Taylor's Chapel Baptist Church: Recent Episodes
God siad, "Let there be light...and there was light." God said, "Let there be this...and there was this." God said, "Let there be that...and there was that." When God spoke...it was so! The World was created by His Word, and the world and everything in it is sustained by His Word. Folks...there is tremendous power in the spoken Word!
This morning we are going to talk about another abuse of the tongue. It is an abuse of the tongue that mames and destroys people and churches left and right. And the abuse of the tongue that we are going to begin talking about today is something called "unchristian criticism"
This is Memorial Day weekend. And as I think about it, I believe many people have forgotten what Memorial Day is all about.
Paul the Apostle is on a boat headed for Rome. The boat had just recently encountered strong winds that had battered both the ship and the crew. God was gracious and allowed the boat to dock. They were spared and had been given an opportunity to find safety in the port of Fair Haven through the winter. But everyone's wants pressed against God's grace. Paul advised the captain and crew to stay in Fair Haven. He said that if they didn't they would most certaily lose everything. But they wouldn't listen. Now... God has to put everyone on their backs to force them to look up.
The Bible has a lot to say about the use and the abuse of the tongue. As a matter of fact, two of the Ten Commandments deal with the use of the tongue. The first one is, "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord Thy God in vain." And the second one is, "Thou shalt not bear false witness." And many of the other commandments are impacted by the use of the tongue. Today, we are going to spend some time talking about the incredible power of the spoken word. And more specifically, we are going to talk about "the negative power of the tongue".
Last week we talked about Paul the Apostle as he boarded the boat to Rome. And we talked about Paul's health and how he was in bad shape. We said that the Roman Centurion, Julius, looked at Paul and saw that he needed medical care...and he allowed Paul to go to his friends in Sidon. Now if Paul made a run for it...Julius would have been executed! But somewhere along the journey...the Holy Spirit had made Julius' heart tender. Paul had most likely spent time talking with him. And the Lord grew a trust and respect for Paul in Julius' heart. Tonight...we pick back up where we left off. Paul is about to board the boat again...but this time... a storm's coming.
So here we go. Paul is about to board the boat to Rome. He is clearly viewed as worthless. He is a prisoner. He has no rights. He has no authority. He has no responsibilities. His job is to wear shackles and chains...keep his mouth shut...stay out of everybody's way... and try not to take up anybody's space...time...or oxygen. He didn't get to decide which boat he would board. He didn't get to decide which seat he would sit in. He didn't get to decide when he would go to bed. He didn't get to decide when he would get up. He didn't get to decide anything! Rome had placed him on a boat of their choosing. And they had decided who would have authority over him while he traveled. Let's hear what Dr. Luke had to say.
This morning, I want you to see how Satan tempted Jesus. And he tempted him in all ways that he could. He tempted Jesus with "the lust of the flesh", "the lust of the eyes", and the "pride of life". And you can rest assured that if he tempted Jesus Christ in all these ways, he will tempt you in all these ways as well.
If you have God's Word...turn with me to Luke 4. And this morning... we'll be talking about... temptation. You know when it comes to temptation...there are three ways that you can handle it. Two of them are wrong. And only one is right.
The cost of our transgressions...the sacrifice that had to be made to make us right before God was so great! It's hard to even fathom the idea! Jesus Christ gave His life for ours on the Cross! he died for us! And it is here...in the darkness of the shadow of the cross that the Easter Story begins.
Last week, we continued talking about the healing power of prayer. And if you'l remember, we said that for prayer to have power, first there has to be a confession that proceeds it. That is, you have to get right with God before you go to Him on behalf of somebody else. And then we said that once you've done that, it is then, and only then, that we can truly intercede for somebody . It is then and only then that we can begin praying with power. This morning, as we continue in the book of James, I want you to see the illustration that James gives. It's the illustration that proves the power of prayer. And James illustrates it with Elijah.
Let me ask you something. Have you ever noticed how... when the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ is handed out...and the Holy Spirit begins working on hearts... Satan always steps up to drive doubt? I wonder... how many messages have been given... and the Holy Spirit has convicted somebody of the need to come forward and accept Jesus as Lord... Savior...and King... and Satan has leaned forward and whispered doubts into their ear?
Last week... we began talking about the "Healing Power of Prayer". And if you'll remember…we specifically talked about... the confession that precedes it. This morning…I want to spend time continuing our talk about the "Healing Power of Prayer"…but I want to change our focus a little bit and talk about the intercession that provides it. Turn with me if you will to James 5:16.
Now the message this morning is going to deal with the healing power of prayer… but I want to remind you that there is more than just the healing of the body! There are souls that need to be healed! There are churches that need to be healed! There are homes that need to be healed! There are fellowships that need to be healed! There are spirits that need to be healed! There are minds that need to be healed! And indeed …there are bodies that need to be healed!
When last we met... Procius Festus was trying to play "Peace Maker" with the Jewish Leaders. And he was attempting to convince Paul the Apostle... to go to Jerusalem to face charges being brought against him... by the Jewish Leaders. And Paul the Apostle... basically said, "Look! I am being held... in Roman ... Custody! I have broken none... of Rome's laws! Festus...you're the judge...not the Jewish leaders! I WILL NOT go to stand trial in Jerusalem... before this Jewish Leader kangaroo court! I appeal to Caesar!" Now Paul has handed out the Gospel message of Jesus Christ to Felix...Drusilla... Porcius Festus...and he is about to witness to King Agrippa and Bernice. But the question is this: Do they really want to hear from Paul the Apostle? Or do they simply want to be seen? Do they really want to attempt to understand the message Paul has to give? Or do they simply want to be entertained by Paul?
