Grace Baptist Church Podcast: Recent Episodes
Grace Baptist Church - Nashville, TN
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
This podcast contains audio of messages presented by Senior Pastor, Drake Nosco, and guest speakers during the Sunday morning worship services at Grace Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.
- Accept God's Love
- God gave His best
- Experience God's Love
- God took the first step
- Share God's Love
- The next natural step is to share God's love
- Accept God's Love
- God gave His best
- Experience God's Love
- God took the first step
- Share God's Love
- The next natural step is to share God's love
Jesus Is the Messiah: - In Jesus, we have a new beginning - In Jesus, we know the true King - Are you serving Him? - How are you serving Him? - In Jesus, we have a global mission that we are a part of - We are called to make disciples of all peoples
Jesus Is the Messiah: - In Jesus, we have a new beginning - In Jesus, we know the true King - Are you serving Him? - How are you serving Him? - In Jesus, we have a global mission that we are a part of - We are called to make disciples of all peoples
How to be Wholly Devoted to God - Walk by Faith - See the Potential - Trust in God's Promises - Live Courageously
How to be Wholly Devoted to God - Walk by Faith - See the Potential - Trust in God's Promises - Live Courageously
We can't do anything in our own power to promote spiritual renewal. 1) We need to be committed to interrupt our daily lives for the sake of spending time with God. 2) We need to be committed to sacrificial living A) Confession and repentance B) Fellowship 1) Takes place in the context of corporate gathering 3) Be committed to the Word of God
We can't do anything in our own power to promote spiritual renewal. 1) We need to be committed to interrupt our daily lives for the sake of spending time with God. 2) We need to be committed to sacrificial living A) Confession and repentance B) Fellowship 1) Takes place in the context of corporate gathering 3) Be committed to the Word of God
Introducing Mike and Sarah Click. Mike is the candidate for Associate Pastor: Families and Outreach.
Introducing Mike and Sarah Click. Mike is the candidate for Associate Pastor: Families and Outreach.
3 Ways to be Spiritually Prepared to Live on Mission -
We spend time with our relational God We worship our redeeming God We humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God
What does it look like to let the Lord fight our battles?
3 Ways to be Spiritually Prepared to Live on Mission -
We spend time with our relational God We worship our redeeming God We humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God
What does it look like to let the Lord fight our battles?
God is a Leader (v. 1-4) God is Holy (v. 4-5) God is with Us (v. 5, 7, 10) God is Alive ( v. 10) God is a Warrior (v. 10) God is a Miracle Worker (v. 11-17)
God is a Leader (v. 1-4) God is Holy (v. 4-5) God is with Us (v. 5, 7, 10) God is Alive ( v. 10) God is a Warrior (v. 10) God is a Miracle Worker (v. 11-17)
God's Promises - His Holy Spirit (His Presence) - Forgiveness of Sin - New Creation - Jesus Is Coming Back
Obedience to God is our expression of our love for God
What does Faith look like? - Faith Acts (Sacrifice and Risk) - Faith Confesses - Faith Brings Deliverance
God's Promises - His Holy Spirit (His Presence) - Forgiveness of Sin - New Creation - Jesus Is Coming Back
Obedience to God is our expression of our love for God
What does Faith look like? - Faith Acts (Sacrifice and Risk) - Faith Confesses - Faith Brings Deliverance
Godly leadership demands time spent with God Godly leadership involves guidance which leads to God's rest Godly leadership involves dependence on God
Godly leadership demands time spent with God Godly leadership involves guidance which leads to God's rest Godly leadership involves dependence on God
The Church is called to - Work Hard Together - Take Risks - Genuine Friendships . . . to change the World!
The Church is called to - Work Hard Together - Take Risks - Genuine Friendships . . . to change the World!
"Hope Is Here" by Johnathan Crumpton and Tony Wood, arranged by Cliff Duren from the Easter Musical "My Easter Story." Presented by members of the Grace Baptist Music Ministry. Produced by David Harbison. Produced and edited by Jeff Mead.
"Hope Is Here" by Johnathan Crumpton and Tony Wood, arranged by Cliff Duren from the Easter Musical "My Easter Story." Presented by members of the Grace Baptist Music Ministry. Produced by David Harbison. Produced and edited by Jeff Mead.
God wants us to listen to Him. Listening to God is directly connected to doing His will. Three barriers that hider us from listening to God - - Apathy - Affliction - Materialism A way forward - - A godly heart - Don't focus on your own heart - you may miss what's going on around me - Don't neglect your own heart
God wants us to listen to Him. Listening to God is directly connected to doing His will. Three barriers that hider us from listening to God - - Apathy - Affliction - Materialism A way forward - - A godly heart - Don't focus on your own heart - you may miss what's going on around me - Don't neglect your own heart
Most think that phrase has a negative conitation.
Who cares for us? God does! - by strenthening us - by providing for us
Most think that phrase has a negative conitation.
Who cares for us? God does! - by strenthening us - by providing for us
Christians are encouraged to persevere until the end
Lay aside every encumbrance and sin that entangles.
Run the race - keep your eyes on the prize - Jesus - consider Jesus that endured hostility because of sinners
Christians are encouraged to persevere until the end
Lay aside every encumbrance and sin that entangles.
Run the race - keep your eyes on the prize - Jesus - consider Jesus that endured hostility because of sinners
The Journey of Incompleteness - - We need to press on - Pursue Jesus with everything - With a mature attitude - a humble attitude - Stand firm in the Lord
The Journey of Incompleteness - - We need to press on - Pursue Jesus with everything - With a mature attitude - a humble attitude - Stand firm in the Lord
Because the tomb is empty - - We can have peace - We now have a purpose - God gave us power
Because the tomb is empty - - We can have peace - We now have a purpose - God gave us power
When Jesus is everything - - He is worth knowing. Knowing Jesus - - Involves sacrifice - He brings salvation - Is relational
When Jesus is everything - - He is worth knowing. Knowing Jesus - - Involves sacrifice - He brings salvation - Is relational
When Jesus is everything - - We can rejoice - It safeguards our soul - Focus on the positives - Talk about what you're thankful for - We place our confidence in Him - All who call on the name of the Lord will be saved - Boast in Christ and not in the flesh - We are not in control - He is
When Jesus is everything - - We can rejoice - It safeguards our soul - Focus on the positives - Talk about what you're thankful for - We place our confidence in Him - All who call on the name of the Lord will be saved - Boast in Christ and not in the flesh - We are not in control - He is
Be An Example of Hope - - Love the church - Love the ministry - Love the Gospel Stay faithful despite circumstances
Be An Example of Hope - - Love the church - Love the ministry - Love the Gospel Stay faithful despite circumstances
1) The Lord Guides Us... - to Rest (a place of trust) - to Restoration (be close to Jesus) - to Righteousness (the right path) 2) He Shepherds Us... - Through His presence - I will fear no evil - He protects us - Hospitality (Friendship) - Eternal Life
1) The Lord Guides Us... - to Rest (a place of trust) - to Restoration (be close to Jesus) - to Righteousness (the right path) 2) He Shepherds Us... - Through His presence - I will fear no evil - He protects us - Hospitality (Friendship) - Eternal Life
- Why shouldn't we overlook the tongue?
- What are the capabilities of the tongue?
- Can the tongue be used for good?
- Why shouldn't we overlook the tongue?
- What are the capabilities of the tongue?
- Can the tongue be used for good?
Godly Obedience will result in ... - Active Faith - Destinct Community - Joyful Service
Godly Obedience will result in ... - Active Faith - Destinct Community - Joyful Service
Humility Brings forth Unity in the Church 1. Why is Unity Worth Striving for? - Blessings in Christ Jesus - Encouragement - Love - Fellowship - Mercy 2. Characteristics of Unity - Walking in the Same Direction with the Same Mission - Humility - Looking Out for Others 3. The Achievement of Humility - Same Attitude as Jesus - Selflessness - Servant - Humble - Obedient
Humility Brings forth Unity in the Church 1. Why is Unity Worth Striving for? - Blessings in Christ Jesus - Encouragement - Love - Fellowship - Mercy 2. Characteristics of Unity - Walking in the Same Direction with the Same Mission - Humility - Looking Out for Others 3. The Achievement of Humility - Same Attitude as Jesus - Selflessness - Servant - Humble - Obedient
Heaven is ... 1. A Physical Place 2. A Permanent Place 3. A Prepared Place 4. A Promised Place 5. A Prized Place 6. A Place Where Everything is New 7. A Place of Seeing and Serving God 8. A Place of Life, Not Death
Life is Short! Death is Final! Heaven is Real!
Heaven is ... 1. A Physical Place 2. A Permanent Place 3. A Prepared Place 4. A Promised Place 5. A Prized Place 6. A Place Where Everything is New 7. A Place of Seeing and Serving God 8. A Place of Life, Not Death
Life is Short! Death is Final! Heaven is Real!
How to Conduct Yourselves Worthy of the Gospel 1 - Walking in Unity 2 - Walking in Trust 3 - Walking in Persecution
How to Conduct Yourselves Worthy of the Gospel 1 - Walking in Unity 2 - Walking in Trust 3 - Walking in Persecution
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Anticipate Joy (Psalms 96:11-13 Let the heavens, the earth, the sea, the fields all creation sing for joy...Why? Because He comes.
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Recognize Joy (1 Peter 1:8) Love Him and believe in Him and you will be filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy. God Offers a depth of joy that is not based on our circumstances or our efforts, but on the loving work of God. The shepherds recognized the arrival of joy in the world, and they were filled with joy as they responded to it.
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Choose Joy Chose Gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) Chose to Obey (John 15:10-11) Choose to Abide (John 15:9)
An ongoing, abiding relationship with Jesus brings the gift of joy into our lives. Joy comes from the knowledge that Jesus has come, Jesus is coming, and that Jesus is here!
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Anticipate Joy (Psalms 96:11-13 Let the heavens, the earth, the sea, the fields all creation sing for joy...Why? Because He comes.
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Recognize Joy (1 Peter 1:8) Love Him and believe in Him and you will be filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy. God Offers a depth of joy that is not based on our circumstances or our efforts, but on the loving work of God. The shepherds recognized the arrival of joy in the world, and they were filled with joy as they responded to it.
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Choose Joy Chose Gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) Chose to Obey (John 15:10-11) Choose to Abide (John 15:9)
An ongoing, abiding relationship with Jesus brings the gift of joy into our lives. Joy comes from the knowledge that Jesus has come, Jesus is coming, and that Jesus is here!
The Lordship of Jesus The Lordship of Jesus is Good News The Lordship of Jesus and the Church's follow-ship
The Love of Jesus Jesus gave Himself up for the Church Jesus nourishes and cherishes the Church
The Union of Jesus We are members of His Body We are one with Jesus
The Lordship of Jesus The Lordship of Jesus is Good News The Lordship of Jesus and the Church's follow-ship
The Love of Jesus Jesus gave Himself up for the Church Jesus nourishes and cherishes the Church
The Union of Jesus We are members of His Body We are one with Jesus
At the birth of Jesus, God The Father Declares from Heaven: I. "Thou Art MY Son!" - (Hebrews 1:5-6) II. "Angels of God, WORSHIP HIM!" - (Hebrews 1:6; Luke 2:8-20) III. God The Father Declares Jesus as "GOD" & gives Him an Eternal Kingdom. (Hebrews 1:8). IV. God The Father Declares Jesus as "LORD" & declares Jesus as "Creator". (Hebrews 1:10: Genesis 1:1-3)
At the birth of Jesus, God The Father Declares from Heaven: I. "Thou Art MY Son!" - (Hebrews 1:5-6) II. "Angels of God, WORSHIP HIM!" - (Hebrews 1:6; Luke 2:8-20) III. God The Father Declares Jesus as "GOD" & gives Him an Eternal Kingdom. (Hebrews 1:8). IV. God The Father Declares Jesus as "LORD" & declares Jesus as "Creator". (Hebrews 1:10: Genesis 1:1-3)
An Attitude of Gratitude
God is the Source of DELIVERANCE God is the Source of PROVISION God is the Source of SUSTAINING GRACE
An Attitude of Gratitude
God is the Source of DELIVERANCE God is the Source of PROVISION God is the Source of SUSTAINING GRACE
Pointing People to Jesus
A Question of Intent
A Hunger to Know
An Invitation to Discover
Pointing People to Jesus
A Question of Intent
A Hunger to Know
An Invitation to Discover
Jeremiah’s Heartache Jeremiah remembered the good rule of King Josiah.
Two Themes The stubbornness and incurable sinfulness of the people. The tragic fate that is about to befall the people.
The People ask “Why?” The people’s hearts were so cold that they couldn’t understand their condition. God indicts them for their idolatry.
The Tragedy of a Failed Harvest The people had lost their chance to avoid spiritual famine. They had bypassed numerous opportunities to repent and return to God.
Three Questions There was a balm for the people’s wound—repentance—but they refused to apply it. There was a Physician who could heal their sickness, but they refused to consult Him.
The Balm of Brokenness Broken over our own sin. Broken over the sin of those we love. Broken over the sin that surrounds us.
There IS a Balm in Gilead Sometimes I feel discouraged, and think my work's in vain, but then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again. There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole. There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
Sing praises to the Lord, O you His saints, and give thanks to His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, and His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. Psalm 30:4-5
Jeremiah’s Heartache Jeremiah remembered the good rule of King Josiah.
Two Themes The stubbornness and incurable sinfulness of the people. The tragic fate that is about to befall the people.
The People ask “Why?” The people’s hearts were so cold that they couldn’t understand their condition. God indicts them for their idolatry.
The Tragedy of a Failed Harvest The people had lost their chance to avoid spiritual famine. They had bypassed numerous opportunities to repent and return to God.
Three Questions There was a balm for the people’s wound—repentance—but they refused to apply it. There was a Physician who could heal their sickness, but they refused to consult Him.
The Balm of Brokenness Broken over our own sin. Broken over the sin of those we love. Broken over the sin that surrounds us.
There IS a Balm in Gilead Sometimes I feel discouraged, and think my work's in vain, but then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again. There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole. There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.
Sing praises to the Lord, O you His saints, and give thanks to His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, and His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. Psalm 30:4-5
Notice Jesus’ Actions His curious presence at that awful place. His strange question to the crippled man, “Do you want to be healed?”
Notice the Man’s Response His response reveals his years of frustration and failure. Most of us simply adjust to our circumstances. His affliction had become a “crutch” and an “excuse.”
Notice Jesus’ Reaction Stop making excuses…Get up and Walk! Pack up your excuses and live in Freedom!!! Jesus calls for us to “lay aside the weights” (Hebrews 12:1-3) Turn away from sin. Turn toward Jesus!
Do you want to be healed? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Turn your eyes upon Jesus… Frustrated by your lack of spiritual power? Turn your eyes upon Jesus…
Notice Jesus’ Actions His curious presence at that awful place. His strange question to the crippled man, “Do you want to be healed?”
Notice the Man’s Response His response reveals his years of frustration and failure. Most of us simply adjust to our circumstances. His affliction had become a “crutch” and an “excuse.”
Notice Jesus’ Reaction Stop making excuses…Get up and Walk! Pack up your excuses and live in Freedom!!! Jesus calls for us to “lay aside the weights” (Hebrews 12:1-3) Turn away from sin. Turn toward Jesus!
Do you want to be healed? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Turn your eyes upon Jesus… Frustrated by your lack of spiritual power? Turn your eyes upon Jesus…
Defeat from the “Jaws of Victory” All of the success of Mt. Carmel faded in light of the threats of Jezebel. Elijah arrived in the wilderness depleted physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Receiving God’s Sustaining Grace The angel awakens Elijah two times so he can eat. Even when we want to give up, God is still gracious to us. Isaiah 41:10
Experiencing God’s Empowering Presence “What are you doing here, Elijah?” Elijah was unmoved by the wind, earthquake, and fire. What would it take for you to be quiet enough to hear God’s gentle whisper? (Is. 30:15)
Responding to God’s Compelling Commission What are you doing here, Elijah? I still have work for you to do. When we know God’s purpose for our lives, we can overcome any challenge we may face.
Defeat from the “Jaws of Victory” All of the success of Mt. Carmel faded in light of the threats of Jezebel. Elijah arrived in the wilderness depleted physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Receiving God’s Sustaining Grace The angel awakens Elijah two times so he can eat. Even when we want to give up, God is still gracious to us. Isaiah 41:10
Experiencing God’s Empowering Presence “What are you doing here, Elijah?” Elijah was unmoved by the wind, earthquake, and fire. What would it take for you to be quiet enough to hear God’s gentle whisper? (Is. 30:15)
Responding to God’s Compelling Commission What are you doing here, Elijah? I still have work for you to do. When we know God’s purpose for our lives, we can overcome any challenge we may face.
Samson remains one of the most interesting men in the Bible.
Three Dominant Themes of Samson’s Life...
A Man of Faith
The Violation of a Vow
The Prison of Self-Centeredness
The God of Second Chances
When you are in a place where God is all you have, you discover that God is all you need.
Samson remains one of the most interesting men in the Bible.
Three Dominant Themes of Samson’s Life...
