Preacher without a Pulpit Podcast

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Contrasting Kingdoms” Isaiah 32:9-201. The Kingdom of Humanity - vs. 9-14

Two Foundational Principles of Humanity’s Kingdom:

A. False Security

Notice, in the first three verses the women of Judah feel secure; thus they are complacent and confident about their situation.
In Isaiah 3:16, Isaiah addressed the ‘daughters of Zion’ because he found them the epitome of their mother’s character.
They are content with their situation.
Complacency is a destructive human trait spoken of by Jesus:Mt. 24:38-3
The men failed to listen; thus, maybe the women can make a difference. (rise up and listen) Repentance: Isaiah 31:6

B. Destruction

Destruction is on the way; The Assyrian invasion of 701 B.C. is little more than a year away, the the people are to carefree to see it coming.
Take off your dress clothes and prepare for enslavement; You are not heading to a party: Nahum 2:7
This is a false escapist joy which can be seen in Isaiah 24:7-11
The Assyrian invasion is a warning for the future.

2. The Kingdom of God - vs. 15-20

Two Foundational Principles of God’s Kingdom:

A. Restoration (Instead of Disaster)

Salvation is beyond all human capability.
The first fruits of the Spirit was inaugurated at Pentecost and will be complete when Jesus returns: Acts 2:16-17
The one who is spirit not only defends his people but enriches them with new life.
Humanity and the Earth will be restored: Rom 8:19-22

B. True Security

It is this abundant righteousness which will produce true peace and Security. He has given them the antidote to their problems: Isaiah 30:15

Isaiah concludes the vision of the contrasting Kingdoms with two metaphors:

1) The Destruction of Assyria and the humbling of Jerusalem - V. 19

The forest represents Assyria, while the City represents Jerusalem.

2) The Undisturbed Peace of the Messianic Kingdom - V-20

Both Judgment and glory lie ahead and now is the time to choose! 1 Pet 3:9
Which Kingdom do you want to be associated with?
Which foundation? Mt. 7:24-27

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Kingdom Leadership” Isaiah 32:1-8 The Messianic Age is again in view: Isaiah 9:7 * This is the state of affairs we pray for in the words of the prayer Jesus taught us: “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Mt. 6:10) * Kingdom leadership is characterized by Righteousness and Justice*.

Three results of Kingdom Leadership:

1. Security

Complete security is expressed by the two contrasting dangers of wind and storm; there is protection from every threat. Isaiah 25:4
God has promise to send good shepherds: Jeremiah 23:4
Water and shadow are the two components of provision and refreshment, therefore symbolizing every beneficial care. Ps. 23:1-4

2. Insight and Understanding

It is best to take the blindness and deafness of verse 3 in the same metaphorical sense as in Isaiah 29:11, namely, unresponsiveness to the word of God especially among the nations leaders.
Spiritual clarity is the result of walking the path of God: Proverbs 4:18-19
Grasping the truth leads to proclamation. Psalm 40:9-10

3. Prestige based on Noble Character

An imperfect society imperfectly accords honors.
It accords honors, regardless of character to the rich and powerful; Social Ideas are redefined so that prestige goes only to the truly Noble.
‘Seldom are the significant famous and seldom are the famous significant.’ (Dennis Prager)
The fool is amoral while the scoundrel is unscrupulous.
Verses 6 & 7 further define the fool and the scoundrel.
Again, the fool denies God and thus spreads error about God: Psalm 53:1
Instead of heeding the just plea of the needy bad leaders refuse to do what God has instructed them to do: Isaiah 1:17
The worlds values are that the rich are the winners and the poor are the losers.
In God’s economy moral behavior gives us a firm place to stand: Psalm 20:7-8
Leave with encouragement: Psalm 24:3-4

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “The Fire and Furnace” Isaiah 31:1-9 The fire denotes both Gods Holiness and his Judgment*: Isaiah 33:14

Three ways to Escape God’s Judgment:

1. Consult the Lord

Judah has completely overlooked God’s counsel, which God provided through his prophet.
They are overlooking his word and His way.
Judah had questioned God’s wisdom: Isaiah 29:15-16
Those who thought they were wiser than God are about to learn otherwise: Isaiah 5:21
Consult God’s Holy Word: 2 Tim 3:16-17

2. Trust in God, Not in Man

God is so sovereign that he just has to stretch out his hand.
We have to understand that God cannot be manipulated before we are ready to throw ourselves upon his mercy.
God is not your personal Genie!
You can trust God to protect you: 1 John 5:18
These two illustrations point to the fact that the Lord, himself is ready to fight and defend his people if they would only humble themselves.
This promise was in effect to the bitter end (King Hezekiah Prayed for deliverance): Isaiah 37:33-35

3. Repent

God is always ready to forgive, even in the midst of an all out revolt: Isaiah 1:2
Repentance is more than mental; it involves the redirection of life: Isaiah 2:20, 22
The Assyrian army was no match for God: Is. 37:36
His Rock refers to the king of Assyria, in contrast with the Rock of Israel: Isaiah 30:29
When Assyria attacked Jerusalem they walked into a furnace: Is. 30:33

Conclusion: Three ways to Escape God’s Judgment:

Consult the Lord,
Trust in God, not in man, and
Repent: Rom 12:2

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Universal Judgment” Isaiah 30:27-33

The Lord’s action as Judge is the final expression of his grace to those who have cried out to him for salvation: Isaiah 30:19
The distance points to their believe that he is disconnected from them; It also points to the fact that although God seems far off, He is wholly involved in world history.
You may feel alone, but you are not: Dt. 31:6
Jesus made the same promise: Mt. 28:20

Three Metaphors:

1. The Torrent: An overflowing torrent speaks to a desert community that understood the issue of flash floods; thus, God’s judgment will be sudden and without warning: Nahum 1:8

Rising up to the neck: If Assyria had come in upon Judah like a torrent, God would sweep over them: Isaiah 8:5-8

2. The Sieve; It separates the true believer from the false: Am.9:9

3. The Bit; Its purpose is tocontrol and direct: Isaiah 37:29

The coming defeat of the Assyrians will be a foretaste of that final victory and just as the victory at the Red Sea was celebrated in song, so will his final victory be celebrated: Ex. 15:1-4
His Arm recalls his promise to his people: Ex. 6:6
Again, it comes swiftly without warning: 1Thes 5:2
The voice that created can also destroy: Psalm 29:5-9
Topheth: a region outside Jerusalem where children were sacrificed to Molech in the fire: 2 Kings 23:10

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Effective Grace” Isaiah 30:18-26

Four Effects of God’s Grace:

1. Compassion - He demonstrates compassion in his waiting!

Earlier Isaiah realizes that he must wait and trust:Is. 8:16-17
He can’t dispense grace without their recognition of their rebellion, but there is always a remnant who are waiting and trusting in the Lord as evidenced in Isaiah 8:16-17.
To be given time to repent is a great mercy which should be grasped with profound gratitude: Romans 2:4
God does not want anyone to parish: 2 Pet 3:8-9

2. Comfort - He comforts through answered prayer.

After punishing Israel God will once again bless them: Isaiah 40:2
God’s judgment is tempered by grace and ultimately fulfilled through the cross of Christ: Col. 1:21-22

3. Clarity - He is recognized as their teacher.

Because of judgment their eyes and ears will be opened to what it is he has been trying to say: Isaiah 26:9
God’s Spirit will guide us: John 16:13
We are defined by who we follow: Rom 8:14
The casting away of idols is the natural consequence of a vibrant relationship with God; For idols speak of divided loyalties: Ex. 20:3

4. Covenant Blessing Restored

If chapter 1 refers to the devastation caused by Assyria's invasion, this present passage refers to the restored covenant blessing promised in Dt. 28:11-12
Remember first comes Judgment and then the blessing: Isaiah 1:7
The outpouring of creation’s bounty speaks, of the end of sin and the curse and of the return Eden: Amos 9:13
When the towers of Judah’s pride are smashed, she may expect a new era of unbelievable fruitfulness: Isaiah 2:12-17
Instead of the darkness of despair, uncertainty and sin, and the misery of the pains resulting from running into God in the darkness, there will be perfect clarity and the tender ministry of the Father bandaging our wounds and bruises: Isaiah 60:19-20

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Everlasting Witness” Isaiah 30:8-17 The purpose of the writing is of great importance to the interpretation. The written material was to stand as an eternal witness about the days to come. * Its chief value was not for the present deaf generation but for the next generation: Isaiah 8:16 * Even the New Testament uses the failures of God’s people for our benefit: 1 Cor 10:1-6 * Notice, Isaiah as well as the Apostle Paul strongly emphasizes its everlasting value: 2 Tim 3:16-17 * They are in rebellion* against their Father: Isaiah 30:1 * Isaiah’s message did as God predicted. It had the effect of blinding and deafening them because they refused to hear or see what contradicted their wishes: Isaiah 6:9-10

Here he recounts the three strikes against them:

1. Rejection of the Message

2. Oppression: Especially in Domestic Policy: Isaiah 29:21

3. Deceit: Especially in Foreign Policy: Isaiah 29:15

This impending disaster is described in two figures, both of them indicate suddenness and totality:

1. Collapsing Wall: Instead of the wall assuring their safety and prosperity, it will collapse on them.

2. Smashed Jug: This double figure of brokenness stresses both suddenness and
completeness.

The NT also picks up the same kind of warning about the final judgment: 1 Pet 3:8-10

The Prescription:

1. Repentance & Rest: The active pathway back to the Lord: Isaiah 1:27

This will bring them rest or peace in the Lord: Isaiah 26:3

2. Quietness and Trust:

God offers himself and they choose horses: Ps. 33:17
Nevertheless, God gives them hope: Isaiah 5:25-26
The end game is always redemption: Isaiah 17:6

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Rebellious Children” Isaiah 30:1-7
Two Acts of Rebelliousness:

1. Human Plans instead of Divine Help - vs. 1-5

While there are political overtones in this text, the primary reference here is to rebellion against God.
This is clear from the word children (literally, sons) which points at once to the special relationship between the Lord and those who are addressed here: Isaiah 1:2
Their determination to rebel against Assyria (with Egyptian support) is the political expression of a rebelliousness which runs far deeper: Isaiah 28:15 Remember, Israel was delivered from Egypt and to go to them for help was a blatant act of rebellion against the Fathers Lordship: Dt. 17:16
Instead of confessing our sin, we compound it:2 Pet 2:14
They did not consult with the Prophet of God because they wanted to do it their way: Mark 14:36
They had exchanged the large shadow of the Almighty for the small shade of the Egyptian Pharaoh: Psalm 91:1
The words shame and disgrace are synonymous. They place more emphasis on ‘reaping shame’, than on ‘feeling embarrassed’. Shame is the result of the mistrust of God!

2. Foolishly Risking all for the help of Humans - vs. 6-7

Ironically, they are retracing the Exodus: Dt. 8:15
They are trusting man instead of God: Isaiah 2:22
Isn’t that just what we do?
Rahab is a poetic name for Egypt: Psalm 87:4
Rahab is the sea monster (Dragon) of popular legend. She is the ancient chaotic Matter against whom the gods struggle for survival. It is a metaphor for the struggle against chaos: Job 26:12
God always overcomes chaos!
The future for Ancient Israel looked grim; one day there would be nothing left of the rebel’s grand plan; Jerusalem itself would stand isolated and under siege: Isaiah 1:8
Peter addresses the Rebellious Children: Acts 2:36-39

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Spiritual Transformation” Isaiah 29:15-24

Three Kinds of Transformation:

1. The Subverting of Reason - vs. 15-16

They have lost their faith (trust) in YHWH.
They have become fools: Psalm 14:1
They have upside down thinking: Isaiah 5:20

They deny three facts about God:
1.) His Distinctiveness (He is not like the clay)

Unlike hand-made god’s, Israel’s God is the real deal: Isaiah 17:7-8

2) His Sovereignty (He did not make me!)

As the creator of the world, God has a right to choose its direction: Rom 9:20-21

3) His Wisdom (You know nothing).

God has all the answers in the Scriptures: 2 Tim 3:16-17

2. The Coming World Renewal - vs. 17-21

In verses 17-21, God promises some overturning of his own; there will be a complete reversal of the present situation.
Even the seemingly ordered creation is out of wack and needs to be put back to the correct order: Rom 8:19-22
Let us not forget the self-imposed blindness that God has heightened: Is. 29:9-11

Three kinds of corrupt leaders:
1) The ruthless
2) The scoffer
3) All who have an eye for evil

Corrupt Leaders corrupt the Legal system in Three ways:

1) False Testimony: False witness
2) Tampering: Bent Lawyer
3) Depriving the innocent of Justice: Corrupt Judge

When values decline in society the legal system is not immune: Amos 2:6-8

3. The Changed Fortune of Jacob - vs. 22-24

As Israel was delivered out of Egypt, so Abraham also was delivered out of the pagan world: Gen 12:1

There are two aspects of the individuals transformation:
1) They will experience Steadiness of life through the Spirit of God.
2) They will be Teachable

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Spiritual Blindness” Isaiah 29:9-14* At his inauguration Isaiah was warned that he was called to a prophetic office at a crisis point: Isaiah 6:9-10

Three Facts about Spiritual Blindness:

1. Spiritual Blindness is a Choice

They were literally drunk in: Isaiah 28:7-8
Now, it is figurative, a spiritual stupor.
If you refuse to listen to God today, you may be unable to hear him tomorrow. Hebrews 4:6-7

2. Spiritual Blindness is Part of God’s Judgment

Interestingly enough it is not the priests who are chiefly to blame for the blindness of the people; it is those who had access to God--the prophets and the seers:1 Sam 9:9
Paul’s message escaped the grasp of the Philosophical elite: Acts 17:32-34
The sheep are without shepherds: Mt 9:36

3. Spiritual Blindness leads to Manipulative Religion

Manipulative religion is the very worst kind of pride because it attempts to make God our servant instead of recognizing that we are his servant
This verse is quoted in part by Jesus to show the hypocrisy of the Pharisees: Mt. 15:8-9
God will do a wonder that will destroy the wisdom and intellectualism of the world: Jeremiah 8:9
True wisdom recognizes that the meaning of life is to be open to God, to give him freedom with us, and to live in radical trust of him: 1Cor 1:18-21

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Chastisement & Deliverance” Isaiah 29:1-8

Two Sections:

1. Chastisement - vs. 1-4 (Rebuke)

Jerusalem prided herself on her pure worship as opposed to idolatrous Samaria, but in fact pure worship does not replace a pure heart, and the very source of her pride was her downfall: Isaiah 1:13-14 ‘Worthless Worship’
The Lord is going to light another kind of fire in Jerusalem; the fire of judgment, and when he does so the entire city will be like one vast blazing altar hearth: Isaiah 4:4
If we treat lightly the sacrifice God has made available, then we ourselves become the sacrifice; we will then carry the burden of our sin: Hebrews 10:26-27
We all sin/point in time: 1John 1:8-10
The Hebrews writer is talking about life-style sin:1Jn 3:6
Back to Basics: Walking in the Light (episode 2)
Whisper was used by mediums and spiritists: Isaiah 8:19
Judah speaks as from the realm of the dead--so much for their covenant with death: Isaiah 28:15

2. Deliverance - Vs. 5-8 (Always the End Game or Goal)

Because of our fear of humanity, God becomes less and less significant for us. The fact remains that it is God who is the real threat. His instant judgment reduces the human factor to its appropriate place: Psalm 56:4
The weighty, powerful enemies are in fact no more substantial than powder or wind-driven chaff.
There was no actual noise or upheaval when God suddenly defeated the Assyrians: Isaiah 37:36-37
What a relief it was to wake up and discover it was not so. It must have seemed that way when Sennacherib was suddenly gone from outside the city: Is 37:36-37
Who hasn’t dreamed of satisfaction only to awaken to wanting?
But we will not be wanting on that last morning when we awake to the knowledge that once and for all we are truly awake, forevermore with Him: 1 Thes 4:16-17

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Illustrating the Wisdom of God Isaiah 28:23-29

Three Keys to Gaining the Wisdom of God:

1. Pay Attention to the Voice of God

Here we have the call of the wisdom teacher: Proverbs 4:1
Scripture is where we hear God’s voice: 2 Timothy 3:16-17
James says to just ask: James 1:5

2. Follow God’s Life Principles

There are principles in both realms upon which life depends and which, if followed, will lead to life.
Somehow we don’t have a problem understanding physical principles, so Isaiah reverts to that realm, to show his people, and us, the importance and the simplicity of God’s ways.

