.
Satan in the Old Testament | Satan | Sermon Outline
The reader of the Bible in English is confronted with an alphabet soup of Bible translations and versions. We begin to explore the differences in Bible versions by exploring the differences which sometimes exists in the base Greek texts.
Bible Versions and Differences in Texts | The Bible | Sermon Outline
Jerusalem was in disrepair, lowly and humiliated. Nehemiah had a heart to restore its standing. God would support and sustain them; the people needed to work; they needed to be encouraged. And they needed each other.
To the Work! | Nehemiah 4:1-23 | Experiences of God's People | Sermon Outline
A deceived king; a blasphemous decree. Daniel proved faithful; Daniel was vindicated. But what is the story of Daniel and the lion's den all about? What ought the people of God learn from the experience?
Daniel in the Lion's Den | Daniel 6:1-28 | Experiences of God's People | Sermon Outline
The Old Testament represents the majority of our Bibles. Where did it come from? Can we have confidence that it accurately reflects God's words and work among the Israelites?
The Old Testament Text | The Bible | Sermon Outline
Christians in America enjoy many blessings and opportunities, but America also provides temptations toward idolatry. Join Adam as he warns against some specifically American forms of idolatry.
Israel had followed the customs of the nations. To Elijah, they limped between two opinions. Israel could not waver; they had to choose whom they would serve.
Follow YHWH or Baal | 1 Kings 18:20-40 | Experiences of God's People | Sermon Outline
So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets together unto mount Carmel.
And Elijah came near unto all the people, and said, "How long go ye limping between the two sides? if YHWH be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him." And the people answered him not a word. Then said Elijah unto the people, "I, even I only, am left a prophet of YHWH; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men. Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on the wood, and put no fire under; and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on the wood, and put no fire under. And call ye on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of YHWH; and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God." And all the people answered and said, "It is well spoken."
And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal, "Choose you one bullock for yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of your god, but put no fire under."
And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, "O Baal, hear us."
But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they leaped about the altar which was made. And it came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, "Cry aloud; for he is a god: either he is musing, or he is gone aside, or he is on a journey, or peradventure he sleepeth and must be awaked." And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lances, till the blood gushed out upon them. And it was so, when midday was past, that they prophesied until the time of the offering of the evening oblation; but there was neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.
And Elijah said unto all the people, "Come near unto me;" and all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of YHWH that was thrown down. And Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, unto whom the word of YHWH came, saying, "Israel shall be thy name." And with the stones he built an altar in the name of YHWH; and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed. And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in pieces, and laid it on the wood. And he said, "Fill four jars with water, and pour it on the burnt-offering, and on the wood." And he said, "Do it the second time;" and they did it the second time. And he said, "Do it the third time;" and they did it the third time. And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water. And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening oblation, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, "O YHWH, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word. Hear me, O YHWH, hear me, that this people may know that thou, YHWH, art God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again." Then the fire of YHWH fell, and consumed the burnt-offering, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, "YHWH, he is God; YHWH, he is God."
And Elijah said unto them, "Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape."
And they took them; and Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon, and slew them there.
In the middle of many anxieties and trials, Jacob was called upon to wrestle all night. He would be then known as Israel, for he strove with man and God and prevailed. Ever since the people of God have been known as those who wrestle with God.
Jacob to Israel: Wrestling With God | Genesis 32:22-32 | Sermon Outline
And [Jacob] rose up that night, and took his two wives, and his two handmaids, and his eleven children, and passed over the ford of the Jabbok. And he took them, and sent them over the stream, and sent over that which he had.
And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day. And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob's thigh was strained, as he wrestled with him.
And he said, "Let me go, for the day breaketh."
And he said, "I will not let thee go, except thou bless me."
And he said unto him, "What is thy name?"
And he said, "Jacob."
And he said, "Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for thou hast striven with God and with men, and hast prevailed."
And Jacob asked him, and said, "Tell me, I pray thee, thy name."
And he said, "Wherefore is it that thou dost ask after my name?" And he blessed him there.
And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for, said he, "I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved."
And the sun rose upon him as he passed over Penuel, and he limped upon his thigh. Therefore the children of Israel eat not the sinew of the hip which is upon the hollow of the thigh, unto this day: because he touched the hollow of Jacob's thigh in the sinew of the hip.
Our understanding of what God has done in Jesus of Nazareth derives from what is made known in the New Testament. Many would cast aspersions on the quality and accuracy of the New Testament we have in English translations today. What shall we say to these things? Can we have confidence in the New Testament as the full, complete revelation of what God has made known in Jesus, and that our New Testaments accurately reflect the texts as written so long ago?
The New Testament Text | The Bible | Sermon Outline
We are hearing all sorts of news about abuse, assault, and harassment allegations now brought to light. #MeToo and #ChurchToo movements have exposed the prevalence of such behaviors, even unfortunately among those who would profess the Lord Jesus. What do the Scriptures teach about abuse, assault, and harassment, and how should Christians respond to such claims and behaviors?
Abuse, Assault, and Harassment | Sermon Outline
Paul would have the Colossian Christians follow the higher way of Jesus in the household and among outsiders, walking in wisdom, glorifying Jesus in all they did. We do well to learn and do likewise.
Walking in Wisdom | Colossians 3:18-4:18 | Sermon Outline
Wives, be in subjection to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing in the Lord. Fathers, provoke not your children, that they be not discouraged. Servants, obey in all things them that are your masters according to the flesh; not with eye-service, as men-pleasers, but in singleness of heart, fearing the Lord: whatsoever ye do, work heartily, as unto the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that from the Lord ye shall receive the recompense of the inheritance: ye serve the Lord Christ. For he that doeth wrong shall receive again for the wrong that he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. Masters, render unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.
Continue stedfastly in prayer, watching therein with thanksgiving; withal praying for us also, that God may open unto us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds; that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer each one.
All my affairs shall Tychicus make known unto you, the beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow-servant in the Lord: whom I have sent unto you for this very purpose, that ye may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts; together with Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things that are done here.
Aristarchus my fellow-prisoner saluteth you, and Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (touching whom ye received commandments; if he come unto you, receive him), and Jesus that is called Justus, who are of the circumcision: these only are my fellow-workers unto the kingdom of God, men that have been a comfort unto me. Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, saluteth you, always striving for you in his prayers, that ye may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God. For I bear him witness, that he hath much labor for you, and for them in Laodicea, and for them in Hierapolis. Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas salute you.
Salute the brethren that are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church that is in their house. And when this epistle hath been read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye also read the epistle from Laodicea. And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.
The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you.
Paul has encouraged the Colossian Christians to root themselves in Jesus, the image of the invisible God, the treasury of all wisdom and knowledge. If they want to be alive in Christ, they must follow His higher way, taking off the worldly lusts and sins which lead to death, and to put on righteousness and its fruit.
The Higher Way | Colossians 3:1-17 | Sermon Outline
If then ye were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are upon the earth. For ye died, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall be manifested, then shall ye also with him be manifested in glory.
Put to death therefore your members which are upon the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry; for which things' sake cometh the wrath of God upon the sons of disobedience: wherein ye also once walked, when ye lived in these things; but now do ye also put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, railing, shameful speaking out of your mouth: lie not one to another; seeing that ye have put off the old man with his doings, and have put on the new man, that is being renewed unto knowledge after the image of him that created him: where there cannot be Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, bondman, freeman; but Christ is all, and in all.
Put on therefore, as God's elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving each other, if any man have a complaint against any; even as the Lord forgave you, so also do ye: and above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to the which also ye were called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts unto God. And whatsoever ye do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
The world is full of all sorts of religious claims. Christians still insist on using the Bible as their spiritual standard. How can that be?
The Bible: Our Spiritual Standard | The Bible | Sermon Outline
Paul made his concern for the Colossian Christians clear: plunderers were about, seeking to rob them of their prized hope. They must be skeptical of philosophical claims based in the basic elements of the world; they must resist the imposition of Jewish customs; they must turn away from arrogant mysticism; they need to be careful about ascetic strictures. They did well to be grounded in Christ, in whom the fullness of God dwells in bodily form.
The Danger of Plunderers | Colossians 2:8-23 | Sermon Outline
Take heed lest there shall be any one that maketh spoil of you through his philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ: for in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and in him ye are made full, who is the head of all principality and power: in whom ye were also circumcised with a circumcision not made with hands, in the putting off of the body of the flesh, in the circumcision of Christ; having been buried with him in baptism, wherein ye were also raised with him through faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.
And you, being dead through your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, you, I say, did he make alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses; having blotted out the bond written in ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us: and he hath taken it out of the way, nailing it to the cross; having despoiled the principalities and the powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.
Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of a feast day or a new moon or a sabbath day: which are a shadow of the things to come; but the body is Christ's. Let no man rob you of your prize by a voluntary humility and worshipping of the angels, dwelling in the things which he hath seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding fast the Head, from whom all the body, being supplied and knit together through the joints and bands, increaseth with the increase of God.
If ye died with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, do ye subject yourselves to ordinances, Handle not, nor taste, nor touch (all which things are to perish with the using), after the precepts and doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will-worship, and humility, and severity to the body; but are not of any value against the indulgence of the flesh.
Paul had never met the Colossian Christians; he nevertheless sought to strengthen them in their faith and assurance in Jesus. Jesus is the treasure of all knowledge and wisdom; we have no need to look elsewhere.
Striving for Edification | Colossians 1:24-2:7 | Sermon Outline
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and fill up on my part that which is lacking of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church; whereof I was made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which was given me to you-ward, to fulfil the word of God, even the mystery which hath been hid for ages and generations: but now hath it been manifested to his saints, to whom God was pleased to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we proclaim, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ; whereunto I labor also, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
For I would have you know how greatly I strive for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts may be comforted, they being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, that they may know the mystery of God, even Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge hidden. This I say, that no one may delude you with persuasiveness of speech. For though I am absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.
As therefore ye received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and builded up in him, and established in your faith, even as ye were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.
Paul had never met the Colossian Christians but had heard good things about them and their faith. He wrote to encourage them to stand firm in their faith, for they had believed in the Gospel of the glorious Christ, Jesus of Nazareth, the image of the invisible God, who secured redemption for the whole cosmos.
The Glorious Christ | Colossians 1:1-23 | Sermon Outline
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ that are at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father.
We give thanks to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have toward all the saints, because of the hope which is laid up for you in the heavens, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel, which is come unto you; even as it is also in all the world bearing fruit and increasing, as it doth in you also, since the day ye heard and knew the grace of God in truth; even as ye learned of Epaphras our beloved fellow-servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.