Folks...listen to me... if you have come to know Jesus Christ as your Lord...Savior... and King... you have a testimony. You can look back at your life before you knew him... and think about what it was like. You can view in hindsight... those people that God put in your path... to bring you to the Cross of Calvary! You can remember the things that you did... that you weren't proud of. You can remember the things you thought... the things you said... people you were involved with... the unrighteous deeds you partook in. And you can remember what it was like... when you found out that a man named Jesus Christ loves you. You can remember what it was like...when you found out that that He was the Son of God... and He had the power to forgive you.
Folks...the Lamb is the Lord Jesus! When you receive Christ as your personal Lord and Savior…your name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life! Now let me make something abundantly clear for everyone here today. If you have not received Jesus as your Lord and Savior …and you die before doing so…you…are … going…to…Hell! Why? Who enters heaven according to Revelation 21:27? "Only those written in the Lamb's book of life!" Listen to me! Don't come to me telling me how good of a person you are! It doesn't matter! You are either in the Book or you're not! And if you're not…then you are going to be TOTALLY separated from God and from all the Saints for eternity!
You know...I can't help but wonder…if the reason that we have so much... so-called... "Hell" in the world today …is because we have spoken so little about it in our pulpits! Most people can't remember the last time they heard a preacher stand up and expound on Hell. And as I sound the Alarm this morning... I want to tell you... I'm not speaking primarily to the lost! Most people are not saved by hearing a message on Hell. Now some may be…but I'm preaching primarily to the church! I'm preaching to those of us who ARE saved!
When last we met...Governor Felix had been relieved of his duties. Paul the Apostle is still being held prisoner. He has actually been a prisoner for two years, and up to this point in time...no one had ever proved that he had done anything wrong! As a matter of fact...Governor Felix had spent the past two years deliberating! Rather than declaring Paul guilty...Felix held him captive... in an effort to extort money from him... while he chatted with him! Now a new Governor has entered the picture. His name is Porcius Festus. And now that he has become governor...it is up to him to deal with Paul's case. Now...Festus has arrived in Jerusalem from Caesarea. The chief priests and the leaders of the Jews are already trying to convince Festus to bring Paul to Jerusalem to "stand trial" once again. The intention of the Jewish leaders though...was not to allow Paul a trial. They had plans to ambush him...and kill him...on the way from Caesarea to Jerusalem. And they were pressing hard for Festus to give him up.
I want to start off by asking you a question: Are you satisfied with where you are in life? Are you satisfied with what you have? You know what? That's a question many people answer every single day…and they're not even trying to answer it! And they don't even realize it! And yet… the answer that keeps coming back... is a resounding… "NO"!
Let me ask a question that many people have asked throughout time. What is love? Many would say, "Well preacher, God is love!" And that is a very true statement! That is probably the best definition that can be given! God is love! But how do we fully comprehend a definition like that? What does that mean? Can you explain what that means to somebody else? Can you explain what is meant by "God is love?"
Just as Boaz loved Ruth... before Ruth ever knew his name! Jesus loved us before we knew His! We love Him because… He first loved us! That's the great love that He has for us. S
Well folks… the story that we will be discussing over the next few weeks… has for us… a happy…ending. It doesn't start happy. But it ends happy. As a matter of fact…the story we have before us today starts out with a funeral…but it ends with a wedding. It starts with a famine…but it ends with fullness. Well... what is this story we are going to listen to today?It's a WONDERFUL story… about two people who get married. And at the end of this story…we just feel like we want to add a last verse to this book… and have it say…"And they lived happily ever after".
I want to start off with a question this evening? Can you be afraid of something... that you believe with all of your heart... CANNOT happen? Can you fear something... you 100% DO NOT believe?
Now this morning I want to pick up where we left off last week. Not only did these three men of God have physical problems … not only did they have psychological problems … but these two kinds of problems caused them to have a third problem! They had a spiritual problem! Now listen to me. You may think that what they did was not all that bad. I mean… after all… anybody can get tired. And there are legitimate reasons to be tired. And you can understand that anybody can get a little down from time to time and want to pout and have a pity party! Right? But listen to me… if you don't deal with those things… and if you don't watch those things… those so called little problems become big problems! And when they become big problems…they become the door through which Satan comes to bring trouble…depression and anxiety to your life in an effort to steal away your victory!
So tonight...we pick up where we left off last week. Felix and Drusilla requested an audience with Paul the Apostle. And Paul spent time talking to them about Jesus Christ. He talked to them about who Jesus is...and about what Jesus had done. Paul shared the Gospel message with both Felix...and Drusilla.Tonight...we find out what happened after they heard that message. Did they accept Him...or did they deny Him. What was their verdict...concerning Jesus Christ?
This morning... I am going to ask you to lick your fingers and get ready… because we're going to look at three separate passages of scripture… from three separate books of the Bible. Normally… we just take one passage and look at it by itself… but this morning I want you to go to three different books in the bible. We're going to be looking in the book of Numbers… the book of 1 Kings… and the book of Jonah.So first off… I want you to find Numbers 11:15. Here we find a prayer. And I want you to notice what an unusual prayer it is. As a matter of fact… all three verses that we're going to read this morning are prayers. And you're going to find out… that all three of these prayers have something in common. They're really the same prayer… just phrased differently.
So tonight...we pick up where we left off last week. Paul the apostle has taken the stand. He has given his testimony and has stated that, "He has done nothing wrong." He has contended that he has been brought into court...and he can be found guilty of only two things: (1) Loving and serving the Lord, and (2) loving and serving others. And neither of these two things are against the law. There has been no crime committed. Now it was Felix's turn. He has heard both sides. There is absolutely no evidence of wrongdoing. But what will the verdict be? Let's begin.