3. Understand that God’s Discipline is not the End Game

Just as the purpose of threshing is to create usable wheat; God ultimate Purpose is redemption: Is. 27:12
God’s Disciple demonstrates our position in the family: Hebrews 12:4-11
This is the conclusion of the argument found in Isaiah. 28:14
Wisdom denotes the foresight which plans ahead, hence effective wisdom, the wisdom which knows how to achieve results: Isaiah 9:6

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Covenant with Death” Isaiah 28:14-22 They had a choice to choose life or choose the death, to trust God or trust mere humans: Isaiah 2:22 * Jesus made it clear: John 14:6 * Scoffer or Mocker’ is a strong indictment, since scoffing, in the OT is the very last degree of ungodliness: Psalm 1:1-2 * They rule faithlessly in the city of faith: Isaiah 1:21-23 * There agreement with Egypt will not exempt them from the wave of God’s wrath: Isaiah 8:6-8 * In his* life and work all that the Bible teaches about the trustworthiness of God comes to fulfillment: 1 Peter 2:4-6 * Their defender has become a gatherer of troops against them: Isaiah 5:26 * Like the fools house in Matthew It would be swept away: Mt. 7:26-27 * The first account was at Mount Perazim, where God broke out against the Philistines: 2 Samuel 5:19-20 * The second was in the Valley of Gibeon he sent a hail storm to demolish the Amorites: Joshua 10:11 * God never belongs to anyone, he will side with those who want to serve him: 1 John 2:3-6 * The sin from which there is no return is not merely refusing to listen to God, but making fun of the very means by which he addresses us: Heb 10:26-31

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: Foolish Leaders/Foolish Counsel:
“The Northern Kingdom” Isaiah 28:1-13

Three Sections:

1. Prophecy Fulfilled: A Warning to Judah - vs. 1-4

The woe here anticipates Ephraim’s or Samaria’s imminent fall, that in fact occurred in 722: 2 Kings 17:5-6
Pride was their main issue: Isaiah 16:6
Drunkenness is a symptom of Pride: Isaiah 5:11
Rather than face judgment soberly, the leaders instead drink themselves into a drunken stupor; this is a constant reaction for the ungodly: Isaiah 22:12-13
The chastisement is described as a Hailstorm, flooding and downpour: Isaiah 8:7-8

2. Light for the Remnant - vs. 5-6

Instead of the drunken rulers Israel and Judah had come to expect, God will bring a new spirit to the throne: Is 11:1-4
There will be a change of atmosphere and empowerment: Isaiah 44:3

3. Faulty Leadership -vs. 7-13

A. Irresponsible Self-indulgence - 7-8

The priest had broken the divine law: Lev. 10:9
They should have chosen the spirit instead of wine: Eph. 5:18
What hope is there for a nation when even its spiritual leaders have given themselves over to debauchery: Isaiah 5:11-12

B. Taunting - vs 9-13

Isaiah is responding to sarcastic taunts: Isaiah 5:19
They failed to listen to the message of opportunity; they had a chance to rest or trust in the Lord: Isaiah 30:15
Ultimately, the only security is in the conviction that God cares for us and will bring all the strands of the life committed to him to a joyous climax: Ps 56:10-11
God will not be mocked! Gal. 6:7

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “The Ultimate Purpose for Israel” Isaiah 27:2-13

Three facts about Israel’s Ultimate Purpose:

1. Israel is the Lord’s Vineyard People - vs. 2-6

This section stands over Isaiah 5:1-7

There are five contrastin this section:

1) Good fruit instead of bad fruit: Isaiah 5:4

2) Lack of water to continual watering

3) Abandonment to well guarded.

It is not some lesser being, some hireling, but the Lord himself who watches over his own: John 10:11-13
Instead of conflict God gives an invitation to the opponents of the vineyard; thus, indicating that vineyard membership is open to all: John 3:16
This is the fulfillment of the promise made to Abraham: Gen 12:2-3
In the light of NT teaching, Israel here must include all the children of Abraham, Jew and Gentile alike, those who walk by faith: Rom 11: 25-27

2. The Lord’s Dealings with Israel - vs. 7-11 Three things are said about the Judgment:

1) Israel’s Judgment has been less harsh than their enemies.

The Assyrian casualties: Isaiah 36:36
There is always divine restraint: Jer. 5:18

2) Israel’s Judgment is carefully controlled.

Like the searing wind roaring out of the east, here fate would come upon her and sweep her away: Jer 18:17

3) Israel will have to atone for her guilt in the coming judgment.

Israel’s punishment was for the purpose of discipline and purification: Heb 12:11
The pagan altars represented disobedience to the very first command. Ex. 20:3
The fortified city may be Jerusalem, but more likely its representative of the many fortified cities in Judah: Isaiah 1:7
They could not see the wisdom of entrusting themselves to the only one who could save them; there was a much better choice: Is 1:18

3. The Lord’s Harvest of Israel

Two imagesare used to express the final Destiny of God’s people.

1) Agricultural: Harvest

The verb to thresh was also used of beating an olive tree, which then the fruit was picked up off the ground: Isaiah 24:13
The picture of God gathering each of the scattered ones individually is a very tender one: Is 49:14-16

2) Religious: Call to Worship

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “Song of Thanksgiving” Isaiah 25:1-12* The world-wide song, entitled ‘Glory to the Righteous One’ (24:16a), is now heard in detail as the world pilgrimage arrives in Zion: Isaiah 24:16a

Three Parts of the Song of Thanksgiving:

1. The Praise

God’s actions are not off-the-cuff. They are part of the divine purpose in the universe: Isaiah 14:24
God’s plan was to humble all the works of human pride and opposition, here typified as the walled city and the fortified town: Isaiah 24:10
Before God all humankind’s securities and do-it-yourself salvation are helpless: Isaiah 24:20
A demonstration of God’s power leads to faith: Is. 24:15
It’s time to bend the knee to Jesus: Phil 2:9-11
Storms and heat are problems for desert communities; thus this metaphor is perfect; God provides relief from the heat and shelter from the storm: Psalm 46:1

2. The Feast

lLike the vision of Isaiah 2:2-4, this one too has both an inclusive and an exclusive aspect: it is for all peoples, but it is provided at only one place; thus the onus is on the nations to come there if they wish to partake.
This feast is all about the food and drink of life: Jn. 6:35
Death the great swallow-er will be swallowed: 1Cor 15:54
‘The disgrace is the fact that the people of God have always been disrespected: 1 Pet 4:14

3. The Joy

‘We waited for him’ expresses a fundamental element of the OT, and the Isaianic, concept of trust: Psalm 130:5-6

4. The Judgment

Moab is used as a symbol of the nations that taunted Judah: Jerimiah 48:26-27
So Moab sinks further in her pride the more frantically it seeks to save itself: Isaiah 16:6

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Isaiah - the Vision - Part Three: “The Destruction of the Earth” Isaiah 24:1-23* Isaiah lived every day of his life expecting the judgment of God, as we should also do: 2 Pet 3:10 * Scatter the inhabitance: Isaiah 2:19 * God is no respecter of persons: 1 Sam 16:7 * Every aspect of life is under sentence along with every group and individual: Phil 3:9 * The laws and statutes refer to the basic standards of right behavior given to the man and woman at creation; Isaiah is using law here just as Paul uses it in Romans: Rom 1:20-21 * This verse points to the final diagnosis; destruction is the result of a curse brought on by sin: Isaiah 13:11-12

Four Results of the Destruction of the Earth:

1. The Stilling of the Song of the World vs. 7-12

Merriment ceases wherever joy is dependent upon alcohol and material blessings instead of trust in a God whose grace does not fail: Joel 1:5
Wine with a song: Characteristic of Judah: Isaiah 5:11-12
The ruined city, lit. The formless city. The Hebrew word 'tohu' is used in Gen 1:2 referring to the beginning of the creation of the earth: Jeremiah 4:23
The city of tohu lives without the ordering, life-giving hand of God, opting for a life on its own, within itself, depending on itself; consequently, it is unstable and without purpose.

2. The Rising of the Song of the Remnant vs. 13-16a

It is the new song of the redeemed: Rev 5:9-10

3. The Hopeless Flight vs. 16b-20

Isaiah now feels the condemnation of others as deeply as once he felt his own: Isaiah 6:5

4. The Lord’s Reign vs. 21-23

The punishment of the powers in the heavens above refers to Satan and the fallen angels: Eph 6:11-12
Bound in a dungeon: Jude 1:6
And so, the chapter ends fittingly with a Burst of light so brilliant that it shames the sun: Isaiah 60:19-20
His Reign includes the Elders, the redeemed: Rev 4:10-1

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Demonstrating Confidence In Your Leaders” Hebrews 13:17-25
Three Ways to Demonstrate Confidence in Your Leaders:

I. Submit to Your Leaders Submission is about modeling: 1 Pet 5:3 * We are to be examples to the flock! 1 Cor. 11:1 * We are not talking about Authoritarianism! * Mutual submission: Eph. 5:21 * Keep Watch*: Sentry guarding His or Her post. Why? * They are responsible: James 3:1

II. Pray for Your Leaders We are dependant on the prayers of the Saints. * We need prayer in order to live godly lives! * Success in his mission is dependent on their prayers. * He has urged them to focus on the Word: Heb 2:1 * This prayer summarizes the content of the Sermon. * God brings peace to the table; he brings unity. * God can raise the dead; He brings life! * God is the great Shepherd: Ps. 23 * God will be with us as we suffer. * Equip can means mend: Mt. 4:21 * He fixes the broken. Why? * We are fixed to serve! * When he calls, he empowers*. * Again, he has challenged them and us. * He urges them to take his sermon to heart. * “Word of Exhortation.” Acts 13:15 * He will come to inspect what he expects.

III. Greet Your Leaders* Leadership is about friendship * Leaders need relationships. * It’s all about Grace!

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Stability in a Shaky World” Hebrews 13:7-16

The Main Idea is found in V-8
Leaders will change but Christ remains the same: Heb 1:10:12 (Ps. 102:25-27)
The quoted psalm is about YHWH; Jesus is God incarnate; the second person in the Trinity. John 1:1
It is all about Jesus: 1 Cor. 2:2

Four Steps to Stability in a Shaky World:

1. Remember and Imitate Godly Leaders

In Chapter 11, “Hero’s of the Past.”

Two Behaviors to imitate:

1)Their focus on the Word: Acts 20:26-27
2) Their Faith (Trust or walk) 2 Tim 4:6-8

2. Be Strengthened by Grace not Regulations

Carried away: Don’t get sidetracked!
The gospel is not about food: Rom 14:17
Friend of one of my daughters: Mark 7:19
What happens outside the camp is significant: Lev 16:27

3. Embrace the Disgrace – Come to the Cross!

Moses regarded this disgrace: Heb 11:26
Sharing in his sufferings is a common theme: Phil 3:10-11
Following Christ means preparing for hardship: Luke 9:23
“Here,” we are on shaky ground: Heb. 12:27

4. Sacrifice

Worship and sacrifice are synonymous: Rom 12:1

Four ways to sacrifice:

1) Praise: Psalm 54:6
2) Confession: Rom 10:9-10
3) Deeds of Kindness (Empathy) Heb 13:3
4) Gifts: Phil 4:18

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: Essential Christian Qualities Hebrews 13:1-6

Five Essential Qualities:

1. Family Love (Brotherly Love)

Notice, Keep on: Don’t stop! Lit. let brotherly love continue
Present tense/Continuous Action.
Jesus gave us this command: John 13:34-35
This is not mere sentiment: 1 John 3:16-18
True love results in action.

2. Hospitality

Inn’s were filthy, expensive and full of vice.
Some are called to be missionaries.
Where do they lodge?
The house church: 3 John 5-8
He thinks back to the book of Genesis: Gen. 18:2-3
There are angels among us.
Angels are ministering spirits: Heb 1:14

3. Empathy (put ourself in their shoes)

Continue to do what you have done in the past.
Brings us back to Acts 18:1-2
Heb 10:32-34; Their response
What we do to others; we do to Christ: Mt. 25:37-40
When one suffers we all suffer: 1 Cor. 12:26

4. Purity

God has a problem with sexual immorality. 1 Cor. 6:18-20
God is a “Consuming fire.” Heb 12:29

5. Contentment

This is critical to grasp for our consumer society.
Money loving leads to division: Mt. 6:24
Contentment comes from trusting God: Phil 4:11-13
Don’t act like a pagan: Mt. 6:31-33
Contentment comes from being confident in God’s promises.
Our author goes to the well of scripture: Psalm 118:6-7

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “The Unshakable Kingdom Hebrews 12:25-29

Intro: The Loma Prieta Earthquake of 1989. Oct 17th, 7.1 centered in the Santa Cruz Mountains. 33 Years since the earthquake.

Main Verse: Heb 12:28

Three Responses to our standing within the Unshakable Kingdom:

1. Obedience: “Do not refuse him who speaks.”

The Wilderness generation instantly disobeyed God.
While Moses was on the mountain they had Aaron craft an Idol.
Ex. 32:35: God sent a plague!
He warns us from Heaven: Jesus, high-priest…
Again, our author gives an additional how much more argument : Heb 2:3

2. Confidence

We will not be shaken is a promise.
The earth shook at Sinai: Psalm 77:18
The earth will shake at the end of time: Haggai 2:6
But God promises a New Heaven and … 2 Pet 3:10-13
The physical will pass; the spiritual last.
Remember, their physical world was coming apart.
Esau, who clung to his appetites: Heb. 12:16
Our earthly life does not revolve around comforts.
This is our confidence: Rom 8:38 39

3. Gratitude

Confidence does not lead to arrogance.
How do we show our Thankfulness?

1) Worship Acceptably

Worship is about how we live: Rom. 12:1-2
God has not changed.
Judgment is so fiery; how can we waiver? Isaiah 33:14

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Contrasts Between Covenants” Hebrews 12:18-24

He now comes to his final contrast-picture: Mt. Sinai and Mt. Zion, the Law and the gospel, the New and Old covenants, all expressed in majestic contrast.
Historical Context: Israel is stuck in their journey.
They got to Mt. Sinai where the Old Covenant was orchestrated, which was centered on the Law.
What is the purpose of the Law? Rom 3:19-20
It has always been about the Messiah.

Two Facts about the New Covenant:

1. The New Covenant is Spiritual

The Old focused on the physical.
They came to Mt. Sinai
God was unapproachable: Ex. 19:16-19
His voice was scary: Duet 5:23-27
Even Moses was scared.
Do you want the physical or the spiritual.
The reason he contrast the material, Mt. Sinai with the spiritual, the city of God is to dispel the notion that those who embrace the spiritual are living in a fantasy. We are the ones who have what will last.

2. The New Covenant is Eternal

Three Aspects about the Eternal Nature of the New Covenant:

1) The New Covenant is all about Joy

Joy comes from persecution: Acts 5:40-42
Praying and singing: Acts 16:24-25

2) The New Covenant Includes Inheritance: Rom 8:16-17

3) The New Covenant brings Redemption

The word spoken though Abel’s blood Gen 4:10-11
Abel’s blood cried out to God (Heb 11:4) from the ground, protesting against his murder and appealing for vindication; but the blood of Christ brings a message of cleansing, forgiveness and peace with God to all who place their faith in Him. 1 John 1:7

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Priorities for Pilgrims” Hebrews 12:14-17

Correct priorities are a sign of both commitment and Maturity.

Four Priorities:

1. Make Every Effort to Live at Peace with Everyone. Mt. 5:9

Context is found in Heb 12:3 “ Consider Him…”
The gospel message will provoke opposition.
Our values call into question their values.
Seek peace: 1 Pet 3:10-11; Peter is quoting Psalm 34:12-14
Peace is not avoidance or running away.

2. Make Every Effort to Aim at Holiness

The root meaning includes both separation and difference.
Holiness is not an option: 1 Cor. 6:9-11

3. Make Every Effort to Seek Grace

Fall short: The idea is that of falling behind in your journey. Keep up!
Heb 4:16: Look he gives us grace when we need it.
We can’t do it without God.
2 Cor. 12:9; Grace in the midst of weakness.
Bitterness is the result of not seeking grace:
Dt. 29:18 “The poison.”
Bitterness damages the whole community.

4. Make Every Effort to Overcome Godlessness

He mentions Sexual immorality because that is the clearest symptom of selfishness.
A godless person places their appetites above God.
Sexual immorality is the biggest barometer
Physical satisfaction meant more to him than spiritual privilege.
There is a clear warning here Heb 4:1-2
Don’t reject the grace God has given you.