A Man of Faith
The Violation of a Vow
The Prison of Self-Centeredness
The God of Second Chances
When you are in a place where God is all you have, you discover that God is all you need.
The Light that Shines the Farthest... More lost people live in TN than ever before—3.65 million. Growing immigrant population. Fewer young adults are attending church. Culture is rapidly changing.
Pray for the “Laborers” Pray that God will send them. Ask that they be responsive. Ask for sensitive hearts to God. Pray for them as they go. Pray that they will have boldness. Pray that God will open doors for them to witness (persons of peace).
Give Generously to God’s Work From the beginning, missions has been about giving. Churches working together can do incredible things. Most of the projects GOTM funds are more than one church could do alone.
Be Ready to Go As a follower of Jesus, we are already “on mission.” Obedience will lead us to opportunities for ministry and witness. Don’t put limits on God’s call.
The Light that Shines the Farthest... More lost people live in TN than ever before—3.65 million. Growing immigrant population. Fewer young adults are attending church. Culture is rapidly changing.
Pray for the “Laborers” Pray that God will send them. Ask that they be responsive. Ask for sensitive hearts to God. Pray for them as they go. Pray that they will have boldness. Pray that God will open doors for them to witness (persons of peace).
Give Generously to God’s Work From the beginning, missions has been about giving. Churches working together can do incredible things. Most of the projects GOTM funds are more than one church could do alone.
Be Ready to Go As a follower of Jesus, we are already “on mission.” Obedience will lead us to opportunities for ministry and witness. Don’t put limits on God’s call.
Why was the Word made flesh? - God is in Heaven, we are on the Earth. - Humanity has a sin problem (Romans 3:23). - God provided the answer (Romans 5:8). - Jesus came to bridge the gap between God’s Holiness and our sin. How was the Word made flesh? - The eternal God became part of Finite Creation. - The Everlasting WORD became Temporal Flesh. - He “pitched His tent” with us. - Tabernacle—God’s Presence with His people. - Jesus “emptied” Himself so we could be “filled” (Philippians 2:5-11). Who is “the Word made flesh?” - Even as a man, His divine glory shone through (I John 1:1). - The only one of His kind. - Only Begotten - Full of grace and truth (John 14:16, Acts 4:12). - God’s grace is freely extended to all, but His truth is we must receive His offer of salvation. He became sin for us, so we could be made righteous (2 Corinthians 5:21) - For Christians: O for grace to trust Him more - For non-believers: Come every soul by sin oppressed...
Why was the Word made flesh? - God is in Heaven, we are on the Earth. - Humanity has a sin problem (Romans 3:23). - God provided the answer (Romans 5:8). - Jesus came to bridge the gap between God’s Holiness and our sin. How was the Word made flesh? - The eternal God became part of Finite Creation. - The Everlasting WORD became Temporal Flesh. - He “pitched His tent” with us. - Tabernacle—God’s Presence with His people. - Jesus “emptied” Himself so we could be “filled” (Philippians 2:5-11). Who is “the Word made flesh?” - Even as a man, His divine glory shone through (I John 1:1). - The only one of His kind. - Only Begotten - Full of grace and truth (John 14:16, Acts 4:12). - God’s grace is freely extended to all, but His truth is we must receive His offer of salvation. He became sin for us, so we could be made righteous (2 Corinthians 5:21) - For Christians: O for grace to trust Him more - For non-believers: Come every soul by sin oppressed...
God’s Original Plan – Genesis 2:15
When Work Became “Labor” – Genesis 3:16-19
The Redemption of Work – Colossians 3:17, 23-24
The Final Glorification of Work – Revelation 22:1-4
God’s Original Plan – Genesis 2:15
When Work Became “Labor” – Genesis 3:16-19
The Redemption of Work – Colossians 3:17, 23-24
The Final Glorification of Work – Revelation 22:1-4
The most profound and effective memorial of any kind is the Lord's Supper.
The Baptist Faith and Message says: The Lord's Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the church, through partaking of the bread and the fruit of the vine, memorialize the death of the Redeemer and anticipate His second coming.
Communion is so significant because of the following characteristics:
It’s Interactive. Communion involves all five of the senses. Paul calls the Lord ’s Supper, “a participation” in the body and blood of Christ (1 Corinthians 10:16).
It’s Symbolic. The unleavened bread symbolizes that Jesus had no sin. The juice is blood-colored, reminding us Jesus’s blood was poured out to cleanse us of our sins.
It’s Portable. It’s easily made available wherever a local church assembles.
It’s Permanent. The Communion memorial has lasted for nearly 2,000 years and will continue to be practiced in eternity.
It’s Profound. There is something deeply spiritual that occurs when we participate in the Lord’s Supper with the right spirit.
The most profound and effective memorial of any kind is the Lord's Supper.
The Baptist Faith and Message says: The Lord's Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the church, through partaking of the bread and the fruit of the vine, memorialize the death of the Redeemer and anticipate His second coming.
Communion is so significant because of the following characteristics:
It’s Interactive. Communion involves all five of the senses. Paul calls the Lord ’s Supper, “a participation” in the body and blood of Christ (1 Corinthians 10:16).
It’s Symbolic. The unleavened bread symbolizes that Jesus had no sin. The juice is blood-colored, reminding us Jesus’s blood was poured out to cleanse us of our sins.
It’s Portable. It’s easily made available wherever a local church assembles.
It’s Permanent. The Communion memorial has lasted for nearly 2,000 years and will continue to be practiced in eternity.
It’s Profound. There is something deeply spiritual that occurs when we participate in the Lord’s Supper with the right spirit.
A gospel imagination liberates.
A gospel imagination takes risks.
A gospel imagination transforms.
The gospel changes lives, churches, and communities.
A gospel imagination liberates.
A gospel imagination takes risks.
A gospel imagination transforms.
The gospel changes lives, churches, and communities.
Review Your Calling
Renew Your Calling
Rekindle Your Calling
What is your calling? All of us are called.
Review Your Calling
Renew Your Calling
Rekindle Your Calling
What is your calling? All of us are called.
The Story of the Bible: Genesis 22:7 – “Where is the lamb?” John 1:29 – “Behold the Lamb of God!” Revelation 5:12 – “Worthy is the Lamb!”
The Story of the Bible: Genesis 22:7 – “Where is the lamb?” John 1:29 – “Behold the Lamb of God!” Revelation 5:12 – “Worthy is the Lamb!”
Three Bible verse summarize the Gospel message of the entire Word of God, the Bible: Genesis 22:7 in the Old Testament – “Where is the lamb?” John 1:29 in the New Testament – “Behold the Lamb of God!” Revelation 5:12 summarizes the song of the redeemed in a heavenly eternity – “Worthy is the Lamb!”
Today’s message walks us from Genesis onward in the Old Testament in response to Isaac’s question to his father Abraham on Mount Mariah, “Where is the lamb?”
Three Bible verse summarize the Gospel message of the entire Word of God, the Bible: Genesis 22:7 in the Old Testament – “Where is the lamb?” John 1:29 in the New Testament – “Behold the Lamb of God!” Revelation 5:12 summarizes the song of the redeemed in a heavenly eternity – “Worthy is the Lamb!”
Today’s message walks us from Genesis onward in the Old Testament in response to Isaac’s question to his father Abraham on Mount Mariah, “Where is the lamb?”
God used Elijah to bring national revival to Israel. Yet, Elijah is first remembered for his one-to-one “Who’s Your One?” ministry. Elijah’s disciple, Elisha, is also memorialized for his “Who’s Your One?” ministry.
God used Elijah to bring national revival to Israel. Yet, Elijah is first remembered for his one-to-one “Who’s Your One?” ministry. Elijah’s disciple, Elisha, is also memorialized for his “Who’s Your One?” ministry.
If you were required to answer this question, what might you say? The question is, following the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ and the coming of the Holy Spirit, “What is the most important event in the history of the Christian Church?” You would be on solid ground if your answer was, “The conversion of Saul of Tarsus.”
If you were required to answer this question, what might you say? The question is, following the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ and the coming of the Holy Spirit, “What is the most important event in the history of the Christian Church?” You would be on solid ground if your answer was, “The conversion of Saul of Tarsus.”
God cares about the Nations. God cares about Israel, America and all nations of the earth and wants us to proclaim the Gospel to all peoples. Our Bible message today is about a mighty military general, named Naaman, from the nation of Syria, an enemy of Israel. This story tells of his healing, conversion and of the young lady who pointed him to the living God.
God cares about the Nations. God cares about Israel, America and all nations of the earth and wants us to proclaim the Gospel to all peoples. Our Bible message today is about a mighty military general, named Naaman, from the nation of Syria, an enemy of Israel. This story tells of his healing, conversion and of the young lady who pointed him to the living God.
The Master Teacher takes us to the Judgment Day where every soul will be sent to Heaven or Hell based on their saving relationship with Jesus Christ. He now moves to His conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount which takes us to final judgment before a holy God. The chapter begins with the word “Judge” and takes us to see the doom of false, pretend believers. Jesus gives us words of wisdom to prove ourselves to be true Christians.
The Master Teacher takes us to the Judgment Day where every soul will be sent to Heaven or Hell based on their saving relationship with Jesus Christ. He now moves to His conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount which takes us to final judgment before a holy God. The chapter begins with the word “Judge” and takes us to see the doom of false, pretend believers. Jesus gives us words of wisdom to prove ourselves to be true Christians.
The Master Teacher takes us to the Judgment Day where every soul will be sent to Heaven or Hell based on their saving relationship with Jesus Christ. He now moves to His conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount which takes us to final judgment before a holy God. The chapter begins with the word “Judge” and takes us to see the doom of false, pretend believers. Jesus gives us words of wisdom to prove ourselves to be true Christians.
The Master Teacher takes us to the Judgment Day where every soul will be sent to Heaven or Hell based on their saving relationship with Jesus Christ. He now moves to His conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount which takes us to final judgment before a holy God. The chapter begins with the word “Judge” and takes us to see the doom of false, pretend believers. Jesus gives us words of wisdom to prove ourselves to be true Christians.
Who is the one person on your heart who needs to be saved by Christ and His Grace? Someone prayed and labored for you and me to be brought to Christ. The Prodigal son had a father who prayed for him. Who’s your one?
Who is the one person on your heart who needs to be saved by Christ and His Grace? Someone prayed and labored for you and me to be brought to Christ. The Prodigal son had a father who prayed for him. Who’s your one?
The Lord Jesus describes “two paths of life” where each person must choose a destiny. One is “the broad way” with a wide gate leading to Hell. The path to Heaven is a “narrow way” with a strait, narrow gate. All Scripture teaches there are just two paths and two kinds of people. Psalm 1:6 mentions “the way of righteous” and “the way of the ungodly.”
Defining the Christian Life Biblically – Matthew 7:13-14
Deceptions We Must Avoid – Matthew 7:15-16
The Cross-The Road That is Our Hope – Matthew 27:54
The Lord Jesus describes “two paths of life” where each person must choose a destiny. One is “the broad way” with a wide gate leading to Hell. The path to Heaven is a “narrow way” with a strait, narrow gate. All Scripture teaches there are just two paths and two kinds of people. Psalm 1:6 mentions “the way of righteous” and “the way of the ungodly.”
Defining the Christian Life Biblically – Matthew 7:13-14
Deceptions We Must Avoid – Matthew 7:15-16
The Cross-The Road That is Our Hope – Matthew 27:54
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Abram’s Great Trial – Genesis 13:12-14:17 Spiritual Trials – Genesis 13:13-18 Physical Trials – Genesis 14:17
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Melchizedek’s Gracious Appearance – Genesis 14:18-19 Hebrews 7:1-28 “King of Righteousness,” “King of Peace” King of Salem A Foreshadowing of Christ – Genesis 14:18 The Fullness of Life in Christ – Genesis 14:19 And you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10
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Abram’s Appropriate Gift – Genesis 14:20 The Tithe—Who am I to cease it? God conceived it Abraham commenced it – Genesis 14:20 Jacob continued it – Genesis 28:22 Moses commanded it – Leviticus 27:30 Jesus commended it – Matthew 23:23
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God’s Great Reward – Genesis 14:21-15:1
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Abram’s Great Trial – Genesis 13:12-14:17 Spiritual Trials – Genesis 13:13-18 Physical Trials – Genesis 14:17
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Melchizedek’s Gracious Appearance – Genesis 14:18-19 Hebrews 7:1-28 “King of Righteousness,” “King of Peace” King of Salem A Foreshadowing of Christ – Genesis 14:18 The Fullness of Life in Christ – Genesis 14:19 And you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10
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Abram’s Appropriate Gift – Genesis 14:20 The Tithe—Who am I to cease it? God conceived it Abraham commenced it – Genesis 14:20 Jacob continued it – Genesis 28:22 Moses commanded it – Leviticus 27:30 Jesus commended it – Matthew 23:23
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God’s Great Reward – Genesis 14:21-15:1
Profession of Faith - Ruth 1:15-17
Perseverance of Faith - Ruth 2:2-4; Ruth 2:12; Ruth 2:23
Patience of Hope – Ruth 3:1; Ruth 3:9-11; Ruth 3:18
Portrait of Love – Ruth 4:9-11; Ruth 4:14; Ruth 4:17
Profession of Faith - Ruth 1:15-17
Perseverance of Faith - Ruth 2:2-4; Ruth 2:12; Ruth 2:23
Patience of Hope – Ruth 3:1; Ruth 3:9-11; Ruth 3:18
Portrait of Love – Ruth 4:9-11; Ruth 4:14; Ruth 4:17
In this master message from Jesus Christ, He moves to His conclusion which takes us to the final judgment before God. The entire chapter is about preparing for that day. And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment. (Hebrews 9:27)
The Tenderness to Develop Matthew 7:1-5
The Treasure to Consider Matthew 7:6
The Throne to Approach Matthew 7:7-11
The Testimony to Practice Matthew 7:12
In this master message from Jesus Christ, He moves to His conclusion which takes us to the final judgment before God. The entire chapter is about preparing for that day. And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment. (Hebrews 9:27)
The Tenderness to Develop Matthew 7:1-5
The Treasure to Consider Matthew 7:6
The Throne to Approach Matthew 7:7-11
The Testimony to Practice Matthew 7:12
This Mother’s Day we look at the rich young ruler. This is one of the few encounters with Christ that is recorded in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Only Mark records that the man came running to Jesus, an evidence of his youth. Luke tells us that the young man was a ruler of the Jews, the same term used of Nicodemus in John 3:1. Only Mark adds the tender words, “Then Jesus beholding him loved him” (Mark 10:21).
This Mother’s Day we look at the rich young ruler. This is one of the few encounters with Christ that is recorded in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Only Mark records that the man came running to Jesus, an evidence of his youth. Luke tells us that the young man was a ruler of the Jews, the same term used of Nicodemus in John 3:1. Only Mark adds the tender words, “Then Jesus beholding him loved him” (Mark 10:21).
Now the Lord of holiness instructs us for daily life challenges related to the very practical, always present, matters of our finances and overcoming life’s stresses and worries.
Loving Connection to His Lordship Matthew 6:25
Life Illustrations of His Love and Care – Matthew 6:26-29
Logical Spiritual Conclusions – Matthew 6:30-32
Leaning Daily on His loving Lordship – Matthew 6:33-34
Now the Lord of holiness instructs us for daily life challenges related to the very practical, always present, matters of our finances and overcoming life’s stresses and worries.
Loving Connection to His Lordship Matthew 6:25
Life Illustrations of His Love and Care – Matthew 6:26-29
Logical Spiritual Conclusions – Matthew 6:30-32
Leaning Daily on His loving Lordship – Matthew 6:33-34
Now He gains our immediate attention by mentioning “treasures upon earth.” Money always gets man’s attention.
Five Biblical Principles of Christian Stewardship:
God owns everything. Psalm 24:1, Psalm 50:10
The Christian is a steward (manager) of God’s possessions and gifts (including money). Luke 12:48, John 20:21
All men will give an account of their stewardship; their use of God’s gifts and opportunities. Luke 16:2
We should give God the “first fruits” of His/our possessions as a first step in good stewardship. (Tithe, time, talent, heart, soul, mind, strength) Matthew 6:33, Malachi 3:8-10
We should strive, work and pray to multiply His gifts to us for the sake of the kingdom of Christ and for the glory of God. Matthew 25:20-21
Now He gains our immediate attention by mentioning “treasures upon earth.” Money always gets man’s attention.
Five Biblical Principles of Christian Stewardship:
God owns everything. Psalm 24:1, Psalm 50:10
The Christian is a steward (manager) of God’s possessions and gifts (including money). Luke 12:48, John 20:21
All men will give an account of their stewardship; their use of God’s gifts and opportunities. Luke 16:2
We should give God the “first fruits” of His/our possessions as a first step in good stewardship. (Tithe, time, talent, heart, soul, mind, strength) Matthew 6:33, Malachi 3:8-10
We should strive, work and pray to multiply His gifts to us for the sake of the kingdom of Christ and for the glory of God. Matthew 25:20-21
The Lord’s Prayer overflows with spiritual life in each word and phrase. In just sixty five words, spiritual universes of meaning open to our soul and lead us to God in prayer.