"Do Everything…in the name of the Lord Jesus!" Do how much? Everything! Do everything in what? Do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus! Let me ask you something this morning. What does it mean to do everything in the name of Jesus? I gonna talk about three specific things that it means this morning... to do everything in the name of Jesus.
Do Everything…in the name of the Lord Jesus! Do how much? Everything! Do everything in what? Do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus!
So tonight...we pick up where we left off last week. Paul the apostle has been hauled into court. The Jewish leaders have come to Cesarea in an attempt to convict Paul of "a wrong doing" that has been completely fabricated. And the hope is that Paul will be found guilty and condemned.We spent time last week talking about the Jewish lawyer... Tertullus...and how he attempted to paint Paul out to be a "Rebel Rouser". We talked about how everything they convicted Paul of...was actually all the things they themselves had done. And we talked about how they tried to throw the Roman commander into this fantastically concocted lie. They tried to paint Lysias as someone who was promoting civil unrest...and maybe...wanting Felix gone.At the end of the message last week... Governor Felix is about to hear the Truth. He is about to hear the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ. And once he hears it...he has to make a decision. Will he accept Jesus as Lord...Savior...and King...or will he reject him.Tertullus' time is done. Now it is Paul's turn to take the stand. Paul begins by rewinding the concocted story Tertullus had spun...and he begins to expound on the true events that had led him to this trial.
Now the Apostle Paul has finally arrived in Caesarea. The religious leaders can't reach him physically. Governor Felix...after five days...hears the case. Paul is brought into the court room. The high priest enters...his attorney by his side. Felix takes his seat...and the proceedings begin.
What is the one commitment we could make this coming year... that would turn our lives around? There is one thing that would make us better people. There is one thing that would make our families better and stronger. There is one thing that would cause this church to be a better church! There is one thing that would cause me to be a better person!
The wor "through" is a beautiful word in this passage of scripture! Why? It tells us that God doesn't just lead us into the valley and leave us there…but instead… He always brings us through it!
Family's important aren't they? What would you do without your family? I don't know where I'd be without my family. No matter what happens in my life. No matter where I am. No matter where I go. My family will always be there.Family...true family are those who are willing to walk in...and stand with you...when things get bad...and the rest of the world walks out.
It's sweet to a little child…and yet it is perplexing tothe most advanced scholar! It is quoted at funerals …AND it is quoted at weddings! It isquoted in the nursery school… and it is quoted on the battle field! The magnificence…thewonder… the awe of the 23rd Psalm is absolutely life changing!
Offer yourself this Thanksgiving to the Lord and say, "Lord…before I do anything else…I … give… you…myself…completely. Lord Thank you for your son Jesus Christ. Thank you for saving my Eternal Soul. Lord I can never repay you for such a gift as you have given me.
I'm gonna start off with a question that many of you may already know the answer to...(or at least think you do): Just who is the Lord Jesus Christ? You know…that's a question that every person will have to answer at some point in their life!
Have you ever noticed...it's when you think you know everything...or when you think you're just SO much better at something than somebody else...that the Lord serves you up a big ol' piece of humble pie?
Now if you will remember last week, Paul the Apostle had been brought into Roman custody. The Commander was trying to figure out who Paul was...and why the crowd was trying to kill him. He had already heard Paul's testimony, but the Commander still thought that there had to be more to the story. And in an effort to coerce the "truth" out of Paul...he ordered the soldiers to begin an interrogation. Let me translate that for everybody. He ordered the soldiers to scourge Paul. He ordered them to beat Paul... until Paul told him what he wanted to hear.They stretched Paul out and prepared to beat him. And once they got him stretched out... Paul said, "Is it legal for you to scourge a man who is a Roman citizen and is uncondemned?"That got the Roman Commander's attention. In an effort to ensure he didn't lose his own life by beating a Roman Citizen... who had not been convicted of a crime nor judged... the Roman Commander order the soldiers to back off. And in order to get to the truth...he ordered the Sanhedrin...the religious leaders...and the Roman soldiers to all meet together to discuss "exactly" what happened.He wanted to know the truth about (1) who Paul was...and (2) why they wanted to kill him. And he planned to hear both sides of the story with everyone together in one place. So tonight, we pick up where we left off.
The same God that raised Jesus Christ up from that grave… is the same God... who's going to raise the unsaved who are already dead and gone to Hell. And He's going to bring them up…not for relief…not for parole…but for a final judgment.
Tonight...we continue to watch the makings of a True Leader. Paul the Apostle continues to encounter the persecution of the world head on. But he continues to hand out the truth...even when the world doesn't want to hear it.
One of these days... you are going to meet Jesus Christ…one way or another. And if you don't know Him as your Lord... Savior and King…you are going to meet him in a most unfortunate way!
"What exactly is faith?" You hear people talk about "having faith". But what exactly... are they talking about?
During this time of year we are thankful for the harvest season. But the harvest usually spoken of in the scripture is a spiritual harvest. We are reminded that God is the Lord of the Harvest, that he gives the increase (yield), that the field is white and ready to be harvested, and that we are to pray for harvesters. Jesus knew the workers are few, so let us share with our family, church, work, school, and community who the Lord is and see the awakening that is building across the country with no regard to the increase, just the sowing (planting) and reaping (collecting)--for that is all we are called to do.
What did we do 100 years ago when it was night. Much of the time we looked up at the stars and moon, and were silent allowing God to revel himself to us. Today we stare at our phones and drowned out the Lords voice with lights and electricity. But someone who could not do that was Jacob before he met his brother. There at Peniel Jacob wrestled (stove) with God. He was alone, anxious, and not wanting to give in. But the Lord pursued him until Jacob admitted who he was to God, a supplanter (sinner, liar). Upon Jacobs submission, contriteness, and confession the Lord changed his name. It is the same for us today.