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Accepting God’s Discipline” Hebrews 12:4-13

Intro: Ten times in 10 verses he uses a form of the word “Discipline.”

Christians are linked in the Lords struggle. Hebrews 12:3
Jesus shed his blood for us; are we willing shed their blood for Him?

Three Keys to Accepting God’s Discipline:

1. Biblical Perspective

The Bible is a navigation tool: We are pilgrims
Two reactions to Discipline:

a) We are indifferent to it; we are not taking it seriously.

b) We are overwhelmed; thus we loose heart.

He does not want them to “lose heart.”
So he goes to the Word! Proverb 3:11-12
Discipline has to do with instruction, correction, training; it is used in context of raising children
What if you get away with sin? Rom 1:21-25

2 God’s Purpose

God’s discipline is perfect.
His goal: Spiritual Maturity and preparation for eternal life.
Discipline or pruning Hurts, but it produces a great harvest: John 15:1-2
Persecution is a blessing: Mt. 5:10-12

3. Our Response

He alludes to Isaiah 35:3-4
Take the information and shake it off.
Level paths: Lead the way! Be the example.
Sheep follow; show the weak the way.
Lead the way: Proverb 4:25-27

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Persevering Faith” Hebrews 12:1-3

Four Keys to Persevering:

1. Remember the Hero’s of the Past

Define Faith: Heb. 11:1ff.
Faith is confidence in God’s promises: Heb 10:36-39
Two key promises:

1) Jesus is coming for us! Heb 10:37

2) We are being saved: Heb 10:39

Even though they did not received “the promise: Heb. 11:13

2. Lighten Your Load

He is talking about weight—like street clothes.
What baggage are you carrying?
What sin or sins are tripping you up?
It is not sinful to be tempted: 1 Cor. 10:13

3. Stay the Course

How many ways are there to God?
The Narrow way: Mt. 7:13,14
There is only one way: Jn. 14:6

4. Keep Your Eye on the Goal

Jesus not only shows us the way but runs with us. Phil 1:6.
He is the Perfecter: Perfection equals obedience.
Obedience equals love: 1 John 2:3-6
The Joy is finishing the race; Rev 3:21
There is a relationship between faith and Suffering: John 15:18-20
A fact of Faith: 2 Tim 3:12

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment:
"Winning Faith”Hebrews 11:32-40

Three Aspects of Winning Faith:

1. Winning Faith Inspires Heroism

Notice, Their weakness became strength: 2 Cor. 12:7-10

2. Winning Faith Encourages Perseverance

No servant is greater than their master! John 15:18-20
“Suffering for the Kingdom.” Acts 9:15-16
Suffering was inevitable: 2 Tim 3:12

3. Winning Faith Anticipates Fulfillment

They had gained what was promised – V-33
But not “the promise.”
Through Christ the old has been renewed: Hebrews 3:5-6
We live in joyful expectation: 1 John 3:2

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Faith Empowering Truths”Hebrews 11:30-31

Two Faith empowering truths:

I. All things are possible with God

The story is found in the book of Joshua 6:1-27
Look at Joshua 6:2-5
Our and there war was not against people: Eph 6:12
Look at 1 Pet. 5:8-9
We learn not only that we are in a spiritual battle, but we must wait on God: 2 Pet 3:8-9
David learned to wait on God:Psalm 40:1-2

II. God delivers the Obedient – Mt. 19:26

The prostitute has faith in God: Joshua 2:8-12
She responded in faith! James 2:25
Jesus hung out with the wrong crowd: Mt. 9:10-13
A Canaanite Women is part of the genealogy of our Lord: Mt. 1:5
Obedience is at the heart of the Gospel: Mt. 18:18-20
Paul defines the gospel by obedience: Rom 1:5

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Relational Faith” Hebrews 11:23-29

Biblical Faith is about relationship! … Look at verse 27…

Four Aspects of Relational Faith:

1. Relational Faith Conquers Fear

Ex. 1:22 “Kill the boys.”
The Apostles obeyed God rather than men: Acts 5:27-29

2. Relational Faith Determines Loyalty

Look at what Moses gave up:

1)He gave up Social Honors

2)He gave up Physical Pleasures

3) He gave up Material Gains

Where is your treasure? Mathew 6:19-21
He had a relationship with YHWH: Numbers 12:6-8

3. Relational Faith Practices Obedience

4. Relational Faith Overcomes Obstacles

The people were hesitant: Ex. 14:13-14
Faith overcomes obstacles!

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Faith in Action” Hebrews 11:17-22

Our Faith must result in Action: James 2:14-17

Four Characteristics of Active Faith:

1. Immediate Obedience

This story is found in Gen 22:1-18
God test us; the devil tempts us.
God is going to offer his own Son. John 3:16
Now, Go to Gen 22:4-8
He reasons: God will accomplish what he said: Isaiah 55:10-11
He believes: Rom 8:28; “All things work for good…

2. Future Expectation

After all, he was homeless: Heb 11:9
Future Blessings: John 14:1-4

3. Worshipful Life

In the end, it’s all about worship: Psalm 22:9

4. Conviction

He lived 93 yrs in Egypt as an Egyptian Aristocrat
He lived in a palace in Goshen; they found his tomb.
Gen 50:24; He made them swear an oath
Moses honors his conviction: Ex. 13:19
Joshua completes the mission: Joshua 24:32

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment:“Finishing the Race” Hebrews 11:13-16

Finish the Race: 2 Tim. 4:7

Three keys to help us finish well:

1. Proclaim Our Alien Status (Witness)

Our author proclaimed their alien status: Heb 11:9
God Loves humility: 1 Pet 5:5
Abraham proclaimed his alien status: Gen 23:4
The Life of faith is a pilgrimage: Gen 47:7-9
Christians are aliens: 1 Pet 1:1; 1 Pet 2:11
Strangers in a Strange land, in the catalogue.

2. Look Toward Our Homeland (Spiritual Eyes)

We are traveling toward our homeland: Phil 3:20-21

3. Long for Heaven (Reject Materialism)

Looking at the things that are material the people of God see the marks of transience, impermanence and imperishability around us: Matt. 6:31-34

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment:“Adventurous Faith” Hebrews 11:8-12Three Requirements of Adventurous Faith:

1. Adventurous Faith Starts with Obedience

Abraham: “The Father of all who have Faith.” Heb. 2:16
Faith and obedience are inseparable: Rom 1:5
They were strangers; just like us. 1 Pet 2:11-12
Our citizenship is not here! Phil 3:20-21

2. Adventurous Faith Looks Beyond this World

“The old order is passing away.” Rev. 21:1-4
Preparations are underway: John 14:1-4

3. Adventurous Faith Realizes the Impossible

Both Abraham and Sarah laughed at the promise of God: Gen 17:17; 18:11
All things are possible: Mt. 19:26
The message: “God brings hope to the hopeless.”

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Pleasing God” Hebrews 11:4-7

Three Steps to Pleasing God:

1. Serve with the Right Attitude

It is all about Abel’s righteous attitude: 1 John 3:12
Proverbs 15:8 Sum it up for us!
Death is only a door to eternity: Matt. 22:31-32

2. Walk with God (Live it!)

Listen to what is said about Enoch: Gen 15:24
Pursue righteousness: Proverbs 15:9
Faith believes in the unseen God and the un-experienced rewards: John 20:29
The blessing of belief is joy: Psalm 43:4

3. Respond to the Message

Three Facts about Noah’s Response:

1) Noah took God at his word. - 7a

Gen 6:22; He did what he was told to do!
Faith can make you look foolish.
1 Cor. 1:18 “Fools for Christ.”

2) Noah’s actions condemned the world. – 7b

2 Pet. 2:5 “a preacher of righteousness.”
Building a ship in the desert gave Noah a preaching platform.
Godly living condemns the world: John 3:19-21

3) Noah became the heir of Righteousness - 7c

Righteousness is the by-product of faith: 1 Jn 5:18
God is with us during temptation: 1 Cor. 10:13
Out faith triumphs over evil: 1 John 5:4

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Biblical Faith Defined” Hebrews 11:1-3

Three facts about Biblical Faith:

1. Faith is Confidence in God’s Promises

Faith is confidence in God’s promises: Hebrews 10:36-39

Two key promises:

1) Jesus is coming for us! Hebrews 10:37

2) We are being saved: Hebrews 10:39

The opposite of salvation is destruction: 1 Corinthians 1:18
We can be certain of Salvation: 1 John 5:13
Our faith rests on God’s enduring Word: 1 Peter 1:24-25
Hearing elicits a response: Romans 10:17
Our worldview completely changes: Ephesians 2:1-5
There are no accidents, Jesus is on the throne: Hebrews 1:3

2. Faith Win’s God’s Approval

Who do we want to please?
Its not about Other people: Luke 6:22
Choose God over everyone: Luke 14:26
We want God’s approval: 2 Timothy 4:7-8

3. Faith Recognizes God’s Power

He has already asserted that Christ created everything in Hebrews 1:2.
God makes something from nothing: Psalm 33:6, 9

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: Sustained ConfidenceHebrews 10:32-39

The gospel is serious business: Heb 10:26-27
Our main Idea is found in Heb 10:35…
There are more important things than your petty problems: Rom 8:18

Two Keys to Sustained Confidence:

1. Remember Your First Love

There is always a honey-moon period for faith: Rev. 2:4-5
In Rome, AD 49, the Jews were expelled from Rome, under Emperor Claudius. Acts 18:18:1-2
Rejoice in suffering: Luke 6:22-23

2. Trust in God’s Faithfulness

Can God be trusted? Heb 10:23
The gospel is not about us: 2 Cor. 12:7-9
He quotes Habakkuk 2:3-4
His perceived slowness is about patience: 2 Pet 3:8-9
God wants to save as many as possible: John 3:16
We live by Faith like Abraham: Gen 15:6
Just like in Heb 6:9; he remains hopeful.

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Serious Business” Hebrews 10:26-31

Heb 10:25; “The Day of judgment is coming.”
“Keep on sinning” (Miss the mark)
All believes sin (point in time) 1 John 1:8-10
The word is in the present tense (lifestyle sin) 1Jn. 3:9
The sin of unbelief: Heb 3:12; 6:4-6
Obviously he is talking about rejecting Christ.
To reject Jesus is to reject redemption: Acts 4:11-12
Hell is real: Mk 9:43-47
Many have confused God’s love with leniency.
Justice and Love are intimately connected: Psalm 35:5

Three reasons for Severe Punishment:

1. Trampling the Son of God

Jesus warned us about this situation: Mt. 7:6
Someone who has tasted: Heb 6:4-6

2. Undervaluing the Work of Christ

3. Insulting the Holy Spirit

There is contempt for the spirit: Mt. 12:31
With enlightenment comes responsibility.
God warned the OT Church: Amos 3:2
The NT Church will be judged: 1 Pet 4:17
Isaiah 33:14; Heb 12:29 “Consuming fire.”
We have a choice!
Fall into his loving arms or fall into his hand of judgment!

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Privilege Demands Action” Hebrews 10:19-25

“Therefore,” sums up all the doctrine he has been expounding upon; Doctrine leads to action!
When Jesus died the curtain separating the Holy place from the most holy place was torn from top to bottom (Mk 15:38) Like the curtain his body was torn to open the way.
This is our authors counterpart to John 14:6; “I am the way…

We are called to three specific action steps:

1. Live in a state of Worship (God)

How do we worship? It’s all about lifestyle here!
Sincerely; Sincere Heart or lowly of heart: Isaiah 57:15
The lowly or poor in spirit recognize their spiritual depravity: Mt. 5:3
Our spirits and our bodies are saved; 1 Pet 3:21

2. Hold on to your Confession of Faith (World)

It is about our witness to the world.
Faith and confession are welded together in Rom 10:9-10
Trust in the faithfulness of God: 2 Tim 2:13
Our hope is based on God’s unfailing promises.

3. Spur one another on toward Noble Living (Church)

Christianity is not a lone-ranger faith.
“The Bible knows nothing of solitary religion.” (Wesley, the Methodist movement.
How do we spur?
We fellowship together.
We are a body; thus, we need to come together.
We Encourage not discourage.
Why? The clock is ticking: Rom 8:18
Godliness with contentment is great gain: 1 Tim 6:6-9

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Completing the Goal” Hebrews 10:11-18

Main Idea: Look at verse 14!
Christ is the one who makes you holy: Phil. 2:12-13

What is he doing?

He is ruling (right hand of God): Heb 1:3
Notice, he is sustaining: Col 1:17
He is in total control.
He helps us: Heb 2:18
He provides a way out: 1 Cor 10:13
He gives us grace: Heb 4:16

3. He intercedes: Heb 7:25

Three ways Jesus Completes the Goal?

1. Jesus Calls His Enemies to Accountability

All Believers start out as enemies: Eph. 2:1-5
You cannot escape His judgment: 1 Cor. 15:24-28
Notice, even though he quotes Jer. 31:33-34, it is the Spirit that speaks not the prophet.

2. Jesus Changes our Hearts and Minds

God gives us his Perspective or “Worldview.”

3. Jesus Completely Loves Us

God forgets our sins!
1 Cor. 13:4-5 “Love keeps no records of wrongs.”
God is love: 1 John 4:16
We are the completion of God’s ultimate goal: 1 Cor. 6:11

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: "The True Sacrifice”

Hebrews 10:1-10

The law was a shadow: a form without reality: Hebrews 8:5
The Religious fall short: Philippians 3:4-8
The Apostle John also reminds us of our failures and the antidote. 1 John 1:9
God does not remember our sins any longer: Hebrews 8:12
He quotes Psalm 40:6-8
We sacrifice our bodies: Romans 12:1

Three Reasons why the Sacrifice of Jesus is the True Sacrifice:

1. His Sacrifice fulfilled Biblical Prophecy

353 Prophecies fulfilled in Jesus Christ
The odds are 1 in 13 trillion in just 48
Mark 14:49; “the scriptures must be fulfilled”
God wants Godly lives not sacrifices: 1 Samuel 15:22
Jesus Choose God’s will over his own: Matthew 5:23-24

2. His Sacrifice Expressed God’s Will

The Law was our babysitter: Galatians 3:24
What is the will of God? Obedience: Jeremiah 7:21-23
Jesus demonstrated obedience: Matthew 26:39
Obedience to God is still a requirement: 1 John 2:5-6

3. His Sacrifice Completed God’s Ultimate Goal

God’s goal is for your redemption: John 3:16

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: The Better Sacrifice Hebrews 9:23-28

These six verses elaborate upon the triumphant announcement of Hebrews 9:11-12.

Three Results of the Better Sacrifice: the good things Heb 9:11

1. Unlimited Access to God

He is our Advocate! (1 Jn. 2:1-2)
He lives to intercede: Heb 7:25
“His work is finished;” “It is finished.” Jn. 19:30
“Culmination of the Ages.” God's timing was perfect. Gal. 4:4

2. Purpose In Life

Reincarnation is not Biblical.
Every moment of life is precious.

3. A Clear Choice

The scapegoat: Lev. 16:20-22
The scribe: Joshua Ben Sira, (200 years before the birth of Christ) describes the appearing of the High Priest after the completion of his duties:
“How glorious he was when the people gathered round him as he came out of the inner sanctuary! Like the morning star among the clouds, like the moon when it is full; like the sun shinning upon the temple of the Most High, and like the rainbow gleaming in glorious clouds; like roses in the days of the first fruits, like lilies by a spring of water, like a green shoot of Lebanon on a summer day; like fire and incense in the censer, like a vessel of hammered gold adorned with all kinds of precious stones; like a olive tree putting forth its fruit, and like a cypress towering in the clouds.
How much more glorious will Christ return be: 1 John 3:2

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “The Legacy of Christ” Hebrews 9:15-22

The Legacy of Christ brings up two key questions :

1. What’s in it for me? Mt. 19:26-30

A. We get a Mediator. Hebrews 8:6

Jesus provides a bridge across the chasm to God.
Thus his sacrifice initiated the promised new covenant: Mt. 14:24
There was purpose in his death: Hebrews 12:2

B. Eternal Inheritance: Again look at Mt. 19:29-30

Notice our author writes, “those who are called.”
This is both a invitation and a summons to act!
The wealth of this world will pass away: Mt. 6:19-21
Why do we put all our eggs in this earthly basket?
We hang on for dear life.