The Lord’s Prayer overflows with spiritual life in each word and phrase. In just sixty five words, spiritual universes of meaning open to our soul and lead us to God in prayer.
Often called “The Model Prayer” or “The Disciple’s Prayer”, Matthew 6:9-13 is best known as “The Lord’s Prayer”. This is the prayer our Lord and Master Teacher gave us in The Sermon on the Mount to teach us how to pray to our Heavenly Father. “The Lord’s Prayer” is only 65 words, yet this Holy Spirit inspired, Christ given prayer is inexhaustible in blessing us as we pray to our Heavenly Father.
Now let us hear our Lord, our Master Teacher, tell us how to approach praying “The Lord’s Prayer” in our heart and mind by preparation before we pray.
Often called “The Model Prayer” or “The Disciple’s Prayer”, Matthew 6:9-13 is best known as “The Lord’s Prayer”. This is the prayer our Lord and Master Teacher gave us in The Sermon on the Mount to teach us how to pray to our Heavenly Father. “The Lord’s Prayer” is only 65 words, yet this Holy Spirit inspired, Christ given prayer is inexhaustible in blessing us as we pray to our Heavenly Father.
Now let us hear our Lord, our Master Teacher, tell us how to approach praying “The Lord’s Prayer” in our heart and mind by preparation before we pray.
The “secret” of Christian service simply is that our service, giving, prayer, or works of devotion must be done in secret before our Heavenly Father with the reward being to “glorify your Father which is in Heaven” (Matthew 5:17). Matthew 6:4, Matthew 6:6, Matthew 6:18
The “secret” of Christian service simply is that our service, giving, prayer, or works of devotion must be done in secret before our Heavenly Father with the reward being to “glorify your Father which is in Heaven” (Matthew 5:17). Matthew 6:4, Matthew 6:6, Matthew 6:18
This final “Radical” statement of the Master Teacher can be constructively applied as not holding a grudge against any person, even those who wronged you terribly. A “grudge” is a persistent feeling of ill will; or a deep-seated resentment resulting from a past insult or injury; unwilling to grant forgiveness or allow a relationship. The Lord calls us to do what is humanly impossible but divinely possible by the Living Christ Who abides in us.
Do not try to vindicate yourself (Don’t be a victim!) – Matthew 5:43 “Ye have heard that it hath been said…” (Leviticus 19:18, Deuteronomy 23:3-6) Accept the absolute authority and example of Jesus Christ over your life. – Matthew 5:44, John 13:13-17 “But I say unto you….” Remember how good God is to you and to all by His universal graces – Matthew 5:45, Psalm 8:1 “The children of your Father…He makes the sun to rise on the evil and the good.” Don’t you want to be more than average, common ordinary? – Matthew 5:46-47 “What do ye do more than others?” Press onto His goal for your life. Leave your past and your grudges at the foot of the cross. – Matthew 5:48
Our Master Teacher Saviour and Lord modeled His message to us when He shed His blood and died at Calvary for our sins. His first words as the nails went into His hands and feet were, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”
This final “Radical” statement of the Master Teacher can be constructively applied as not holding a grudge against any person, even those who wronged you terribly. A “grudge” is a persistent feeling of ill will; or a deep-seated resentment resulting from a past insult or injury; unwilling to grant forgiveness or allow a relationship. The Lord calls us to do what is humanly impossible but divinely possible by the Living Christ Who abides in us.
Do not try to vindicate yourself (Don’t be a victim!) – Matthew 5:43 “Ye have heard that it hath been said…” (Leviticus 19:18, Deuteronomy 23:3-6) Accept the absolute authority and example of Jesus Christ over your life. – Matthew 5:44, John 13:13-17 “But I say unto you….” Remember how good God is to you and to all by His universal graces – Matthew 5:45, Psalm 8:1 “The children of your Father…He makes the sun to rise on the evil and the good.” Don’t you want to be more than average, common ordinary? – Matthew 5:46-47 “What do ye do more than others?” Press onto His goal for your life. Leave your past and your grudges at the foot of the cross. – Matthew 5:48
Our Master Teacher Saviour and Lord modeled His message to us when He shed His blood and died at Calvary for our sins. His first words as the nails went into His hands and feet were, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”
The Roman government gave their Roman Soldiers the right to impress into service any person to carry their bags and armor one mile. All were forced to go one mile. People in those days would mark exactly one mile from their home in all directions. When they reached the pre-set one mile marker, they dropped the soldier’s bags with a thud and left them there. Jesus tells us to go willingly, the Second Mile and smile each step of the way! Be a second mile Christian in life – You will radically change our world for the glory of Him who went beyond the second mile to die on the Cross for our sins.
The Roman government gave their Roman Soldiers the right to impress into service any person to carry their bags and armor one mile. All were forced to go one mile. People in those days would mark exactly one mile from their home in all directions. When they reached the pre-set one mile marker, they dropped the soldier’s bags with a thud and left them there. Jesus tells us to go willingly, the Second Mile and smile each step of the way! Be a second mile Christian in life – You will radically change our world for the glory of Him who went beyond the second mile to die on the Cross for our sins.
The Sermon on the Mount is not for the casual listener. This Sermon upsets our world and turns it upside down. This Sermon can only be appreciated and beneficial to the serious, even radical, follower of Jesus Christ. Jesus did the most radical thing imaginable for us – He died on the Cross for our sins so we could be saved by grace and enter Heaven. Our response to His love must be sincere, profound, and whole-hearted.
The Sermon on the Mount is not for the casual listener. This Sermon upsets our world and turns it upside down. This Sermon can only be appreciated and beneficial to the serious, even radical, follower of Jesus Christ. Jesus did the most radical thing imaginable for us – He died on the Cross for our sins so we could be saved by grace and enter Heaven. Our response to His love must be sincere, profound, and whole-hearted.
The Master Teacher, Jesus the Son of God, moves His Sermon on the Mount into action in our lives. In the Beatitudes (5:3-12) He told us what we are to be in our hearts and souls by the grace of God for a “blessed” life. “Poor in spirit…Mourning over sin...Meek and Humble…Hungering after Righteousness…Merciful…Pure in Heart…Peacemakers…Persecuted for Righteousness sake.” With these qualities abiding in your life, now, He tells us what we are to do. We are now ready to be used by God and to be a “blessing” to the world. Yes, in Christ, we are “blessed in order to become a blessing.”
The Master Teacher, Jesus the Son of God, moves His Sermon on the Mount into action in our lives. In the Beatitudes (5:3-12) He told us what we are to be in our hearts and souls by the grace of God for a “blessed” life. “Poor in spirit…Mourning over sin...Meek and Humble…Hungering after Righteousness…Merciful…Pure in Heart…Peacemakers…Persecuted for Righteousness sake.” With these qualities abiding in your life, now, He tells us what we are to do. We are now ready to be used by God and to be a “blessing” to the world. Yes, in Christ, we are “blessed in order to become a blessing.”
Christian persecution is hostility and ill treatment because of a person’s belief in Christ and the Gospel to the point of prejudice, harassment, imprisonment, or death. The New Testament word for “persecute” literally means “to chase away.” The world does not want Christ, His Gospel, or His followers to be seen or heard – just to go away by departing their faith to be forced to conform to the world or by being eradicated.
Christian persecution is hostility and ill treatment because of a person’s belief in Christ and the Gospel to the point of prejudice, harassment, imprisonment, or death. The New Testament word for “persecute” literally means “to chase away.” The world does not want Christ, His Gospel, or His followers to be seen or heard – just to go away by departing their faith to be forced to conform to the world or by being eradicated.
Do not lose heart because God is working. A. Do not lose heart - v 13 B. God is doing something- v 11; 1:11 C. It is for their glory - v 13 D. The church reveals God’s wisdom- v 10
Have strength because you are rooted and grounded in love. A. Have strength - v 16, 18 B. Comprehend and know that love- vv 18-19
God’s love is demonstrated in the richness of His grace- Ephesians 1:3-4, 7, 18-19 Ephesians 2:4, 6-7
Conclusion: Do not lose heart because God is working for you to have strength by being rooted and grounded in His love so that we would glorify Him by demonstrating His love to others.
Do not lose heart because God is working. A. Do not lose heart - v 13 B. God is doing something- v 11; 1:11 C. It is for their glory - v 13 D. The church reveals God’s wisdom- v 10
Have strength because you are rooted and grounded in love. A. Have strength - v 16, 18 B. Comprehend and know that love- vv 18-19
God’s love is demonstrated in the richness of His grace- Ephesians 1:3-4, 7, 18-19 Ephesians 2:4, 6-7
Conclusion: Do not lose heart because God is working for you to have strength by being rooted and grounded in His love so that we would glorify Him by demonstrating His love to others.
Meekness, gentleness is a God-ward quality of the heart first before it is a quality shown to people. The first four Beatitudes relate to God just as the first four of the Ten Commandments relate to God. First we must get into right relationship with God. Then we will be in a position to get in right relationship to men.
The Source of Meekness “Blessed” Only God can give or bless a meek, gentle, humble spirit.
The Strength in Meekness “Are the Meek” The best definition of this word “meek” would be “strength under control.” Meekness is the greatest strength a human can possess – to control the human spirit, anger, revenge, or passion for the glory of God and the good of the world.
The Saviour of Meekness We may boldly say that the Beatitudes are a portrait of Christ. Nowhere is this more true than the “Blessedness of meekness.” Jesus even said, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly of heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29). Since Christ is “meek and lowly” we must strive to be meek and lowly also. Dr. John Phillips wrote accurately, “The Lord Jesus was meek, but no one would describe (Him) as weak. To be meek means to be gentle, patient, not given to anger or resentment.”
The Surprise of Meekness “Shall Inherit the earth” “But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace” (Psalm 37:11). At the final judgment and in the end, the meek who are like Jesus always finish the best. What surprises the bragging, haughty world will see in the end!
Meekness, gentleness is a God-ward quality of the heart first before it is a quality shown to people. The first four Beatitudes relate to God just as the first four of the Ten Commandments relate to God. First we must get into right relationship with God. Then we will be in a position to get in right relationship to men.
The Source of Meekness “Blessed” Only God can give or bless a meek, gentle, humble spirit.
The Strength in Meekness “Are the Meek” The best definition of this word “meek” would be “strength under control.” Meekness is the greatest strength a human can possess – to control the human spirit, anger, revenge, or passion for the glory of God and the good of the world.
The Saviour of Meekness We may boldly say that the Beatitudes are a portrait of Christ. Nowhere is this more true than the “Blessedness of meekness.” Jesus even said, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly of heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29). Since Christ is “meek and lowly” we must strive to be meek and lowly also. Dr. John Phillips wrote accurately, “The Lord Jesus was meek, but no one would describe (Him) as weak. To be meek means to be gentle, patient, not given to anger or resentment.”
The Surprise of Meekness “Shall Inherit the earth” “But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace” (Psalm 37:11). At the final judgment and in the end, the meek who are like Jesus always finish the best. What surprises the bragging, haughty world will see in the end!
Meekness, gentleness is a God-ward quality of the heart first before it is a quality shown to people. The first four Beatitudes relate to God just as the first four of the Ten Commandments relate to God. First we must get into right relationship with God. Then we will be in a position to get in right relationship to men.
The Source of Meekness “Blessed” Only God can give or bless a meek, gentle, humble spirit.
The Strength in Meekness “Are the Meek” The best definition of this word “meek” would be “strength under control.” Meekness is the greatest strength a human can possess – to control the human spirit, anger, revenge, or passion for the glory of God and the good of the world.
The Saviour of Meekness We may boldly say that the Beatitudes are a portrait of Christ. Nowhere is this more true than the “Blessedness of meekness.” Jesus even said, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly of heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29). Since Christ is “meek and lowly” we must strive to be meek and lowly also. Dr. John Phillips wrote accurately, “The Lord Jesus was meek, but no one would describe (Him) as weak. To be meek means to be gentle, patient, not given to anger or resentment.”
The Surprise of Meekness “Shall Inherit the earth” “But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace” (Psalm 37:11). At the final judgment and in the end, the meek who are like Jesus always finish the best. What surprises the bragging, haughty world will see in the end!
Meekness, gentleness is a God-ward quality of the heart first before it is a quality shown to people. The first four Beatitudes relate to God just as the first four of the Ten Commandments relate to God. First we must get into right relationship with God. Then we will be in a position to get in right relationship to men.
The Source of Meekness “Blessed” Only God can give or bless a meek, gentle, humble spirit.
The Strength in Meekness “Are the Meek” The best definition of this word “meek” would be “strength under control.” Meekness is the greatest strength a human can possess – to control the human spirit, anger, revenge, or passion for the glory of God and the good of the world.
The Saviour of Meekness We may boldly say that the Beatitudes are a portrait of Christ. Nowhere is this more true than the “Blessedness of meekness.” Jesus even said, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly of heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29). Since Christ is “meek and lowly” we must strive to be meek and lowly also. Dr. John Phillips wrote accurately, “The Lord Jesus was meek, but no one would describe (Him) as weak. To be meek means to be gentle, patient, not given to anger or resentment.”
The Surprise of Meekness “Shall Inherit the earth” “But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace” (Psalm 37:11). At the final judgment and in the end, the meek who are like Jesus always finish the best. What surprises the bragging, haughty world will see in the end!
Let us begin well in the journey of life, and let us work diligently first on our relationship with God. Matthew 5:3-6 refers to repenting toward God and getting right with him. The first four Beatitudes direct us to getting right before God. “Poor in Spirit” (5:3) – We must come as beggars to a holy God asking for a mercy that we do not deserve. Repentance and utter dependence upon God for mercy is the threshold to the Kingdom of God. “Mourn” (5:4) – Sorrow for sins is the first sign of true repentance. “Meek” (5:5) – Brokenness over sin is the next step of repentance. “Hunger and thirst after righteousness” (5:6) – Longing for cleansing and righteousness in the heart is a sure proof of repentance and the life of God in the soul.
Let us begin well in the journey of life, and let us work diligently first on our relationship with God. Matthew 5:3-6 refers to repenting toward God and getting right with him. The first four Beatitudes direct us to getting right before God. “Poor in Spirit” (5:3) – We must come as beggars to a holy God asking for a mercy that we do not deserve. Repentance and utter dependence upon God for mercy is the threshold to the Kingdom of God. “Mourn” (5:4) – Sorrow for sins is the first sign of true repentance. “Meek” (5:5) – Brokenness over sin is the next step of repentance. “Hunger and thirst after righteousness” (5:6) – Longing for cleansing and righteousness in the heart is a sure proof of repentance and the life of God in the soul.
I. The Authority of God II. The Command of God III. Baptism is Expected of EVERY Disciple IV. Disciples Obey as He Empowers us. Application: Making Obedient Disciples is Expected of Christ Followers.
I. The Authority of God II. The Command of God III. Baptism is Expected of EVERY Disciple IV. Disciples Obey as He Empowers us. Application: Making Obedient Disciples is Expected of Christ Followers.
I. The Authority of God II. The Command of God III. Baptism is Expected of EVERY Disciple IV. Disciples Obey as He Empowers us. Application: Making Obedient Disciples is Expected of Christ Followers.
I. The Authority of God II. The Command of God III. Baptism is Expected of EVERY Disciple IV. Disciples Obey as He Empowers us. Application: Making Obedient Disciples is Expected of Christ Followers.
The Sermon on the Mount is the proclamation of the King concerning His kingdom. The Lord is teaching His disciples (5:2). This is a sermon directed to the saved for all the world to hear. The beatitudes (Blessed’s) give the inner character of the heirs who enter the Kingdom.
“Blessed” – What this world cannot do: Give Holy Peace.
“Are” – What the world cannot do: Give Holy Purpose.
“The Poor” – What the world will never understand: Repentance.
“In Spirit” – What the world cannot see: Reality.
“For Theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” – What is better than all the world: Relationship.
The Sermon on the Mount is the proclamation of the King concerning His kingdom. The Lord is teaching His disciples (5:2). This is a sermon directed to the saved for all the world to hear. The beatitudes (Blessed’s) give the inner character of the heirs who enter the Kingdom.
“Blessed” – What this world cannot do: Give Holy Peace.
“Are” – What the world cannot do: Give Holy Purpose.
“The Poor” – What the world will never understand: Repentance.
“In Spirit” – What the world cannot see: Reality.
“For Theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” – What is better than all the world: Relationship.
Last words are significant. What will be God’s last words to His covenant people in His Holy Word? Revelation 22:6-21 contains God’s last word. As the hymn “How Firm a Foundation” says, “What more can He say than to you He hath said; To you who for refuge to Jesus hath fled?” We have the witness of creation, the witness of the Bible, the witness of Israel and the Church, and the witness of the Gospel. We are without excuse if we do not run to Jesus as Savior and Lord. We find a Trinitarian presentation of the mind of God in His final words of Holy Scripture.