We are instructed in the wisdom literature to buy truth and not to sell it. And we are told that truth contains- wisdom -practical knowledge-, instruction -discipline and morals-, and understanding -discernment-. These are we to get at all costs and never to give up. Yet, we find ourselves at all stages of life trading for something. None of us is truly neutral, we are always trading our time, as limited as it could be, for something. Are we trading for truth or selling it dear for the worthless things in life--
There are many points in our lives when we just have no idea. This was my feeling as I became your pastor and had many 'firsts' and continues to be my experience. Many persons in the bible had no idea what to do or how to accomplish God's will. So, we are not alone in that feeling. In fact, we should admit more often we have no idea what we are doing or need to do, rather than depend on our own logic. We can admit we have no idea what we are to do because we know the One who does know. And He has told us what we are to do, Just Love Jesus- All the what ifs in life come into sharp contrast when we just love Him. To my first church, Taylor's Chapel Baptist, I love you, it has been the honor of my life to serve you, and you will be in my prayers and thoughts, always. Remember, you know the basics -Just Love Jesus-, figure it out quickly--you set the tone. And I'm here if you need me.
We are called to a life of sacrifice. In our society today we don't need to sacrifice much and have remained like small children. It is one of the reasons for the collapse of our culture. But we are called into a grand adventure with Christ, we are called to sacrifice our own nature for Him. Sacrifice to a higher purpose is when we find fulfillment.
Waiting is difficult, especially in our culture today. We are in a hurry for everything. To make it even worse, we have the wrong idea of what we do when we wait. We have the idea it is a time of nothingness. But the Hebrew word for wait reveals the opposite. It means that we have a hope in an anticipated outcome. But, it also means to gather, twist, or bind together. Waiting is being active. We are to be active in prayer, fellowship, scripture and service until the Lord moves and tells us what to do next.
The Holy Spirit was among us today as we were reminded that in the good times, the hard times, and all the times in between--God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. No matter what we may face, God is greater and He is in the midst of His people and shall not be moved- Finally, we are to be still and know that I am God-
Hear me O Lord, is the cry of David. It should be ours as well. As we look unto the Lord, our rock, our light, our salvation, our strength. Whom shall we fear-- Let us join with David in saying, one thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after...
We must always be ready to stand for the Lord in an evil world. We do that through the putting on -daily- the armor of God and remaining in a state of constant prayer.
Today we discuss Man's origins, spirit, soul, nature, will, fall, and future. The bible is clear that man was mad in God's image and that due to sin, we are spiritually stillborn and only come alive after we have repented and placed our faith in Jesus Christ who paid for my sins. We have a free will and can reject this offer. But God is interested in us and having a relationship with us.
Communion is a command from Jesus Christ that we are to follow. We take the bread and fruit of the vine to remember His sacrifice of a broken body and blood poured out for out sins. We take the Lords Supper to communion with God and as a body of believers. We are reminded that we should conduct a self-examination prior to taking and to be serious when we partake.
What do we know about the third part of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit. Today we are reminded that the Holy Spirit is there are our comforter, guide, helper, gift giver, intercessor, counselor, encourager, and seal. The work of the Spirit is to bring conviction to who are are not saved and guidance to those who are. We know we can grieve and quench the spirit, but we must listen and be obedient. The Spirit was active in creation, present at the conception of Jesus' earthly body, involved in the resurrection, and is at all times present in the believer. The most challenging question Christians have before them is not, 'how much of the Spirit you have,' but rather, 'hw much of you the Holy Spirit has.'
What do we know about God-- Where do we get this knowledge-- Have we put God in our little box-- God does not fit inside of what we think we know about Him. The only way to come to know Him and continue to be known by Him is to allow Him to destroy the ways we've limited him. The reality is that 'our ways are not His ways' and 'nothing is too difficult for the Lord.' 'With God all things are possible.'
Jesus Christ is God's only Son. He is God and part of the Godhead, but has unique roles and duties. We discuss what his name means and just a little about Him. He is the incantation -God in the flesh-, creator of the universe, exact living image of God, source of the universe, head of the church, born of a virgin, sinless, risen after death, coming again, reigning in heaven at God's right hand, and our atonement and redeemer. Oh what a God we serve-
God exists- He is a Spirit. God is three persons manifested as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. While God is incomprehensible He has reveled some of his attributes by which we can know some things about Him and His nature. Remember- however, Gods IS fully all these things. They are not parts of God or things that make Him up, rather they find their completeness in Him. He is- self-sufficient, Eternal, Infinite, Immutable, Omniscience, Self-Existent, Wisdom, Omnipresent, Good, Faithful, Justice Mercy , Grace, Love, Sovereign, Holy, Immanuel. For more on each of these listen to the series A Proper View of God from 2021. -https---www.sermonaudio.com-solo-taylorschapel-sermons-series-153892--
The bible in the inspired or revealed Word of God to man. It is true, accurate, without error, and allows us to know doctrine, rules, and true history. It is our ultimate guide, map, compass, sword and resource for comfort and peace in this life. We know it was recorded -by inspiration- through around 40 men, across three continents, and over 1,500 years yet each book agrees with the other and points to our need of a savior. We know it's true because the bible itself claims to be, some 2,000 prophecies have been fulfilled, history and archology support it, and we know it internally through the supernatural working of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we must abide by all of it, know it, and continually -daily- take it into our lives.