For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray and make request for you, that ye may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, to walk worthily of the Lord unto all pleasing, bearing fruit in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to the might of his glory, unto all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks unto the Father, who made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; who delivered us out of the power of darkness, and translated us into the kingdom of the Son of his love; in whom we have our redemption, the forgiveness of our sins:
who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; for in him were all things created, in the heavens and upon the earth, things visible and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and unto him; and he is before all things, and in him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it was the good pleasure of the Father that in him should all the fulness dwell; and through him to reconcile all things unto himself, having made peace through the blood of his cross; through him, I say, whether things upon the earth, or things in the heavens.
And you, being in time past alienated and enemies in your mind in your evil works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and without blemish and unreproveable before him: if so be that ye continue in the faith, grounded and stedfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel which ye heard, which was preached in all creation under heaven; whereof I Paul was made a minister.
Every scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness: that the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Christians believe in "plenary inspiration" of the Bible: the Bible is complete, and the Bible is inspired of God. What does it mean to believe in the inspiration of the Bible? What, exactly, is inspired, and what does that look like when reading and interpreting the text?
The Nature of Inspiration | The Bible | Sermon Outline
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and for ever. Amen.
Peter provided what he expected to be his final exhortation; he left a message ringing in the ears of all Christians: grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus. Growing in grace means dispensing with Neo-Stoic moralism and trusting in God and His strength; growing in knowledge goes well beyond grasping facts intellectually to something far more profound. We can choose grace in faith based in knowledge of Christ's love or we can choose self-righteousness in moralism obsessed with rules; we cannot choose both!
Growing in the Grace and Knowledge of Jesus | 2 Peter 3:18 | Sermon Outline
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenlies (Ephesians 1:3).
People are quite interested in the heavenly realm; the New Testament speaks a little regarding "the heavenlies" and the beings which inhabit it. Join us as we explore what is made known about "the heavenlies" and what we are to do about it.
The Heavenlies | The Heavenly Realm | Sermon Outlines
It's a term we hear all over the place anymore. People are trying to be "spiritual" but not "religious." Even as people seem to question Christianity, "spirituality" remains popular. But what is "spiritual"? To what does it actually refer? Is it always good, healthy, or positive?
What Is "Spiritual"? | The Heavenly Realm | Sermon Outline
Christians are known as people who are supposed to read the Bible and do the things it says to do. But why is that? On what basis is the Bible authoritative for Christianity?
The Authority of the Bible | The Bible | Sermon Outline
From that time began Jesus to preach, and to say, "Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 4:17).
The Kingdom of Heaven is a crucial element of the preaching and work of the Lord Jesus. But what is the Kingdom? Who is in it? Where is it? How is it manifest? Join us as we explore the Kingdom of Heaven in Scripture.
The Kingdom of Heaven | The Heavenly Realm | Sermon Outline
People are aware of the idea of heaven: most people think of it as a place where they will go when they die. There are many ideas out there about the relationship between heaven and the afterlife: what do the Scriptures say?
Heaven and the Afterlife | The Heavenly Realm | Sermon Outline
Christianity seems to have a lot to do with heaven. A lot of people have a lot of ideas about what heaven is; some of them are based on the Bible, but many come from folk religion and other sources. What can be known about heaven from Scripture?
Heaven | The Heavenly Realm | Sermon Outline
The Bible is strongly associated with Judaism and Christianity; people expect Christians to know about the Bible and to be attempting to live by its principles. But what is the Bible and its message?
The Message of the Bible | The Bible | Sermon Outline
Ye yourselves know that these hands ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring ye ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:34-35).
Christians do well to exemplify a giving attitude in feeling and practice. Yet if a Christian would give, another must receive; if we are to give to one another, we must also prove willing to receive from one another. We must be on guard against covetousness; nevertheless, pride and American mythology often influence us away from receiving from others as we ought.
Receiving | Giving and Receiving | Sermon Outline
Ye yourselves know that these hands ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring ye ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:34-35).
Paul's recorded saying of Jesus is consistent with everything He taught and practiced; Christians are to be people who give. Why is giving so fundamental to Christianity? How has it become so countercultural?
Giving | Giving and Receiving | Sermon Outline
It's a savage irony: the resurrection is the fundamental of the Christian faith according to the Apostles and early Christians, yet in the 21st century, it has become quite poorly understood and rarely discussed. Everything about Christianity depends on the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, Jesus' continual Lordship in the resurrection body, and the hope of bodily resurrection for the believer.
What Is the Resurrection? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
Judges 7:5 and 1 Samuel 20:19 speak of "a mother in Israel." Deborah's administration provided benefits to the people, but it is the image of a city as a mother that persists. Jerusalem of old nourished and sustained its inhabitants in community; new Jerusalem, the church, ought to serve the same function!
A Mother in Israel | God's Faithful People | Sermon Outline
The Psalmist spoke of Moses as one who "stood in the breach" before YHWH on behalf of Israel (Psalm 106:23); YHWH sought a man who would stand in the breach before Him in the days of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 22:30). Why is it so important to have one stand in the breach?
One Who Stands in the Breach | God's Faithful People | Sermon Outline
God rejected Saul and sought a man after His own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). That man would be David. How was David a man after God's own heart? How can we learn to be like him and be men and women after God's own heart?
A Man After God's Own Heart | God's Faithful People | Sermon Outline
The question of what happens to us after we die has haunted mankind for millennia. Most recognize that there will be some sort of life after death. But what does life after death look like according to what God has made known in Scripture?
What Is the Afterlife? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
The Western world has become disenchanted, expelling God from His own creation. The result has proven less than pleasant. God is the God of the living, not the dead; the universe is not a lifeless void with us as a cosmic accident, but full of the glory of God with humans as His crowning creation.
Disenchantment | Sermon Outline
Life "under the sun" seems to be all about getting and maintaining power for one's own benefit. The Lord Jesus insisted on the way of service and suffering to overcome the powers and principalities over this present darkness. The church has no business lusting for power; it must follow the path of its Lord.
Is Life All About Power? | What Is Life All About? | Sermon Outline
For many, life is all about the here and now: the most recent news cycle, the belief that the present is superior to the past, and how this life is all there is to existence. The world lives by this ethic and acts accordingly. It cannot be so among the people of God.
Is Life All About the Here and Now? | What Is Life All About? | Sermon Outline
"Church" hasn't enjoyed the best public relations recently. Many think they can do better without it. But what is the church, and what is its place in God's purposes?
What Is the Church? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
The family was the basic unit of civilization, highly lauded and esteemed. The family may be under attack these days but the temptation of its idolization still exists. Is life all about family? What do the Scriptures say?
Is Life All About Family? | What Is Life All About? | Sermon Outline
Western society is all about #1: me. Rampant individualism is the name of the game today in society and all too often in religion. But is life all about me? What is God's purpose for me in Christ?
Is Life All About Me? | What Is Life All About? | Sermon Outline
Work more; work harder; always be busy. Such seems to be the national mantra of America. But is life all about work? How can we live in a healthy way which glorifies God?
Is Life All About Work? | What Is Life All About? | Sermon Outline
Everyone has heard of sin. Most people recognize they're guilty of sin. But is it a big deal? Is it just a way of making people feel bad about themselves? Or is sin really a major problem?
What Is Sin? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
Blessed are the poor? Turn the other cheek? Love your enemies? Suffer without responding in kind? To the world, the life God expects Christians to live is sheer foolishness. But to those who are being saved it is the power of God.
The Folly of the Christian Life | The Folly of God in Christ | Sermon Outline
If there's any guarantee in life, this is it: dead people stay dead. Yet Christians proclaim Jesus of Nazareth as the Crucified but Risen Christ. The world has always found that claim ridiculous and foolish; but for Christians it is the anchor and hope of life which changes everything.
The Folly of the Resurrection | The Folly of God in Christ | Sermon Outline
"The times of ignorance therefore God overlooked; but now he commandeth men that they should all everywhere repent: inasmuch as he hath appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by the man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead." Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked; but others said, We will hear thee concerning this yet again (Acts 17:30-32).
Christ and Him crucified? Sheer folly to the world. Yet, in Christ, God confounds the wisdom of the world. Wisdom is foolishness; weakness is strength; suffering is victory. The cross is the power of God for those being saved!
The Folly of the Crucifixion | The Folly of God in Christ | Sermon Outline
For the word of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us who are saved it is the power of God.
For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning will I bring to nought."
Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For seeing that in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom knew not God, it was God's good pleasure through the foolishness of the preaching to save them that believe. Seeing that Jews ask for signs, and Greeks seek after wisdom: but we preach Christ crucified, unto Jews a stumblingblock, and unto Gentiles foolishness; but unto them that are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men. For behold your calling, brethren, that not many wise after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: but God chose the foolish things of the world, that he might put to shame them that are wise; and God chose the weak things of the world, that he might put to shame the things that are strong; and the base things of the world, and the things that are despised, did God choose, yea and the things that are not, that he might bring to nought the things that are: that no flesh should glory before God. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who was made unto us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption:
that, according as it is written, "He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 1:18-31).
Everything seemed "righteous" in the 1980s; "righteousness" is often associated with a certain type of very strict people. What is righteousness really all about? What is righteousness? Who can be righteous, and how?
What Is Righteousness? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
YHWH's indictment was strong, as was His plea for His people to repent. They refused; they were destroyed or exiled. YHWH would nevertheless restore. The message was recorded for our encouragement to not fall according to the same pattern of disobedience.
The Guilt of Ephraim and Samaria | Hosea 13:1-14:9 | The Book of Hosea | Sermon Outline
When Ephraim spake, there was trembling; he exalted himself in Israel; but when he offended in Baal, he died. And now they sin more and more, and have made them molten images of their silver, even idols according to their own understanding, all of them the work of the craftsmen: they say of them, "Let the men that sacrifice kiss the calves." Therefore they shall be as the morning cloud, and as the dew that passeth early away, as the chaff that is driven with the whirlwind out of the threshing-floor, and as the smoke out of the chimney.
Yet I am YHWH thy God from the land of Egypt; and thou shalt know no god but me, and besides me there is no saviour. I did know thee in the wilderness, in the land of great drought. According to their pasture, so were they filled; they were filled, and their heart was exalted: therefore have they forgotten me. Therefore am I unto them as a lion; as a leopard will I watch by the way; I will meet them as a bear that is bereaved of her whelps, and will rend the caul of their heart; and there will I devour them like a lioness; the wild beast shall tear them. It is thy destruction, O Israel, that thou art against me, against thy help.
Where now is thy king, that he may save thee in all thy cities? and thy judges, of whom thou saidst, "Give me a king and princes?" I have given thee a king in mine anger, and have taken him away in my wrath.