I. The Faithful Word of God the Father – Revelation 22:6-10
II. The Finished Work of Christ the Son – Revelation 22:11-16
III. The Final Witness of God the Spirit – Revelation 22:17-21
Last words are significant. What will be God’s last words to His covenant people in His Holy Word? Revelation 22:6-21 contains God’s last word. As the hymn “How Firm a Foundation” says, “What more can He say than to you He hath said; To you who for refuge to Jesus hath fled?” We have the witness of creation, the witness of the Bible, the witness of Israel and the Church, and the witness of the Gospel. We are without excuse if we do not run to Jesus as Savior and Lord. We find a Trinitarian presentation of the mind of God in His final words of Holy Scripture.
I. The Faithful Word of God the Father – Revelation 22:6-10
II. The Finished Work of Christ the Son – Revelation 22:11-16
III. The Final Witness of God the Spirit – Revelation 22:17-21
I. A BRIGHT NEW WORLD - Revelation 21:1-8 A Complete New Universe Revelation 21:1; Acts 2:31 Relationships with No Separation The Curse Removed and Eden Restored and More! Revelation 21:5; Genesis 3:19; Romans 5:19-20; Galatians 3:13 Joy Forevermore and Fulfillment of Life Revelation 21:6; Psalm 16:11 II. A BRILLIANT NEW CAPITAL CITY- Revelation 21:9-21 “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I create; For behold, I create Jerusalem as a rejoicing, And her people a joy. I will rejoice in Jerusalem, And joy in My people; The voice of weeping shall no longer be heard in her, Nor the voice of crying. Isaiah 65:17-19 Capital City of the New Heaven and New Earth Revelation 21:10; Ezekiel 5:5 City of the Saved of Both Testaments - Revelation 21:12, 14 City of Beauty, Perfections, Holiness, and Worship Revelation 21:11-20 City of Salvation Through the Suffering of Christ Revelation 21:21; I Peter 1:11 City of the “Great King” - Revelation 21:23 Psalm 48:1-2; II Peter 3:10-14 III. A BELOVED REIGNING KING - Revelation 21:22-27 Isaiah 9:1-7; Luke 2:8-11 IV. A BLESSED ETERNAL HOME - Revelation 22:1-6
I. A BRIGHT NEW WORLD - Revelation 21:1-8 A Complete New Universe Revelation 21:1; Acts 2:31 Relationships with No Separation The Curse Removed and Eden Restored and More! Revelation 21:5; Genesis 3:19; Romans 5:19-20; Galatians 3:13 Joy Forevermore and Fulfillment of Life Revelation 21:6; Psalm 16:11 II. A BRILLIANT NEW CAPITAL CITY- Revelation 21:9-21 “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I create; For behold, I create Jerusalem as a rejoicing, And her people a joy. I will rejoice in Jerusalem, And joy in My people; The voice of weeping shall no longer be heard in her, Nor the voice of crying. Isaiah 65:17-19 Capital City of the New Heaven and New Earth Revelation 21:10; Ezekiel 5:5 City of the Saved of Both Testaments - Revelation 21:12, 14 City of Beauty, Perfections, Holiness, and Worship Revelation 21:11-20 City of Salvation Through the Suffering of Christ Revelation 21:21; I Peter 1:11 City of the “Great King” - Revelation 21:23 Psalm 48:1-2; II Peter 3:10-14 III. A BELOVED REIGNING KING - Revelation 21:22-27 Isaiah 9:1-7; Luke 2:8-11 IV. A BLESSED ETERNAL HOME - Revelation 22:1-6
Christmas isn’t just a warm, nostalgic tale. It’s the Word-became-flesh, God-coming-to-rescue-us story. To the non-believer and the skeptic, we say this is a story that really happened on an incredible night long ago. To the searching and the desperate, we say that this ancient story can make a difference in every life today. To those who believe but may have become numb to the miracle, we encourage them with this: Christmas is real. There is real joy, hope, peace, and love that are available to all of us right here and right now.
Christmas isn’t just a warm, nostalgic tale. It’s the Word-became-flesh, God-coming-to-rescue-us story. To the non-believer and the skeptic, we say this is a story that really happened on an incredible night long ago. To the searching and the desperate, we say that this ancient story can make a difference in every life today. To those who believe but may have become numb to the miracle, we encourage them with this: Christmas is real. There is real joy, hope, peace, and love that are available to all of us right here and right now.
The Children and Preschool ministries present a story of what Christmas would, or wouldn't be like if Jesus had not come as the Baby of Bethlehem.
The Children and Preschool ministries present a story of what Christmas would, or wouldn't be like if Jesus had not come as the Baby of Bethlehem.
I. A BRIGHT NEW WORLD - Revelation 21:1-8
II. A BRILLIANT NEW CAPITAL CITY- Revelation 21:9-21
III. A BELOVED REIGNING KING - Revelation 21:22-27 Isaiah 9:1-7; Luke 2:8-11
IV. A BLESSED ETERNAL HOME - Revelation 22:1-6
I. A BRIGHT NEW WORLD - Revelation 21:1-8
II. A BRILLIANT NEW CAPITAL CITY- Revelation 21:9-21
III. A BELOVED REIGNING KING - Revelation 21:22-27 Isaiah 9:1-7; Luke 2:8-11
IV. A BLESSED ETERNAL HOME - Revelation 22:1-6
The word Millennium means “one thousand years.” Six times in this brief passage the words “a thousand years” are used. The Holy Spirit reinforces by frequent mention the vital time called “The Millennium.” After the Second Coming of Christ, the Millennium begins!
The word Millennium means “one thousand years.” Six times in this brief passage the words “a thousand years” are used. The Holy Spirit reinforces by frequent mention the vital time called “The Millennium.” After the Second Coming of Christ, the Millennium begins!
The Blessing Book now brings us to the actual “Revelation of Jesus Christ” – His second coming, for which the church has prayed for 2,000 years. Acts 1:11, John 14:3, Revelation 1:7, Matthew 26:64
The Blessing Book now brings us to the actual “Revelation of Jesus Christ” – His second coming, for which the church has prayed for 2,000 years. Acts 1:11, John 14:3, Revelation 1:7, Matthew 26:64
The Blessing Book now brings us to the actual “Revelation of Jesus Christ” – His second coming, for which the church has prayed for 2,000 years. Acts 1:11, John 14:3, Revelation 1:7, Matthew 26:64
The Blessing Book now brings us to the actual “Revelation of Jesus Christ” – His second coming, for which the church has prayed for 2,000 years. Acts 1:11, John 14:3, Revelation 1:7, Matthew 26:64
I. Pride causes us to do crazy things. Pride is selfishness v.1 Pride is deceiving vv 4-5
II. God’s holiness requires judgment. The One who judges v. 2 The judgments given vv. 3, 6-11
III. God’s grace ought to keep us singing. Grace is never earned v. 12 God will always have His way v. 13
I. Pride causes us to do crazy things. Pride is selfishness v.1 Pride is deceiving vv 4-5
II. God’s holiness requires judgment. The One who judges v. 2 The judgments given vv. 3, 6-11
III. God’s grace ought to keep us singing. Grace is never earned v. 12 God will always have His way v. 13
The Blessing Book now brings us to the actual “Revelation of Jesus Christ” – His second coming, for which the church has prayed for 2,000 years. Acts 1:11, John 14:3, Revelation 1:7, Matthew 26:64 In Revelation 19, we see the first “Hallelujah” in the New Testament, for the kingdom of God will now fill the earth with God’s glory!
The Blessing Book now brings us to the actual “Revelation of Jesus Christ” – His second coming, for which the church has prayed for 2,000 years. Acts 1:11, John 14:3, Revelation 1:7, Matthew 26:64 In Revelation 19, we see the first “Hallelujah” in the New Testament, for the kingdom of God will now fill the earth with God’s glory!
1) The Deceitfulness of riches and materialism. – Revelation 18:3-8 2) The Destruction of this present world system – Revelation 18:9-19 3) The Demands of our Holy God – Revelation 18:4 4) The Delight of our God of all Grace – Revelation 18:13 5) The Dominion of Christ our God and King – Revelation 18:20-24
1) The Deceitfulness of riches and materialism. – Revelation 18:3-8 2) The Destruction of this present world system – Revelation 18:9-19 3) The Demands of our Holy God – Revelation 18:4 4) The Delight of our God of all Grace – Revelation 18:13 5) The Dominion of Christ our God and King – Revelation 18:20-24
Revelation 17-18 are indeed part of the holy Word of God and merit our careful and whole-hearted attention. As God promises for all the book of Revelation...“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy” (Revelation 1:3). These two chapters concern “Babylon” and its final judgment. Broadly speaking, Revelation 17 concerns religious/political Babylon, while Revelation 18 concerns commercial/material Babylon.
Revelation 17-18 are indeed part of the holy Word of God and merit our careful and whole-hearted attention. As God promises for all the book of Revelation...“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy” (Revelation 1:3). These two chapters concern “Babylon” and its final judgment. Broadly speaking, Revelation 17 concerns religious/political Babylon, while Revelation 18 concerns commercial/material Babylon.
Revelation 17-18 are indeed part of the holy Word of God and merit our careful and whole-hearted attention. As God promises for all the book of Revelation...“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy” (Revelation 1:3). These two chapters concern “Babylon” and its final judgment. Broadly speaking, Revelation 17 concerns religious/political Babylon, while Revelation 18 concerns commercial/material Babylon.
Revelation 17-18 are indeed part of the holy Word of God and merit our careful and whole-hearted attention. As God promises for all the book of Revelation...“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy” (Revelation 1:3). These two chapters concern “Babylon” and its final judgment. Broadly speaking, Revelation 17 concerns religious/political Babylon, while Revelation 18 concerns commercial/material Babylon.
The Book of Revelation now rushes to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ in its narrative. The rapid events of Great Tribulation judgements, the rise of the final anti-Christ, and the gathering of the nations to war against Israel now occur. The last event on planet earth before “the glorious appearance of the great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13) is the war and battle of Armageddon. (Revelation 16:16)
The Book of Revelation now rushes to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ in its narrative. The rapid events of Great Tribulation judgements, the rise of the final anti-Christ, and the gathering of the nations to war against Israel now occur. The last event on planet earth before “the glorious appearance of the great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13) is the war and battle of Armageddon. (Revelation 16:16)
“The Blessing Book,” the book of Revelation, is a book of incredible joy, praise, holy celebration, and song! Yes, Revelation is full of judgment for the lost, the unrepentant, and the proud. But our passages this morning are texts that sing and shout for joy! “And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God and the song of the Lamb.” The song of Moses is the marvelous closing words of praise by Moses in Deuteronomy 32-33 as he concludes his forty year ministry and enters the Promised Land of the presence of God. Now, the Book of Revelation blesses us and fulfills Scripture with “the song of the Lamb.”
“The Blessing Book,” the book of Revelation, is a book of incredible joy, praise, holy celebration, and song! Yes, Revelation is full of judgment for the lost, the unrepentant, and the proud. But our passages this morning are texts that sing and shout for joy! “And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God and the song of the Lamb.” The song of Moses is the marvelous closing words of praise by Moses in Deuteronomy 32-33 as he concludes his forty year ministry and enters the Promised Land of the presence of God. Now, the Book of Revelation blesses us and fulfills Scripture with “the song of the Lamb.”
Do you ever feel like someone is not listening to you? If you are a parent, you resort to saying things like look at my eyes or repeat back to me what I just said? Maybe you feel like your mom or dad are not listening. Maybe you feel like your boyfriend or girlfriend is not listening and you say something like he just doesn’t get me. You might think Isaiah implies a lack of understanding of the people with all the questions he wrote. Rather, he does this as a way to remind them because he was seeing the people giving in and making idols. The context is likely the Babylonian captivity. This is when Babylon takes Israel captive. By this, God is judging Israel because they were not walking in his ways. They have forgotten in practice Who God is and this is what leads Isaiah to ask so many questions but throughout his questions he uses the word behold 6 x’s (104 x’s in the whole book). What we need to understand that most of the times in this passage, he is not calling for action with the word behold. It is similar to how we use the word hey or yo! when we are trying to get someone’s attention. So we are going to look at the times he used the word because, according to William Mounce, what follows is important.
Do you ever feel like someone is not listening to you? If you are a parent, you resort to saying things like look at my eyes or repeat back to me what I just said? Maybe you feel like your mom or dad are not listening. Maybe you feel like your boyfriend or girlfriend is not listening and you say something like he just doesn’t get me. You might think Isaiah implies a lack of understanding of the people with all the questions he wrote. Rather, he does this as a way to remind them because he was seeing the people giving in and making idols. The context is likely the Babylonian captivity. This is when Babylon takes Israel captive. By this, God is judging Israel because they were not walking in his ways. They have forgotten in practice Who God is and this is what leads Isaiah to ask so many questions but throughout his questions he uses the word behold 6 x’s (104 x’s in the whole book). What we need to understand that most of the times in this passage, he is not calling for action with the word behold. It is similar to how we use the word hey or yo! when we are trying to get someone’s attention. So we are going to look at the times he used the word because, according to William Mounce, what follows is important.
Do you ever feel like someone is not listening to you? If you are parent, you resort to saying things like look at my eyes or repeat back to me what I just said? Maybe you feel like your mom or dad are not listening. Maybe you feel like your boyfriend or girlfriend is not listening and you say something like he just doesn’t get me. You might think Isaiah implies a lack of understanding of the people with all the questions he wrote. Rather, he does this as a way to remind them because he was seeing the people giving in and making idols. The context is likely the Babylonian captivity. This is when Babylon takes Israel captive. By this, God is judging Israel because they were not walking in his ways. They have forgotten in practice Who God is and this is what leads Isaiah to ask so many questions but throughout his questions he uses the word behold 6 x’s (104 x’s in the whole book). What we need to understand that most of the times in this passage, he is not calling for action with the word behold. It is similar to how we use the word hey or yo! when we are trying to get someone’s attention. So we are going to look at the times he used the word because, according to William Mounce, what follows is important.
Do you ever feel like someone is not listening to you? If you are parent, you resort to saying things like look at my eyes or repeat back to me what I just said? Maybe you feel like your mom or dad are not listening. Maybe you feel like your boyfriend or girlfriend is not listening and you say something like he just doesn’t get me. You might think Isaiah implies a lack of understanding of the people with all the questions he wrote. Rather, he does this as a way to remind them because he was seeing the people giving in and making idols. The context is likely the Babylonian captivity. This is when Babylon takes Israel captive. By this, God is judging Israel because they were not walking in his ways. They have forgotten in practice Who God is and this is what leads Isaiah to ask so many questions but throughout his questions he uses the word behold 6 x’s (104 x’s in the whole book). What we need to understand that most of the times in this passage, he is not calling for action with the word behold. It is similar to how we use the word hey or yo! when we are trying to get someone’s attention. So we are going to look at the times he used the word because, according to William Mounce, what follows is important.
The Mystery of the Gospel. The Marvel of the Gospel. The Means of the Gospel. The Message of the Gospel.
The Mystery of the Gospel. The Marvel of the Gospel. The Means of the Gospel. The Message of the Gospel.
The love story with India of Baptist Preacher, William Carey of England. The love story with Burma of Baptist Preacher, Adoniran Judson of Massachusetts. The Mercy on a Christian’s Mind The Ministry and Missions in a Christian’s Plans The Message in a Christian’s Heart
The love story with India of Baptist Preacher, William Carey of England. The love story with Burma of Baptist Preacher, Adoniran Judson of Massachusetts. The Mercy on a Christian’s Mind The Ministry and Missions in a Christian’s Plans The Message in a Christian’s Heart
The love story with India of Baptist Preacher, William Carey of England. The love story with Burma of Baptist Preacher, Adoniran Judson of Massachusetts. The Mercy on a Christian’s Mind The Ministry and Missions in a Christian’s Plans The Message in a Christian’s Heart
The love story with India of Baptist Preacher, William Carey of England. The love story with Burma of Baptist Preacher, Adoniran Judson of Massachusetts. The Mercy on a Christian’s Mind The Ministry and Missions in a Christian’s Plans The Message in a Christian’s Heart
He is able to keep us- v. 24 He is able- powerful We rest and trust in that ability To keep us- vv. 1, 6, 21
He has enabled us to be blameless- v. 24
He is presenting us- v. 24 He causes us to stand With great joy
He is able to keep us- v. 24 He is able- powerful We rest and trust in that ability To keep us- vv. 1, 6, 21
He has enabled us to be blameless- v. 24
He is presenting us- v. 24 He causes us to stand With great joy
He is able to keep us- v. 24 He is able- powerful We rest and trust in that ability To keep us- vv. 1, 6, 21
He has enabled us to be blameless- v. 24
He is presenting us- v. 24 He causes us to stand With great joy
He is able to keep us- v. 24 He is able- powerful We rest and trust in that ability To keep us- vv. 1, 6, 21
He has enabled us to be blameless- v. 24
He is presenting us- v. 24 He causes us to stand With great joy
The Majestic Holiness of God’s Person
God Is Unparalleled in His Greatness and Grandeur God Is Unsurpassing in His Glory and Grace God is Unequaled in His God-ness God Has Holy Wrath Toward the Sinner God Has Hidden His Face from the Sinner God Has Allowed the Sinner to Persist in his Wicked Way God Has Withheld the Peace of His Mercy from the Sinner
The Marvel of God’s Pronouncement
The Miracle of God’s Promise
I Will Raise You I Will Revive You I Will Release You I Will Restore You I Will Regenerate You Fully
The Majestic Holiness of God’s Person
God Is Unparalleled in His Greatness and Grandeur God Is Unsurpassing in His Glory and Grace God is Unequaled in His God-ness God Has Holy Wrath Toward the Sinner God Has Hidden His Face from the Sinner God Has Allowed the Sinner to Persist in his Wicked Way God Has Withheld the Peace of His Mercy from the Sinner
The Marvel of God’s Pronouncement
The Miracle of God’s Promise
I Will Raise You I Will Revive You I Will Release You I Will Restore You I Will Regenerate You Fully
God’s church functions correctly when each one of us accept our role and plays our part. 1. God entrusts us with ability. 2. God entrusts us with opportunity. 3. God entrusts us with responsibility. God wants to use you…will you be his Instrument?