Are you rich toward God-- Are you wealthy in the world-- Don't be too quick to answer the second. We have a real problem in many societies of valuing our selves based on our stuff, money, status, or position in this life. But we won't take any of that with us when we die. Jesus Christ reveals this by speaking plainly, that we a mans life consists not in the abundance of things, bur rather where our treasure is, there our hearts will be also. Today we consider the parable of the Rich Fool and the words given in Timothy to have godliness with contentment for great gain. In sum, do you have a rich relationship with God--
We review how Daniel purposed his heart and chose to do what the Lord commanded. Here we see four things. 1 he purposed his heart, 2 he abstained from something, 3 he replaced what he abstained with something healthy, and 4 he had accountability with God and friends. We have much to learn from Daniel about our daily walks with God and even salvation.
On this Easter Sunday we remember essential doctrinal truths about Jesus Christ. He was born of a virgin, He is God, He is the atonement for our sins, and He physically rose from the dead conquering death as the first fruit. The resurrection was not spiritual or a untrue event, it is the corer stone to our hope and the justification for our salvation. God that can conquer death is a God who can do anything and is to be worshiped. His resurrection fulfilled prophecy and validated scripture. It provided irrefutable evidence He is who He claimed to be--the Son of God. It demonstrated the power of God. If Jesus didn't rise, then we of all people are to be pitied and are preaching in vain. But, He did rise from the dead after three days and today we worship Him-
During this Easter Sunday sunrise service we remember the empty tomb and celebrate that Christ is risen, he is risen indeed. We consider the road to Emmaus and what we can learn from the encounter that occurred there and how Jesus Christ witnessed to himself through prophecy, logic, miracles and the giving of the Holy Spirit. With these same witnesses and our testimony we are sent into the world to proclaim He Is Risen, Peace Be to You-
Shoes are an important part of our clothing. They help us with balance, protect our feet, give us comfort and more. But when we come before God we must be wiling to take them off and stand exposed before Jesus Christ with reference, humility, submission, and purification. It was true for Moses and Joshua and true for us today. Will we allow Him to change us-- And for those who have been brought from death to life, are you shoes fitted with the Gospel of Peace and ready to be used--
As we hear Easter we begin to focus, rightly, on the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Here, in John we give pause as we see several Greeks who desire to see Jesus after his Triumphal entry into Jerusalem just before Passover. Who are these men-- How are they different from the Scribes, Pharisees, Hebrews, Romans, and others-- We see that Christ is glorified by God explains that he must be lifted up so that the whole world is drawn to him. Praise the Lord he is the God over everyone regardless of race, age, sex, bloodline, pedigree. Jesus Christ is the King of all and wants to save everyone from their sins.
At the conclusion of this series we ask an important question, what is our goal and how do we know if we have reached it. Many Christians and churches have erred in this question either relying on earthly metrics while shunning the spiritual or often wandering without direction spiritually. In this sermon we attempt to layout areas we need to spiritually assess our health -community, family, church, and ourselves- while providing practical analysis of our progress. Are you closer to the Lord Jesus Christ than you were this time last year--
Who are you-- What is your identity-- Society is focused on 'me' and the identities we take on- wife, husband, child, parent, republican, democrat, student, tall, short and so on. We take on many roles and identities in life, but the primary question is at my core, who am I-- If you've been saved by God then you are a child of the king, a new creation, a friend of Christ, an heir of the kingdom. We must have this be at the core of who we are and layer our other duties and identities on this base. However, for those who do not know Him, the scriptures tells us we are the enemy of God. Do you know who you are-- Does the the world know who you are by the way you act--
Most people don't get the rest their bodies need. This leads to all types of problem -impaired cognitive functions, stress, anxiety, depression, - weakened immune systems-. But it is often the same with the spiritual nature of our lives. We don't 'rest' in Him often enough. While we are not under the law and not required to keep the Sabbath the practice of devoting a time of rest that is Holy to the Lord is very beneficial to us. Chris told us, 'The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.' Will you entered into the Sabbath rest that Christ finished and entered into some day-- Until then, will you take the time to rest with the Lord content in Him--
Dehydration effects 75- of us and most of us don't even realize it. The impact leads to fatigue, foggy memory, irritability, seeking salty food, and looking for the problems with the way we feel in all the wrong places. Spiritually, we are often the same way. When we quench the spirit that has given us a soft heart in place of the rock and fail to have allow the holy spirit to renew us, we find our selves in a dry land dehydrated spiritually.
To avoid muscle atrophy -weakening- and to be able to do all the things we want to do in life, we must exercise. That is not always a pleasant experience and we would rather stay like we are. But, dynamic equilibrium tells us that we never say in a consistent state, we are either growing or declining. The same is true for us spiritually. We are either pressing on, contending, growing, workout, being strong and courageous, and standing- or we are weakening. How strong are you spiritually today-- Are you working out your own salvation-- Are you more active in your faith than you were last year or last month-- No matter our age or station in life, we all have ways we need to be stretching and working out ourselves--spiritually.