C. Forgiveness of Sins – Hebrews 8:12

Psalm 103:8-12

2. Why did Jesus have to die?

When I became an adolescent the death of Christ became a stumbling block: 1Corinthians 1:18

He gives two examples:

A. A Legal Example (Secular approach)

Our Laws are built on a Biblical foundation.
Secular leaders are God’s Servants: Rom 13:4-5

B. A Biblical Example – V-18

He draws from scripture: Exodus 24:3-8
“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,” Mk. 14:24
“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Mt. 26:28

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Effective Worship” Hebrews 9:11-14

His worship was spiritual as ours should also be: John 4:23-24
The people of God are his dwelling place: Heb. 3:6
We are temples: 1Corinthians 6:19-20

Three results of the Effective Worship of Christ:

1. Effective Worship Obtains Redemption

Redemption is a slave market term: We were bought with a price; the price of his blood. Eph. 1:7
Defilement is a hindrance to worship; Sin limits our access to God. 1 Pet 3:7
The spotless lamb: Heb 4:15
Jesus did what we could not do!
Everything Christ did was empowered by the Spirit.
Raised by the power of the Spirit: Rom 8:11

2. Effective Worship Purifies our Conscience

It is about the inward: Mk. 7:20-23
We pass from death to life: Eph. 2:1-5
The work of Christ gives us access to cleansing: 1 John 1:8-9
Cleansing is ongoing.

3. Effective Worship Sanctifies our Service

We serve or worship God out of a healthy heart: Rom. 12:1-2
Get past your spiritual inertia.
Stop conforming; be a non-conformist.

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Limitations of the Old Worship System” Hebrews 9:1-10

In John 4:19-26, Jesus explains the future of Worship.

Four Limitations of the Old Worship System:

1. The Temporary Nature of Earthly Worship

Everything physical decays.

2. Restricted Access: Barriers

V-2-5 This section emphasizes the system of barriers between the worshiper and God.

3. Limited Access: The Priesthood

V-6-8 This section is all about limited access to God.
V-8 The point of referring to the Priestly ministry in the two tabernacles is made clear here.

4. Partial Cleansing: Not all sin was forgiven!

V-9 The gifts and sacrifices were incapable of cleansing their conscience.
Conscience: “the whole interior self.” It reflects upon the relationship of the whole person to God.
Sin erects a barrier between man and God; it is always a heart issue.
Defilement extends from the body to the heart.
V-10 The old forms are obsolete: Col. 2:16-17

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “ Better Covenant/Better Promises” Hebrews 8:6-13

Our main Idea is found in V-6
The old covenant was not intended to last; it was flawed in the fact that the law was intended to serve as our babysitter, until the coming of Christ. Gal 3:23-24
Doubts come when we have no root: Mt.13:20-21
The prophetic oracle in which God promised to establish a new covenant with his people Jer. 31:31-34 is quoted in full in verses 8-12; this is the longest quotation from the OT to be found in the NT.

The Four Promises:

1.Incomparable Unity

Jesus prayed for Unity: John 17:20-21
Paul claimed it: Gal 3:26-28
He turned away because they turned: Psalm 14:3

2. Inner Change of Heart: Ezekiel 11:19

Biblical worldview: we see it God’s way.

3. Intimate Fellowship with God

4. Instant Forgiveness of Sins

Psalm 103:12
Micah 7:19
1 John 1:9
The Temple would shortly be destroyed by the Romans in AD 70
Jesus predicted the Temples destruction: Luke 21:5-6

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Our Heavenly High Priest”Hebrews 8:1-6

Three Questions Define our Heavenly High Priest:

1. Who is our Heavenly High Priest?

We have a High-Priest! Hebrews 7:24
“Once and for all” Hebrews 7:27
How we view Jesus is critical: Revelation 1:12-18

2. What does our Heavenly High Priest do?

How does Jesus Serve:

1) He Makes intercession Hebrews 7:25
2) He is our example 1 John 2:6
3) He is our Teacher John 14:26

3. What did our Heavenly High Priest Offer?

Himself: “Once and for all” Hebrew 7:27
Moses had been shown a scale model of the heavenly tabernacle. Exodus 25:40
Hebrews 6:19 “Our Hope is anchored…
He is our “mediator.” 1 Timothy 2:5-6
The better promises will be further developed in our next section: Hebrews 8:6-13

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “The Better Covenant” Hebrews 7:20-28

The New Covenant: Jeremiah 31:31
The Main Idea is found in Hebrews 7:22

Four benefits of the Better Covenant:

1. God’s Reliable Oath (five times in 9 verses)

The Old Priesthood was based on a command: Exodus 28:1
The oath is about God’s word.
God’s word is powerful and reliable.
He spoke the world into existence in Genesis 1:3
God’s Word gets results: Isaiah 55:10-11
God does not change His mind: Numbers 23:19

2. The Guarantor (Jesus)

3. The Permanent Priesthood

The benefits of the permanent priest:

1) Complete Salvation

His saving power is complete: Romans 10:9
The old covenant brought doubt; the new brings assurance: 1 John 5:13

2) Ongoing Intercession—Isaiah 53:12

His prayer: John 17:20-21

The Character of Christ is stated in five terms:

1) Holy (It is the opposite of polluted); he never deviates from in the least from God’s
ordinances and commandments.

2) Blameless or Devout: Loyal to covenant obligations.

3) Pure or innocent; He was not touched by evil.

4) Set Apart: Undefiled by the worlds standard.

5) Exalted: He shares the throne with God.

4. The Perfect Sacrifice

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment:
“The Better Hope”
Hebrews 7:11-19

Look at V-19 for our Main Idea!
This better hope is about Jesus our High Priest: Hebrews 6:18b-20

Compare and Contrast the two Priesthoods:

1. The Ineffective Priesthood: Levitical

He resumes his thoughts on Psalm 110:4; quotes in v. 17.
The Law was temporary: Galatians 3:23-24
We are unable to keep the Law: Mathew 5:27-28

2. The Effective Priesthood: Messianic

There were historical witnesses: 1 Cor 15:3-8
Fix your eyes of Jesus: Heb 12:2-4

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “The Great King-Priest” Hebrews 7:1-10

Look at V-4 “Just think how great he was…”
Abraham lived in 2000 BC, where Mel is mentioned as the first High Priest
1000 yrs later, David brings to light the significance of Mel, when he writes Psalm 110:4; this remarkable statement occurs at a time when the Levitical priesthood had been established for about 350 yrs.
Turn to Gen 14:17-20

Five Great Qualities that define the King-Priest:

1. Royalty

2. Righteousness

Jesus sought his fathers will: Mt. 26:39,42

3. Peace

Life is a search for peace; we seek it by:

1) Avoidance: Run from reality.

2) Denial: we deny there is not a problem.

3) Compromise: we don’t take a stand.

Righteousness comes before peace; Rom 5:1

4. Chosen

An argument from silence; what isn’t said is just as important as what is said.

5. Eternal: Priest forever!

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: Positive Expectations Hebrews 6:9-20

He sees them as the field spoken of in Heb 6:7-8 that produces a useful crop; “They will be blessed.”

Five Positive Expectations:

1. Love

When we love (serve) our fellow Christian; we love God: 1 John 3:16-18

2. Diligence

He wants a renewal of their former zeal: Heb 10:32-34

3.Imitation

The promise of many descendants was made with an oath that emphasize its unchanging character: Gen 22:16-17

4. Patience (Endurance)

Why should we be patient? We are the heirs: Eph 3:6

5. Hope

Hope keeps us from drifting! Heb 2:1
The curtain was torn in two: Mk. 15:38
He is preparing a safe place for us: John 14:2-3

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Lazy Ears” Heb 5:11-6:8

He talked about Melchizedek in Heb 5:10
Lazy in the ear lob… Sluggish look at Heb 6:12

Three keys to Overcoming Lazy Ears:

1. Stop being Lazy: Practice Active Listening

The Word equips us: 2 Tim 3:16-17
Paul has a similar problem: 1 Cor 3:1-2
Renew your mind with the Word: Rom 12:2

2. Start a Spiritual Training Program!

We have to get spiritually fit: 1 Cor 9:24-27

3. Seek Maturity!

Literally…Baptisms – The early church had to distinguish between the Baptism of John and the Baptism of Christ. Acts 18:24-26
Laying on of hands (Ordination) Acts 6:6
The Resurrection: Luke 20:37-38
Eternal Judgment: Heb 9:27-28
Our faith in Christ demands sacrifice: Mt. 9:23-26
Jesus also used parables: Turn to Mt. 13:20-21
Called to be disciples: Mt. 28:18-20

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “The Greatest High Priest” Heb. 4:14-5:10

Now that we are totally exposed; we need a high priest that is not of this earth: Hebrews 4:13
The temple would be destroyed. Mt. 24:1-2
The Temple exists in our hearts! 1 Cor. 6:19-20

Four Directives that Emerge from the Reality of His Priesthood:

1. Cling to Our Profession of Faith

Publicly professing our faith is required: Rom 10:9
The devil tempted him for 40 days: Luke 4:1-2
God provides a way past temptation: 1 Cor. 10:13

2. Pray Confidently and Continually

We need to pray all the time: 1 Thes 5:16-18
God’s grace forgives: 1 John 1:9

The High Priest prayed three prayers:

1) For Himself and his family

2) For other priests,

3) For the people

We will look in depth at Melchizedek in chapter 7: Heb 7:1-3

3. Submit to the Will of God

He was sinless; He did not take advantage of his divinity: Phil 2:6-8
We also will suffer! Mt. 16:24-25
Persecution is inevitable: 2 Tim 3:12

4. Obey Him

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Participants Instead of Spectators” Hebrews 4:1-13

Main Idea: Hebrews 4:11

Three keys to Moving from Spectators to Participants:

1. Obey the Word of Faith

In the synagogue service Psalm 95 was read and then Genesis 2:1-3 was read.
Passage above--- Psalm 95:11
Rom 1:5 “The obedience that comes from faith.”
James said, Faith without works… James 2:17

2. Respond, Now to the Word of Faith

Your today can end anytime.
Joshua was a type of Jesus
We are on a pilgrimage; this world is not our home.
Here we have work to do: Acts 1:10-11
We have a job to do: Ephesians 2:10

3. Enter God’s Rest through the Word of Faith

Three Characteristics about the Word:

1) The word is Alive & Active: Isaiah 55:11

2) The word is Penetrating

3) The word is Revealing

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment:“The Danger of Unbelief” Hebrews 3:7-19

The main Idea is found in verse 12
The preacher quotes Ps. 95: 7b-11 in Hebrews 3:7-11

Two parts:
1) Call to worship; the first part: Ps. 95:1-7a
2) The Warning: Ps. 95:7b-11

In Num 14:1-4 we see the negative response of the people.
Thus, God levels a charge against them: Num. 14:20-23

Four Keys to Trusting God:

1. Encourage One Another: Daily

He is a roaring Lion (1 Pet 5:8-9)

2. Begin with the end in Mind: Steven Covey

3. Listen to His voice: The Word of God

The sheep hear the voice of the shepherd: John 10:2-5
Trust the instruction: 1 Tim 3:16-17

4. Obey the Message:

Faith without works is dead : James 2:15-17
Num 14:39-45; they repented—too late.
Jesus said: John 3:36

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment:
“The G.O.A.T.”
Hebrews 3:1-6

He starts by defining our Status:

Our Nature: Made Holy – Separate 1 Pet 1:15-16
Our Relationship: Brothers & Sisters, Family 1 Pet 2:17
Our Privilege: Heavenly calling
Phil 3:14; Heaven is our goal!

Two Things about Jesus:

Our Apostle: Earthy Representative
Our High Priest: Heavenly Mediato
Moses had a crisis of faith: Ex. 4:13

Jesus greater than Moses in three ways:

1. Jesus is the builder of the house

2. Jesus is God

He already has told us that Jesus is the creator: Hebrews 1:2

3. Jesus is the Master of the house

The eternal house: 1 Sam 2:35
We need to take root… Mk 4:16-17

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “The Champion that Liberates” Hebrews 2:14-18

Jesus is our Champion: Isaiah 42:13

Jesus Liberates us from Three Immense Tyrants:

1. The Power of the Devil

Jesus destroyed the devils work: 1 John 3:8

2. The Fear of Death

Paul said that Jesus destroyed death in 2 Tim 1:10
Christ became a little lower than the angels Heb 2:9

3. The Barrier of Sin

The Day of Atonement: The High Priest cleanses the sin of the community; We are made holy: Hebrews 2:11
But Sin still could stand in our way: 1 Pet 3:7

What kind of High Priest is Jesus?

1) He is merciful; He is characterized by mercy

2) He is faithful; Faithful to both God and us

Faithful to us: 2 Tim 2:13

3) He is able to help in the midst of Temptation.

They needed to know that he was able see them through trials. 1 Cor. 10:13
And even more than just seeing us through—we become more than conquerors: Rom 8:35-37

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “Blazing the Trail” Hebrews 2:5-13

In verse 10, Jesus is given a new title: “The Pioneer”
He is setting the stage for Heb 12:2
Angels were given responsibilities over the nations: Deut 32:8
We are so insignificant yet God cares for us. Ps. 144:3
God’s original intent: Gen. 1:26-27

Three defining Aspects of the Pioneer:

1. The Pioneer's Humanity

Jesus identified with us; for a short time: Phil. 2:6-8

2. The Pioneer’s Mission

Three facts about the Mission:

1) The Mission is ongoing.

2) The Mission demonstrates the Wisdom of God.

God knew his way was the right way: Isaiah 55:8-9

3) The Mission is about complete Identification

3. The Pioneer’s Achievement

Three Old Testament quotes proclaim his solidarity: Psalm 22:22.
He trusted His Father, even during the dark times: Ps 22:1
Isaiah 8:18 – Isaiah 8:17-18; The Parousia

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “The Danger of Drifting”Hebrews 2:1-4

When we hear we put it into practice: Matt 7:24-27
The message of Salvation began in the book of Genesis: Gen 3:15
All Scripture is God Breathed…2 Tim 3:16-17
Look at Duet 33:1-2
Stephen confirms that Angels delivered the Law: Acts 7:38; 7:51-53
Paul also confirms it: Gal. 3:19

Three reasons why it is so dangerous to drift away from the gospel:

1) Its Origin: It came from the Son of God

2) Its Confirmation: Eye witnesses

The Author can’t be Paul; Gal. 1:11-12
Tertulian credited Barnabas!
Martin Luther: Apollos Acts 18:24-28

3) Its Effectiveness: God endorses the message

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment:
“Superior to the Angels” Hebrews 1:4-14

They believed that Angels delivered the law to Moses. (Heb. 2:2)

Jesus is Superior to the Angels in Three Specific Ways:

1. His Name is superior

The first Ps. 2:7 found in Acts 13:33
Second: 2 Sam 7:12 found in John 7:42

2. His Dignity is superior – He is to be worshiped!

Ps. 97:7 “This refers to YHWH.
Jesus must be honored: John 5:19-23
Thomas Worshiped: John 20:27-29

3. His Status is Superior

The Son chose to be a servant: Phil 2:5-8

His status is superior in Four ways:

1) The Son is the King

2) The Son is consistently Righteous, which he demonstrated in his incarnation: 1 Pet 2:22

Who are these companions? Heb 2:11
These “companions” of the King are the descendants of Abraham Heb 2:16; they share his gladness, for He did not take on the nature of angels, but he took on the nature of humanity.
The anointing is the joy of completion: Heb 12:2

3) The Son is the Creator not the creature: Heb 1:2

4) The Son is Unchangeable!

Creation will not last, but he remains the same (13:8)
Right hand signifies his rule or Reign: Phil 2:9-11
Jesus predicted his destiny: Mark 14:61-62

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: “ The Majestic Christ”

Hebrews 1:1-3

He opens with the variety and validity of the OT message: 2 Tim 3:16-17

Seven facts **Illustrate the Majesty of Christ:

1. Jesus Is the Son of God**

Jesus is God; the only way to God. Jn. 14:6

2. Jesus Is the Heir of all things

He is thinking of Ps. 2:7-8
Paul says we are also heirs: Rom. 8:17

3. Jesus is the Creator of the universe: Jn. 1:1-3

4. Jesus is Radiance of God’s Glory

The glory now shines from the Son: John 1:14

5. Jesus is the Exact Image of God’s Nature

He is like a minted coin or wax seal: Col. 1:15

6. Jesus is the Cosmic Sustainer

Jesus holds everything together: Col. 1:17
God did not create and then let things be: Isa 40:28-31

7. Jesus Completed the Work of Salvation

He was both the priest presiding over the sacrifice and the sacrifice: Lev 16:30
Jesus was the final sacrifice: John 19:30
He sits at the place of authority: Eph. 1:20-22

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Hebrews – A Call to Commitment: The Overview

I. Why is the letter of Hebrews Neglected?

1) Its form seems unusual.