God’s church functions correctly when each one of us accept our role and plays our part. 1. God entrusts us with ability. 2. God entrusts us with opportunity. 3. God entrusts us with responsibility. God wants to use you…will you be his Instrument?
“That should be time (delay) no longer.” Revelation 10:6 What is time? This question is not easily answered. We know what increments or slices of time are like seconds, minutes, hours, and millennia. But “time” is hard to define. World Book Encyclopedia says, “Time is one of the most difficult elements of human existence to define. Basically, time is what occurs between “now” and “then.” Dr. Donald Grey Barnhouse gives a more expansive definition which will challenge us to deeper thinking. Dr. Barnhouse says, “Time is a brief interlude between two eternities.” In other words there is “Eternity past” before the Creation and Fall of Man. Then, there is “eternity future” after the Second Coming of Jesus Christ or after each person’s death when that person enters eternity. Today, we live in “time”. At death or the Second Coming of Christ, we will be in eternity in Heaven or in Hell. Time is vital because the way you live today in “time” will affect your eternity.
“That should be time (delay) no longer.” Revelation 10:6 What is time? This question is not easily answered. We know what increments or slices of time are like seconds, minutes, hours, and millennia. But “time” is hard to define. World Book Encyclopedia says, “Time is one of the most difficult elements of human existence to define. Basically, time is what occurs between “now” and “then.” Dr. Donald Grey Barnhouse gives a more expansive definition which will challenge us to deeper thinking. Dr. Barnhouse says, “Time is a brief interlude between two eternities.” In other words there is “Eternity past” before the Creation and Fall of Man. Then, there is “eternity future” after the Second Coming of Jesus Christ or after each person’s death when that person enters eternity. Today, we live in “time”. At death or the Second Coming of Christ, we will be in eternity in Heaven or in Hell. Time is vital because the way you live today in “time” will affect your eternity.
In our message series on “The Blessing Book” in Revelation, the narrative presses rapidly toward the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. In chapter ten, the Apostle John has seen the power and authority of “the little book open” (10:12) over the earth, the sea, and the sky. John consumes “the little book” (the Word of God) spiritually (10:9) and is commanded to preach “the little book” (the Word of God) to all the people and leaders of the world (10:11). Such is the grace of God to lost mankind to the very end of time and such is our command today! Now, the Holy Spirit in “the Blessing Book” directs our spiritual focus to the witness of the Gospel of Christ in the city of Jerusalem during the Great Tribulation in Jerusalem the capital city of the world and “the city of the great King.” (Psalm 48:1-2)
In our message series on “The Blessing Book” in Revelation, the narrative presses rapidly toward the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. In chapter ten, the Apostle John has seen the power and authority of “the little book open” (10:12) over the earth, the sea, and the sky. John consumes “the little book” (the Word of God) spiritually (10:9) and is commanded to preach “the little book” (the Word of God) to all the people and leaders of the world (10:11). Such is the grace of God to lost mankind to the very end of time and such is our command today! Now, the Holy Spirit in “the Blessing Book” directs our spiritual focus to the witness of the Gospel of Christ in the city of Jerusalem during the Great Tribulation in Jerusalem the capital city of the world and “the city of the great King.” (Psalm 48:1-2)
God’s Word in prophecy now unfolds in the Book of Revelation given to the Church directly from the hand of God! “And He (the Lamb) took the book out of the right hand of Him Who sat on the Throne…and the Lamb opened one of the scrolls…” (Revelation 5:7, 6:1) As the Word of Prophecy unfolds to reveal Jesus as “King of Kings and Lord of Lords” (Revelation 19:16) and “the kingdoms of this earth to become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ” (Revelation 11:15), we reach a pause in the Tribulation to see a “behind the scenes” story. We see John the heavenly anointed recorder of Revelation meeting “another mighty angel” (10:1) and receiving divine, heavenly authority and strength for his mission and our confidence in this Word!
God’s Word in prophecy now unfolds in the Book of Revelation given to the Church directly from the hand of God! “And He (the Lamb) took the book out of the right hand of Him Who sat on the Throne…and the Lamb opened one of the scrolls…” (Revelation 5:7, 6:1) As the Word of Prophecy unfolds to reveal Jesus as “King of Kings and Lord of Lords” (Revelation 19:16) and “the kingdoms of this earth to become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ” (Revelation 11:15), we reach a pause in the Tribulation to see a “behind the scenes” story. We see John the heavenly anointed recorder of Revelation meeting “another mighty angel” (10:1) and receiving divine, heavenly authority and strength for his mission and our confidence in this Word!
What is causing the incredible and troubling increase today of violence, drug deaths, perversion, confusion and spiritual lawlessness? It is, without a doubt, an increase of Satanic demon activity in these last days. “For the Devil is come down unto you having great wrath, knowing that he hath but a short time.” (Revelation 12:12) “There are many anti-Christs: whereby we know it is the last time.” (1 John 2:18) Our passage today is about the release of multitudes of imprisoned demonic spirits during The Great Tribulation.
What is causing the incredible and troubling increase today of violence, drug deaths, perversion, confusion and spiritual lawlessness? It is, without a doubt, an increase of Satanic demon activity in these last days. “For the Devil is come down unto you having great wrath, knowing that he hath but a short time.” (Revelation 12:12) “There are many anti-Christs: whereby we know it is the last time.” (1 John 2:18) Our passage today is about the release of multitudes of imprisoned demonic spirits during The Great Tribulation.
Our spiritual attention should be captured at these verses in a chapter about the Great Tribulation on earth. Even in Tribulation, prayers of the saints are vital and central to God’s plans. God has ordained that the prayers of His people be uttered, heartfelt, continual and ultimately triumphant.
Our spiritual attention should be captured at these verses in a chapter about the Great Tribulation on earth. Even in Tribulation, prayers of the saints are vital and central to God’s plans. God has ordained that the prayers of His people be uttered, heartfelt, continual and ultimately triumphant.
Our spiritual attention should be captured at these verses in a chapter about the Great Tribulation on earth. Even in Tribulation, prayers of the saints are vital and central to God’s plans. God has ordained that the prayers of His people be uttered, heartfelt, continual and ultimately triumphant.
Our spiritual attention should be captured at these verses in a chapter about the Great Tribulation on earth. Even in Tribulation, prayers of the saints are vital and central to God’s plans. God has ordained that the prayers of His people be uttered, heartfelt, continual and ultimately triumphant.
The setting of Revelation 7 is “the great Tribulation”. (Revelation 7:14) The last seven years of the Old Testament story of Israel unfolds as the King and the Kingdom approach. (Revelation 11:15, 19:11-16) The Church is in Heaven. Now Israel and the 144,000 sealed Jewish evangelists are the proclaimers of the Gospel of Christ in the place of the Church. In this time of “tribulation” (intense pressure, judgment on a Christ-rejecting earth) God is still at working offering His grace and saving souls!
The setting of Revelation 7 is “the great Tribulation”. (Revelation 7:14) The last seven years of the Old Testament story of Israel unfolds as the King and the Kingdom approach. (Revelation 11:15, 19:11-16) The Church is in Heaven. Now Israel and the 144,000 sealed Jewish evangelists are the proclaimers of the Gospel of Christ in the place of the Church. In this time of “tribulation” (intense pressure, judgment on a Christ-rejecting earth) God is still at working offering His grace and saving souls!
Sonora Smart Dodd was raised by her father William Smart along with her five brothers and sisters. Sonora Smart Dodd decided to celebrate the first Father’s Day in June, 1910 in her church in Spokane, Washington, with the support of the city ministerial association. President Calvin Coolidge declared the first national Father’s Day in 1924. It is right and good to recognize the irreplaceable place in human life of fathers and godly men. James Dobson said, “The very fiber of Western Civilization depends on the future role of masculinity in the home. The future of the family depends on the fathers.” Men, never underestimate your value, especially to your family and children as this story illustrates.
Sonora Smart Dodd was raised by her father William Smart along with her five brothers and sisters. Sonora Smart Dodd decided to celebrate the first Father’s Day in June, 1910 in her church in Spokane, Washington, with the support of the city ministerial association. President Calvin Coolidge declared the first national Father’s Day in 1924. It is right and good to recognize the irreplaceable place in human life of fathers and godly men. James Dobson said, “The very fiber of Western Civilization depends on the future role of masculinity in the home. The future of the family depends on the fathers.” Men, never underestimate your value, especially to your family and children as this story illustrates.
Our text in Revelation 6:12-17 sums up with the sixth seal of terrible judgments upon a Christ-rejecting world and gives the Great Tribulation an astounding, thought provoking name “the wrath of the Lamb.” This term is astounding because the Lamb came as our gentle, loving Savior of grace, and now we see His “wrath.” This is thought-provoking because the term “wrath of the Lamb” drives us to examine the Scriptures more deeply so we understand our God better and in fullness. God grant us His wisdom to understand, tremble, and worship Him more, in spirit and in truth.
Our text in Revelation 6:12-17 sums up with the sixth seal of terrible judgments upon a Christ-rejecting world and gives the Great Tribulation an astounding, thought provoking name “the wrath of the Lamb.” This term is astounding because the Lamb came as our gentle, loving Savior of grace, and now we see His “wrath.” This is thought-provoking because the term “wrath of the Lamb” drives us to examine the Scriptures more deeply so we understand our God better and in fullness. God grant us His wisdom to understand, tremble, and worship Him more, in spirit and in truth.
Revelation Chapters 6 through 19 are the contents of the “seven sealed book” in the Father’s right hand which the Lamb takes from His holy hand. Remember, the book of Revelation is “The Blessing Book” (See verse 1:3) because this blessed book of prophecy came directly from the heart and hand of Almighty God! The seven sealed book is “the title deed to the earth” and is the content at Revelation chapters 6 through 19.
Revelation 6-19 is a record of events which will occur after the rapture of the Church and are the unfolding of the last seven years of Old Testament history, the “seventieth week” of Gabriel’s prophetic message to Israel recorded in Daniel 9:27. At the Rapture, the New Testament “Age of Grace” is completed, and the last seven years of the Old Testament history begins! These chapters culminate in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ as King of Kings and Lord of Lords in Revelation 19:11-16. Amen. “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”
Revelation Chapters 6 through 19 are the contents of the “seven sealed book” in the Father’s right hand which the Lamb takes from His holy hand. Remember, the book of Revelation is “The Blessing Book” (See verse 1:3) because this blessed book of prophecy came directly from the heart and hand of Almighty God! The seven sealed book is “the title deed to the earth” and is the content at Revelation chapters 6 through 19.
Revelation 6-19 is a record of events which will occur after the rapture of the Church and are the unfolding of the last seven years of Old Testament history, the “seventieth week” of Gabriel’s prophetic message to Israel recorded in Daniel 9:27. At the Rapture, the New Testament “Age of Grace” is completed, and the last seven years of the Old Testament history begins! These chapters culminate in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ as King of Kings and Lord of Lords in Revelation 19:11-16. Amen. “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”
As we continue in chapter 5 of Revelation, the great worship service in Heaven with all of God’s people and the holy angels present now moves to a dramatic moment. The Lion of the tribe of Judah appears out of God’s Throne to conclude all human history and to usher in the eternal Kingdom of God on a redeemed earth saved by the Lamb of God and His Gospel.
As we continue in chapter 5 of Revelation, the great worship service in Heaven with all of God’s people and the holy angels present now moves to a dramatic moment. The Lion of the tribe of Judah appears out of God’s Throne to conclude all human history and to usher in the eternal Kingdom of God on a redeemed earth saved by the Lamb of God and His Gospel.
Now in chapter 5 of Revelation, the great worship service in Heaven with all of God’s people and the holy angels present now moves to a dramatic moment. The Lion of the tribe of Judah appears out of God’s Throne to conclude all human history and to usher in the eternal Kingdom of God on a redeemed earth saved by the Lamb of God and His Gospel.
Now in chapter 5 of Revelation, the great worship service in Heaven with all of God’s people and the holy angels present now moves to a dramatic moment. The Lion of the tribe of Judah appears out of God’s Throne to conclude all human history and to usher in the eternal Kingdom of God on a redeemed earth saved by the Lamb of God and His Gospel.
We have now entered the great future worship service of God in Heaven attended by all the redeemed from Adam to the end of the Church age of grace, all surrounded by untold numbers of holy angels. The judgment seat of Christ has occurred, and the redeemed are wearing their crowns of reward and glory. In an act of worthy worship the redeemed cast their crowns at the feet of Him Who alone deserves all the glory.
We have now entered the great future worship service of God in Heaven attended by all the redeemed from Adam to the end of the Church age of grace, all surrounded by untold numbers of holy angels. The judgment seat of Christ has occurred, and the redeemed are wearing their crowns of reward and glory. In an act of worthy worship the redeemed cast their crowns at the feet of Him Who alone deserves all the glory.
Revelation 4 is one of Holy Scriptures most amazing passages – a glimpse in to the very Throne Toom of Almighty God. Here we see the worship of all the saved from Adam to the Rapture gathered in “the great congregation” around the Lamb of God, our Creator and Redeemer. The Church has been “caught up” (Greek, Harpazo – “snatched away”) into Heaven fulfilling 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-53. The “blessed hope” of Titus 2:13 has come. The saints of God are resurrected and raptured gathered in worship around the Throne of God. The “Throne of God” is mentioned 46 times and “The Lamb” over 30 times in Revelation. These are the central symbols and realities in Revelation. Let us study God’s Word and learn about heavenly worship of the Lamb around God’s Throne!
Revelation 4 is one of Holy Scriptures most amazing passages – a glimpse in to the very Throne Toom of Almighty God. Here we see the worship of all the saved from Adam to the Rapture gathered in “the great congregation” around the Lamb of God, our Creator and Redeemer. The Church has been “caught up” (Greek, Harpazo – “snatched away”) into Heaven fulfilling 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-53. The “blessed hope” of Titus 2:13 has come. The saints of God are resurrected and raptured gathered in worship around the Throne of God. The “Throne of God” is mentioned 46 times and “The Lamb” over 30 times in Revelation. These are the central symbols and realities in Revelation. Let us study God’s Word and learn about heavenly worship of the Lamb around God’s Throne!
A door is opened in Heaven, and the third section of the Revelation, the hereafter events are unveiled. The future things, things after the removal of the true Church from the earth, occupy the greater part of this Book of Revelation. It is of the greatest importance to see that nothing whatsoever after the third chapter of Revelation has yet taken place.
A door is opened in Heaven, and the third section of the Revelation, the hereafter events are unveiled. The future things, things after the removal of the true Church from the earth, occupy the greater part of this Book of Revelation. It is of the greatest importance to see that nothing whatsoever after the third chapter of Revelation has yet taken place.
Laodicea – The Man-Centered Church of the 20th and 21st centuries. Laodicea means “ruled by the people.” Laodicea adopts the world’s methods, appealing to the basic elements of man kind of greed and luxury. Laodicea wanted to be popular, luxurious, open-minded and well-liked. Laodicea literally means “The People’s Church.” It was ruled by man’s philosophies not God’s Word. Christ was outside this Church attempting to gain entrance from anyone who would listen.
Laodicea – The Man-Centered Church of the 20th and 21st centuries. Laodicea means “ruled by the people.” Laodicea adopts the world’s methods, appealing to the basic elements of man kind of greed and luxury. Laodicea wanted to be popular, luxurious, open-minded and well-liked. Laodicea literally means “The People’s Church.” It was ruled by man’s philosophies not God’s Word. Christ was outside this Church attempting to gain entrance from anyone who would listen.
The First Century Philadelphia city sat on the main highway to the East on what was later called “The Silk Road” to India and China. Philadelphia means “City of Brotherly Love.” A Philadelphia Church takes the Great Commission of Christ seriously to share the Love of Christ with the whole world as did the First Century Church. In our present day, as we read and apply Christ’s word to the Church of Philadelphia, know that this Church is the Church of all the Seven Churches that is “the model church,” the Church we must follow and imitate through prayer, obedience and the Holy Spirit.