Do you have spiritual nourishment-- Jus as we must eat the right type and amount of food to help us live, we also most intake spiritual food. We do that through 1- scripture, 2- prayer, 3- fellowship with other believers, and 4- thinking on what is good. Too many of us fill out lives with junk food and things that are not food for us. Many many not even realize they are hungry, empty or malnourished until it's too late. What are you filling your life with-- Don't go hungry seek the lord, be full and taste and see the Lord is good-
Obedience and Submission are not synonymous. Obedience is following orders or commands externally out of a sense of duty--can can be done unwillingly -like when we pay taxes or follow certain laws-. Submission is yielding to power or authority internally out of a sense of respect--that is done willingly out of respect and love. We are to be both obedient and submissive to God- Christ molded this perfectly for us through obedience to death on a cross and by perfect submission to His Father 'not by will, but thine be done.- Are you obedient and submissive to the Lord--
In the 1990s a popular wristband asked What Would Jesus Do or WWJD-- There were meant to remind us that we being Christians are to be Christ-like or mini-Christ's. But too few of us actually know what Christ is like to know how we are to act, behave, or think. Today we review some of what we know about Christ. He is compassionate, serious, focused, a servant, submissive and obedient to His Father, loving, honest and truthful, prayerful, peaceable, intimate, strong, meek, a leader, patient, and relatable. From this we can learn to be more like Him-
The scripture teaches us to sanctify the Lord God in our hearts and to be always ready to give an answer -or defense- to anyone that asks you a reason for the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. Today we review what this verse means and asks the question, are you ready--
After we are saved God makes us Ambassadors for Christ. We represent him in this foreign culture. We are to seek to honor him and not promote our own welfare. We carry the gospel message of reconciliation to a lost world and are to do so while being as wise as snakes but as innocent as doves through the power of the Holy Spirit.
We have our own vernacular -or church words- that are often assumed to be understood. But a great many both within the church and without don't know what it means when we say they need to be saved. Saved from what-- Save for what-- Today we discuss what salvation is, why it is such an important concept, and what we should do about it. We are reminded that God created each one of us special and he desires to have a personal intimate relationship with each of us. However, sin had divided us and separated. The only way back is through Jesus Christ who paid our debts and reconciled us to God. Thus, He delivers us from our own sin before we knew we needed him. Yet for those of us who have been 'saved' we are continue in our salvation to be closer to him. We cannot retire on God or stop participating in the Christian life.
Jesus Christ said, blessed -happy- is the poor in spirit. This sounds counterintuitive until we realize that to meet Christ -to be saved- we must not depend on our own happiness, but rather have total dependence on Him. We spend most our lives trying to be happy and wondering why we are not happy. We peruse pleasure, wealth, fame, status, pride, laziness, lust and more just to fill the empty void. What we must do is allow the emptiness to be filled by God and change us from the inside out.
We look unto Psalm 111 for instruction, guidance, and comfort today. We see that we are to Praise the Lord with all our heart in both good and hard times, to share that praise with others, to study the works of the Lord, and remember the things he has done. We know he has given us everything we need, compassion, a covenant that he will never leave us, a heritage. All of this comes from his truth and justice--Jesus Christ. Let us be thankful today and fear God so we might partake in his wisdom.
There is much wisdom to be gained from the conversation God had with Cain. We are reminded that failing to do what God requires is sin and that sin is crouching at the door waiting to kill, steal, and destroy our lives. All too often we invite sin in thinking we can handle it or control it. But that is not the case, sin is a wild animal waiting to ambush and devour us. Rather, we are to acknowledge we are in sin, have faith in Him, and seek forgiveness. Because, not matter how 'good' we are we can never be good enough, we must draw our strength in the battle of sin from Jesus--who conquered sin.
As we consider what 2023 brought and look ahead to 2024 this New Year I encourage you to just open the bible and read. God will reveal himself through the His inspired Word -Old and New Testament-. The word will never fail, never vanish, and will not return void. It is able to divide our thoughts from intentions and is profitable for instruction, conviction, and correction. I encourage everyone to search for and listen to The Daily Audio Bible to help you listen read through the word of God in a year.
At Christmas we celebrate the coming of the Messiah- which, in Hebrew means anointed one or chosen one. In Greek we translate it to Christos. So we when say Jesus Christ we are saying Jesus the Messiah. After the fall of Man God foretold he would send a Messiah to redeem us to him. Today we look through some of the Old Testament prophesies that reveal Jesus is the long awaited Messiah-
Have you allowed someone to steal, kill, or destroy your Joy-- Have you yourself killed you joy-- All too often we allow others or are our own worst enemy. But at this time of year we pause to remember that the great 'I Am' has come that we may have life and that we may have it more abundantly. Let us follow after David and repent, be obedient, and ask for the joy of our salvation to be restored unto us.
Hell is real. It is the place where we are separated from God and punished for our sins. This is the default position for all mankind. The only way out, is provided through Jesus Christ. We must be saved or born again as a new creature to stay out of hell at the end of our lives. We must all enter through the narrow gate, but few will find it. Have you--
What do we know about heaven and how much of what we think we know is untrue-- Today we consider what is know about heaven. We know heaven is real and that only those who are saved will be there. We know we will spend eternity with God without the impact of sin. We also know this is not automatic and many who say Lord Lord, will not enter the kingdom of heaven. In this brief sermon we try to describe what is true and untrue about heaven.
God ordained priests during the Old Testament to serve as an intermediary between the Lord and His people. However, Christ, as the great High Priest sacrificed himself and is seated on the right hand of God. We no longer need priests, but can communicate directly to God. Those who are saved are the priesthood of believers and should make spiritual sacrifices, do good works, live as a sacrifice and be obedient to Him.
We discuss the encounter Jesus had with the 10 Leper. All were physically healed, but only one was spiritually healed--the one who returned and was thankful. Are you thankful today-- Are you publicly thankful for the spiritual things God has done in your life--
The Lord gives us burdens for Him and to do His work. When we listen to the voice of God he directs us. Is your course right-- Is the power of the Lord upon your life-- We need pastors and Christians to follow the Lord and despites improbable odds, we will experience the growth of the Lord.
We somehow think we really know something about ourselves but do we-- Even more concerning is that we think we are capable to know the Lord, but we can't. Job thought he understood something until heaven broke it's silence and the Lord spoke to Job. Then he realized, as we must, that we stand before an all mighty God who knows the way.