The iniquity of Ephraim is bound up; his sin is laid up in store. The sorrows of a travailing woman shall come upon him: he is an unwise son; for it is time he should not tarry in the place of the breaking forth of children. I will ransom them from the power of Sheol; I will redeem them from death: O death, where are thy plagues? O Sheol, where is thy destruction? Repentance shall be hid from mine eyes. Though he be fruitful among his brethren, an east wind shall come, the breath of YHWH coming up from the wilderness; and his spring shall become dry, and his fountain shall be dried up: he shall make spoil of the treasure of all goodly vessels. Samaria shall bear her guilt; for she hath rebelled against her God: they shall fall by the sword; their infants shall be dashed in pieces, and their women with child shall be ripped up.
O Israel, return unto YHWH thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and return unto YHWH: say unto him, "Take away all iniquity, and accept that which is good: so will we render as bullocks the offering of our lips. Assyria shall not save us; we will not ride upon horses; neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, 'Ye are our gods'; for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy."
I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely; for mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew unto Israel; he shall blossom as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive-tree, and his smell as Lebanon. They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the grain, and blossom as the vine: the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have answered, and will regard him: I am like a green fir tree; from me is thy fruit found.
Who is wise, that he may understand these things? Prudent, that he may know them? For the ways of YHWH are right, and the just shall walk in them; but transgressors shall fall therein.
Through Hosea YHWH lamented the apostasy of Israel as a father mourns for a wayward child. A Son who upheld all God desired out of Israel, and who embodied Israel's story, would one day come for Israel. We all do well to follow Him and embody His life and practice.
Israel My Child | Hosea 11:1-12:14 | The Book of Hosea | Sermon Outline
When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt. The more the prophets called them, the more they went from them: they sacrificed unto the Baalim, and burned incense to graven images. Yet I taught Ephraim to walk; I took them on my arms; but they knew not that I healed them. I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love; and I was to them as they that lift up the yoke on their jaws; and I laid food before them.
They shall not return into the land of Egypt; but the Assyrian shall be their king, because they refused to return to me. And the sword shall fall upon their cities, and shall consume their bars, and devour them, because of their own counsels. And my people are bent on backsliding from me: though they call them to him that is on high, none at all will exalt him.
How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? How shall I cast thee off, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? How shall I set thee as Zeboiim? My heart is turned within me, my compassions are kindled together. I will not execute the fierceness of mine anger, I will not return to destroy Ephraim: for I am God, and not man; the Holy One in the midst of thee; and I will not come in wrath.
They shall walk after YHWH, who will roar like a lion; for he will roar, and the children shall come trembling from the west. They shall come trembling as a bird out of Egypt, and as a dove out of the land of Assyria; and I will make them to dwell in their houses, saith YHWH.
Ephraim compasseth me about with falsehood, and the house of Israel with deceit; but Judah yet ruleth with God, and is faithful with the Holy One. Ephraim feedeth on wind, and followeth after the east wind: he continually multiplieth lies and desolation; and they make a covenant with Assyria, and oil is carried into Egypt.
YHWH hath also a controversy with Judah, and will punish Jacob according to his ways; according to his doings will he recompense him. In the womb he took his brother by the heel; and in his manhood he had power with God: yea, he had power over the angel, and prevailed; he wept, and made supplication unto him: he found him at Beth-el, and there he spake with us, even YHWH, the God of hosts; YHWH is his memorial name.
Therefore turn thou to thy God: keep kindness and justice, and wait for thy God continually.
He is a trafficker, the balances of deceit are in his hand: he loveth to oppress. And Ephraim said, Surely I am become rich, I have found me wealth: in all my labors they shall find in me no iniquity that were sin.
But I am YHWH thy God from the land of Egypt; I will yet again make thee to dwell in tents, as in the days of the solemn feast.
I have also spoken unto the prophets, and I have multiplied visions; and by the ministry of the prophets have I used similitudes.
Is Gilead iniquity? they are altogether false; in Gilgal they sacrifice bullocks; yea, their altars are as heaps in the furrows of the field.
And Jacob fled into the field of Aram, and Israel served for a wife, and for a wife he kept sheep. And by a prophet YHWH brought Israel up out of Egypt, and by a prophet was he preserved. Ephraim hath provoked to anger most bitterly: therefore shall his blood be left upon him, and his reproach shall his Lord return unto him.
Israel had served idols and trusted in the military for some time. Yet the consequences would come severely and catastrophically. Israel had sown iniquity and violence; they would reap the whirlwind of the Assyrian menace.
Reaping the Whirlwind | Hosea 8:1-10:15 | The Book of Hosea | Sermon Outline
Christianity is considered a "faith." Within Christianity and society we hear a lot of talk about "faith." Is faith incompatible with science and other disciplines? What is the faith? What about our faith? Join us as we discuss faith as category, object, and subject.
What is Faith? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
God has given the local church specific works to accomplish: benevolence for Christians, evangelism, and edification. Far too often people have overburdened the local church with the work of individuals or other organizations: benevolence for all, centers of education, fellowship halls, gymnasiums, hospitals, coffee shops, etc. We do well to let the church be the church and for it to focus on the work God has given it to do!
Practices Overburdening the Church | The Nature of the Church | Sermon Outline
Jesus built His church, His body (Matthew 16:18, Colossians 1:18). Great! What is the church supposed to do? What are the collective responsibilities of the churches of Christ?
Collective Responsibilities | The Nature of the Church | Sermon Outline
Jesus saves!
We've all seen and heard that Jesus saves. But what does that mean? Why is it necessary for us to be saved? How did Jesus accomplish salvation for us?
What Is Salvation? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
In Ephesians 5:27 Paul declares that Jesus will present the church to Himself as holy and spotless. We cannot cleanse ourselves, but we must strive to live as a sanctified people. Unfortunately not all will do so; we must address it; we do well to strive to follow Jesus according to His purposes!
The Church is Holy and Spotless | The Nature of the Church | Sermon Outline
By necessity the church represents a community, a group of people who maintain association on account of a common cause. How strong is that community? How can we strengthen the community of God's people so we may more fully accomplish His purposes?
The Church as Community | The Nature of the Church | Sermon Outline
And when [Jesus] was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, "By what authority doest thou these things? And who gave thee this authority?" (Matthew 21:23).
The chief priests and elders did not their questions of Jesus in sincerity; nevertheless, the questions themselves are most valid. Society may seek to neglect the question, but if we want to live faithfully before God, we must grapple with the question: by what authority do we think, feel, speak, and act as we do? And who gave us this authority?
By What Authority? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
For millennia confusion has reigned regarding the nature of the church. Is it a building? Is it a hierarchical organization? Is it a group of people? We do well to explore the word "church" and Greek word ekklesia and learn what Jesus intended with the word.
The Church as Ekklesia | The Nature of the Church | Sermon Outline
Jesus was to establish His church, and the gates of hell would not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18). And yet there is so much confusion in the world today about the church. Can we still perceive the Church of Christ? The Scriptures provide a way.
Perceiving the Church of Christ | The Nature of the Church | Sermon Outline
Life in the early 21st century is all about change. Technology changes; life patterns change; everything seems to be changing. But should the church change? Has its origin, nature, purpose, assembling, etc. become irrelevant, or should we stand firm and uphold the ancient faith? Please consider the following message from Dr. Wayne Byrd.
Should the Church Change With the Times? | Dr. Wayne Byrd
It's the perennial bestseller; you've heard of it often. But what is the Bible? Why is it so important to Christianity? What are we to do with it?
What Is the Bible? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
Power and control: we all want it more than we might like to admit. We do well to understand the dynamics of power, from whom power comes, and how we should exercise oversight and authority.
Power, Control, and Influence | Example and Influence | Sermon Outline
We like to imagine we stand above the fray. In reality, we are strongly influenced by those around us...for evil or for good.
The Power of Influence | Example and Influence | Sermon Outline
Christians are to follow Jesus' commands (Matthew 28:19, 1 John 2:6). Well and good. But how? Jesus embodied God's purposes. The Apostles appealed to the examples of the past and their own example. God has instructed us not only in word but also through example; we do well to observe the power of example.
The Power of Example | Example and Influence | Sermon Outline
Christians believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, One God in Three Persons. Of the Three most find the Holy Spirit to be the most difficult to recognize or understand. Who is the Holy Spirit? How can we know?
Who is the Holy Spirit? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
Mary, mother of Jesus. A compelling figure, one thoroughly distorted over time. Can we separate fact from fiction and recover a realistic portrait of the mother of the Son of God?
Mary, Mother of Jesus | Jesus' Female Followers | Sermon Outline
Mary and Martha: beloved friends of Jesus. Theologically astute disciples of Christ. Not exactly how they have been remembered; the loss has been ours.
Mary and Martha | Jesus' Female Followers | Sermon Outline
Mary Magdalene: first apostle of the good news of Jesus' resurrection. A follower of Jesus. Few people have proven as controversial, all based more on later speculation than anything revealed in Scripture. What are we to make of Mary Magdalene?
Mary Magdalene | Jesus' Female Followers | Sermon Outline
Jesus of Nazareth: who is He? Where did He come from? What is He all about? These questions proved acute in the first century; they remain with us ever since. What can we know about the Jesus who was, is, and is to come in the midst of all the noise?
Who Is Jesus? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
God would heal Israel, if only Israel would truly turn to Him. It was not enough to merely try to placate YHWH; one must know Him and follow His ways.
Covenant Transgressors | Hosea 6:1-7:16 | Sermon Outline
Come, and let us return unto YHWH; for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up. After two days will he revive us: on the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live before him. And let us know, let us follow on to know YHWH: his going forth is sure as the morning; and he will come unto us as the rain, as the latter rain that watereth the earth.
O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the dew that goeth early away. Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. For I desire goodness, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt-offerings.
But they like Adam have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against me. Gilead is a city of them that work iniquity; it is stained with blood. And as troops of robbers wait for a man, so the company of priests murder in the way toward Shechem; yea, they have committed lewdness. In the house of Israel I have seen a horrible thing: there whoredom is found in Ephraim, Israel is defiled.
Also, O Judah, there is a harvest appointed for thee, when I bring back the captivity of my people.
When I would heal Israel, then is the iniquity of Ephraim uncovered, and the wickedness of Samaria; for they commit falsehood, and the thief entereth in, and the troop of robbers ravageth without. And they consider not in their hearts that I remember all their wickedness: now have their own doings beset them about; they are before my face. They make the king glad with their wickedness, and the princes with their lies. They are all adulterers; they are as an oven heated by the baker; he ceaseth to stir the fire, from the kneading of the dough, until it be leavened. On the day of our king the princes made themselves sick with the heat of wine; he stretched out his hand with scoffers. For they have made ready their heart like an oven, while they lie in wait: their baker sleepeth all the night; in the morning it burneth as a flaming fire. They are all hot as an oven, and devour their judges; all their kings are fallen: there is none among them that calleth unto me.