Hebrews is grouped with the NT letters but it does not resemble a letter: 1 Cor 1:1-3
Instead the document begins with a majestic sentence celebrating the dignity of the Son of God through whom God has spoken his final word: Heb 1:1-3

2) Its setting in life seems uncertain.

a. Who is the Author?
b. Who are the recipients?
c. What was the situation?

3) Its Argument seems unfamiliar.

a. It talks about Jesus in contrast to angels
b. It focus on the sacrificial law – The Torah (OT).
c. It mentions Melchizedek
d. It seems way too long—13 chapters.

II. How can we get a handle on it?

1) Hebrews is not a letter; it is a sermon!

a. Heb 13:22 “Word of exhortation.”

Technical term for sermon: Acts 13:15

b. He wants his audience to listen to the voice of God in the present (tense): Heb 12:25;
c. The Author identifies himself with the Audience: Heb 2:1

2) The context is about the Cost of Discipleship

a. Their world is falling apart 10:32-34
b. In Rome in AD 49, the Jews were expelled from Rome, under Claudius: Acts 18:1-2

3) Hebrews addressed human frailty.

The location may be Rome: Heb 13:24
Fear of death is real: Heb 2:14-15

4) Hebrews Expresses the Concern of a Friend.

He recalled the requirement for discipleship: Mk 8:34-38
So, he reminds them that they are not alone!
Peter also remind his readers: 1 Pet 5:9
When confronted by opposition look to Christ: Heb. 12:2ff

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Rock Solid” 1 Pet 5:5-11* Standing firm in the faith: Col 1:22-23

Six Essential Keys to being Rock Solid:

1. Submit to Pastoral Leadership

He calls everyone in the church to put aside self-promoting pride and to willingly place themselves under their shepherd’s: Heb 13:17

2. Clothe Yourselves in Humility

Humility implies putting on a servant’s apron: Jn 13:4
Humility is necessary in order to live the Christian life: Phil 2:3-4
Thus they are to see God at work behind their suffering and submit, allowing themselves to be brought low, for his purpose is that he may exalt you in due time: Mt 23:11-12

3. Cast All Anxiety upon God

Since God is in control, leave your cares with him: Phil 4:6-7
This is an OT concept: Psalm 55:22

4. Be Alert & Sober Minded to Evil

If you are a soldier you keep watch: 1 Thes 5:6
Stay awake. We are in a spiritual battle: Eph. 6:12
Six times the Psalmist pictures his foes as lions, lying in ambush and waiting to pounce, or roaring in their pride: Ps. 17:12

5. Resist the Devil

Like good soldiers the Christians are not to fear or flee the enemy, but resist him: Jam. 4:7
Jesus saw Satan as defeated: Lk 10:17-18
Peter does not promise escape from suffering in this world; he sees it as the norm: 1 Pet 4:12-13
Persecution is the norm:2 Tim 3:12

6. Hope in God’s Amazing Grace

The power of God’s grace will do Four things:

Restore: Repairing a broken bone
Strengthen: Make strong
Firm up in Faith.
Ground us: Place on a foundation: Mt. 7:24-25
We will be Rock Solid: Psalm 40:1-3

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Leadership Vacuum” 1 Pet 5:1-4

The people of the world are lost: Isaiah 53:6
If sheep stray into unfamiliar territory, they become disoriented and become lost: Luke 15:3-7
Sheep cannot clean themselves; thus Jesus likened the crowds to disoriented, confused, unclean and spiritually lost flocks of sheep without shepherds: Mt. 9:36
The Apostle Peter needs guidance as well: Gal 2:11-13
The sheep belong to God: John 21:16
This is a serious matter: Acts 20:28-29

Four Facts about the Call to Shepherd:

1. Shepherding is a Calling not a Career

Leadership is difficult at best, but it should be desired: 1 Tim 3:1
Hey, sheep give your leaders a break:Heb 13:17

2. Shepherding is a Calling not an Enterprise

Money can be a trap: 1 Tim 6:9-10
Here is the secret to successful ministry: Phil 4:12-13
There is a place for proper compensation: 1Tim 5:17-18

3. Shepherding is a Calling not a Power-trip

The Lord’s shepherds are to be servants, not bosses; ministers, not executives: Mt. 20:25-28
The shepherd did not drive the sheep but walk in front of them, calling on them to follow: 1 Cor. 11:1

4. Shepherding is a Calling that results in Eternal Reward

Peter promises no earthly reward but directs the elders to look beyond this present world: 1 Cor 9:25

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Fiery Ordeal” 1 Pet 4:12-19

Four Instructions about Suffering:

1. Expect Suffering

Don’t be surprised: 1John. 3:13
Persecution is keeping in step with Christ: 1Pet 2:20-21
Persecution is inevitable: 2 Tim 3:12
Jesus stressed persecutions inevitability: Jn. 15:20
The purpose of testing is purified Faith: 1Pet 1:6-7

2. Exult in Suffering

Suffering is proof that we are his possession: Rom 8:17
He has already mentioned the abuse: 1 Pet 4:4
The culture is repelled by our message: Acts 4:12
Our present may be tenuous, but our future looks bright:Mt. 5:10-12

3. Evaluate Suffering

God has ordained the practice of law: 1 Pet 2:13-14
The shame of being seen as a fool: 1Cor 1:18
We are the very stones of the temple: 1 Pet 2:5
This brings us back to the concept of the “fiery ordeal” of verse 12; the testing of our faith: Mal 3:1-3
Judgment starts in the house of God and moves out to the rest of the world, for us it is about salvation not condemnation: 1 Cor 11:32
The fire that purifies the house of God will consume the wicked: Mal 4:1-2
It is hard (difficult) to find salvation: Mt. 7:13-14
The refining fire will separate those who are truly committed to Christ from those whose commitment is shallow or partial: Heb 10:26-27
Peter is saying that the unbelievers eternal suffering compared to the believers temporal suffering, is far greater: Mt. 10:28

4. Entrust Your Soul to God

Follow in his steps: 1Pet 2:21-23; Lk 23:46
We react with the best interest of our persecutors in mind; we bless not curse: Lk. 23:34

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Called to Active Duty”

1 Pet 4:7-11

Three Aspects of our Duty:

1. The Motivation for Duty!

Christ's return is imminent and could occur at any moment: Jam 5:8
Jesus taught that his return would be imminent: Mt. 24:37-39
Our motivation comes from knowing that we will be accountable at any moment: Luke 12:35-40
Here is what we know: Acts 1:6-8; 11

2. The Instructions for Duty

Three Areas of Instruction:

1) Our Attitude: Heavenly perspective!

Clear minded and self-controlled implies that we are in our right mind. We are under control and not carried away with error or emotion: 2Cor 10:5
You have to understand God’s plan in order to pray effectively: Mt. 6:10

2) Relationships: Love Deeply

“Above all” emphasizes the supreme importance of love in the Christian life: Mt. 22:37-40
Peter is again repeating this command: 1 Pet 1:22
Our love is not sentimental but sacrificial:1Jn 3:16
Peter is thinking of Proverbs 10:12
We learn to forgive: Mt. 18:21-22
Love is about action: Rom 12:13
Hospitality is a key characteristic of the true believer; Jesus identifies his sheep: Mt. 25:35-36

3) Responsibilities: Faithful Stewardship

The steward was the person in a household (often a slave) who was responsible for managing the householder’s business and property, including providing what was needed for the family members, slaves, and hired laborers: Luke 12:42
We all have been gifted (grace) for service: Rom 12:4-8 also 1 Cor.12
There are many forms of the gifts all with a function: Eph 4:11-13
Speaking gifts are never about human opinion, but about the very words of God: Rom 3:2 The Word of God!
Serving gifts are to be exercised not by human power but by God’s strength: Phil 4:13

3. The Purpose of our Duty: Glorify God!

Do it all for God’s glory: 1Cor. 10:31

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Strangers in a Strange Land: Readiness for Battle 1 Pet 4:1-6

4:1 Ties directly back to 1 Pet 3:18

Four Empowering Perspectives:

1. The Attitude of Christ: Done with Sin!

Jesus was sinless but bore our sin: 1 Pet 2:24
Born again believers sin: John 1:8
His sacrifice put an end to lifestyle sin: 1 John 3:9
Back to basics Series: Bearing the Family Resemblance - Episode 7
He is still thinking about Baptism: 1 Pet 3:21
Suffering here is referring to death, As Christ dealt with sin and defeated it, so we identify with him in Baptism and are done with sin: Rom 6:1-4

2. The Will of God

We don’t live by human passions but by God’s will: 1 John 2:16
We live a different standard: Rom 12:2

3. The Transformed Life

Two reasons for living not by human passions but by the will of God.

1) Past Behavior was contrary to God’s will: 1 Pet 1:14

We were spiritually Dead: Eph 2:1-3

2) Present Behavior seems Strange or Foreign.

Drawing the line in a new life will antagonize former friends: John 3:20
This emphatic clause rings of doom for their persecutors: Mt. 12:36
Judgment for the blasphemers should fortify the believers against attacks: 2 Thess. 1:6-9

4. The Hope of Eternal Life

All people, both Christians and non-Christians, still have to die physically: Heb 9:27
Physical death is not the end of the deceased Christians:2 Cor 4:16-18

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Strangers in a Strange Land: Christ’s Winning Strategy 1 Pet 3:18-22

He is our example: 1 Pet 2:21
It is our calling: 2 Tim 3:12

Four Elements of Christ’s Winning Strategy:

1. Christ’s Example of Suffering/Sin-bearing

“For,” points back to last week: 1 Pet 2:17
The phrase “once for sins” means that there is no need to repeat the sacrifice: Heb 7:27
At the heart of the gospel is the fact that Jesus Christ, who was perfectly righteous, died for the utterly unrighteous. (Judicial terms) 2 Cor 5:21
He suffered for our sins, so that the gulf would be bridged: Eph 2:13
His suffering had a victorious purpose: Mt. 27:51
Both God and evil men had their intentions fulfilled: Acts 2:23-24

2. Christ’s Proclamation

The answer is two fold; fallen angels described as authorities and powers: 2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6
He proclaimed to his enemies his victory and their impending doom: Col 2:15
In 2 Pet 2:5, Noah preached righteousness; thus the need for repentance; it took about 75yrs to build the Ark; thus, God was patient; 2 Pet 3:8-9

3. Christ’s Salvation

Baptism when Peter wrote entailed immersion; it is a symbol of going down into the grave: Rom 6:4
Thus, our conscience is clear; we know we are forgiven: Heb 10:22

4. Christ’s Supremacy

The right hand of a King is a place of prestige and power: Phil 2:9-11
Believers not only look to Christ as an example of triumph in unjust suffering, they also join fully and forever in that triumph: Rev 3:21

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Strangers in a Strange Land: Living in a Hostile Culture 1 Pet 3:13-17Five Keys to living in a Hostile Culture

1. A Passion for Goodness:

The answer is no one; Peter is focused on the prize: Psalm 56:4
What can a mere mortal do to us? Rom 8:31
We belong to God: Mt. 10:28
Be eager to do good: (William Barclay)

2. A Willingness to Suffer: It is a blessing!

Suffering is not the opposite of Blessing: Mt. 5:10-12
Suffering leads to maturity: James 1:2-4
Do not fear the enemies of God: Isaiah 8:12b
The words frighten means to be shaken: Jn. 14:21

3. A Devotion to Christ

He is again thinking about Isaiah 8:13

4. A Readiness to Defend of the Faith

Defending the faith is about personal testimony, not factual proof: Luke 4:11-12
Paul says, “Speaking the truth in love…(Eph 4:15)”

5. A Pure Conscience

According to Roman 2:14, even those without God’s written law have an innate moral sense of right and wrong; Yet, human conscience is tainted by sin.
At salvation, God cleanses the conscience from its lifelong accumulation of guilt, shame, and self-contempt: Heb 9:14
The purpose is again evangelism: 1 Pet 2:12
This goes back to the first verse: 1 Pet 3:14; 2:20

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Blessing instead of Cursing” 1 Pet 3:8-12

Four Keys to Blessing Others:

1. The Right Mindset: Phil 2:1-5

Five Mindsets:

1) Like-mindedness: Unity

Jesus prayed for Unity: John 17:20-23

2) Sympathetic: Sharing the same feeling: Rom 12:15

3) Love one another: Brotherly love (family love)

We are children of our heavenly father; thus, we must love our brothers and sisters Heb 2:11
Love defines us: John 13:34-35

4) Compassionate: tender heart. This word is about feelings.

Jesus is Compassionate: Mt. 9:36;
Jesus wept. Jn 13:35

5) Humility: Humble-minded.

Put the interests of others ahead of one’s own interests: Phil 2:3

2. The Right Response

When we come to Christ we receive the blessing of entering into the family of God; thus, we respond as family members: Mt. 5:44-48
Having received unmerited blessings from God; we should pay it forward: Rom 12:17

3. The Right Standard

He quotes Psalm 34:12-16
Be thankful: 1 Thes. 5:16-18
Paul practiced what he preached: Acts 16:23-25
What comes from the mouth reflects what lives in the heart: Mt. 12:34

This verse contains four straightforward imperative commands:

1) Turn away from Evil: even when persecuted: Mt. 5:44

2) Do Good

3) Seek and Pursue Peace: Mt. 5:9

4. The Right Incentive

His eyes and ears are on us so that He can answer our prayers: 1 John 5:14-15
Peter does not finish Psalm 34:16
Judgment from the book of Revelation: Rev 6:16

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Christlike Marriages” 1 Pet 3:1-7

Christianity was revolutionary for the life of both slaves & women: Gal 3:28

Two Keys to Christlike Marriages:

1. Submission: Moral Purity & Reverence toward God

The purpose is always evangelistic: 1 Cor 9:22
Paul’s is evangelistic: 1 Cor 7:13-16
We come to Christ through the Word: 1 Pet 1:23
Live out the Word: Mt. 5:16
Moral purity springs from reverence toward God: Eph 5:22
Submission to God comes before submission to others: Acts 5:29
God should be the center of attraction: 1 Tim 2:9
The outward fades; the inward is eternal: 2 Cor 4:16
Meekness is coupled with calm or peace, because we have already been promised the world: Mt. 5:5
They are to continue to be fearless: Proverbs 3:25-27

2. Respect

Paul starts with mutual submission: Eph 5:21

Three ways to show Respect:

1) Understanding

2) Chivalry All humans are vessels: 2 Cor 4:7

3) Spiritual Equality: Fellow heirs: Gal 3:28

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Following in the Steps of Jesus” 1 Pet 2:18-25 He blazed a trail for us: Heb 12:2 * Societal slavery did not exist in the church; all were free in Christ: Gal 3:28 * Free to be slaves of God: 1 Pet 2:16 * Submit in Reverent fear of God…1 Pet 2:13a * Jacob served his father-in-law, Laban, even though Laban cheated him: Gen 31:6-7 * We don’t serve men, but serve God: Col 3:1 * Suffering leads to joy because you are doing the will of God: 1 Pet 1:6-7 * Justice will be served: Rom 12:19 * It is commendable because it is inevitable: 2 Tim 3:12 * Suffering leads to glory: Lk 24:25-26 * Suffering is discipleship at its core: John 15:20 * He quotes Isaiah 53:9 * Scripture declares the sinlessness* of Christ: Heb 4:15 * The heart of man expresses sin most often through the mouth: Mt. 15:18 * Peter again is thinking of Isaiah: Isaiah 53:7 * Look how he responded to abuse: Mt. 27:12-14 * Jesus not only entrusted himself but also the wrongdoers, and his followers, and the entire situation to God the Father: Col 3:25 * Jesus forgave them: Luke 23:34 * Christ was a substitute for his people, one who stood in our place and set us free: Rom 6:6-7 * Christ healed us spiritually and morally. Isaiah 53:5 * Peter again quotes a portion of Isaiah 53:6 * The wayward sheep have returned to the Good Shepherd: John 10:11 * Isaiah describes the shepherd this way: Isaiah 40:11 * Paul uses both Shepherd and Overseer in Acts 20:28

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Living as God’s Slaves” 1 Pet 2:11-17* Spiritual Privileges: 1 Pet. 2:9 * Jesus came to serve: Mark 10:43-45

Two Keys to Living as God’s Slaves:

1. Abstain from Sinful Desires

Foreigners: 1Pet 1:1
The word exile or outsider refers to one who dwells beside the native citizen, who is allowed restricted rights, which are less than the naturalized citizens: Heb 11:9
Sinful desires is more than sexual sin: 1 John 2:16
Sinful desires wage war against your soul: Jam 4:1

2. Live Good Lives in Pagan Society

Peter has already instructed his readers about their conduct before God: 1 Pet 1:15-16
The church as misunderstood: Acts 28:22
Our conduct will have eternal significance: Mt. 5:14-16
It is all about evangelism for Peter: 1 Pet 3:15-16

Four Behaviors that Define Good Deeds:1) Submit to Human Authority For the Lord’s sake emphasizes the theological reason; God has established all
authority: Rom 13:1

This does not mean that we submit to evil: Acts 5:29

Government serves two purposes:

A. Punish: Rom 13:4

B. Reward: Rom 13:3

We must enlighten the ignorant: Acts 17:30
We are slaves of God: Rom 6:22
You have to serve someone… 2 Pet 2:19

2)Respect Everyone v.17

Humanity is created in God’s image: Gen 1:26

3) Love God’s Family v.17 John 13:34-35

4) Reverence God: God is the starting point: Proverbs 1:7

And our foundation: 1 Pet 2:6

5) Respect the Emperor v.17

The Emperor is God’s appointment.