The First Century Philadelphia city sat on the main highway to the East on what was later called “The Silk Road” to India and China. Philadelphia means “City of Brotherly Love.” A Philadelphia Church takes the Great Commission of Christ seriously to share the Love of Christ with the whole world as did the First Century Church. In our present day, as we read and apply Christ’s word to the Church of Philadelphia, know that this Church is the Church of all the Seven Churches that is “the model church,” the Church we must follow and imitate through prayer, obedience and the Holy Spirit.
Sardis means “Escape” – God calls this Church to “escape” worldly living and “wake up” to their spiritual needs. Twice in its history, the city of Sardis had been overcome by invading armies when guards fell asleep at their post. The Holy Spirit says “Be watchful!” (3:2) “Watch, lest I come like a thief.” (3:3)
Sardis means “Escape” – God calls this Church to “escape” worldly living and “wake up” to their spiritual needs. Twice in its history, the city of Sardis had been overcome by invading armies when guards fell asleep at their post. The Holy Spirit says “Be watchful!” (3:2) “Watch, lest I come like a thief.” (3:3)
Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near. Revelation 1:3
Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” Revelation 14:13
“Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.” Revelation 16:15
Then he said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’” And he said to me, “These are the true sayings of God.” Revelation 19:9
Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years. Revelation 20:6
“Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” Revelation 22:7
Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. Revelation 22:14
Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near. Revelation 1:3
Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” Revelation 14:13
“Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.” Revelation 16:15
Then he said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’” And he said to me, “These are the true sayings of God.” Revelation 19:9
Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years. Revelation 20:6
“Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” Revelation 22:7
Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. Revelation 22:14
The fourth of the seven churches is Thyatira, a major military and commercial city of Asia. The Gospel came to Thyatira through Lydia, who was converted by the Word of God while in Philippi under the preaching of the Apostle Paul (Acts 16:14). Though Lydia was instrumental in the founding of the Church at Thyatira, a woman named Jezebel was instrumental in the foundering and failures of the Church. The Church at Thyatira is a confused and confusing Church, full of doctrinal error, infiltrated by a demonic power in a woman given the name “Jezebel” (Revelation 2:20). This Church mirrors the Church of the Middle Ages which departed the authority of the Word of God and the Gospel of grace and embraced the heresy of Mariolatry (worship of Mary) and salvation by works and human merit rather than by the grace of God. Yet Christ loved this wayward Church tinged by immorality and false doctrine. How amazing is the love of God. Thyatira is mirrored today by churches who embrace the cultural gods of homosexuality, gay marriage, sexual freedom, feminism, universalism, and globalism, all of which will eventually lead to the Anti-Christ.
The fourth of the seven churches is Thyatira, a major military and commercial city of Asia. The Gospel came to Thyatira through Lydia, who was converted by the Word of God while in Philippi under the preaching of the Apostle Paul (Acts 16:14). Though Lydia was instrumental in the founding of the Church at Thyatira, a woman named Jezebel was instrumental in the foundering and failures of the Church. The Church at Thyatira is a confused and confusing Church, full of doctrinal error, infiltrated by a demonic power in a woman given the name “Jezebel” (Revelation 2:20). This Church mirrors the Church of the Middle Ages which departed the authority of the Word of God and the Gospel of grace and embraced the heresy of Mariolatry (worship of Mary) and salvation by works and human merit rather than by the grace of God. Yet Christ loved this wayward Church tinged by immorality and false doctrine. How amazing is the love of God. Thyatira is mirrored today by churches who embrace the cultural gods of homosexuality, gay marriage, sexual freedom, feminism, universalism, and globalism, all of which will eventually lead to the Anti-Christ.
The Lord of the Churches now speaks to the Church at Pergamos. A.C. Gaebelein writes that the word Pergamos means “twice married.” The Church at Pergamos claimed to belong to Christ, but many at Pergamos were “married to the world.” Pergamos was a worldly Church and therefore unfaithful to the Lord of the Church. “Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” James 4:4 Pergamos was a “royal city…the great city of Asia Minor “according to Bible scholar Sir William Ramsey. “Satan’s seat” (Revelation 2:13) was in Pergamos a center of paganism and Emperor Worship. The city and its religious temples were built by Augustus Caesar. Pergamos was the educational center of the East with a 200,000 volume library. Parchment was developed in Pergamos. Pergamos had become an educational and medical center. The Church in Pergamos is called to remember that Christ is the key to knowledge. In America we have forgotten that all true education and wisdom begins with Christ. Almost all Ivy League Universities (Harvard, Yale, etc.) began as solidly Christian educational centers, yet little by little they’ve departed from their Christian heritage. This has continued repeatedly throughout the South as well as Christian schools have now become secular bastions against Christianity. This is the “Pergamos Spirit” a gradual turn toward the world that departs from the Gospel and stops effective witness.
The Lord of the Churches now speaks to the Church at Pergamos. A.C. Gaebelein writes that the word Pergamos means “twice married.” The Church at Pergamos claimed to belong to Christ, but many at Pergamos were “married to the world.” Pergamos was a worldly Church and therefore unfaithful to the Lord of the Church. “Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” James 4:4 Pergamos was a “royal city…the great city of Asia Minor “according to Bible scholar Sir William Ramsey. “Satan’s seat” (Revelation 2:13) was in Pergamos a center of paganism and Emperor Worship. The city and its religious temples were built by Augustus Caesar. Pergamos was the educational center of the East with a 200,000 volume library. Parchment was developed in Pergamos. Pergamos had become an educational and medical center. The Church in Pergamos is called to remember that Christ is the key to knowledge. In America we have forgotten that all true education and wisdom begins with Christ. Almost all Ivy League Universities (Harvard, Yale, etc.) began as solidly Christian educational centers, yet little by little they’ve departed from their Christian heritage. This has continued repeatedly throughout the South as well as Christian schools have now become secular bastions against Christianity. This is the “Pergamos Spirit” a gradual turn toward the world that departs from the Gospel and stops effective witness.
The suffering church in Smyrna (2:8-11) was told by the Lord of the Church that they would “have tribulation ten days” (2:10). There was a Church in Smyrna in the first century that suffered great persecution. There are churches like Smyrna today that suffer terrible persecution for their faithfulness to Christ and the Gospel in places like the Sudan, China or North Korea. The Smyrna church era clearly mirrors the well documented ten seasons of persecution from Emperor Nero to Emperor Diocletian, which culminated in the conversion of the Emperor Constantine and the cessation of these persecutions declared by the Edict of Milan in 316 A.D. Clearly also, today we are in the general Laodicean Church age of “lukewarm-ness,” smugness, self-centered and love of prosperity with Christ standing outside the Church knocking to gain entrance to any who would open the door. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20).
The suffering church in Smyrna (2:8-11) was told by the Lord of the Church that they would “have tribulation ten days” (2:10). There was a Church in Smyrna in the first century that suffered great persecution. There are churches like Smyrna today that suffer terrible persecution for their faithfulness to Christ and the Gospel in places like the Sudan, China or North Korea. The Smyrna church era clearly mirrors the well documented ten seasons of persecution from Emperor Nero to Emperor Diocletian, which culminated in the conversion of the Emperor Constantine and the cessation of these persecutions declared by the Edict of Milan in 316 A.D. Clearly also, today we are in the general Laodicean Church age of “lukewarm-ness,” smugness, self-centered and love of prosperity with Christ standing outside the Church knocking to gain entrance to any who would open the door. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20).
We enter the second major division of “The Blessing Book,” the Book of Revelation. This second division is the record of the Letters to the Seven Churches, the first being the Ephesus, the doctrinally correct church that lost its “first love” of Christ and the Gospel. The Seven Churches of Asia should be viewed in three dimensions. First, each church was a real church whose existence and condition was present when John wrote. Secondly, each church exists today with similar, if not, identical spiritual conditions today somewhere in the world near us all. Thirdly, those seven churches are a general panorama of church history from Pentecost to the Rapture with the broad condition of the particular mirroring an era in church history. The Church at Ephesus…Imagine the Sunday morning when the great Apostle John’s book of Revelation was read to the Church! The Seven Churches were in a circle of cities each some 40 miles from the other. The Book of Revelation was a circular letter to those seven churches. Each letter is brief, pointed, and follows a similar pattern. What did the Lord of the Church say to Ephesus?
We enter the second major division of “The Blessing Book,” the Book of Revelation. This second division is the record of the Letters to the Seven Churches, the first being the Ephesus, the doctrinally correct church that lost its “first love” of Christ and the Gospel. The Seven Churches of Asia should be viewed in three dimensions. First, each church was a real church whose existence and condition was present when John wrote. Secondly, each church exists today with similar, if not, identical spiritual conditions today somewhere in the world near us all. Thirdly, those seven churches are a general panorama of church history from Pentecost to the Rapture with the broad condition of the particular mirroring an era in church history. The Church at Ephesus…Imagine the Sunday morning when the great Apostle John’s book of Revelation was read to the Church! The Seven Churches were in a circle of cities each some 40 miles from the other. The Book of Revelation was a circular letter to those seven churches. Each letter is brief, pointed, and follows a similar pattern. What did the Lord of the Church say to Ephesus?
2 Corinthians is about Paul and his relationship to the Church at Corinth and ultimately their effectiveness in the world for the Gospel.
2 Corinthians is about Paul and his relationship to the Church at Corinth and ultimately their effectiveness in the world for the Gospel.
The source of grace is "God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." The source of grace is the Father and the Son as Paul makes no distinction in their honor or position. Grace is more than love. Love is salvation expressed by God. Grace is salvation imparted to men. Grace comes from the finished work of Christ on Calvary's Cross as Jesus fulfilled all the righteous demands of the Law. When there is grace, there will be peace.
The source of grace is "God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." The source of grace is the Father and the Son as Paul makes no distinction in their honor or position. Grace is more than love. Love is salvation expressed by God. Grace is salvation imparted to men. Grace comes from the finished work of Christ on Calvary's Cross as Jesus fulfilled all the righteous demands of the Law. When there is grace, there will be peace.
"Victory in Jesus" is based on 2 Corinthians 2:14 (NKJV) "Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place."
"Victory in Jesus" is based on 2 Corinthians 2:14 (NKJV) "Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place."
In 2017 "The Year of the Sunday School" we are calling all our Church family to personal devotion to Bible study and Worship each Lord's Day and to spiritual growth and outreach through these ministries.
In 2017 "The Year of the Sunday School" we are calling all our Church family to personal devotion to Bible study and Worship each Lord's Day and to spiritual growth and outreach through these ministries.
How do Christians link our lives to Christ's Lordship? How do we change our world? Just like Daniel did...through prayer. Let us together as a Church family begin our year with prayer, and live our year in prayer!
How do Christians link our lives to Christ's Lordship? How do we change our world? Just like Daniel did...through prayer. Let us together as a Church family begin our year with prayer, and live our year in prayer!
In Daniel 5, we read about Belshazzar's infamous feast of revelry, and then the handwriting on the wall from God in Heaven. God came down among men and sent a message of wrath upon Belshazzar's feast. God came down in grace and love at Christmas to share a way of escape from the wrath that is to come through the Gospel.
In Daniel 5, we read about Belshazzar's infamous feast of revelry, and then the handwriting on the wall from God in Heaven. God came down among men and sent a message of wrath upon Belshazzar's feast. God came down in grace and love at Christmas to share a way of escape from the wrath that is to come through the Gospel.
The Preschool Choir will sing "Baby Jesus, We Love You." The children will present "Jesus Means Christmas to Me."
The Preschool Choir will sing "Baby Jesus, We Love You." The children will present "Jesus Means Christmas to Me."
Prayer is the crowning piece of the armor of God. The old Christian hymn says, "Put on the Gospel Armor -- Each piece put on with prayer. Where duty calls on danger -- Be never wanting there." "All Prayer" is an absolute necessity for the Christian soldier.
Prayer is the crowning piece of the armor of God. The old Christian hymn says, "Put on the Gospel Armor -- Each piece put on with prayer. Where duty calls on danger -- Be never wanting there." "All Prayer" is an absolute necessity for the Christian soldier.
The sword of a Roman soldier was both defensive and offensive. It discouraged enemies from attacking and defeated enemies when they attacked. The Christian soldier must have a sword for spiritual warfare and know how to use it. The "sword of the Spirit" completes the armor we wear and readies us for battle and witness of the Gospel of Christ.
The sword of a Roman soldier was both defensive and offensive. It discouraged enemies from attacking and defeated enemies when they attacked. The Christian soldier must have a sword for spiritual warfare and know how to use it. The "sword of the Spirit" completes the armor we wear and readies us for battle and witness of the Gospel of Christ.
Salvation is the sweet word which comprehends the full work of Jesus Christ for us in the Gospel, forgiving us by His blood, and death on the Cross, and justifying us by His Resurrection, and translating us to the kingdom of Heaven.
Salvation is the sweet word which comprehends the full work of Jesus Christ for us in the Gospel, forgiving us by His blood, and death on the Cross, and justifying us by His Resurrection, and translating us to the kingdom of Heaven.
The Roman Soldier's shield was a large metal shield, approximately four feet by two feet, built to link together soldier to soldier marching together to repel the flaming arrows of the enemy. The shields were covered by water soaked leather to quench the flaming darts. The believer in Christ must seek, pray, and pursue God's protection from the Evil One and his devices.
The Roman Soldier's shield was a large metal shield, approximately four feet by two feet, built to link together soldier to soldier marching together to repel the flaming arrows of the enemy. The shields were covered by water soaked leather to quench the flaming darts. The believer in Christ must seek, pray, and pursue God's protection from the Evil One and his devices.
Sometimes you see the sign in a restaurant, "No shoes…No service." This is done under public health and safety ordinances. If you don't wear shoes, the restaurant cannot give you service. We could make the same phrase apply to the armor of God--"No shoes…No service." The service in this case refers to our witness, our Christian service. If we do not have "the shoes of the Gospel" firmly on our feet, we cannot render effective Christian service.
Sometimes you see the sign in a restaurant, "No shoes…No service." This is done under public health and safety ordinances. If you don't wear shoes, the restaurant cannot give you service. We could make the same phrase apply to the armor of God--"No shoes…No service." The service in this case refers to our witness, our Christian service. If we do not have "the shoes of the Gospel" firmly on our feet, we cannot render effective Christian service.
Martyn Lloyd-Jones writes, "The armor of God for the believer is nothing more nor less than the correct application of Bible doctrine to the Christian's life." The armor of God is about the Gospel, our Lord Jesus Christ, and a victorious Christian life for the child of God.
Martyn Lloyd-Jones writes, "The armor of God for the believer is nothing more nor less than the correct application of Bible doctrine to the Christian's life." The armor of God is about the Gospel, our Lord Jesus Christ, and a victorious Christian life for the child of God.
We must be "true" and "sincere" in our hearts as true genuine born again believers with no hypocrisy or insincerity. We cannot wear the "belt of truth" without being "true Christians." We accept and affirm from deep in the soul the full truth of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Bible without doubt, apology, hesitation or reserve.
We must be "true" and "sincere" in our hearts as true genuine born again believers with no hypocrisy or insincerity. We cannot wear the "belt of truth" without being "true Christians." We accept and affirm from deep in the soul the full truth of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Bible without doubt, apology, hesitation or reserve.
Now we are ready to study the equipment God has given and to put on the armor of God. The first piece of the armor of God which the Spirit mentions is "the belt of truth." The Roman soldier had to ensure the belt of truth was firmly and finally in place. The breastplate was attached to the belt, so if this first piece is not correctly secured, the battle will be lost. Be sure you are saved, that your heart is sincere before the Lord, and that His glory is your heart's desire. Then, stand firm!
Now we are ready to study the equipment God has given and to put on the armor of God. The first piece of the armor of God which the Spirit mentions is "the belt of truth." The Roman soldier had to ensure the belt of truth was firmly and finally in place. The breastplate was attached to the belt, so if this first piece is not correctly secured, the battle will be lost. Be sure you are saved, that your heart is sincere before the Lord, and that His glory is your heart's desire. Then, stand firm!
The "Call to Battle" in this section on the Armor of God and spiritual warfare begins with the three verbal commands in Ephesians 6:10-11: "Be Strong in the Lord," "Put on the Whole Armor of God," and "Stand Against the Wiles of the Devil."
The "Call to Battle" in this section on the Armor of God and spiritual warfare begins with the three verbal commands in Ephesians 6:10-11: "Be Strong in the Lord," "Put on the Whole Armor of God," and "Stand Against the Wiles of the Devil."
In Eph. 6:10-13, we have what Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says "a call to battle." In Eph. we learn of the great power that dwells in us by our riches in Christ, but we also learn that there is a great evil power arrayed against us to thwart our process in the Gospel and our proclamation of the Gospel.
In Eph. 6:10-13, we have what Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says "a call to battle." In Eph. we learn of the great power that dwells in us by our riches in Christ, but we also learn that there is a great evil power arrayed against us to thwart our process in the Gospel and our proclamation of the Gospel.
The Gospel and Missions are the story of the "Amazing Love" of God our Saviour. Pastor George W. Truett often shared his thoughts regarding missions and the local church in this way, "The church which is not actively and whole-heartedly committed to missions and Christ's Great Commission does not deserve the ground upon which their church building rests."