Ephraim, he mixeth himself among the peoples; Ephraim is a cake not turned. Strangers have devoured his strength, and he knoweth it not: yea, gray hairs are here and there upon him, and he knoweth it not. And the pride of Israel doth testify to his face: yet they have not returned unto YHWH their God, nor sought him, for all this. And Ephraim is like a silly dove, without understanding: they call unto Egypt, they go to Assyria. When they shall go, I will spread my net upon them; I will bring them down as the birds of the heavens; I will chastise them, as their congregation hath heard. Woe unto them! for they have wandered from me; destruction unto them! for they have trespassed against me: though I would redeem them, yet they have spoken lies against me. And they have not cried unto me with their heart, but they howl upon their beds: they assemble themselves for grain and new wine; they rebel against me. Though I have taught and strengthened their arms, yet do they devise mischief against me. They return, but not to him that is on high; they are like a deceitful bow; their princes shall fall by the sword for the rage of their tongue: this shall be their derision in the land of Egypt.
The scene is set. God has an indictment against His people. He will judge; Israel will be ruined. But not forever.
YHWH vs. Israel | Hosea 4:1-5:15 | Sermon Outline
Disturbing. Shameful. Shocking! Why would YHWH do such things to Hosea as demanded in Hosea 1:1-3:5? Hosea would learn to understand YHWH's love for Israel, and decry Israel's shameful treatment of her God.
Hosea and Gomer, YHWH and Israel | Hosea 1:1-3:5 | Sermon Outline
God has called His people to unity in one body, whether Jew or Gentile, male or female, white or black or Latino (Romans 12:3-8, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, Ephesians 4:1-16). The Devil foments divisions based on social and cultural constructs and perceived realities. We do well to acknowledge the existence of racism, resist its influence, and love all people as God has loved us in Christ.
We thank Kaku Barkoh for bearing witness and proclaiming this powerful message.
The Wiles of the Devil: Race and Religion | Kaku Barkoh
It's one of the fundamental questions of existence.
Who is God?
How can we be sure?
What does it matter?
Who Is God? | The Fundamentals | Sermon Outline
Americans may want to think they are not accountable to anyone; God would beg to differ. We will not prove spiritually healthy or mature unless we prove willing to live with accountability before God and our fellow believers.
Accountability | Sermon Outline
Christians are to pursue peace and holiness, and to avoid roots of bitterness. We have come to Zion, not Sinai; we must listen to God and be thankful for receiving an unshakable Kingdom!
Let Us Receive the Kingdom | Hebrews 12:15-29 | Encouragement in Hebrews | Sermon Outline
Looking carefully lest there be any man that falleth short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby the many be defiled; lest there be any fornication, or profane person, as Esau, who for one mess of meat sold his own birthright. For ye know that even when he afterward desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected; for he found no place for a change of mind in his father, though he sought it diligently with tears. For ye are not come unto a mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, and unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest, and the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard entreated that no word more should be spoken unto them; for they could not endure that which was enjoined, If even a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned; and so fearful was the appearance, that Moses said,
"I exceedingly fear and quake:"
But ye are come unto mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable hosts of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, and to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaketh better than that of Abel.
See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not when they refused him that warned them on earth, much more shall not we escape who turn away from him that warneth from heaven: whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying,
"Yet once more will I make to tremble not the earth only, but also the heaven."
And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that have been made, that those things which are not shaken may remain. Wherefore, receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us have grace, whereby we may offer service well-pleasing to God with reverence and awe: for our God is a consuming fire.
We may get weary and fainthearted at times in our faith in Christ. The Hebrew Christians did as well. The author the Hebrew letter did well to encourage them to maintain their race and their discipline.
Our Race and Our Discipline | Hebrews 12:1-14 | Encouragement in Hebrews | Sermon Outline
Therefore let us also, seeing we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that hath endured such gainsaying of sinners against himself, that ye wax not weary, fainting in your souls. Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin: and ye have forgotten the exhortation which reasoneth with you as with sons,
"My son, regard not lightly the chastening of the Lord, Nor faint when thou art reproved of him; For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, And scourgeth every son whom he receiveth."
It is for chastening that ye endure; God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father chasteneth not? But if ye are without chastening, whereof all have been made partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Furthermore, we had the fathers of our flesh to chasten us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed good to them; but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness. All chastening seemeth for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yieldeth peaceable fruit unto them that have been exercised thereby, even the fruit of righteousness. Wherefore lift up the hands that hang down, and the palsied knees; and make straight paths for your feet, that that which is lame be not turned out of the way, but rather be healed. Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no man shall see the Lord.
As Son of God and Son of Man Jesus was inevitably going to face opposition. He received it from all sides. How He confronted His opponents, responding to challenges and challenging in turn, is instructive for Christians to this day.
Jesus Confronts His Opponents | Jesus the Master Teacher | Sermon Outline
Jesus spent the last three years of His life on earth on a mission. He would seek and save the lost of Israel, yes, but He poured Himself into training the Twelve. What are we to make of it?
Jesus Trains His Disciples | Jesus the Master Teacher | Sermon Outline
Jesus taught the people in parables. What are parables? Why do they remain so compelling?
Jesus' Parables | Jesus the Master Teacher | Sermon Outline
The Scriptures tell the story of how the one God sought to reconcile with humanity, doing so through one Man so that we can all be one with God and with one another. That story is not yet finished; you have your role to play.
The ONE Story | Sermon Outline
"Neither for these only do I pray, but for them also that believe on me through their word; that they may all be one; even as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be in us: that the world may believe that thou didst send me. And the glory which thou hast given me I have given unto them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be perfected into one; that the world may know that thou didst send me, and lovedst them, even as thou lovedst me" (John 17:20-23).
The actual substance and purpose of Jesus' prayer before His Father for His followers was for their unity with one another. Salvation has never been merely about an individual and his or her God; God desires us to be reconciled to each other as well as to be reconciled in Him. We do well to work together in the Body of Christ!
ONE Another | The ONE Story | Sermon Outline
God is one in relational unity and seeks unity with man His creation. But sin and death separated us from God. We couldn't solve that problem; thanks be to God for the ONE Man who could.
ONE Man | The ONE Story | Sermon Outline
What are we looking for out of life?
What does God have to do with it?
ONE God | The ONE Story | Sermon Outline
Christians are to be in the world, but not of it. How does that work? What is the Christian's responsibility to the world, both as an individual and as the church?
Our Responsibility to the World | Sojourn and Exile | Sermon Outline
Peter speaks of Christians as in exile in 1 Peter. What does life look like as an exile? Its primary feature is love for one another, for we are the ones who are there for each other and who will endure.
Love the Brotherhood | Sojourn and Exile | Sermon Outline
Seeing ye have purified your souls in your obedience to the truth unto unfeigned love of the brethren, love one another from the heart fervently (1 Peter 1:22).
Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king (1 Peter 2:17).
Above all things being fervent in your love among yourselves; for love covereth a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8).
We hear often of the plight of refugees fleeing war, devastation, and disaster. Christians are to reckon themselves as Kingdom refugees while they endure this life. We do well to explore how we can glorify God as Kingdom refugees.
Kingdom Refugees | Sojourn and Exile | Sermon Outline
The early church had plenty of dangers from persecuting forces. Yet another influence would prove more insidious: false teachers and their false doctrines. We do well to understand the New Testament warnings about false teachers.
False Teachers | False Prophets and Teachers | Sermon Outline
It's the question that almost every reader of the history and the prophets in the Old Testament asks: why did Israel not listen to the prophets? In reality, Israel listened to the prophets: the false prophets (Luke 6:23)! We do well to see what we can learn about the false prophets in the Old Testament lest we fall by the same pattern of disobedience.
False Prophets | False Prophets and Teachers | Sermon Outline
We cannot allow ourselves to be shaped by the world; therefore, we must be shaped by Jesus. We do so through repentance, rooting ourselves in Jesus in word and deed, not the world. We must also be built up in Christ and in His body, the people of God, the church.
Rooted and Edified in Christ | Toward a Biblical Worldview | Sermon Outline
As therefore ye received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and builded up in him, and established in your faith, even as ye were taught, abounding in thanksgiving...for in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and in him ye are made full, who is the head of all principality and power (Colossians 2:6-8, 9-10).
Paul warned the Colossian Christians regarding the temptations of worldly philosophy. Greek philosophy was no doubt in view; it has posed the same problem ever since. What does Athens have to do with Jerusalem?
Philosophy and Vain Deceit | Toward a Biblical Worldview | Sermon Outline
Take heed lest there shall be any one that maketh spoil of you through his philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ (Colossians 2:8).
Worldviews: everybody has one. If we wish to serve the Lord and obtain the resurrection, we must develop a Biblical worldview.
A Biblical Worldview: Its Necessity | Toward a Biblical Worldview | Sermon Outline
We need to grow in Christ. Great! But how are we supposed to do that? The Hebrew author points the way forward in Hebrews 5:12-14.
Maturing in Christ: Its Development | Maturing in Christ | Sermon Outline
For when by reason of the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need again that some one teach you the rudiments of the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of solid food. For every one that partaketh of milk is without experience of the word of righteousness; for he is a babe. But solid food is for fullgrown men, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil.
Wherefore leaving the doctrine of the first principles of Christ, let us press on unto perfection; not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, of the teaching of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit (Hebrews 5:12-6:3).
The Hebrew author expected his audience to have already matured beyond elementary principles (Hebrews 5:11-6:3). Why did he have that expectation? Why must we mature in Christ?
Maturing in Christ: Its Necessity | Maturing in Christ | Sermon Outline
John is given a vision of what Christians will endure. Earthly powers empowered by the Evil One are strong and will make war on the saints. Christians can overcome the beast in faithfulness to God. What does it all mean?
Overcoming the Beast | Sojourn and Exile | Sermon Outline
And I heard a great voice in heaven, saying, Now is come the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, who accuseth them before our God day and night. And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death. Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe for the earth and for the sea: because the devil is gone down unto you, having great wrath, knowing that he hath but a short time (Revelation 12:10-12).
And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire; and them that come off victorious from the beast, and from his image, and from the number of his name, standing by the sea of glass, having harps of God. And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, "Great and marvellous are thy works, O Lord God, the Almighty; righteous and true are thy ways, thou King of the ages. Who shall not fear, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy; for all the nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy righteous acts have been made manifest" (Revelation 15:2-4).