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Strangers in a Strange Land:“Spiritual Privilege”1 Pet 2:4-10

The Living stone: He is all about life. The temple stones were dead; Jesus brings life: John 6:35
Their rejection does not diminish his relationship to God, just as our rejection by others does not diminish our status before God: Luke 6:22
Believers are living stones that make up a spiritual temple: Eph 2:19-22
This has always been God’s plan: Ex 19:6
Our Priesthood brings service: Rom. 12:1

There are two responses to the Messiah:

Trust: honor not shame…
Rejection: Ps 118:22
The builders are the Jewish Leaders who rejected Christ: Acts 4:11
But now Peter writes more broadly about those they influenced. James 3:1
Accept God’s control: Rom 9:19-20
Jesus also quoted Isaiah 8:14, but added to the prophecy: Mt. 21:44
Again, drawing from the OT: Exodus 19:5-6
God is in control: Rom 8:28
He gives us real purpose; our purpose is to make God known: Isaiah 52:7
Peter draws from Hosea 2:23

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Strangers in a Strange Land:
“Growing Up in Our Salvation”
1 Pet 2:1-3

Our goal is spiritual maturity: Eph 4:11-13

Three Steps toward Spiritual Maturity:

1. Rid Ourselves of all Community Destroying Sins

“Therefore” is referring to conversion: 1 Pet 1:23
Paul uses the same language in Col 3:8-9

Three reasons for getting rid of community destroying sins:

We are under attack: 1 Pet. 5:8
We need to build people up: Eph. 4:29
How we treat others will determine church growth: Acts 2:44-47

2. Crave the Pure Milk of the Word

Peter earlier had talked about the connection of the Word in our new birth: 1 Pet 1:23
We need to be like Jeremiah: Jeremiah 15:16
Why? Because the Word gets results: Isaiah 55:10-11

3. Recall the Goodness of the Lord. (He is tasty!)

Peter is recalling: Psalm 34:8
Ezekiel tasted the goodness of the Word: Ezekiel 3:3
God’s Word is satisfying: John 4:31-34

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Focus on the Prize”
1 Peter 1:13-25

Fix your eyes on Jesus: Heb. 12:2

Three Keys to focusing on the Prize:

1. Be Ready

Tighten your belt: Eph 6:14

Readiness Requires:

1) Obedience: 1John 5:2-3

2) Non-conformity: Rom 12:2

3) Enlightenment: Acts 17:30

Be ready for his arrival: Luke 12:35-37

2. Be Holy

We need to imitate our Father: Eph. 5:1
God is light not darkness: 1 John 1:5-6

Motivations for Holiness:

1) Accountability: Our hope brings accountability as well as triumph.

We will be judged in two ways:

A. Are we real believers? Mt. 7:21-23
B. Were we good stewards: 1 Cor. 3:13-15

2) Redemption: bought out of slavery.

The worlds system is futile: Mt. 16:26
The lamb of God: John 1:29
God planned our redemption: Isaiah 42:1
God gave his all for you: Phil 2:6-8
Jesus is our bridge across the chasm: Rom 10:9”

3. Be Loving

Obeying the truth is the heart of the gospel: Rom 1:5
They need to take love to a whole new level: 1 John 5:1-2
The Word is alive: Heb 4:12

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “Living Hope" 1Peter 1:3-12

Living hope is more than wishful thinking: Heb 11:1
Notice the Father and the Son are linked: Col 1:15
Mercy is about our spiritual condition; we were spiritually dead: Eph 2:4-5
The Resurrection is a historical Event: 1Cor. 15:17
The unbeliever lives for materialism, but things just don’t last. Our inheritance is eternal: 2Cor 4:16-18

Four Facts about Living Hope:

1. Living Hope is Protected by God's Power

Our inheritance is kept in heaven: Mt 6:19-20
Not only is our inheritance being protected by God, but we are also being protected in this world: Ps. 34:7
God’s power energizes: Phil 2:12-13
We are a work in progress: Phil 1:6
They had their eye on the prize: Heb 12:2
There is purpose in our trials: James 1:2

2. Living Hope is Proven through Trials

Are we the real deal or are we just going through the motions: Isaiah 48:10
It is all about the glory: 2Cor 4:17
They have not seen Jesus: John 20:29
We have it all now: Eph 1:3

3. Living Hope was Predicted by the Prophets

We see the fulfillment of prophecy: Mt. 13:17
Spirit of Christ: the Holy Spirit: 2 Pet 1:21

4. Living Hope is Preached though the Apostles

The Holy Spirit speaks through the Apostles: John 14:26

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Strangers in a Strange Land: “ Heavenly Citizens” 1 Pet 1:1-2

Part of the foundation of the church: Eph. 2:19-20
This world is not our home; Like the Jew, we are displaced; we are nomads: Heb 11:13
Our citizenship is not on earth: Phil 3:20

Three Facts about our Heavenly Citizenship:

1. We are God’s Chosen People

We are now part of Israel: Gal. 3:28-29

2. Our Relationship with God is Fatherly

God, the father knew us; he knew us before the world began; God is outside of time. Rom 8:29
Jesus taught us to pray: Matthew 6:9
Our relationship is intensely personal: Rom 8:15
Our Father gives only good gifts: Mt. 7:9-11

3. We live Influenced by the Spirit.

The sanctifying work of the Spirit draws us away from sin toward holiness. 2 Thes 2:13

Two results from the Spirits sanctifying work:

Obedience (response to grace): Rom 1:5
Cleansing from Sin through Christ’s blood
Peter is recalling the Covenant experience: Ex. 24:8-9
Just like the Israelites we never achieve perfect obedience; David prays for cleansing: Psalm 51:7
We need constant cleansing: 1 John 1:8-9
He ends his greeting with blessing!
The peace of Christ: John. 14:27

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Isaiah/Part Two: “The End of Arrogance” Isaiah 13:1-16* Pride is the key sin: Isaiah 2:11 * Pride exalts us over God: Gen. 11:3-4

Three Keys Ending Arrogance:

1. God's Rule

Babylon represents the world system that stands against God. Rev 14:8
They are tools in the hand of God: Isaiah 10:5
The early church recognized that God was the Lord of history. Acts 4:27-28
Thus, they accepted his direction even if it meant persecution.

2. God’s Wrath

Ultimately it is God that is coming; how foolish to trust in mere humans. Isaiah 2:22

Three reactions to God’s Wrath:

Wailing or Howling: Amos 5:16
Fear: Their courage will fail.
Terror: It is inevitable like child birth: 1 Thes 5:2-3
They are red faced/shamed; They have put their trust in man: Psalm 25:2-3
Who or what are you trusting in?
Because evil prefers darkness, darkness it will have: Joel 2:10
God is light: 1 John 1:5
But Creation will also be liberated: Rom 8:20-22

3. God’s Abandonment

Three results of Abandonment:

1) No protection

Remember we have abandoned God first: Isaiah 1:4

2) No escape

You will be caught and captured.

3) No mercy

God’s judgment involves getting our way: Rom 1:28

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Isaiah/Part Two: “Responding to Salvation” Isaiah 12:1-6Five Responses to Salvation:

1. Praise & Thanksgiving

Isaiah recognized his depravity: Isaiah 6:5-6
He is a sinner: Isaiah 64:6
Jesus is God: John 1:1

2. Trust (Faith)

Remember they have been trusting in man: Isaiah 2:22

3. Strength & Song

Those who can leap over the chasm of fear will discover that they have the Lord’s strength: Isaiah 40:31
Song is the natural expression of the spirit, which is free: Ps 40:1-3

4. Joy

Joy is the inner transformation of the Saved: Acts 8:39
Joy comes when salvation is experienced in full measure, like water drawn from an inexhaustible well: John 4:13-14
What water is to the parched earth of the desert, God’s delivering presence is to the one oppressed by sin and bondage: John 4:15

5. Proclamation

We cannot keep silent: Acts 4:18-20
We can’t keep silent for three reasons:

1) God’s deeds: Grace is glorious!

Isaiah understood that the redeemed would spread the good news: Isaiah 11:10
The root is Jesus: John 12:32

2) God’s commands: 1 Cor. 9:16

3) God’s Presence: John 1:14

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Isaiah/Part Two: “Leadership Perfection” Isaiah 11:1-16

We left off with the Ax falling on Assyria: Isaiah 10:33-34
The Ax also fell on Israel: Isaiah 6:13

Five Characteristics of the Perfect Leader:

1. He is Led by the Spirit

The Messiah like David will be empowered by the Holy Spirit: 1 Samuel 16:13
The words counsel and might appear as strategy and military strength: Isaiah 36:5; Isaiah 9:6
The current King had unhealthy fear: Isaiah 7:2
This is healthy fear: Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the Lord is about behavior: John 8:29
We need to bring back healthy fear: Romans 14:10

2. He Dispenses Justice

He knows the heart of man: John 2:24-25
He will not take advantage of those without influence, like the rulers of Isaiah’s day: Isaiah 3:14-15
His word becomes a weapon: Hebrews 4:12

3. He Provides Peace & Unity

It is a picture of the whole creation put back into joint: Romans 8:19-21
In the Messiah’s day death will be conquered: 1 Corinthians 15:55

4. He Rally’s the Faithful (Banner)

He raised the banner for destruction: Isaiah 5:26
Here, for Salvation: John 12:32
Four quarters: equal to the ends of the earth: Matthew 24:30-31
The war may be a spiritual not a physical: Ephesians 6:10-12

5. He Makes a Way for His People

God makes a way for us to come to him: John 3:16

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Isaiah/Part Two:
“Fearless”Isaiah 10:20-34

Ahaz had the same choice: Isaiah 7:3-4

Three Keys to Fearlessness:

1. God’s Possession

Mighty God is a title for the Messiah: Isaiah 9:6
Shear-Jashub means a remnant will return: Isaiah 7:3
The future is in the Remnant: Isaiah 11:10-11
We are not his people in name only: Luke 3:7-9
The gospel is not mainstream: Mt. 22:14

2. God’s Sovereignty

Historical example of God’s control: Ex 14:26-28

3. God’s Might

A bough is the main branch of a tree: Isaiah 10:18-19
Assyria was just a tool: Isaiah 10:15
Lebanon; the famed cedars of Lebanon: Isaiah 2:13
We are not just saved by faith but we live by it: 2 Cor 5:7

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Isaiah/Part Two: “Under God’s Hand”
Isaiah 10:5-19

Paradox: Two truths that run side-by-side that seem contradictory.
At this point we come face to face with the biblical paradox: the Lord is sovereign, but his instruments are morally responsible agents. Acts 2:23
Responsibility: James 3:1

Three facts to this Paradox:

1. God’s Sovereignty/Assyria’s Intention

Woe forms a link with Isaiah 10:1
Israel’s God was recognized as powerful: Joshua 2:10-11
Israel is more godless because they had been given the light; thus, they were
accountable as God’s stewards of the Kingdom: Luke 12:48
Assyria’s evil intention is a heart problem: Isaiah 10:7 (ESV)
Evil is always a heart problem: Isaiah 9:9

2. God’s Sovereignty/Assyria’s Responsibility

All will be accountable for their pride and arrogance: Isaiah 2:11,17
Remember how we started: Isaiah 10:5

3. God’s Sovereignty/Assyria’s Destruction

Isaiah starts with just who God is and the consequences of recognizing His rule: Isaiah 5:24
All of this was fulfilled between 612-605—the Fall of Nineveh and the Battle of Carchemish: Isaiah 37:36

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Isaiah/Part Two:
“Pride before the Fall”
Isaiah 9:8-10:4

· Pride before the fall: Proverbs 16: 18

· It will fall on Israel with devastating results: Isaiah 55:10-11

· There is no escape from the Word, all the people will know it: Hos. 9:7

· Perhaps they are bragging about their response to an earlier earthquake,
Amos refers to it in Amos 1:1

· Amos warned them: Amos 5:11

Four Consequences of Pride and Arrogance:

1. Political Chaos

· God’s hand either Judges or guides: Exodus 6:6

2 Leadership Vacuum

· God is going to eliminate their leaders: Isaiah 3:1-3

· Judgment can come at any moment: Mt. 24:42-44

· They are self-serving. Isaiah 30:9-11

· The blind are leading the blind: Mt. 15:14

· They have become fools: Ps. 14:1

3. Social Anarchy

· We need each other in order to be strong: Eph 3:6

4. Oppression of the Helpless

· The purpose of the legislation was for the denial of justice and the manipulation of justice
for gain: Amos 5:12

· Jesus saw the same in his day: Mk. 12:40

· We are accountable: Mt. 24:45-51

· Remember how we started: Isaiah 9:8

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Isaiah/Part Two: “Passion for People” Isaiah 9:1-7

· Listen to God’s Passion: Zachariah 8:2

· There is a sharp change of mood from Isaiah 8:22…

· Mathew shares the fulfillment in Mt. 4:13-15

Four Passionate Accomplishments:

1. God Shines Light in this Dark World

· They had turned their backs on God: Isaiah 1:4

· We have all turned our backs: Eph 2:1-2

· God Almighty could destroy us, but… Eph 2:4-5

· Jesus is the light: John 1:4-5

2. God Gives Great Joy (Joy is a gift from God)

Three great fears of a nation:

1) Depopulation

2) Poor harvest

3) Defeat

· Joy in enlarging the nation: Isaiah 9:1b

· The Great Commission: Mt. 28:18-20

· We have received Joy: 1 Thes. 1:6

· Our Joy is in the Lord: Ps. 95:1

3. God Provides Deliverance from Bondage

· Gideon defeated them with 300 men. Judges 7:7

· Jesus yoke is light: Mt. 11:29-30

· War will end, when Christ returns! But for the moment it is spiritual battle: Eph 6:12

4. God Breaks into Human History as a Child

· God enters into history as a new born baby: Isaiah 7:14

Immanuel Defined:
1. Wonderful Counselor: Luke 2:40

2. Mighty God

Everlasting Father: Daddy: Rom 8:15

4. Prince of Peace: John 14:27

· God keeps his promise to David: 2 Sam 7:16

· We should share God’s zeal: Rom 12:11

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Isaiah/Part Two: “Overcoming Darkness” Isaiah 8:11-22

· God has his strong hand on him; God’s personal agency and power:Jer 15:17

· The warning: stay on the narrow way: Mt. 7:13-14

Four Behaviors that Overcome Darkness:

1. Fear the Lord, not the Situation

· Regarding God as holy calls upon them to make God the most significant fact of their existence; his holiness demands justice, thus Judgment: Mt. 10:28

2. Take Refuge in the Lord

· He is either our (sanctuary) refuge or a snare: Is. 28:16

· Peter quotes this passage and comments: 1 Pet 2:8b

· God is done talking: Mt. 7:6

3. Wait on the Lord

· Waiting upon God is a prerequisite of receiving His blessing: Isaiah 40:31

· God is not through with Israel: Rom 11:25-27

· This is further proof of a rebellious nation: Lev 19:31

4. Consult the Word of God

· God has a positive plan: Jeremiah 29:11

· They break yet another law: Ex 22:28

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Isaiah Part Two: “The Judgment of God” Isaiah 8:1-10

Three Facts about God’s Judgment:

1. Clarity

· Isaiah was to make the message as public and eye-catching as possible: Hab 2:2

· Like Uriah: 2 Kings 16:10-11

· The lesson: God uses imperfect people: Phil 1:15-18

· There are female prophets: Miriam - Ex. 15:20

· Deborah - Judges 4:4

· Philips daughters: Acts 21:8-9

· Female Deacons: Rom 16:1

· Judge by the Content of Character: Gal. 3:28

“There are two races of men in this world, but only these two—the “race” of the decent man and the “race” of the indecent man.”― Viktor Frankl

2. Calamity: A disastrous event marked by great loss and lasting
distress and suffering.

· 200 yrs. Earlier Israel had broken with the House of David: 1 Kings 12:16

· The people had chosen on the worlds standards their King : 2 Kings 15:25

3. Control: God Rules!

· Isaiah has informed Ahaz, that Ephraim and Aram will fail: Is. 7:7.