The Gospel and Missions are the story of the "Amazing Love" of God our Saviour. Pastor George W. Truett often shared his thoughts regarding missions and the local church in this way, "The church which is not actively and whole-heartedly committed to missions and Christ's Great Commission does not deserve the ground upon which their church building rests."
Psalm 150 concludes our summer in the Psalms and points us to the praise of our Saviour, our King and our God. The full realization of the praises of Psalm 150 await the Second Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and the great Millennial Day of the Kingdom of God on earth. When "the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea." (Isaiah 11:9)
Psalm 150 concludes our summer in the Psalms and points us to the praise of our Saviour, our King and our God. The full realization of the praises of Psalm 150 await the Second Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and the great Millennial Day of the Kingdom of God on earth. When "the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea." (Isaiah 11:9)
The setting for Psalm 42 is, most likely, the crisis experience of good King Hezekiah, as he faced imminent death from sickness, all recorded in Isaiah 38:1-5. Hezekiah had reached rock bottom, with a sick body and a sad heart, facing death but not ready to die. Hezekiah considered God and prayed with his friend dear Isaiah as a prayer partner. God heard Hezekiah's prayer from a sincere heart and answered by adding fifteen more years to his life and giving him spiritual joy. As you read Psalm 42, consider Hezekiah's faith experience. Apply faith and prayer to your life experience and, "Hope thou in God!" (Psalm 42:5, 11)
The setting for Psalm 42 is, most likely, the crisis experience of good King Hezekiah, as he faced imminent death from sickness, all recorded in Isaiah 38:1-5. Hezekiah had reached rock bottom, with a sick body and a sad heart, facing death but not ready to die. Hezekiah considered God and prayed with his friend dear Isaiah as a prayer partner. God heard Hezekiah's prayer from a sincere heart and answered by adding fifteen more years to his life and giving him spiritual joy. As you read Psalm 42, consider Hezekiah's faith experience. Apply faith and prayer to your life experience and, "Hope thou in God!" (Psalm 42:5, 11)
Psalm 46 is authored in the time of the holy and great King Hezekiah of Judah. The setting of Psalm 46 is God's miraculous, incredible, sovereign victory for Jerusalem over wicked Sennacherib of Assyria. So stupendous and overwhelming was this angelic victory for the people of God that the Holy Spirit recorded the victory three times in Holy Scripture.
Psalm 46 is authored in the time of the holy and great King Hezekiah of Judah. The setting of Psalm 46 is God's miraculous, incredible, sovereign victory for Jerusalem over wicked Sennacherib of Assyria. So stupendous and overwhelming was this angelic victory for the people of God that the Holy Spirit recorded the victory three times in Holy Scripture.
Psalm 24 pictures the Chief Shepherd coming for the sheep presenting Christ as Sovereign. "And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away." (1 Peter 5:4)
Psalm 24 pictures the Chief Shepherd coming for the sheep presenting Christ as Sovereign. "And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away." (1 Peter 5:4)
Psalm 23 pictures the Great Shepherd caring for the sheep presenting Christ as Shepherd. "Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen." (Hebrews 13:20-21)
Psalm 23 pictures the Great Shepherd caring for the sheep presenting Christ as Shepherd. "Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen." (Hebrews 13:20-21)
Psalm 22 pictures the Good Shepherd dying for the sheep presenting Christ as Saviour. "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10:11)
Psalm 22 pictures the Good Shepherd dying for the sheep presenting Christ as Saviour. "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10:11)
The Psalms are not only the hymn book of the Church, the Psalms are a handbook for the soul. Our loving Heavenly Father by the Holy Spirit gives us great comfort and holy guidance. Last Lord's Day, we looked at two Psalms to give us a good night's sleep. This Lord's Day we have a Psalm written to give us the right start to the morning. How interested in every detail of our life is our loving Lord!
The Psalms are not only the hymn book of the Church, the Psalms are a handbook for the soul. Our loving Heavenly Father by the Holy Spirit gives us great comfort and holy guidance. Last Lord's Day, we looked at two Psalms to give us a good night's sleep. This Lord's Day we have a Psalm written to give us the right start to the morning. How interested in every detail of our life is our loving Lord!
The Psalms are the hymn book of God's people. The Psalms touch every human emotion and address every need. There are two Psalms given here to help the saints get a good night's sleep.
The Psalms are the hymn book of God's people. The Psalms touch every human emotion and address every need. There are two Psalms given here to help the saints get a good night's sleep.
The Bible describes two ways of life and two destinies for every person. The Psalms, the hymnbook of Scripture, begins with a Psalm which portrays two men -- the godly man and the ungodly man. The Proverbs, which is the Bible handbook for daily living, also continually makes this contrast between the saint and the sinner.
The Bible describes two ways of life and two destinies for every person. The Psalms, the hymnbook of Scripture, begins with a Psalm which portrays two men -- the godly man and the ungodly man. The Proverbs, which is the Bible handbook for daily living, also continually makes this contrast between the saint and the sinner.
Being a peacemaker is a good thing, among the best of things really. And truth be told, most of us would consider ourselves to be peacemakers. But what does that really mean?
Being a peacemaker is a good thing, among the best of things really. And truth be told, most of us would consider ourselves to be peacemakers. But what does that really mean?
On Father's Day we examine the fruit of the Spirit "Self-Control" also translated temperance or self-restraint. This is a great "Fruit of the Spirit" to emphasize for men. Self-control means your powers or passions are reigned in, under Christ's Lordship, put to a useful purpose.
On Father's Day we examine the fruit of the Spirit "Self-Control" also translated temperance or self-restraint. This is a great "Fruit of the Spirit" to emphasize for men. Self-control means your powers or passions are reigned in, under Christ's Lordship, put to a useful purpose.
For the Christian, we are meek when our entire personality is continually submitted to the Lordship of Jesus by the Holy Spirit and is demonstrating submission and humility in usefulness to the Kingdom of God. Meekness is an inner quality of a life lived toward God for His glory.
For the Christian, we are meek when our entire personality is continually submitted to the Lordship of Jesus by the Holy Spirit and is demonstrating submission and humility in usefulness to the Kingdom of God. Meekness is an inner quality of a life lived toward God for His glory.
Faith or faithfulness, is the first of the inward fruit of the Holy Spirit. Faith is believing the bare Word of God and acting in obedience to that Word. Saving Faith makes us right before God.
Faith or faithfulness, is the first of the inward fruit of the Holy Spirit. Faith is believing the bare Word of God and acting in obedience to that Word. Saving Faith makes us right before God.
We believe in Jesus Christ because of Scripture (validity), because of scholarship (result), and because of subjective experience (Holy Spirit).
We believe in Jesus Christ because of Scripture (validity), because of scholarship (result), and because of subjective experience (Holy Spirit).
Goodness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit where righteousness and holiness are magnified before the world in a humble, convicting and appealing manner which point people to God as fully worthy of our lifestyle change, obedience and worship.
Goodness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit where righteousness and holiness are magnified before the world in a humble, convicting and appealing manner which point people to God as fully worthy of our lifestyle change, obedience and worship.
Kindness or Gentleness (Greek, Chrestos) is an outward fruit of the Spirit. Love touching others -- all the outflow of the Holy Spirit and Life of Christ.
Kindness or Gentleness (Greek, Chrestos) is an outward fruit of the Spirit. Love touching others -- all the outflow of the Holy Spirit and Life of Christ.
Dictionary of New Testament Words: W.E. Vines Expository: "Longsuffering is that quality of self-restraint in the face of provocation which does not hastily retaliate or promptly punish. It is the opposite of anger, and is associated with mercy and used with reference to God."
Dictionary of New Testament Words: W.E. Vines Expository: "Longsuffering is that quality of self-restraint in the face of provocation which does not hastily retaliate or promptly punish. It is the opposite of anger, and is associated with mercy and used with reference to God."
The Hebrew word for peace is "Shalom" and means "wholeness, fullness, a state of blessedness." Shalom can even mean salvation. "So Gideon built an altar there to the Lord, and called it The-Lord-Is- Peace. To this day it is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites." Judges 6:24
The Hebrew word for peace is "Shalom" and means "wholeness, fullness, a state of blessedness." Shalom can even mean salvation. "So Gideon built an altar there to the Lord, and called it The-Lord-Is- Peace. To this day it is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites." Judges 6:24
Joy (chara) which is 'delight' or 'gladness' is an "upward fruit" of the Spirit, a God-type of joy in the believer because of His gift of Jesus, the life of God in us. The fruit grow and mature together. Joy is our first response to receiving the Gospel. "Joy" is the flag over the castle. "Joy of the heart when the King is in residence."
Joy (chara) which is 'delight' or 'gladness' is an "upward fruit" of the Spirit, a God-type of joy in the believer because of His gift of Jesus, the life of God in us. The fruit grow and mature together. Joy is our first response to receiving the Gospel. "Joy" is the flag over the castle. "Joy of the heart when the King is in residence."
Love (agape) is an "upward fruit" of the Spirit, a God-type of love in the believer illustrated by His gift of Jesus, the life of God in us. The fruit grow and mature together. Love is the first bud and first fruit of the Spirit, the fruit from which the other fruits grow.
Love (agape) is an "upward fruit" of the Spirit, a God-type of love in the believer illustrated by His gift of Jesus, the life of God in us. The fruit grow and mature together. Love is the first bud and first fruit of the Spirit, the fruit from which the other fruits grow.
The fruit of the Spirit is the demonstration in daily living of the life and likeness of Jesus Christ in the believer by the outflow of the Holy Spirit through obedience and prayer. The "fruit of the Spirit" is singular – one cluster with many fruit.
The fruit of the Spirit is the demonstration in daily living of the life and likeness of Jesus Christ in the believer by the outflow of the Holy Spirit through obedience and prayer. The "fruit of the Spirit" is singular – one cluster with many fruit.
Join us for the Easter musical presentation of "On a Hill Too Far Away" by the Grace Sanctuary Choir at 10:00 am. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the Bible's main story. Genesis is the seed bed of the Bible. Revelation is the blossoming garden. All the spiritual tributaries which began in Genesis come into the River of Life in Revelation.
Join us for the Easter musical presentation of "On a Hill Too Far Away" by the Grace Sanctuary Choir at 10:00 am. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the Bible's main story. Genesis is the seed bed of the Bible. Revelation is the blossoming garden. All the spiritual tributaries which began in Genesis come into the River of Life in Revelation.
In the Rotunda of the Library of Congress is displayed the words of the great English poet, Alfred Tennyson: "One God, One Law, One Element; One far-off divine event to which the whole creation moves." The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is "The Event" to which the whole creation moves, but it is not "far-off." The Scripture says, "The time is at hand...surely I come quickly." (Revelation 1:3, 22:20) Revelation 19:11-16 is "The Revelation of Jesus Christ," a record of the Second Coming. "Behold, He cometh with clouds and every eye shall see Him." (Revelation 1:7)
In the Rotunda of the Library of Congress is displayed the words of the great English poet, Alfred Tennyson: "One God, One Law, One Element; One far-off divine event to which the whole creation moves." The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is "The Event" to which the whole creation moves, but it is not "far-off." The Scripture says, "The time is at hand...surely I come quickly." (Revelation 1:3, 22:20) Revelation 19:11-16 is "The Revelation of Jesus Christ," a record of the Second Coming. "Behold, He cometh with clouds and every eye shall see Him." (Revelation 1:7)
In the Rotunda of the Library of Congress is displayed the words of the great English poet, Alfred Tennyson: "One God, One Law, One Element; One far-off divine event to which the whole creation moves." The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is "The Event" to which the whole creation moves, but it is not "far-off." The Scripture says, "The time is at hand...surely I come quickly." (Revelation 1:3, 22:20) Revelation 19:11-16 is "The Revelation of Jesus Christ," a record of the Second Coming. "Behold, He cometh with clouds and every eye shall see Him." (Revelation 1:7)
In the Rotunda of the Library of Congress is displayed the words of the great English poet, Alfred Tennyson: "One God, One Law, One Element; One far-off divine event to which the whole creation moves." The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is "The Event" to which the whole creation moves, but it is not "far-off." The Scripture says, "The time is at hand...surely I come quickly." (Revelation 1:3, 22:20) Revelation 19:11-16 is "The Revelation of Jesus Christ," a record of the Second Coming. "Behold, He cometh with clouds and every eye shall see Him." (Revelation 1:7)
In the Rotunda of the Library of Congress is displayed the words of the great English poet, Alfred Tennyson: "One God, One Law, One Element; One far-off divine event to which the whole creation moves." The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is "The Event" to which the whole creation moves, but it is not "far-off." The Scripture says, "The time is at hand...surely I come quickly." (Revelation 1:3, 22:20) Revelation 19:11-16 is "The Revelation of Jesus Christ," a record of the Second Coming. "Behold, He cometh with clouds and every eye shall see Him." (Revelation 1:7)
In the Rotunda of the Library of Congress is displayed the words of the great English poet, Alfred Tennyson: "One God, One Law, One Element; One far-off divine event to which the whole creation moves." The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is "The Event" to which the whole creation moves, but it is not "far-off." The Scripture says, "The time is at hand...surely I come quickly." (Revelation 1:3, 22:20) Revelation 19:11-16 is "The Revelation of Jesus Christ," a record of the Second Coming. "Behold, He cometh with clouds and every eye shall see Him." (Revelation 1:7)
There are three Bible verses that, properly explained and understood, will open the Bible's message clearly to our hearts for our salvation from sin and our entrance into Heaven. Where is the Lamb? (Genesis 22:7) Behold the Lamb of God (John 1:29) Worthy is the Lamb. (Revelation 5:12)
There are three Bible verses that, properly explained and understood, will open the Bible's message clearly to our hearts for our salvation from sin and our entrance into Heaven. Where is the Lamb? (Genesis 22:7) Behold the Lamb of God (John 1:29) Worthy is the Lamb. (Revelation 5:12)
Angels fill the city of God, and Revelation, the book of prophecy, is full of angels. "Angels" are mentioned over 90 times in Revelation. Our message is an exposition of the presence and ministry of angels.
Angels fill the city of God, and Revelation, the book of prophecy, is full of angels. "Angels" are mentioned over 90 times in Revelation. Our message is an exposition of the presence and ministry of angels.
This marvelous, mysterious, and majestic chapter Revelation 11 is a great turning point in the book of Revelation. The Holy Spirit here reveals three great spiritual certainties that are true in every generation to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Knowledge of these certainties will make us stronger and more useful for "the work of the Lord."
This marvelous, mysterious, and majestic chapter Revelation 11 is a great turning point in the book of Revelation. The Holy Spirit here reveals three great spiritual certainties that are true in every generation to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Knowledge of these certainties will make us stronger and more useful for "the work of the Lord."
On this first Lord's Day morning in 2016, we unite as a Church family to pray and dedicate ourselves to make 2016 "The Year of the Bible." We are asking our members to pray and make the effort to read through the Bible in 2016 and be in Bible study in Sunday School to grow in the Word. April 2016 will be “The Month of the Bible” as we pray and unite together to read the entire Bible aloud in our Church Worship Center that month. By God's grace, for His glory and our growth in Christ, we can do this glorious task together.
On this first Lord's Day morning in 2016, we unite as a Church family to pray and dedicate ourselves to make 2016 "The Year of the Bible." We are asking our members to pray and make the effort to read through the Bible in 2016 and be in Bible study in Sunday School to grow in the Word. April 2016 will be “The Month of the Bible” as we pray and unite together to read the entire Bible aloud in our Church Worship Center that month. By God's grace, for His glory and our growth in Christ, we can do this glorious task together.
There is "No Excuse" (Romans 1:19-20) for anyone not to believe in God or to trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour. God has revealed Himself so clearly, even in our fallen world, that someone has to willfully reject Him to not become a Christian. Psalm 19 tells us of four books or self-revelation of a personal God whose name is Jesus. C.S. Lewis calls Psalm 19 "the most beautiful poem in the Psalter."
There is "No Excuse" (Romans 1:19-20) for anyone not to believe in God or to trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour. God has revealed Himself so clearly, even in our fallen world, that someone has to willfully reject Him to not become a Christian. Psalm 19 tells us of four books or self-revelation of a personal God whose name is Jesus. C.S. Lewis calls Psalm 19 "the most beautiful poem in the Psalter."
Two Scriptures in the Old Testament mention prophecies of the Star of Bethlehem and the Wise Men. Numbers 24:17, Isaiah 60:3 and 6. The Wise Men (Magi) were, no doubt, converts to the God of Israel through the ministry and influence of the prophet Daniel who ruled for seventy years plus over the wise men and educational system of Babylon and Persia. They were probably from the lands of modern day Iran and Iraq. They believed the God News of a coming Messiah and studied the Scriptures and the skies looking for and hoping for His coming.
Two Scriptures in the Old Testament mention prophecies of the Star of Bethlehem and the Wise Men. Numbers 24:17, Isaiah 60:3 and 6. The Wise Men (Magi) were, no doubt, converts to the God of Israel through the ministry and influence of the prophet Daniel who ruled for seventy years plus over the wise men and educational system of Babylon and Persia. They were probably from the lands of modern day Iran and Iraq. They believed the God News of a coming Messiah and studied the Scriptures and the skies looking for and hoping for His coming.