Peter wrote to Christians in Asia Minor as "elect exiles". He wrote from "Babylon". The theme of life in exile pervades his letter; we do well to learn from him how to live as exiles in a strange land.
Elect Exiles | Sojourn and Exile | Sermon Outline
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the elect who are sojourners of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace be multiplied (1 Peter 1:1-2).
And if ye call on him as Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to each man's work, pass the time of your sojourning in fear: knowing that ye were redeemed, not with corruptible things, with silver or gold, from your vain manner of life handed down from your fathers; but with precious blood, as of a lamb without spot, even the blood of Christ: who was foreknown indeed before the foundation of the world, but was manifested at the end of the times for your sake, who through him are believers in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory; so that your faith and hope might be in God (1 Peter 1:17-21).
Beloved, I beseech you as sojourners and pilgrims, to abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; having your behavior seemly among the Gentiles; that, wherein they speak against you as evil-doers, they may by your good works, which they behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. Be subject to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as sent by him for vengeance on evil-doers and for praise to them that do well. For so is the will of God, that by well-doing ye should put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: as free, and not using your freedom for a cloak of wickedness, but as bondservants of God. Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. Servants, be in subjection to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward (1 Peter 2:11-18).
Jeremiah wrote to the Judahites already in exile. They were to settle down for a time while awaiting a latter restoration. We as Christians are in an exile; we do well to consider what Jeremiah has to say.
Jeremiah's Letter | Jeremiah 29:1-32 | Sojourn and Exile | Sermon Outline
YHWH had rescued Israel from Egyptian slavery with a strong hand. Yet now they were in the wilderness. Every time a difficulty arose, they could have trusted in YHWH. Instead, they complained, remembering Egypt. It led to their death. We do well to heed their example lest we fall by the same pattern of disobedience.
Pining for Egypt | Sojourn and Exile | Sermon Outline
We live in interesting times. We may have been born and raised here, or have made this our adopted country, but we still do not exactly feel at home. Should we try to take back the country? Or should we recognize that we never really truly fit in--nor should fit in--but should live as sojourners and exiles in the land?
Sojourners and Exiles | Sojourn and Exile | Sermon Outline
Saul of Tarsus, once violent persecutor, saw the Lord on the road to Damascus. For the rest of his life he devoted himself to proclaiming Jesus crucified and risen. What can we learn regarding Paul, his life, and his work?
Paul | The Apostles | Sermon Outline
Joseph called Barnabas was an apostle and an important early Christian. How did he prove to be a "son of encouragement," and what can we know of him?
Barnabas | The Apostles | Sermon Outline
Judas Iscariot, infamous for having betrayed the Lord Jesus. A greedy thief, indeed, but a monster? What do we learn of Judas in Scripture?
Judas Iscariot | The Apostles | Sermon Outline
Jesus chose twelve Apostles. We learn some regarding three of them; the other nine, not so much. What can be known about them, and how can we gain encouragement from their example?
The "Minor Nine" Apostles | The Apostles | Sermon Outline
We are thankful that Del Scott, an elder of the Studebaker Road church of Christ in Long Beach, California, proved willing to meet with us and discuss the work of the eldership in shepherding a congregation. We hope you find the discussion profitable.
John son of Zebedee was called from the nets to proclaim the Word of life in Jesus Christ. A son of thunder? The beloved disciple? What can we know of John son of Zebedee?
John son of Zebedee | The Apostles | Sermon Outline
Simon, a Galilean Jewish fisherman, was given a most extraordinary opportunity. He served the Lord Jesus with passion and zeal. He matured into his faith; we do well to follow his example.
Simon Peter | The Apostles | Sermon Outline
God provided on Mount Moriah / Zion. God made His name to dwell there. In a very real sense He still does to this day. Will we come to Mount Zion and dwell eternally with God?
Mount Moriah / Zion | Mountains in Scripture | Sermon Outline
It was a hillock outside Jerusalem, infamous for execution. The way to Zion goes through Golgotha; we do well to learn its lesson.
Mt. Golgotha / Calvary | Mountains in Scripture | Sermon Outline
Elijah expected Israel to cease waffling from two opinions on Mt. Carmel. Sometimes we need to have our own moment of contest and decision.
Mt. Carmel | Mountains in Scripture | Sermon Outline
Mt. Sinai was the mountain of God. Israel received its covenant and Law there. When Israel left, they did not return. We do well to learn the lessons of Israel at Sinai!
Mount Sinai / Horeb | Mountains in Scripture | Sermon Outline
A lot of people think they have left stories behind them. Yet we all understand who we are and what we are about through stories. Is our story that of the people of God?
The Story | Sermon Outline
God has given the church many responsibilities. It is up to the members of the congregation to meet them. As we sow, thus we shall reap.
Giving | Acts of the Assembly | Sermon Outline
When Christians gather together, a lesson is preached. Why does preaching take place in an assembly? What explains its prominence? Join us as we discuss preaching as an act of the assembly.
Preaching | Acts of the Assembly | Sermon Outline
Christians came together on the first day of the week to break bread. The Lord's Supper defines our gathering; it also exemplifies it. Let us consider the importance of the Lord's Supper in the assembly.
The Lord's Supper | Acts of the Assembly | Sermon Outline
Christians do well to come together and pray to God their Father. The prayer of the people of God has great power in its working!
Praying | Acts of the Assembly | Sermon Outline
Early Christians sang psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs when they assembled together. We do well to understand why and to what end.
Singing | Acts of the Assembly | Sermon Outline
Christians frequently assemble together to study more about Scripture and how to apply it to their lives. How can the assembly Bible study be effective for its purposes?
Bible Study | Acts of the Assembly | Sermon Outline
Jesus is both fully human and fully divine. How, exactly, did that work out in practice? Thus went arguments in the middle of the first millennium regarding Nestorianism, Monophysitism, and Chalcedon. What does Scripture say?
Christological Controversies (2) | Sermon Outline
Nestorianism
Claim: Jesus’ human and divine natures were so fully distinct as to seem to be two people (dyophysitism).
Difficulty: Jesus was both human and divine and yet considered one person throughout Scripture.
Monophysitism
Also known as: Eutychanism, Miaphysitism
Claim: in response to Nestorianism, the belief that Jesus’ human nature was subsumed into His divinity, thus expressing the unity of Jesus’ nature to the detriment of His humanity.
Related: Apollinarism, in which Jesus featured a human body and divine soul; monergism, in which Jesus maintains humanity and divinity but features one energy; monothelitism, in which Jesus maintains humanity and divinity but has only one will
Difficulty: Jesus was both divine and human in one person and yet His humanity persevered (1 Timothy 2:5); Jesus as fully experiencing humanity, mind, body, and soul (Hebrews 4:15, 5:7-8); Jesus’ human will as crying out (Matthew 26:39).
According to the revelation of God in the New Testament, Jesus was the Son of God and God the Son, fully God, fully man. How was that possible? What did that mean? A lot of controversy took place over the nature of Jesus in the first few centuries after His death and resurrection. We explore three of them in this lesson: Adoptionism, Docetism, and Arianism.
Christological Controversies (1) | Sermon Outline
Adoptionism
Also known as: dynamistic monarchianism, adoptianism
Claim: Jesus was not born the Son of God, but was a good person, adopted as the Son of God at His baptism.
Difficulties: Gabriel’s announcement of His Messiahship (Luke 1); Jesus as child prodigy (Luke 2); Jesus as Word becoming flesh (John 1).
Docetism
Inherent in Gnosticism; part of Islamic view of Jesus
Claim: Jesus only seemed to be human and/or to die.
Difficulties: Explicitly considered heretical in 1 John 4:1-5, 2 John 1:9-11; if Jesus did not really die, He was not really raised; the dead are thus not raised, and we are lost in our sins (1 Corinthians 15:1-20)!
Arianism
In modified form, present today among Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Claim: the Son not equally divine with the Father, but created by the Father (Proverbs 2:7, 8:23-24, John 14:28, 17:20-26, Hebrews 1:5).
Difficulties: Jesus accepted worship, which is not due the creation but the Creator (Matthew 28:20, John 20:28, Romans 1:18-25); Jesus as fullness of deity in bodily form (Colossians 2:9); how can the Word be God if there were a time when the Word were not?
Jesus of Nazareth had entered Jerusalem in triumph. Within a week He was betrayed, tried, and executed. How could this be if he were the Christ, the Son of the Living God? Why did Jesus die?
Jesus' Death | Sermon Outline
The prophets spoke by the will of God. It may have taken years, but God fulfilled what He had spoken. God is faithful; we do well to trust in Him!
Prophecies of the Christ | Sermon Outline
It is easy to associate "assembly" with "Christianity," but is there not much more to Christianity than the assembly? How shall we view the assembly in terms of the greater life we live as Christians?
The Assembly and the Christian Life | Sermon Outline
Most people directly associate "worship" with the assembly. And yet no such association is explicit in the New Testament.
How has "worship" become so intertwined with the assembly? How can we best manifest what God has revealed about worship and the assembly?
Worship and the Assembly | The Assembly and the Christian Life | Sermon Outline
When you think about "worship," what comes to mind? To what do you refer when you speak about "worship"?
We do well to prove all things by the Scriptures. Join us as we explore what "worship" translates in the Scriptures in comparison with modern usage.
Understanding Worship | The Assembly and the Christian Life | Sermon Outline
Why would someone serve the Lord Jesus? What blessings come from being a Christian? The ultimate answer may surprise you.
The Blessings of Being a Christian | Sermon Outline
Man has been resisting natural limitations and challenges for many generations. We see this quite clearly in many flashpoints of controversy in human sexuality.
Sexuality as Babel | Counterfeit Sexuality | Sermon Outline
What happens when a culture denies God as their Creator and do not believe man is made in His image? Among other things, they end up making a god out of sex.
Sexuality as God | Counterfeit Sexuality | Sermon Outline
What happens when a culture does not honor God as the Creator and does not think man is made in His image? People are given over to their lusts. And so it is today.
Sexuality Reduced to Physical Impulse | Counterfeit Sexuality | Sermon Outline
Modern secular culture believes we are defined by our sexual predilections. Is that true? What does God have to say?
Sexuality as Identity | Counterfeit Sexuality | Sermon Outline
Human sexuality was created good and can be a beautiful thing. So how can it be that sexuality has been so distorted and perverted in the world?
Sexuality in Light of the Fall | A Theology of Sexuality | Sermon Outline
Human sexuality is designed by God and has its place. And yet, even in terms of human sexuality, the resurrection is the game changer. How should we understand human sexuality in light of the resurrection?