· Why? They don’t have the right leader. Isaiah 7:8

· Ahaz was warned to Stand in faith: Isaiah 7:9b

· Nothing devised against Immanuel’s people will succeed: Ps. 2:1-6

· We are secure in Christ: Rom 8:38-39

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Back to Basics Series:
“Certain Faith in Uncertain Times”
1 John 5:13-21

Four Certainties:

I. Eternal Life

II. Answered Prayer

Two conditions for answered prayer:

1) Pray According to his will: Mt. 6:9-10

· How do we know what God’s will is? Rom 12:2

2) Practice Obedience: 1John 3:21-22; Great Commission: Mt. 28

· Direct them toward life: James 5:19-20

· One of the Three black lies: 1 John 2:22 (episode 12)

· He talk about the fact that we sin: 1 John 1:8-9

III. Protection from Satan

· We must not continue to sin: 1 John 3:9

· Jesus prayed for our protection: John 17:14-15

· We pray for protection: Mt. 6:13

· God keeps it manageable: 1 Cor. 10:13

IV. Truth – Truth in not arbitrary.

· To the false teacher Jesus is a truth, not the truth: John 14:6

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Back to Basics Series:
“Biblical Testimony” 1 John 5:6-12

Three Facts about Biblical Testimony:

I. The Legality of the Testimony

· The Law requires two to three witnesses Deut 19:15

· John the Baptist said, “He is the one that comes after me.” John 1:27

· The Baptist testifies: John 1:34

The Three Witnesses: Confirm the Divinity of Jesus!

1) The Water: Symbolizes Baptism

The Spirit descended upon him and God verbally acknowledged his only Son:
Mt. 3:16-17

2) The Blood: (The Atonement) 1 John 1:7

3) The Spirit: Just as God is Love; the Spirit is Truth

· The Spirit is both Historical and Experiential.
Historical: He reminds the Apostles: John 14:26
Experiential: 1 John 2:27

II. The Obligation to Accept the Testimony

· The Older NIV: “Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his
heart.”

· It dwells in a persons heart; Rom 10:9

· There is no excuse: Rom 1:20

· To have faith in chance is foolishness: Psalm 14:1

III. The Benefits of Accepting the Testimony

Three truths about Life:

1) It is a gift not a prize (undeserved): Eph. 2:8-9

2) It is found only in Christ: John 14:6

3) It is both future and present

· We can enjoy it now and forever: John 10:10

· Life does not end: Mt. 22:31-32

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Back to Basic Series: “Victorious Faith”1 John 5:1-5

Jesus said that he overcame in John 16:33

The three test of Victorious faith:

I. Doctrinal: Faith. Who is Jesus?

Jesus is the way: John 14:6
It is for everyone: Rom 10:9-10
Jesus is the foundation: 1 Cor. 3:11

II. Social: Loving the Brothers & Sisters

· If you walk in the light… 1 John 1:7

· Sacrificial Love: 1 John 3:16-17

· Love is action: 1 John 3:18

· 1 John 3:23: Belief and love go together

· Faith and love are the twin pillars of the faith: Col 1:3-4

III. Moral: Obey His Commands

· Jesus said his yoke was easy: Mt. 11:30

· God is love and dwells in us: 1 John 4:8

· The Spirit indwells us: 1 Cor. 6:19

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Back to Basics Series:
Ambassadors of Christ 1 John 4:13-21

· Ambassadors: 2 Corinthians. 5:20

Four ways we are like Jesus:

I. We have the Indwelling Presence of God

· The Spirit is the promise: Acts 2:38

· The Spirit brings us out of our spiritual coma: Ephesians. 2:1; 2: 4-5

· The Word is the product of the Spirit: John 15:26-27

· The witness of the Spirit & the Apostles observations belong together: 1 John 1:1

Confession is evidence of the indwelling Spirit: 1 Corinthians 12:3

II. We Rely on God’s Love

III. We are Fearless (Fear 4x)

· When love comes fear flees: Romans 8:15

IV. We Obey the Command to Love

· Jesus learned obedience: Philippians 2:6-8

· Our Obligation as Disciples: John 13:34-35

The Three Black Lies of the Letter:

1) Moral Lie – 1 John 1:6; 2:4

2) Doctrinal Lie – 1 John. 2:22, 23

3) Social Lie – 1 John 4:20 (here)

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Back to Basics Series: The Obligation to Love 1 John 4:7-12

· This is a command: 1 John 3:23

Three Reasons why we have an obligation to Love:

I. God is both the Source and Origin of Love

· God is love – verse 8

· There are three other statements about just what God is:

1) God is Spirit John 4:24

2) God is Light 1 John 1:5

3) God is a Consuming Fire Heb 12:2

God deals with the sinner through the Spirit, light and fire!

The spirit exposes sin through the light and then sin is
consumed: Psalm. 103:11-12

II. God Demonstrates His Love in History

· We were in rebellion against God: Eph. 2:4,5

· No one is Righteous: Rom 3:10-11

· Even Isaiah failed God: Isaiah 64:6

III. God Reveals His Love Through the Church

· God’s love is about self-sacrifice: 1Jn.3:16

The command: John 13:34,35

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Back to Basics: Discerning Spiritual Message 1 John 4:1-6· The Egyptian Magicians could perform some of the deeds that God used to confirm his authenticity. Ex. 7:20-22

· The early church had this problem as well: Acts 8:9-10

Two Keys to Discerning Spiritual Messages:

I. The Content of the Teaching

· Remember the tests of Life:

1. Doctrinal

2. Moral

3. Social

· Jesus is both Human and divine: John 1:1, 14

· The antichrist is coming: 2Thes 2:3

· His spirit is already here: 1 John 2:18

II. The Character of the Audience

· We are at odds with the World System: 1 Cor. 1:18

· We are the Victors: Rom. 8:37-39

· God lives within us 1 John 3:24

· We have the “anointing” 1 John 2:20

· The World system is passing away: 1 John 2:17

· The sheep do not recognize a strangers voice: John 10:4-5

· We are the people of the Word: 2 Tim 3:16-17

· We need to be like the Bereans’: Acts 17:11

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Back to Basics Confidence In God's Presence 1 John 3:18-24 Three Keys to Confidence:

I. Actively Love Other Believers

· Love involves action not just words: 1 John 3:16-17

II. Trust God and His Truth over Our Emotions

· We struggle with our sin nature: 1 John 1:8-9

· The work of Christ is enough: Rom 5:8

· Our faith is a free gift: Eph. 2:8-9

· We need God’s Word: 2 Tim 3:16-17

· The curtain was torn: Mt. 27:50-53

· We have complete access to God: Heb 4:16

III. Keep His Commands

· John qualifies this statement in 5:14,15

He defines the Commands:

1) Believe in the Name

· Jesus is the Word: John 1:1

· Our Help comes: Psalm 124:8

2) Love that Acts: 1 John 3:18

· We become a destination: John 14:23

· The spirit is an inner witness to our new birth: Rom. 8:16

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Back to Basics Loving One Another 1 John 3:11-18· Love like Jesus: Walking in the light: 1 John 2:10

· This is the commands: John 15:12

· There are two human families: 1 Jn. 3:10

· “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 Jn. 4:8

Compare and Contrast the World and the Church

I. The World: Cain

· The World is characterized by:

A) Jealousy

B) Hatred

C) Death

· Love is met by Hate: John 15:18-21

· Love is the surest test of being in the light: 1 John 2:9-10

· Mt. 5:21,22; Jesus takes the law to a whole new level.

II. The Church: Christ

· Love responses to basic needs: James 2:15,16

· The Church is Characterized by:

A) Love

B) Self-sacrifice

C) Life

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Back to BasicsBearing the Family Resemblance

1 John 2:28-3:10

· The Key Verse: 1 John 3:10

Three Actions demonstrate our family resemblance?

I. Remain In Him

· What if he comes now! 2 Pet 3:8-9

II. We Live Righteously (Holiness)

· God is light: look at 1 John 1:5-6

· When you remain in the vine, you bear fruit: Jn 15:4

· What fruit? Gal 5:22-23

· “What kind of Man is this.” Mt. 8:27

· The world did not recognize him John 1:10-11

III. Get Rid of Lifestyle Sin

· This is not a contradiction of 1 John 1:8.

· It is the anointing: 1 John 2:20; 2 Cor 1:21-22

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Back to Basics Abiding In Christ

1 John 2:18-27

· The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the

will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:17

· five times he uses the word “Remain”

· Remain: To take up a permanent residence.

· In John 15:1-4 “The Vine and the Branches.”

· The man of lawlessness is coming: 2 Thes 2:3-4

· They come from within the Church: Acts 20:30-31

· The parable of the Weeds: Mt. 13:37-41

Three Keys to Abiding in Christ:

I. Remain In the Fellowship—It is a test of faith.

· Walk in the Light: 1 Jn. 1:7

· “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Acts 2:42

· We have an anointing; The Holy Spirit…

Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us,
22 set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. 2 Cor 1:21-22

· There is only one way to the Father: Jn. 14:6

II. Remain in the Word

· Notice, Heard from the beginning! “They devoted themselves to the Apostles teaching…” Acts 2:42

· Look how important it is to remain in the Word: John 15:3

· Eternal life defined: John 17:3

· Paul focus: 1 Cor. 2:2

III. Rely on the Spirit

· He is not belittling teachers; we need teachers: Eph. 4:11

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Back to Basics: Love God Instead the World
1 John 2:15-17

Define “World.”

He is not referring to people.

· God so loved the World…John 3:16

He is not referring to nature.

· “The earth is the LORD’s and everything in it Ps.24:1

· Creation is proof of God’s existence: Rom 1:20

· Creation speaks to God’s greatness: Psalm 19:1

· So, what does he mean by “the World"?

The World’s System is the subject.

Two Reasons why we must love God Instead of the world:

I. The Incompatibility of the World’s Standard

The Trinity of Evil:

1 Lust of the Flesh:

· It started in the Garden Gen. 3:6

2Lust of the eyes:Gen. 3:6:

· David’s watches Bathsheba bath: 2 Sam. 11:2

We must discipline ourselves: Job 31:1

3. Pride of Life: Gen. 3:6

· I can be like God: Gen 3:5

II. The Transience of the World

· The parable of the rich fool: Luke 12:16-21

· Learn to be content in Christ: Phil. 4:11-13

· God is not the God of the dead but the living: Mt. 22:32

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Back to Basics
The Gifts of God 1 John 2:12-14

Intro: Words of affirmation, Quality time, Giving gifts, Acts of service, Physical touch.
“Five Love Languages,” Gary Chapman (1992)

Three Gifts:

1. Forgiveness of Sins

· Forgiveness: 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins…

· Forgiveness is the heart of the message: Luke 24:45-47

· Repentance is our part to play: Acts 2:38

· Salvation is found in no one else…Acts 4:12

· We can trust God to do what He says. Ps. 20:7

2. Relationship with the Eternal Father

· What do they know? Eternal God. In the beginning was the Word… John 1:1

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 1 John 1:1

· We know Him as our Father; we are his children: Rom 8:15-17

· Part of the benefit is suffering: 2 Tim 3:12

3. Power to Overcome

· The Christian life is more than fellowship it is about fighting the enemy: 1 Pet 5:8,9

· At war with our sin nature: Rom 7:15

Where does the strength come from?

· They are strong because of our Hope: Isaiah 40:31

· The Sword of the Spirit: Eph. 6:17

· It is our number one defense: "The Word of Life."

· Jesus used the Word: Mt. 4:5-7

Conclusion: These gifts were promised to us: Jer.31:33,34

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Phil. 3:13-14

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Back to Basics
“Shining the True Light" 1 John 2:3-11

· Jesus saw our participation: Mt. 5:14-16

Two Keys to shining the Light of the Gospel:

Live Like Jesus; The Moral Test (Obedience)

· Obedience is proof of relationship: John 14:15-17

· Temples of the Holy Spirit: 1 Cor. 6:19

· When you obey you are connected to God and Christ. John 15:10

· The Lord’s mindset is about Obedience: Phil 2:5-8

Love Like Jesus; The Social Test

· The old command: Lev 19:18

· The new command: John 13:34

Two consequences for those who hate…

1) Stumbling: (skandalon) trigger stick/mouse trap.

2) Blindness: Hate distorts our perspective.

· Look at the contrast: Prov. 4:18,1

·
Shine like Stars: Phil. 2:14-16

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“Back to Basics” Walking in the Light 1 John 1:5-2:2

· By doing I mean obeying: Mt. 28:19-20

· Our obedience shines forth… Mt. 5:14-16

Five Keys to Walking in the Light:

1. Recognize the Holiness of God

· John learn this from Jesus:John 1:4

· The exact representation of the father: Heb 1:3

The use of light does two things:

1) Light Illuminates: John 3:19-21

· Only God is good: Mark 10:18

· No one Righteous, Understanding or Seeking: Rom 3:10-11

2) Light Guides: Psalm 119:105

· We will take on the nature of the God we worship: Lev 19:2

· God is not like us: Isaiah 55:8-9

2. Live-out the Truth – Sincerity, Honesty, transparency!

· Faith without deeds is useless Jam 2:20

· “Teach them to obey everything…Mt. 28ff."

· Light has no fellowship with darkness: 2 Cor 6:14

3. Fellowship with other Christians

· False teacher refused to fellowship: 1 John 2:19

4. Confront the Problem of Sin V-8ff.

Two errors:

1) Denial of our sin nature

· There is a battle ragging: Rom. 7:14-25

2) Denial of Sinful Actions

5. Confess Your Sins: From denial to admission

God’s response to confessed sin:

a) He Faithful and Just 2 Tim. 2:13

· God is faithful to his word: Jer. 31:34

b) He Forgives and purifies

c) He Provides an Advocate

· He will deal with that in 1 Jn. 3:6ff.