The Christian is called to love and serve God "with all your heart". In these vital days of faith, promise, and commitment at Grace Baptist Church we must love and serve "with all our hearts."
The Christian is called to love and serve God "with all your heart". In these vital days of faith, promise, and commitment at Grace Baptist Church we must love and serve "with all our hearts."
As King Solomon continues his search for meaning and purpose, he observes personal experiences and human events and begins to write his spiritual conclusions. He begins to see that the wise man needs the help of godly people and to learn worship in the house of God with others. As John Donne wrote "No man is an island entire of himself." You cannot be a Lone Ranger Christian. We need others. We need the Church. We need true Christian unity. Solomon speaks on "The Beauty of Unity." Like connecting links in a golden chain, we see a unity which leads to a humility which grows into genuine sincerity of life and works.
As King Solomon continues his search for meaning and purpose, he observes personal experiences and human events and begins to write his spiritual conclusions. He begins to see that the wise man needs the help of godly people and to learn worship in the house of God with others. As John Donne wrote "No man is an island entire of himself." You cannot be a Lone Ranger Christian. We need others. We need the Church. We need true Christian unity. Solomon speaks on "The Beauty of Unity." Like connecting links in a golden chain, we see a unity which leads to a humility which grows into genuine sincerity of life and works.
An introduction to Ecclesiastes. Solomon begins his search by examining what Time is and how we are to relate to Time. This parallels our Grace2020 theme verses: "How I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house, testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ." Acts 20:20-21
An introduction to Ecclesiastes. Solomon begins his search by examining what Time is and how we are to relate to Time. This parallels our Grace2020 theme verses: "How I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house, testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ." Acts 20:20-21
Today is a special Lord's Day. We have reached a chapter in the Revelation that speaks about the authority and need of the Word of God in the world. This is our annual Gideon Bible testimony and offering Sunday which will allow our Church to give Bibles around the world to spread the Gospel to souls in need of a Saviour.
Today is a special Lord's Day. We have reached a chapter in the Revelation that speaks about the authority and need of the Word of God in the world. This is our annual Gideon Bible testimony and offering Sunday which will allow our Church to give Bibles around the world to spread the Gospel to souls in need of a Saviour.
Our message today "Back to Bethel" is a Biblical call to revival as we enter Grace2020. "Bethel" means "House of God". The church is "Bethel" – the people of God are the house of God. Wherever God is at work in Holy Spirit revival is a "Bethel". We are praying for Grace2020 to become a Bethel, a work of God in our midst.
Our message today "Back to Bethel" is a Biblical call to revival as we enter Grace2020. "Bethel" means "House of God". The church is "Bethel" – the people of God are the house of God. Wherever God is at work in Holy Spirit revival is a "Bethel". We are praying for Grace2020 to become a Bethel, a work of God in our midst.
The Lamb of God must become your Lamb. We worship the Lamb because He was willing to come to earth to die for our sins. We sing a new song to the Lamb because of joy. We love the Lamb for the perfection of His Person. We rest in the Lamb because of the security of His promises.
The Lamb of God must become your Lamb. We worship the Lamb because He was willing to come to earth to die for our sins. We sing a new song to the Lamb because of joy. We love the Lamb for the perfection of His Person. We rest in the Lamb because of the security of His promises.
The story of the Bible is the Story of the Revelation, the unveiling, of the Lamb of God. The question of questions in the Old Testament was uttered by Isaac on Mount Moriah, the future site of the Cross, "My Father...where is the lamb?" (Genesis 22:7) The declaration of declarations of the New Testament was uttered by John the Baptist as he pointed to Jesus of Nazareth and said, "Behold the Lamb of God!" (John 1:29)
The story of the Bible is the Story of the Revelation, the unveiling, of the Lamb of God. The question of questions in the Old Testament was uttered by Isaac on Mount Moriah, the future site of the Cross, "My Father...where is the lamb?" (Genesis 22:7) The declaration of declarations of the New Testament was uttered by John the Baptist as he pointed to Jesus of Nazareth and said, "Behold the Lamb of God!" (John 1:29)
The term "Rapture" is a Biblical term from the words "caught up" which means "snatched up, carried away." The Rapture is the snatching up of the Church, the carrying away of all believers in Jesus Christ, to Heaven at the end of the age of Grace.
The term "Rapture" is a Biblical term from the words "caught up" which means "snatched up, carried away." The Rapture is the snatching up of the Church, the carrying away of all believers in Jesus Christ, to Heaven at the end of the age of Grace.
There are three gardens and three trees in Scripture that define the story of man's ruin by sin and redemption in the gospel: The Garden of Eden and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (Genesis 2:17), The Garden of Gethsemane and the Tree upon which Jesus died (Galatians 3:13, 1 Peter 2:24), and The Garden at the River of the City of God and the Tree of Life which will feed us forever (Revelation 22).
There are three gardens and three trees in Scripture that define the story of man's ruin by sin and redemption in the gospel: The Garden of Eden and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (Genesis 2:17), The Garden of Gethsemane and the Tree upon which Jesus died (Galatians 3:13, 1 Peter 2:24), and The Garden at the River of the City of God and the Tree of Life which will feed us forever (Revelation 22).
The Holy Spirit sows the seed of the Word. The Seed is the Word of God, the Bible, the Gospel, the message of Jesus and His call to His Kingdom.
The Holy Spirit sows the seed of the Word. The Seed is the Word of God, the Bible, the Gospel, the message of Jesus and His call to His Kingdom.
The "Treasure" of the City of God is our Lord Jesus Christ! All the riches of God and Heaven dwell in Him!
The "Treasure" of the City of God is our Lord Jesus Christ! All the riches of God and Heaven dwell in Him!
Today we begin by affirming the Truth, the fact, the reality that there is a City of God existing today where Jesus, the elect angels, and the redeemed exist, live, and rejoice in perfect, eternal life, service, and glory.
Today we begin by affirming the Truth, the fact, the reality that there is a City of God existing today where Jesus, the elect angels, and the redeemed exist, live, and rejoice in perfect, eternal life, service, and glory.
The Bible has one story -- the ruin of man in sin beginning in Eden and the redemption of mankind in Jesus Christ. Ruth is a love story of redemption, a true account of the love of Boaz for a Moabite young lady, Ruth, and his willingness to pay the price to free her and marry her. Boaz and Ruth are an Old Testament picture of Christ and the Church.
The Bible has one story -- the ruin of man in sin beginning in Eden and the redemption of mankind in Jesus Christ. Ruth is a love story of redemption, a true account of the love of Boaz for a Moabite young lady, Ruth, and his willingness to pay the price to free her and marry her. Boaz and Ruth are an Old Testament picture of Christ and the Church.
When we rest in the finished work of Christ at the Cross, clean up our soul every day, and follow Him and with His people in fellowship, obeying Him with humility, the will of God will find us!
When we rest in the finished work of Christ at the Cross, clean up our soul every day, and follow Him and with His people in fellowship, obeying Him with humility, the will of God will find us!
John 17 is the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus to His Father the Night before the Crucifixion. John 17 has been called "The Holy of Holies" of Scripture. The Scotch Reformer, John Knox, called John 17 "his spiritual anchor."
John 17 is the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus to His Father the Night before the Crucifixion. John 17 has been called "The Holy of Holies" of Scripture. The Scotch Reformer, John Knox, called John 17 "his spiritual anchor."
The "field of Boaz" (Ruth 2:3) in Bethlehem is the site of the "Shepherd's Field" where the angels announced the birth of Jesus. The genealogy in Ruth 4:17-22 is repeated in Jesus' genealogy in Matthew 1:4-6. God's purpose is always to glorify Jesus, exalt the Gospel, and bring salvation to people.
The "field of Boaz" (Ruth 2:3) in Bethlehem is the site of the "Shepherd's Field" where the angels announced the birth of Jesus. The genealogy in Ruth 4:17-22 is repeated in Jesus' genealogy in Matthew 1:4-6. God's purpose is always to glorify Jesus, exalt the Gospel, and bring salvation to people.
Here we read Ruth's profession of faith in the God of Israel. Ruth's words to her mother-in-law Naomi are a beautiful and Biblical portrait of conversion as Ruth turns from her pagan gods to trust in the true and living God of Israel, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Here we read Ruth's profession of faith in the God of Israel. Ruth's words to her mother-in-law Naomi are a beautiful and Biblical portrait of conversion as Ruth turns from her pagan gods to trust in the true and living God of Israel, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We need the Holy Spirit and the filling of the Holy Spirit because we need Jesus. The Holy Spirit is God, the very presence of Jesus on earth in us. We need a fresh anointing by the Spirit and the daily filling of the Spirit. We have a Great Commission work to do. We must believe in the Holy Spirit and invite His work in our church and our lives! There is one baptism of the Holy Spirit at salvation, but there are a lifetime of new fillings and anointing of the spirit for the Christian.
We need the Holy Spirit and the filling of the Holy Spirit because we need Jesus. The Holy Spirit is God, the very presence of Jesus on earth in us. We need a fresh anointing by the Spirit and the daily filling of the Spirit. We have a Great Commission work to do. We must believe in the Holy Spirit and invite His work in our church and our lives! There is one baptism of the Holy Spirit at salvation, but there are a lifetime of new fillings and anointing of the spirit for the Christian.
It is better to be in the land with God in a famine than in the far
country without God. Famines don't last, but faith in God will
triumph.
It is better to be in the land with God in a famine than in the far
country without God. Famines don't last, but faith in God will
triumph.
Psalms 120-134 are called "The Psalms of Ascent" which Israel quoted day by day on their journey to the Temple to worship in Jerusalem. Each Psalm prepared them for worship. May we pray and prepare each Lord's Day for worship of our Risen Saviour so that we too may joyfully and sincerely say, "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord." (Psalm 122:4)
Psalms 120-134 are called "The Psalms of Ascent" which Israel quoted day by day on their journey to the Temple to worship in Jerusalem. Each Psalm prepared them for worship. May we pray and prepare each Lord's Day for worship of our Risen Saviour so that we too may joyfully and sincerely say, "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord." (Psalm 122:4)
The greatest Coach is Jesus Christ, and the greatest team is the Church. You can be on His team. To make the team, two things are required: repentance and belief. Once on the team, two things are expected: your loyalty and your best. Once you accept Christ you will receive power.
The greatest Coach is Jesus Christ, and the greatest team is the Church. You can be on His team. To make the team, two things are required: repentance and belief. Once on the team, two things are expected: your loyalty and your best. Once you accept Christ you will receive power.
There is sin ... but there is a Savior. There is trouble ... but there is Triumph. There is fear .. but there is Faith. "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things." Philippians 4:8
There is sin ... but there is a Savior. There is trouble ... but there is Triumph. There is fear .. but there is Faith. "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things." Philippians 4:8
Coveting is the root of all sins. Contentment is the rule for all satisfaction. Salvation in Christ makes your life complete. In Christ you have all that could ever fill Heaven and Earth.
Coveting is the root of all sins. Contentment is the rule for all satisfaction. Salvation in Christ makes your life complete. In Christ you have all that could ever fill Heaven and Earth.
The Ninth Commandment forbids and condemns lying. The first sin on planet Earth was a lie. Satan, "the father of lies" (John 8:44) lied about God's word to Eve. "Hath God said?...Ye shall not surely die!" (Genesis 3:1, 4) The Ninth Commandment is "Neither shalt thou bear false witness against thy neighbor." (Deuteronomy 5:20, Exodus 20:16) Lying is definitely forbidden here, but the Ninth Commandment covers much more.
The Ninth Commandment forbids and condemns lying. The first sin on planet Earth was a lie. Satan, "the father of lies" (John 8:44) lied about God's word to Eve. "Hath God said?...Ye shall not surely die!" (Genesis 3:1, 4) The Ninth Commandment is "Neither shalt thou bear false witness against thy neighbor." (Deuteronomy 5:20, Exodus 20:16) Lying is definitely forbidden here, but the Ninth Commandment covers much more.
Easter Sunday Choir and Drama presentation of "Jesus No Other King", followed by sermon titled "The Risen Lord Praying for You."
Easter Sunday Choir and Drama presentation of "Jesus No Other King", followed by sermon titled "The Risen Lord Praying for You."
The Seventh Commandment is simple and clear, "Thou shalt not commit adultery." (Deuteronomy 5:18) American culture largely ignores the Seventh Commandment, but to break this commandment means disaster, heartbreak, and destruction. Here are biblical principles to lead us to obey the Seventh Commandment from the heart.
The Seventh Commandment is simple and clear, "Thou shalt not commit adultery." (Deuteronomy 5:18) American culture largely ignores the Seventh Commandment, but to break this commandment means disaster, heartbreak, and destruction. Here are biblical principles to lead us to obey the Seventh Commandment from the heart.
The Eighth Commandment is "Thou Shalt Not Steal." This commandment is in the Second Table of the Law giving us guidance how to treat our fellow human being.
The Eighth Commandment is "Thou Shalt Not Steal." This commandment is in the Second Table of the Law giving us guidance how to treat our fellow human being.
The Holy Spirit inspired Word invites us, even commands us to "Pray Without Ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:17) This heavenly commandment is for our good and our safety as we walk through a sin-filled Satan controlled world. If we would honor God, live above sin, and walk in humble service among Christ's people, we must seek to learn how to "pray without ceasing." The fulfilling of this worthy lifestyle is only possible by the help, infilling, stimulation and comfort of the Holy Spirit who lives in the child of God.
The Holy Spirit inspired Word invites us, even commands us to "Pray Without Ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:17) This heavenly commandment is for our good and our safety as we walk through a sin-filled Satan controlled world. If we would honor God, live above sin, and walk in humble service among Christ's people, we must seek to learn how to "pray without ceasing." The fulfilling of this worthy lifestyle is only possible by the help, infilling, stimulation and comfort of the Holy Spirit who lives in the child of God.
The Sixth Commandment is well known, "Thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13, Deuteronomy 5:17). The Sixth Commandment begins the second table of the Law which records commandments that relate to respect for people.
The Sixth Commandment is well known, "Thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13, Deuteronomy 5:17). The Sixth Commandment begins the second table of the Law which records commandments that relate to respect for people.
The Fifth Commandment is the transition Commandment; the commandment between God and man, the family commandment, the commandment to honor your father and mother. God and family are linked for the child of God. Would you like a long and good life? Obey this Fifth Commandment!
The Fifth Commandment is the transition Commandment; the commandment between God and man, the family commandment, the commandment to honor your father and mother. God and family are linked for the child of God. Would you like a long and good life? Obey this Fifth Commandment!
This Fourth Commandment gives the when of worship and sets up a regularity to life, work and worship. Actually, the Sabbath plan by God holds the world of work and life routine together! What a blessing is the commandment of the Sabbath!
This Fourth Commandment gives the when of worship and sets up a regularity to life, work and worship. Actually, the Sabbath plan by God holds the world of work and life routine together! What a blessing is the commandment of the Sabbath!
The Gospel in this Third Commandment is that the name of the Lord is our hope. We have broken His Ten Commandments and are under condemnation. His open door of salvation to all proclaims grace through this commandment, "For whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved" (Romans 10:13).
The Gospel in this Third Commandment is that the name of the Lord is our hope. We have broken His Ten Commandments and are under condemnation. His open door of salvation to all proclaims grace through this commandment, "For whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved" (Romans 10:13).
The Commandments are a path to Christ. (Galatians 3:24) Our Lord Jesus is so beautiful that to make an idol or image of Him will always be inadequate. The issue is a heart relationship with him. In Psalm 45 we see His purity (45:1-2), His place (45:7-8), and His people (45:11).
The Commandments are a path to Christ. (Galatians 3:24) Our Lord Jesus is so beautiful that to make an idol or image of Him will always be inadequate. The issue is a heart relationship with him. In Psalm 45 we see His purity (45:1-2), His place (45:7-8), and His people (45:11).
The Lord Jesus is Jehovah God. (Compare Isaiah 6:1 and John 12:41) Jehovah is not Buddha, Allah, the Great Spirit or any other false God. Jehovah gave us the Ten Commandments and He is God alone. We know Him through Jesus, Who is the "I Am" and Who died for our sins and rose again. Here is where life and true worship begins. Our Lord God is the Lord Jesus Christ – He alone is God. He alone is worthy.
The Lord Jesus is Jehovah God. (Compare Isaiah 6:1 and John 12:41) Jehovah is not Buddha, Allah, the Great Spirit or any other false God. Jehovah gave us the Ten Commandments and He is God alone. We know Him through Jesus, Who is the "I Am" and Who died for our sins and rose again. Here is where life and true worship begins. Our Lord God is the Lord Jesus Christ – He alone is God. He alone is worthy.
Let's begin the year 2015 with prayer. When we pray together, we get what God can do. Work without prayer is fruitless energy of the flesh. Work with prayer and prayer with work is how the Christian will prosper in God's eyes.
Let's begin the year 2015 with prayer. When we pray together, we get what God can do. Work without prayer is fruitless energy of the flesh. Work with prayer and prayer with work is how the Christian will prosper in God's eyes.