Sexuality in Light of the Resurrection | A Theology of Sexuality | Sermon Outline
**MATURE MATERIAL FOR A MATURE AUDIENCE**
You've heard what is condemned about sexuality. But why does it exist? What if, in fact, sexuality exists to help us understand something far greater?
Habakkuk knew how YHWH judged nations; it would get ugly. But Habakkuk kept trusting in God no matter what.
Habakkuk's Prayer | Habakkuk 3:1-19 | Sermon Outline
A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet, set to Shigionoth.
O YHWH, I have heard the report of thee, and am afraid:
O YHWH, revive thy work in the midst of the years; In the midst of the years make it known; In wrath remember mercy.
God came from Teman, And the Holy One from mount Paran. Selah.
His glory covered the heavens, And the earth was full of his praise.
And his brightness was as the light; He had rays coming forth from his hand; And there was the hiding of his power.
Before him went the pestilence, And fiery bolts went forth at his feet.
He stood, and measured the earth; He beheld, and drove asunder the nations; And the eternal mountains were scattered; The everlasting hills did bow; His goings were as of old.
I saw the tents of Cushan in affliction; The curtains of the land of Midian did tremble.
Was YHWH displeased with the rivers? Was thine anger against the rivers, Or thy wrath against the sea, That thou didst ride upon thy horses, Upon thy chariots of salvation?
Thy bow was made quite bare; The oaths to the tribes were a sure word. Selah.
Thou didst cleave the earth with rivers.
The mountains saw thee, and were afraid; The tempest of waters passed by;
The deep uttered its voice, And lifted up its hands on high.
The sun and moon stood still in their habitation,
At the light of thine arrows as they went, At the shining of thy glittering spear.
Thou didst march through the land in indignation; Thou didst thresh the nations in anger.
Thou wentest forth for the salvation of thy people, For the salvation of thine anointed; Thou woundedst the head out of the house of the wicked man, Laying bare the foundation even unto the neck. Selah.
Thou didst pierce with his own staves the head of his warriors: They came as a whirlwind to scatter me; Their rejoicing was as to devour the poor secretly.
Thou didst tread the sea with thy horses, The heap of mighty waters.
I heard, and my body trembled, My lips quivered at the voice;
Rottenness entereth into my bones, and I tremble in my place;
Because I must wait quietly for the day of trouble, For the coming up of the people that invadeth us.
For though the fig-tree shall not flourish, Neither shall fruit be in the vines;
The labor of the olive shall fail, And the fields shall yield no food;
The flock shall be cut off from the fold, And there shall be no herd in the stalls:
Yet I will rejoice in YHWH, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
YHWH, the Lord, is my strength;
And he maketh my feet like hinds' feet, And will make me to walk upon my high places.
For the Chief Musician, on my stringed instruments.
YHWH spoke to Habakkuk's concerns. The arrogant who do not trust YHWH have it done to them as they did unto others. Those who trust in YHWH will live by faith. Judgment will happen; it will not delay.
Keep Silent Before YHWH | Habakkuk 2:1-20 | Sermon Outline
I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will look forth to see what he will speak with me, and what I shall answer concerning my complaint.
And YHWH answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tablets, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for the appointed time, and it hasteth toward the end, and shall not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not delay.
Behold, his soul is puffed up, it is not upright in him; but the righteous shall live by his faith. Yea, moreover, wine is treacherous, a haughty man, that keepeth not at home; who enlargeth his desire as Sheol, and he is as death, and cannot be satisfied, but gathereth unto him all nations, and heapeth unto him all peoples.
Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him, and say, Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his! how long? and that ladeth himself with pledges! Shall they not rise up suddenly that shall bite thee, and awake that shall vex thee, and thou shalt be for booty unto them? Because thou hast plundered many nations, all the remnant of the peoples shall plunder thee, because of men's blood, and for the violence done to the land, to the city and to all that dwell therein. Woe to him that getteth an evil gain for his house, that he may set his nest on high, that he may be delivered from the hand of evil! Thou hast devised shame to thy house, by cutting off many peoples, and hast sinned against thy soul. For the stone shall cry out of the wall, and the beam out of the timber shall answer it. Woe to him that buildeth a town with blood, and establisheth a city by iniquity! Behold, is it not of YHWH of hosts that the peoples labor for the fire, and the nations weary themselves for vanity? For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of YHWH, as the waters cover the sea. Woe unto him that giveth his neighbor drink, to thee that addest thy venom, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness! Thou art filled with shame, and not glory: drink thou also, and be as one uncircumcised; the cup of YHWH's right hand shall come round unto thee, and foul shame shall be upon thy glory. For the violence done to Lebanon shall cover thee, and the destruction of the beasts, which made them afraid; because of men's blood, and for the violence done to the land, to the city and to all that dwell therein.
What profiteth the graven image, that the maker thereof hath graven it; the molten image, even the teacher of lies, that he that fashioneth its form trusteth therein, to make dumb idols? Woe unto him that saith to the wood, Awake; to the dumb stone, Arise! Shall this teach? Behold, it is overlaid with gold and silver, and there is no breath at all in the midst of it. But YHWH is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him.
Habakkuk saw immorality all around him and wanted to know why God allowed it to be. He did not imagine what God's response would be!
An Unbelievable Work | Habakkuk 1:1-17 | Sermon Outline
The burden which Habakkuk the prophet did see.
O YHWH, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear? I cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save. Why dost thou show me iniquity, and look upon perverseness? For destruction and violence are before me; and there is strife, and contention riseth up. Therefore the law is slacked, and justice doth never go forth; for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore justice goeth forth perverted.
Behold ye among the nations, and look, and wonder marvellously; for I am working a work in your days, which ye will not believe though it be told you. For, lo, I raise up the Chaldeans, that bitter and hasty nation, that march through the breadth of the earth, to possess dwelling-places that are not theirs. They are terrible and dreadful; their judgment and their dignity proceed from themselves. Their horses also are swifter than leopards, and are more fierce than the evening wolves; and their horsemen press proudly on: yea, their horsemen come from far; they fly as an eagle that hasteth to devour. They come all of them for violence; the set of their faces is forwards; and they gather captives as the sand. Yea, he scoffeth at kings, and princes are a derision unto him; he derideth every stronghold; for he heapeth up dust, and taketh it. Then shall he sweep by as a wind, and shall pass over, and be guilty, even he whose might is his god.
Art not thou from everlasting, O YHWH my God, my Holy One? we shall not die. O YHWH, thou hast ordained him for judgment; and thou, O Rock, hast established him for correction. Thou that art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and that canst not look on perverseness, wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, and holdest thy peace when the wicked swalloweth up the man that is more righteous than he; and makest men as the fishes of the sea, as the creeping things, that have no ruler over them? He taketh up all of them with the angle, he catcheth them in his net, and gathereth them in his drag: therefore he rejoiceth and is glad. Therefore he sacrificeth unto his net, and burneth incense unto his drag; because by them his portion is fat, and his food plenteous. Shall he therefore empty his net, and spare not to slay the nations continually?
As an expositor of the Law Ezra points the way forward for Israel; they must read and interpret what God had already revealed to do His will. We do well to learn the same!
Ezra | Jews in the Second Temple Period | Sermon Outline
Jerusalem was in sad condition in the mid-5th century BCE. God raised up a champion for her among the Diaspora in Nehemiah. Who will arise as a champion for spiritual Zion today?
Nehemiah | Jews in the Second Temple Period | Sermon Outline
The situation did not look great for Esther and her people. Yet through her God delivered His people from their enemies.
Esther | Jews in the Second Temple Period | Sermon Outline
God's people were under foreign domination. How could they serve God in foreign circumstances? Daniel modeled the way forward.
Daniel | Jews in the Second Temple Period | Sermon Outline
The Bible is full of examples of how God proved willing to get His "hands dirty" in order to save mankind. No example is more moving than that of His Son on the cross. We'd like to thank Shane Scott for visiting with us and providing this excellent lesson.
The God of Dirty Hands | Shane Scott
Stand firm in the Lord. Rejoice. Do not be anxious; bring everything to the Lord in prayer. Find contentment in through God's power.
Standing Fast in the Lord | Philippians 4:1-23 | Sermon Outline
Wherefore, my brethren beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my beloved.
I exhort Euodia, and I exhort Syntyche, to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yea, I beseech thee also, true yokefellow, help these women, for they labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, Rejoice. Let your forbearance be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. The things which ye both learned and received and heard and saw in me, these things do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
But I rejoice in the Lord greatly, that now at length ye have revived your thought for me; wherein ye did indeed take thought, but ye lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content. I know how to be abased, and I know also how to abound: in everything and in all things have I learned the secret both to be filled and to be hungry, both to abound and to be in want. I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me. Howbeit ye did well that ye had fellowship with my affliction. And ye yourselves also know, ye Philippians, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church had fellowship with me in the matter of giving and receiving but ye only; for even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my need. Not that I seek for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that increaseth to your account. But I have all things, and abound: I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things that came from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God. And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Now unto our God and Father be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren that are with me salute you. All the saints salute you, especially they that are of Caesar's household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Jesus' resurrection changes everything; we are to be citizens of His Kingdom and do all we can to attain that resurrection!
Pressing on to the Goal | Philippians 3:1-21 | Sermon Outline
Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not irksome, but for you it is safe.
Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the concision: for we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God, and glory in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh: though I myself might have confidence even in the flesh: if any other man thinketh to have confidence in the flesh, I yet more: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; as touching zeal, persecuting the church; as touching the righteousness which is in the law, found blameless.
Howbeit what things were gain to me, these have I counted loss for Christ. Yea verily, and I count all things to be loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but refuse, that I may gain Christ, and be found in him, not having a righteousness of mine own, even that which is of the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith: that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, becoming conformed unto his death; if by any means I may attain unto the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained, or am already made perfect: but I press on, if so be that I may lay hold on that for which also I was laid hold on by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself yet to have laid hold: but one thing I do, forgetting the things which are behind, and stretching forward to the things which are before, I press on toward the goal unto the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, be thus minded: and if in anything ye are otherwise minded, this also shall God reveal unto you: only, whereunto we have attained, by that same rule let us walk.
Brethren, be ye imitators together of me, and mark them that so walk even as ye have us for an ensample. For many walk, of whom I told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is perdition, whose god is the belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things. For our citizenship is in heaven; whence also we wait for a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: who shall fashion anew the body of our humiliation, that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, according to the working whereby he is able even to subject all things unto himself.
The Philippian Christians are mostly a mature group. Paul tells them how they can complete his joy and be more as Christ.