We live in the physical world and spend most of our time working for it. We labor at jobs to make money, gain status, build a resume and accumulate possessions. We often forget to grow in our spiritual work. Spiritual work are things that are not physical, but are what God requires of us- Prayer, Scripture, Faith, Teaching, Preaching, Mercy, Love, Council, Correction, Encouragement are just a few. This is where we prove our faith and earn an inheritance and reward. Let us focus on our spiritual gifts, talents, and work so we can be rich toward Him.
We war against the inner-self -man of flesh-. We must strive for the spiritual self to win out. This is hard and must be done continuously. You don't have to get it right, you've just got to want it.
As we continue with our revival effort we are reminded to not only listen to the voice of God and to abide in Him, but that His works are super-natural. In the sense that God rarely operates in the natural man, but spiritual. Do we even know what is spiritual-- What happens when we are discouraged like Elijah-- All too often we look for God in all the wrong places, yet he calls us with a still small voice to do supernatural -i.e. spiritual- works through obedience to Him. It is no wonder we are anxious and feel overwhelmed, we need to let the work of faith have it's way in our lives.
Jesus is the Vine and we are to depend on him for our sustenance and support. Without him we will never produce fruit, but with him we will produce much fruit. Are we dependent on Him for your direction-- Are you willing to set aide what you want and to allow him to prune you so that you grow-- When we do, we bring glory to our Father.
The world sells us a bill of goods, its seductive voice calls us to follow it rather than listen to and be obedient to the Lord. It was true before and is true today. Consider how often you would rather engage with social media, movies, phones, or anything at all, instead of the Lord. In a very real sense we are like Pharaoh saying, -Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go-- I know not the Lord...-
Do you know God's voice-- Many people are trying to pull us in different directions, away from the one true voice. All creation recognizes the voice of the savior. We must 'be still, and know that I am God' if we are to hear. Then, we must follow the voice of God at all times.
Do we know what love is-- We often think it is a feeling or something you fall into. But, love is a choice and something you do. We learn in the 'Love Chapter' how we are to love and how we are not to. We are reminded in Colossians to choose to put off the old self and put on love. We also remember that Christ loved us first and is waiting and longing for us to love him back- What will you do today--
God has given each of us a talent. These are gifts directly from him and to be used for his purpose. The question is are we using his gifts or have we burred them in the ground-- Today we consider the parable of the talents and invite everyone to consider the servants and their use of of what the Lord gave them. Asking are you a believer like the first two or an unbeliever like the third who was lazy and afraid of the master. Will you hear well done though good and faithful servant or depart from me and be cast into outer darkness--
What is man that you are mindful of him-- The psalmist David asks and gives us the answer. We need to look up and consider the stars and moon and understand that God, even as creator of all thinks of about me and you and cares for us--individually.
Here we have the Hallel Psalms -Praise-, traditionally sung during Passover. It is very likely that the hymn Jesus and the disciples sang after the Lord Supper was Psalm 118. Here we see the glorious revelation that Jesus is the chief corner stone and consider what it must have been like for Christ to lead the disciples in this song knowing it was about to be fulfilled.
God created the world and everything in it- then he made us. We are made in his image and likeness which means that we resemble him with our reason, will, acts, speaking, and knowledge. Why did he carefully craft us and breath live and spirit into us-- So that we can have a relationship with Him.
We are a new creation in Christ, the old is gone, behold all things are new. Do we understand what this means-- Do we live this way-- Let us not return to our old ways and habits but live into the newness that Christ purchased for us.
How often do we measure and compare ourselves against ourselves or others-- If we do that, then we will always be good, ahead, right, like others, cutting others out, and more. It leads to jealousy, pride, self, poor character, and other follies. What we need is to measure ourselves against a standard- the requirements of God and character of the Redeemer.
What is God's Love Language-- Have you ever considered how we show God we love him-- Obedience is what we are called to. By being obedient to him we prove our love for him, glorify him in a fallen world, and allow him to demonstrate his love and devotion for us. We do this not because we have to, but because we want to. Obedience above acts of service, gifts, quality time, or words of affirmation -praise- God deserves and expects our obedience. Our obedience to him is how we express and communicate our love love- obedience is God's Love Language.
Today we celebrate and honor our Grandparents and remember that our inheritance begins now. Not one of money or property, but the gift and example of love, joy, character, wisdom, humility, obedience, legacy, a good name, knowledge, temperance, patience and so many other qualities. Grandparents, are you giving your inheritance now to your children- children are you receiving the inheritance by example-- Always remember the spiritual inheritance we have through Christ Jesus, our salvation.
There is power in the Word of God. It was not contrived by men nor is it the result of man's impulse, will, or desires. It was inspired by God and written by men who were moved, influenced, and carried along by the Spirit. The Bible is true, accurate, and Holy. The scriptures can make one wise unto salvation. They are a constant source of power in this dark world and in the dark heart until the daylight dawns and the Morning Star returns-
As we close this series on the Christian -Incremental- Graces we are implored not to be idle or unfruitful or else we are blind, unable to see or even recognize these graces--a dangerous place to be. We may still be saved, but if we forget our sins and what the Lord has done for us. Rather we are encouraged to give diligence -haste- to make our calling and election sure. That is, having confidence in our faith and His sacrifice. Then one day we will enter into heaven with a great reward as all these graces are preformed -as a dance- perfectly with no sin, praise the Lord-
After a saving faith in Christ we are encouraged to supplement the faith with Virtue, Knowledge, Temperance -Self-Control-, Patience -Endurance-, Godliness -Piety-, Brotherly Kindness and Charity -Love-. These Graces are discussed today with particular application to our daily lives.