He atoned for the sin of the whole world. Jn. 3:16

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“Back to Basics” The Word of Life John 1:1-4

Context: 40 yrs before Paul warned this Church: Acts 20:28-31

Five Facts about the Word of Life: (this) End of verse 1

1. The Word is God

Beginning? Look at the gospel of John 1:1-2

· Jesus was not the creature but the Creator: John 1:3

· Creation confirmed by Paul: Col. 1:15-17

2. The Word became Flesh (The Incarnation)

· It is about we not me! Witnesses: Dt 17:6

· Paul appeals to 500 + witnesses: 1 Cor. 15:5-8

3. The Word Provides Life

· He repeats “Life” three times (word of life v.1)

· Jesus is life: Jn. 14:6

· We can have certainty: 1 John 5:13

4. The Word is Relational

· The gospel is all about relationship: John 17:20-23

5. The Word Completes Our Joy

· It brings them Joy to see people saved: 3Jn. 1:4

· For us joy is both present & future:

· Present in a restored relationship: Acts 8:36-39

· Future because it is eternal: Psalm 16:11

· Joy gives us rest: Mt. 11:29

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“Trust Grace instead of Politics”

Isaiah 7:18-25

· Stop trusting in men: Isaiah 2:22

· God keeps his promises: Dt. 31:16-18

· All God has to do is whistle; He is Sovereign: Is. 5:26

Four consequences of Trusting Politics over Grace:

1. Deprived of Protection

· God’s protection is from the 2nd death: Mt. 10:28

2. Deprived of Dignity

· The forcible shaving of the beard was considered a great insult: 2 Sam 10:4-5

3. Suffer Hardship

· Although God is judging, he will still provide for those left: Isaiah 7:15

4. Suffer Loss

· Remember the earlier prophecy in chapter five: Isaiah 5:5-6

· I told them I have an account in heaven: Mt. 6:19-20

· There was the utmost care for the vineyard: Isaiah 5:5-6

· Biblical wisdom: Proverbs 8:36

· Put aside your politics and open the door to your heart: Rev 3:20

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“Second Chance” Isaiah 7:10-17· He is a horrible King: 2 Chron 28:1-4

· In spite of his track record, God keeps his promise to the house of david (V-13)
2 Sam 7:16

· For us God’s love trumps our rebellion: John 3:16

· Faith transcends evidence: Luke 16:30-31

· Before belief we are spiritually dead: Eph 2:4-5

· He takes scripture out of Context; Proof arising from doubt and rebellion: Dt. 6:16

· To not believe in God, serves the purpose of Selfishness:

The philosopher who finds no meaning in the world is not concerned exclusively with a problem in pure metaphysics, he is also concerned to prove that there is no valid reason why he personally should not do as he wants to do, or why his friends should not seize political power and govern in the way that they find most advantageous to themselves. … For myself, the philosophy of meaninglessness was essentially an instrument of liberation, sexual and political. (Huxley)

· Remember Lk. 16:30

· Deliverance: The disappearance of Aram and Israel would be seen as God was
with them: 2 Kings 16:7-9

· Future: God will raise up from the wreckage a true son of David: Mt. 1:20-23

· The gospel is both good news and bad news.
Good if you accept his gift but bad if you reject it: 2 Pet 3:9

· The result was not the security which faith could have brought, but unparalleled
disaster. Assyria the nation’s savior has now turned executioner: Isaiah 8:7-10

· Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus
Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the
Holy Spirit. Act 2:38

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“Trusting God”
Isaiah 7:1-9

Three Keys to Trusting God:

1. Identity: We belong to God.

· Ahaz had been defeated by Aram and Ephraim earlier: 2 Chron 28:5-8

· There would be a remnant: Isaiah 1:9

· Remember, “The stump in the land.” Isaiah 6:13

2. Fear Not

· As all this is going on Ahaz is seeking an alliance with Assyria: 2 Kings 16:7-9

· Because of being over-run by the Assyrians, they intermarried and thus became the Samaritans, losing their nationalistic identity: 2 Kings 17:24

3. Stand Firm

· This is the point of no return; to fail to respond now by trusting the lord’s promises is to bring about the final heart-hardening: Isaiah 6:9-10

· The choice is panic and live on shaky ground or build on God’s word: Isaiah 7:2

· What is the foundation of your life: Mt. 7:24-27

· Stand Firm: Proverbs 10:25

· This alliance with Assyria was destructive: 2 Chron 28:22-23

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“The Stump in the land”

Isaiah 6:1-13

Four steps to being God’s Seed:

1. Vision

· Under his leadership Israel had grown in every way: 2 Chron 26:4

· This great king also failed the Lord, just as Israel is failing: 2 Chron 26:19

· Their root problem; They were trusting in man instead of God: Isaiah 2:22

· Feet influence the path we take: Pr. 4:2

· God’s way or the highway! Proverbs 3:5-6

2. Confession

· What come out of the mouth matters: Mt. 15:11

· He realizes he is in dangerous territory: Ex 33:18-20

3. Cleansing

· Fire was part of the Day of atonement: Lev 16:1

· God deals with confessed need: 1 John 1:9

· The sin had to be paid for by blood: Heb 9:22

· The suffering servant: Isaiah 53:7-10

4. Commission: Mt. 28:18ff

· 9&10 are quoted by Jesus & attributed to the Holy Spirit: Mk 4:11-12; Acts 28:25ff

· The gospel is very simple, yet rejected: 2 Tim 3:7

· The Bad News

Material ruination. Prophecy fulfilled… Dt. 29:23
Deportation: Prophecy fulfilled… Dt. 29:28

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“The Sovereignty of God”

Isaiah 5:26-30

Remember, they were taunting God: Isaiah 5:19
The early church recognized Gods Rule:
God had decided Jesus fate:Acts 4:27-28
All Authority is established by God: Rom 13:1
·Free will: We choose – John 3:16
·The paradox: Proverbs 16:9;
·Work out our own salvation: Phil 2:12-13
God gives us time to change
None should perish: 2 Pet 3:8-9
The Messiah will Reign: Rev 11:15
Is Jesus the Messiah?
·Professor Peter W. Stoner: Mathematical Proof!
They are well armed and prepared for battle: Jer 4:13
Israel will be helpless in three ways:
Like the prey of a lion.
Like a person in the midst of a storm .
Like a person lost in the dark
Darkness means the absence of God: Micah 3:6
God is light: 1 John 1:5
·When you know God, it is all good: Phil 1:21-2

Conclusion:

·The scientist calls him the Intelligent designer
·The philosopher calls him the unmoved mover.
·The believer calls him Father.
C.S. Lewis said it comes down to one of three choices; Jesus is either a liar, lunatic or The Lord.

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“Delusion of Grandeur”

Isaiah 5:18-25

· Our main Idea: V-21

Six Evidences of Self-delusion:

1. Lifestyle Sin

· They have no relationship with God: 1 John 3:6

2. Spiritual Ignorance - Isaiah 5:13

· They have become fools: Psalm 14:1

3. Moral Confusion

· Sin becomes acceptable in two ways:

Publicly (Darkness becomes light)
Privately (bitter takes the place of sweet).

· We are all born to sin: Rom 3:10-12

· In Christ, there are choices: 1Cor. 10:13

4. Glorification of Self-indulgence

· The great men of the nation are only great behind the bar: Proverbs 23:29-32

5. Legal Corruption

· For the self-deluded it is always about more: Isaiah 1:23

6. Rejection of the Word of God

· Look at the last part of verse 24!

· They have turned their backs: Isaiah 1:4

· God’s Word is our connection to Him: 2 Tim 3:16-17

· God’s word gives us purpose: Isaiah 55:10-11

· Without the Word our achievements are reduced to dust and ashes: Deut 4:24

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“The Ruins of the Rich”

Isaiah 5:8-17

So you get it all? Mt. 16:26

Three **Ruinous Behaviors

Greed – vs. 8-10**
Land in Israel could only be leased, never sold, because parcels had been permanently assigned to individual families: Lev 25:23
The rich took advantage of the poor and increased their holdings Isaiah 3:14
Greed is at the heart of Idolatry: Col 3:5
God can take it all away in a moment: Jeremiah 17:11

2. Debauchery or Excess – Vs. 11-14

· Sensual indulgence does not lead to spiritual perception: Eph 5:18
· They had lost respect for God: Psalm. 100:3
· The blind are leading the blind: Mt. 15:14
· Turning your back leads to lack of knowledge: Is. 1:4
The grave is the great equalizer: Job 3:13-15

3. Arrogance – Vs. 15-17

· Arrogance is at the heart of their disease: Proverbs 16:5
· We are called to reflect the Essential Nature of God: Mic. 6:8

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“Stinkin Fruit” Isaiah 5:1-7 Four sections of this passage:

1. The Introduction: Setting – Vs. 1-2

· Love for God is an important part of Old Testament piety: Deut 6:5

· How do we express love—obedience: 1 John 5:3

· All his efforts yielded only bad fruit, lit. “Stink fruit:” (Why) John 15:5-8

· They had turned their back on God: Isaiah 1:4

· What is fruit in our lives? Gal. 5;22-23

2. The Verdict - Vs. 3-4

· Nathan and David: 2 Sam 12:5-7

3. The Decision – Vs. 5-6

· Parable of the Talents (Bags of Gold) Mt. 25:14-30

· The owner gave 5, 2, 1 “Each according to his ability.” V-14

· The owners decision: Mt. 25:26-30

4. The Application – V-7

· God is into social justice; how we treat each other is a reflection of our love for God: Matthew 22:36-40

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“The Glory of God” Isaiah 4:2-6· God’s glory was exclusive: Ex. 40:35

· David’s family tree: Jer 23:5-6

· They sought transient beauty: "... instead of beauty, branding". Isaiah 3:24 (end)

· Beauty will be seen in God’s presence: Col 1:15

· Glory and Pride had been their destruction: Isaiah 2:11

Three Results of God’s Presence:

1. Holiness: Set apart to God…

· Through the Messiah the remnant has been made fit for His presence; they are
spiritually changed: Heb 10:10

· It is not about our initiative, but our response to the Divine initiative: Mal 3:16

· The Book of Life: Ps. 69:28

2. Purity: Washed or Cleansed

· The Lord will cleanse us of all sin: Zachariah 13:1

· Isaiah was aware of his sinfulness: Isaiah 6:5-7

· There is a process of removing Sin:

Judgment: the atonement.
Fire: Test our Kingdom work: 1Cor 3:12-15

3. Guidance & Protection:

· Verses 5-6 recall Israel’s desert wanderings: Guidance and protection: Ex. 13:21-22

· The consummation of the covenant; the canopy always refers to the marriage
chamber: …Let the bridegroom leave his room and the bride her chamber.
Joel 2:16

· If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling,
10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. 11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; 12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. 13 You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
Psalm 91:9-13

· God’s has our backs: Rom 8:38-39

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Isaiah 3:16-4:1“Bottom-line Living” The Nation has turned its back: Isaiah 1:4b

Three Characteristics of the Profiteer:

1. Arrogance

· The result is arrogance: Isaiah 2:11

· The Kingdom system is the opposite: Mt. 19:30

· Where do you keep your Treasure: Mt. 6:19-21

2. Wealth

· It is clear that the plunder of the poor is in clear view here: Isaiah 3:14

These verses personify Jerusalem as a destitute woman: Lam. 1:4

3. Desperation:

· Men were also desperate for a leader: Isaiah 3:6

· Both genders will find that you can’t trust man over God: Isaiah 2:22

Conclusion: When you stop trusting God, you trust in your self; life becomes about present gains over losses.

· The real road to the top involves loss not gain: Mt. 19:29-30

· The world is about short-term gain; bottom line thinking.

· The Kingdom is long-term thinking; it is about forever!: Mark 8:36

· What about you? You have a choice. Acts 2:37-38

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Taking the Wide Road Isaiah 3:1-15

The wide and narrow roads: Mt. 7:13-14

Results of taking the Wide Road

1. Societal Collapse

God removes Two keys to their survival:

1) Basic needs: Food and Water.

2) Leaders: three types (command structure collapse)

a. Military (hero, warrior, Captain & regular army)

b. Political (judge, elder, counselor)

c. Religious (prophet, soothsayer, craftsman, enchanter)

· God gives us leaders: Rom 12:1

· Youth has its disadvantages: Jeremiah. 1:6

2. Retributive Justice: Punishment

Isaiah gives Four reasons why they deserve punishment

1) Wickedness: They are defying God, face to face.

2) Shame: They brought disaster upon…

· They should know better: Deut 5:32-33
There is good news for the followers: Psalm 73:23-24
Many good people are swept into the fate of the wicked: Rev 2:10

3) Oppression: The immature rule (youths).

· The LORD--Commander & Chief to Judge: Ps. 50:1-4

4) Exploitation: “The poor.) also in verse 15

· God cares about the poor: Duet. 15:10-11
Leadership caries immense responsibility: Heb 13:17

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“Trust God, Not Man”

Isaiah 2:6-22

Main Idea: V-22

Results of placing your faith in Humans:

1. Abandonment

· They have turned their backs: Isaiah 1:4b

· As Christians we are promised relationship: Mt. 28: 20

· They are conforming to the world: Rom 12:2

· Practicing divination: Lev. 19:26

· They are doing just what they want: Rom 1:28

Isaiah lists their Conformity:

1) Material wealth : Self-sufficient.

2) Military Mite: Security

3) Idolatry: Hand-crafted gods.

2. Brought Low: Humbled.

· Isaiah has experienced God’s glory: Isaiah 6:5

· Religious arrogance is the worst: Luke 18:10-14

3. Fear

· The result of cultural conformity: Mt. 24:42-44

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“Certain Hope”: Isaiah 2:1-5

Four facts about Certain Hope:

1. Certain Hope comes from God.

· The persecuted church lived in the present, yet focused on the future: 1 Pet 1:13

· Don’t dwell on the negative present.

· "The last days," began at Pentecost: Acts 2:17

· The birth of the church was partial fulfillment: Heb 1:2

2. Certain Hope is both Inclusive and Exclusive

· It is Inclusive: All Nations are welcome: Malachi 1:11

· The message is Exclusive ; there is only one true God; thus, only one way: John 14:6

· Teaching that leads to following: Mt. 28:19-20

3. Certain Hope centers on Justice & Peace

· Justice results in Peace: Rev 21:4

· Justice does away with the three phases of War:

1) The means

2) The practice

3) The mentality

4. Certain Hope provides Motivation

· Come, and be the example: Deut 4:5-8

· This message is for us too: Phil. 2:1-4

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and
assurance about what we do not see. Heb 11:1

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“Facts Checking”

Isaiah 1:21-31 Three Facts loom large:

1. Moral Bankruptcy -- vs. 21-23, 29

· They had a clear choice. Isaiah 1:19

1) Idolatry: They have become prostitutes: Jer 6:3-9

· Pagan worship: Isaiah 65:3

· Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Mt. 6:21

2) Injustice: Justice is the expression of Righteousness.

3) Contamination:Avoid contamination:Rom 12:2

· The high standard of leadership: 1 Pet. 5:2

2. Impending Judgment – vs. 24, 25a, 28-31

· Judgment is coming: 1 Pet 4:17

· Grace is not cheap: James 2:26

3. Promised Redemption – vs. 25b-27

· God keeps his promise to David: 2 Sam 7:16

· It cost God his son: John 3:16

What must we do to be saved: Acts 2:37-39

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“Worthless Worship" Isaiah 1:10-20

The Key verse: V-13

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your
bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and
proper worship. Rom 12:1

Four parts to this section:

1. The Frustration

· The ritual was about reminding us about our sinfulness: Heb 10:3-4

· God wants more than mere ritual: Micah 6:6-8; lifestyle.

· They were just going through the motions-just noise:

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a
resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 1 Cor 13:1

· God does not want meaningless offerings: Mt. 5:23-24

2. The Burden

· Its all about them: Amos 4:4-5

· Because their hands are dirty, Prayer without ethical change is ineffective:
1 Pet 3:12:; Psalm. 34:15

3. The Solution: Change!

· God has always wanted change: Deut 10:12

· God is about social justice: Ex 22:21-24

· How we relate to other is an expression of our faith: James 1:17

· Future blessing: Titus 3:5

4. The Decision: Obedience

· Listen to how Paul defines the gospel: Rom. 1:5

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The Indictment:

Isaiah 1:2-9

Four parts of the Indictment:

1. The Charge

· This is strongly reminiscent of Deut 32:1, where Moses called upon the heavens and the earth to witness the covenant of blessing or curses.

· End time Rebellion : 2 Tim 3:1-2

· Creation knows, yet the covenant people, the ones God chose to enlighten all humanity, the ones who have experienced Him first hand, the ones He has rescued over and over again—Ex. 6:7

2. The Evidence: Look at the evidence: Read the verse.

· God must be our focus: Luke 14:26

3. The Judgment: Consequence.

· God will discipline his children: Heb 12:7-8

4. Future Redemption

· The Lord is both judge and Redeemer: Isaiah 66:22

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The Vision

Isaiah 1:1-2a

Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint Proverbs 29:18 ESV

Four Facts about Isaiah’s Vision:

1. The Vision is Objective

· This is God’s Word: Isaiah 55:10-11

· Traditions says that he was sawed in half:

· Heb 11:37

2. The Vision is Huge: Universal in scope

· God has a solution to our dilemma: Isaiah 65:17; Isaiah 66:22-23

· It affects more than humanity; it is about all Creation: Rom. 8:19-22

3. The Vision is Historical

· Jesus taught us to pray daily for “God's kingdom to come; His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven." Mt. 6:10

· There is purpose in everything; it is not random but planed. Isaiah 55:11

4. The Vision is Messiah Focused

· It speaks of the Messiah’s birth: Isaiah 7:14

· It describes His characteristics: Isaiah 9:6

· Suffering Servant: Isaiah 53:11

· Worthy of Imitation: Phil 2:5-11

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Preacher without a Pulpit Podcast: Recent Episodes

Tony Martino