Christ's Mind in You | Philippians 2:1-30 | Sermon Outline
If there is therefore any exhortation in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any tender mercies and compassions, make full my joy, that ye be of the same mind, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind; doing nothing through faction or through vainglory, but in lowliness of mind each counting other better than himself; not looking each of you to his own things, but each of you also to the things of others.
Have this mind in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, existing in the form of God, counted not the being on an equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, becoming obedient even unto death, yea, the death of the cross. Wherefore also God highly exalted him, and gave unto him the name which is above every name; that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things on earth and things under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
So then, my beloved, even as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who worketh in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and questionings: that ye may become blameless and harmless, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom ye are seen as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life; that I may have whereof to glory in the day of Christ, that I did not run in vain neither labor in vain. Yea, and if I am offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all: and in the same manner do ye also joy, and rejoice with me.
But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. For I have no man likeminded, who will care truly for your state. For they all seek their own, not the things of Jesus Christ. But ye know the proof of him, that, as a child serveth a father, so he served with me in furtherance of the gospel. Him therefore I hope to send forthwith, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me: but I trust in the Lord that I myself also shall come shortly.
But I counted it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow-worker and fellow-soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need; since he longed after you all, and was sore troubled, because ye had heard that he was sick: for indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow. I have sent him therefore the more diligently, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all joy; and hold such in honor: because for the work of Christ he came nigh unto death, hazarding his life to supply that which was lacking in your service toward me.
Paul has a great relationship with the Philippian Christians. Despite their maturity they still have a need to live as worthy of the Gospel, growing in love and unity.
Worthy of the Gospel | Philippians 1:1-30 | Sermon Outline
Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus that are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I thank my God upon all my remembrance of you, always in every supplication of mine on behalf of you all making my supplication with joy, for your fellowship in furtherance of the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that he who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is right for me to be thus minded on behalf of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as, both in my bonds and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers with me of grace. For God is my witness, how I long after you all in the tender mercies of Christ Jesus. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and all discernment; so that ye may approve the things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and void of offence unto the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are through Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
Now I would have you know, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the progress of the gospel; so that my bonds became manifest in Christ throughout the whole praetorian guard, and to all the rest; and that most of the brethren in the Lord, being confident through my bonds, are more abundantly bold to speak the word of God without fear. Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: the one do it of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel; but the other proclaim Christ of faction, not sincerely, thinking to raise up affliction for me in my bonds. What then? only that in every way, whether in pretence or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and therein I rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
For I know that this shall turn out to my salvation, through your supplication and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and hope, that in nothing shall I be put to shame, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if to live in the flesh, - if this shall bring fruit from my work, then what I shall choose I know not. But I am in a strait betwixt the two, having the desire to depart and be with Christ; for it is very far better: yet to abide in the flesh is more needful for your sake. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide, yea, and abide with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith; that your glorying may abound in Christ Jesus in me through my presence with you again.
Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ: that, whether I come and see you or be absent, I may hear of your state, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one soul striving for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing affrighted by the adversaries: which is for them an evident token of perdition, but of your salvation, and that from God; because to you it hath been granted in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer in his behalf: having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
Jesus commissioned His followers to go and make disciples, baptizing and teaching them (Matthew 28:18-20). What better way to go out and teach than by establishing group Bible studies in the community?
Promoting the Gospel Through Community Bible Studies | Sermon Outline
God has established His plan of salvation in Jesus and revealed it in the New Testament. Why are there so many variations?
Man's Divergences from God's Plan | The Plan of Salvation | Sermon Outline
Have you believed, confessed, repented, and been baptized? Great! God's plan for your salvation has not ended; it has just begun!
Obey and Develop | The Plan of Salvation | Sermon Outline
Throughout the New Testament baptism is the believer's response to the message of the Gospel. Why is baptism such a crucial part of the plan of salvation?
Be Baptized | The Plan of Salvation | Sermon Outline
You believe in Jesus. Great! Now what? According to Jesus, declare that faith in confession and make good on it through repentance!
Confess and Repent | The Plan of Salvation | Sermon Outline
We must believe that God exists and is a rewarder of those who seek Him (Heb. 11:6). What is belief, and what does it demand?
Believe | The Plan of Salvation | Sermon Outline
Hearing is seminal for faith. If the Gospel is not heard, it cannot be believed; if it cannot be believed, it cannot be obeyed! If none go to preach, none can hear and believe, and the faith is extinguished. Let us proclaim the Gospel!
Hear | The Plan of Salvation | Sermon Outline
God is not the deist God who set everything up and let it run. God is active in His creation. And He stands ready to empower our lives in faith...if we would only ask Him to do so in prayer!
Empowering the Christian Life Through Prayer | Prayer | Sermon Outline
The Scriptures are replete with examples of God's people crying out for deliverance and God proving faithful to them and His purposes. We do well to seek deliverance in prayer.
God’s Deliverance Through Prayer | Prayer | Sermon Outline
Christians understand they ought to pray. But why? We explore the logic of prayer and what prayer is all about in various circumstances.
The Logic of Prayer | Prayer | Sermon Outline
Prayer is an important aspect of the Christian life. What's it all about?
Prayer | Sermon Outline
In many respects life is all about assessing risk. And yet Christians are called upon to live by faith. How do we balance risk and faith?
Risk and Faith | Sermon Outline
Jesus knew His time was near. He prepared His disciples for His departure. They would not be abandoned; they would have reason to rejoice.
Jesus Prepares His Disciples | Jesus in John | John 13:31-16:33 | Sermon Outline
Jesus fed five thousand people with a few loaves and fish. They wanted more food. Jesus wished to give them the Bread of Life. They refused.
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand | Jesus in John | John 6:1-71 | Sermon Outline
Jesus visited Jerusalem and made quite the impression. Many wished to learn more; but would they understand?
The First Passover | Jesus in John | John 2:13-3:21 | Sermon Outline
Youth is great and can be fun, but it is a vapor. Darker days are coming. Remember your Creator now.
Youth and Age | Wisdom From Ecclesiastes | Ecclesiastes 11:7-12:8 | Sermon Outline
Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun. Yea, if a man live many years, let him rejoice in them all; but let him remember the days of darkness, for they shall be many. All that cometh is vanity. Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth, and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thy heart, and in the sight of thine eyes; but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment. Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from thy flesh; for youth and the dawn of life are vanity.
Remember also thy Creator in the days of thy youth, before the evil days come, and the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, "I have no pleasure in them"; before the sun, and the light, and the moon, and the stars, are darkened, and the clouds return after the rain; in the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows shall be darkened, and the doors shall be shut in the street; when the sound of the grinding is low, and one shall rise up at the voice of a bird, and all the daughters of music shall be brought low; yea, they shall be afraid of that which is high, and terrors shall be in the way; and the almond-tree shall blossom, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail; because man goeth to his everlasting home, and the mourners go about the streets: before the silver cord is loosed, or the golden bowl is broken, or the pitcher is broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern, and the dust returneth to the earth as it was, and the spirit returneth unto God who gave it.
"Vanity of vanities," saith the Preacher; "all is vanity."
Righteousness and wickedness are part of life "under the sun." Much is beyond our understanding. According to the Preacher it is enough for us to seek righteousness and live in joy.
The Righteous and the Wicked | Wisdom From Ecclesiastes | Ecclesiastes 8:5-17 | Sermon Outline
Whoso keepeth the commandment shall know no evil thing; and a wise man's heart discerneth time and judgment: for to every purpose there is a time and judgment; because the misery of man is great upon him: for he knoweth not that which shall be; for who can tell him how it shall be? There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain the spirit; neither hath he power over the day of death; and there is no discharge in war: neither shall wickedness deliver him that is given to it. All this have I seen, and applied my heart unto every work that is done under the sun: there is a time wherein one man hath power over another to his hurt. So I saw the wicked buried, and they came to the grave; and they that had done right went away from the holy place, and were forgotten in the city: this also is vanity. Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil. Though a sinner do evil a hundred times, and prolong his days, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, that fear before him: but it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth not before God. There is a vanity which is done upon the earth, that there are righteous men unto whom it happeneth according to the work of the wicked; again, there are wicked men to whom it happeneth according to the work of the righteous: I said that this also is vanity. Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be joyful: for that shall abide with him in his labor all the days of his life which God hath given him under the sun. When I applied my heart to know wisdom, and to see the business that is done upon the earth (for also there is that neither day nor night seeth sleep with his eyes), then I beheld all the work of God, that man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because however much a man labor to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea moreover, though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it.
Solomon had the means to see the end of pleasure and labor: joy for a moment, but ultimately vanity and a striving after wind.
The End of Pleasure and Labor | Wisdom From Ecclesiastes | Ecclesiastes 2:1-26 | Sermon Outline
Life and all that is within it is as a vapor, and we are soon forgotten. We may rail and protest and rather accept the delusions, but the reality remains as true as when the Preacher declared it: all is vain.
All Is Vain | Wisdom From Ecclesiastes | Ecclesiastes 1:2-11 | Sermon Outline
Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher; vanity of vanities, all is vanity. What profit hath man of all his labor wherein he laboreth under the sun?
One generation goeth, and another generation cometh; but the earth abideth for ever. The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to its place where it ariseth. The wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about unto the north; it turneth about continually in its course, and the wind returneth again to its circuits. All the rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full; unto the place whither the rivers go, thither they go again. All things are full of weariness; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.
That which hath been is that which shall be; and that which hath been done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun. Is there a thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new? it hath been long ago, in the ages which were before us. There is no remembrance of the former generations; neither shall there be any remembrance of the latter generations that are to come, among those that shall come after.
God gave Israel a weekly Sabbath rest for good reason; refreshment is mandatory for healthy living and is a sign of freedom. The Sabbath is not enjoined upon Christians; yet Christians do well to develop a discipline of rest.
Rest | The Disciplines | Sermon Outline
Just because fasting is not commanded does not make it unimportant. As a natural impulse in a time of distress in prayer fasting can have great power in its working. May we never think fasting will twist God's arm!
Fasting | The Disciplines | Sermon Outline
We can perceive from the New Testament how the Apostles maintained prayer offices. The discipline of prayer offices help us orient our lives around God as opposed to the alternative.
Prayer | The Disciplines | Sermon Outline
We hear a lot about postmodernism. For some, it is the biggest philosophical threat to the world; for others, it is just the way things are. As with all philosophies, we can find some good and many challenges in postmodernism.
Postmodernism | Sermon Outline
Jude would have rather written about other subjects. Yet many false teachers were advancing a proto-Gnostic viewpoint in the churches. Jude wrote to encourage Christians to affirm the faith delivered once for all.
Jude | Sermon Outline
Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ: Mercy unto you and peace and love be multiplied.
Beloved, while I was giving all diligence to write unto you of our common salvation, I was constrained to write unto you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in privily, even they who were of old written of beforehand unto this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. Now I desire to put you in remembrance, though ye know all things once for all, that the Lord, having saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. And angels that kept not their own principality, but left their proper habitation, he hath kept in everlasting bonds under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them, having in like manner with these given themselves over to fornication and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the punishment of eternal fire. Yet in like manner these also in their dreamings defile the flesh, and set at nought dominion, and rail at dignities. But Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing judgment, but said, The Lord rebuke thee. But these rail at whatsoever things they know not: and what they understand naturally, like the creatures without reason, in these things are they destroyed. Woe unto them! for they went in the way of Cain, and ran riotously in the error of Balaam for hire, and perished in the gainsaying of Korah. These are they who are hidden rocks in your love-feasts when they feast with you, shepherds that without fear feed themselves; clouds without water, carried along by winds; autumn trees without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; wild waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the blackness of darkness hath been reserved for ever. And to these also Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, saying, "Behold, the Lord came with ten thousands of his holy ones, to execute judgment upon all, and to convict all the ungodly of all their works of ungodliness which they have ungodly wrought, and of all the hard things which ungodly sinners have spoken against him."
These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their lusts (and their mouth speaketh great swelling words), showing respect of persons for the sake of advantage.But ye, beloved, remember ye the words which have been spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; that they said to you, In the last time there shall be mockers, walking after their own ungodly lusts. These are they who make separations, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And on some have mercy, who are in doubt; and some save, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
Now unto him that is able to guard you from stumbling, and to set you before the presence of his glory without blemish in exceeding joy, to the only God our Saviour, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and power, before all time, and now, and for evermore. Amen.
John would rather speak to Gaius in person, but Diotrephes has forced his hand. When John comes it will not go well for Diotrephes. Gaius does well to show hospitality to the Christians who proclaim the Gospel and to commend Demetrius the faithful.
3 John | Sermon Outline
The elder unto Gaius the beloved, whom I love in truth. Beloved, I pray that in all things thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. For I rejoiced greatly, when brethren came and bare witness unto thy truth, even as thou walkest in truth. Greater joy have I none than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.
Beloved, thou doest a faithful work in whatsoever thou doest toward them that are brethren and strangers withal; who bare witness to thy love before the church: whom thou wilt do well to set forward on their journey worthily of God: because that for the sake of the Name they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. We therefore ought to welcome such, that we may be fellow-workers for the truth.
I wrote somewhat unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. Therefore, if I come, I will bring to remembrance his works which he doeth, prating against us with wicked words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and them that would he forbiddeth and casteth them out of the church.
Beloved, imitate not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
Demetrius hath the witness of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, we also bear witness; and thou knowest that our witness is true.
I had many things to write unto thee, but I am unwilling to write them to thee with ink and pen: but I hope shortly to see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be unto thee. The friends salute thee. Salute the friends by name.
Some are starting to doubt the physicality of Jesus. John would have them know for certain: to suggest Jesus was not human was the spirit of antichrist. Christians can have nothing to do with such errors and those who propagate them.
2 John | Sermon Outline
The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in truth; and not I only, but also all they that know the truth; for the truth's sake which abideth in us, and it shall be with us for ever: Grace, mercy, peace shall be with us, from God the Father, and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love. I rejoice greatly that I have found certain of thy children walking in truth, even as we received commandment from the Father. And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote to thee a new commandment, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. And this is love, that we should walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, even as ye heard from the beginning, that ye should walk in it. For many deceivers are gone forth into the world, even they that confess not that Jesus Christ cometh in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist. Look to yourselves, that ye lose not the things which we have wrought, but that ye receive a full reward. Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son. If any one cometh unto you, and bringeth not this teaching, receive him not into your house, and give him no greeting: for he that giveth him greeting partaketh in his evil works.
Having many things to write unto you, I would not write them with paper and ink: but I hope to come unto you, and to speak face to face, that your joy may be made full. The children of thine elect sister salute thee.
It may be Paul's shortest letter, but Philemon is compelling reading. In the ancient world, slavery was a given; it was the declaration of the fundamental equality of all mankind, and the hope of liberation in Christ, which likely led to Onesimus' freedom, and for many more slaves after him.
Paul's Letter to Philemon | Sermon Outline
Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, to Philemon our beloved and fellow-worker, and to Apphia our sister, and to Archippus our fellow-soldier, and to the church in thy house: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I thank my God always, making mention of thee in my prayers, hearing of thy love, and of the faith which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all the saints; that the fellowship of thy faith may become effectual, in the knowledge of every good thing which is in you, unto Christ. For I had much joy and comfort in thy love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through thee, brother.
Wherefore, though I have all boldness in Christ to enjoin thee that which is befitting, yet for love's sake I rather beseech, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now a prisoner also of Christ Jesus: I beseech thee for my child, whom I have begotten in my bonds, Onesimus, who once was unprofitable to thee, but now is profitable to thee and to me: whom I have sent back to thee in his own person, that is, my very heart: whom I would fain have kept with me, that in thy behalf he might minister unto me in the bonds of the gospel: but without thy mind I would do nothing; that thy goodness should not be as of necessity, but of free will. For perhaps he was therefore parted from thee for a season, that thou shouldest have him for ever; no longer as a servant, but more than a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much rather to thee, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
If then thou countest me a partner, receive him as myself. But if he hath wronged thee at all, or oweth thee aught, put that to mine account; I Paul write it with mine own hand, I will repay it: that I say not unto thee that thou owest to me even thine own self besides. Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my heart in Christ. Having confidence in thine obedience I write unto thee, knowing that thou wilt do even beyond what I say. But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I hope that through your prayers I shall be granted unto you.
Epaphras, my fellow-prisoner in Christ Jesus, saluteth thee; and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my fellow-workers. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
It's never pleasant or desirable, but disassociation sadly proves necessary at times. We explore what it is, when it ought to be used, and how to avoid its abuse.
Disassociation | Sermon Outline
The work of the church does not stop with the collective level. There is much for individuals to do in order to encourage and build up the body of Christ.
Individual Responsibilities in the Local Congregation | Sermon Outline
In practical terms, the Christian's work with the church is with the "local" church. But Christians do share in participation in the church universal. What does that look like?
Individual Christians and the Church Universal | Sermon Outline
Christians share in fellowship, or association, with one another in Christ. What does this involve? How has the term been used beyond its Biblical meaning?
Fellowship/Association | Sermon Outline
As Christians "our people" ought to be our brethren in Christ. But many times that is not the case. Thus we ask: what is your "church"? How can it be established so that the church is your "church"?
What is Your Church? | Sermon Outline
Excellent! We have come to understand the message of what God has done in Christ. Now we must apply that message to our lives.
Applying the Message to Life | Sermon Outline
The message has been spoken. Now it has to be accepted. There's a lot more going on there than you'd imagine.
Accepting the Message | Sermon Outline
The Gospel is all about communication. Communication is very multi-layered. We do well to consider it.
The Process of Hearing and Understanding | Sermon Outline
So many of our conversations about grace focus on doctrinal concerns. But the grace of God is to profoundly shape and transform our lives.
Grace in Life | Outline
So many doctrinal disputations have centered on Paul's theology and how he incorporated faith, works, and grace. We consider how Paul put it all together.
Faith, Works, and Grace: Understanding the Pauline Synthesis | Outline
The grace of God is fundamental to our lives, faith, and hope. Pity it isn't discussed more.
The Grace of God | Sermon Outline
Jesus is the Christ - the Messiah, the Anointed One. This means He is the King. We have much to gain from understanding Jesus' authority.
Jesus the King | The Four Faces of Jesus | Outline | Video | More Information
Jesus is a prophet. Yes, we insist, He is more than a prophet; but He is surely not less. His prophetic role is a crucial part of who He is and what He is about.
Jesus the Prophet | The Four Faces of Jesus | Outline | Video | More Information
Jesus frequently referred to Himself as the "Son of Man." He speaks in terms of Daniel's prophecy; but He also affirms His humanity, and we should as well.
Jesus, Son of Man | The Four Faces of Jesus | Outline | Video | More Information
Jesus was proclaimed to be the Son of God. Yes, that means He is the King. But with Jesus, it also means much more: He is God the Son!
Jesus, Son of God | The Four Faces of Jesus | Outline | Video | More Information
No king of Judah proved as sinful; judgment was rendered against Judah because of it. But Manasseh did repent. We can learn from his example.
Manasseh son of Hezekiah | Lessons from Kings | Sermon Outline
Jehoash enjoyed a promising beginning, and did well as long as he was well advised. But then things went wrong very quickly. We do well to heed the warning.
Jehoash son of Ahaziah | Lessons From Kings | Sermon Outline
Jehu: agent of God's vengeance and a fast driver. He did well, but could have done better.
Jehu, son of Nimshi | Lessons From Kings | Sermon Outline
Jeroboam led Israel astray, and the Kings author makes sure you never forget it. The pattern has been repeated continually ever since.
Jeroboam son of Nebat | Lessons From Kings | Sermon Outline
Parents and children have mutual obligations that Paul describes well.
Parents and Children | Ephesians 6:1-4 | Sermon Outline
Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. "Honor thy father and mother" (which is the first commandment with promise), "that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth."
And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but nurture them in the chastening and admonition of the Lord.
Husbands should love their wives; wives should respect their husbands. Paul has a lot to say about them in terms of Christ and the church.
Husbands and Wives | Ephesians 5:22-33 | Sermon Outline
Wives, be in subjection unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, being himself the saviour of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives also be to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it; that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water with the word, that he might present the church to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. Even so ought husbands also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his own wife loveth himself: for no man ever hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as Christ also the church; because we are members of his body.
"For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh." This mystery is great: but I speak in regard of Christ and of the church. Nevertheless do ye also severally love each one his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see that she fear her husband.
It is deeply lamentable how single people are made to feel like second-class citizens of the Kingdom. Single Christians are beloved by God and ought to set their hope on Christ in the resurrection. They are to find support and strength from the community of the people of God.
Serving God While Single | Relationships | Sermon Outline
Why do we need strength?
Where can we find such strength?
Reconnect: Strength | Sermon Outline
Can we really do this on our own?
How can we find support in God and in one another?
Reconnect: Support | Sermon Outline
Why do we yearn for acceptance and belonging?
How can we accept one another?
Reconnect: Acceptance | Sermon Outline
Why do we seek love?
Where do we find what is true love?
Reconnect: Love | Sermon Outline
To whom does Jesus direct the parable of the prodigal son?
Is the parable about the prodigal son or about the older brother?
The Parable of the Prodigal Son and the Older Brother | Luke 15:11-32 | Sermon Outline