Here we find that faith is presupposed as necessary and different than other the other graces. That is because His grace and our faith is what brings us forgiveness and reunites us with God. We must have experienced this saving faith if we are to continue any further. Once we have faith we are add -supplement- virtue. Virtue may be described as excellence, morality--that which is abstaining from vice -wrong- and doing that which is right. Our society has flipped virtue, our moral compass is 180 degrees off. However, we must stand firm and be actively modeling the virtue that Christ demonstrated for us. So that when the world comes to its senses we are still here on the Rock that is Christ firm in our virtue as we seek to be more like Him.
Through the precious promises of Jesus Christ we have been bestowed -or gifted, partakers- a portion of His Devine nature. We are no longer in rebellion, prideful, sinful, arrogant- have been redeemed, forgiven, reconciled, adopted, and transformed. Then gifted with his grace and virtue unto godliness. We are therefore called with diligence -haste, eagerness, swiftness- to add -enhance, supplement, minister unto- the graces of faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. But we are to use all of these graces, one not being more important than another. Just a two dance together or play in instrumental together producing true beauty- so we are not to lack in one, but use all the graces for his glory.
We share a precious faith with the Saint's of old and with all who will come later. It was obtained through Jesus Christ and His grace and peace are multiplied to us even though we don't deserve it. It comes through knowledge--a deep, intimate, experiential knowledge of Christ we gain through the Spirit, scripture, and time with the Lord. It is not mere head knowledge, but a heart knowledge that gives us everything we need to follow Him and the examples of virtue and glory He left for us.
Joshua brings Israel together at Shechem to renew the covenant and offers them a choice, serve the idols of the land or the one true God. We all worship something, it is hardwired into us, and if you are not serving God, then you are serving something -self, money, power, position, looks, alcohol, drugs, work, health, sex, environment, children--something-. We cannot simply say, -God forbid- No, we must serve only the Lord by renouncing all competitors, for he is a jealous God and serving in fear, sincerity, and truth. We also cannot do it alone- we need the Lord's help. Let us follow the example of Joshua and say, -But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.-
Isaiah warns us, 'wow unto them that call evil good, and good evil'. Our culture today not only does what is wrong, but calls sin good and biblical morality bad. The truth is that things will get worse as we willingly -exchange- or ignorantly -confuse- God's commands. What is to be done-- Turn to and know the scriptures and the Spirit of God that will lead us unto all truth and righteousness.
Proverbs provides the wisdom we need to live a life that honors Christ. It tells us, 'A soft answer turns away wrath- but grievous words stir up anger.- From this we learn that we are to answer, but that our answer should be tender, gentle, kindly and conciliatory. When we answer that way, it deflects anger but a harsh answer allows anger to flare up. We see many examples of this in the scripture including the prefect example, Christ who had no guile in his mouth when he bare our sins in his own body.
God's creation makes it known to everyone that He is the creator and is to be worshiped -general revelation-. But we deny God and worship ourselves or creation. What we need is to experience His invisible attributes expressed clearly seen in His workmanship because if we fail to, we are without excuse. And because all are without excuse we urgently need to share the full gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world.
Many of us reflexively believe that when things are going well God is pleased with us and when things are not going good, God is not happy. But we are never promised an easy life--such as is taught by those claiming a prosperity -name it and claim it- false gospel. Rather, we are told seek him first and reminded, like the Psalmist, 'give me neither poverty nor riches.' An abundant life does not the Lord's blessing just as a sparse and difficult life doe not indicate the Lord's displeasure. Life is hard, full of challenges, disappointments, trials, and struggles. Often we don't look back and reflect on the blessings that God gives during those hard times. And sometimes we never see the blessings -the excess- until later, and some never until we receive our eternal reward.
The scripture reveals that we are the Apple of God's Eye. The Lord is not in a far off or distant place, but the Holy Spirit is close, just before us. We are cherished by Him, as one who gazes intimately into our eyes- We know this because the Hebrew word for apple is 'ishon' meaning 'the little man of the eye,' which is our own reflection seen as we intently look into the eyes of another. Through this we learn that -a- God is close to us, -b- God protects us, -c- God values us, and -d- all as we turn our eyes upon Jesus and look full in his wonderful face the things of earth will grow strangely dim In the light of his glory and grace.
The scriptures clearly teach us not to say, 'let us eat and drink for tomorrow we die,' and reminds us that 'bad company corrupts good morals'. Today we are reminded that we must not allow friends, family, pastors, governments, others, and even ourselves to lead us astray and allow our good morals to be corrupted. Rather we stand on what is right and wrong, true and false. There is an afterlife and we must be prepared for it.
The Holy Spirit is the giver of the Fruits of the Spirit in a believers life- Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-control. We can never have too much of these and they are always in season. But, which ones need to be cultivated in our lives and do we attribute negative events to our lack of fruit-- The more we grow and cultivate these attributes the more we are ready to respond to any situation, trial, circumstance, or test.
Here we review Palm 90 by Moses. In it we learn that God is eternal and creator of the earth. To Him a thousand years is like a day, and we are like the grass. Our best efforts in quickly in a whispered sigh and are utterly significant in this world compared to history. So, we are to number our days that we may cultivate and bring God a heart of wisdom.
What is the church, why is it important. The Scriptures reveal that it is the pillar and foundation of the truth. The church is the structure that God uses to hold up and hold forth the truth -the gospel of Christ- to the world. On this Homecoming Sunday we are reminded of how important it is to stand stand for the truth in a lost world and why we gather together to worship, fellowship, and serve our risen Lord.
Do we need to clean up our lives before we come to God-- Can we live a lift so well or so good that God will forgive and save us-- What about after we are saved, can we earn God's blessing on ourselves, or are we still under His Grace--
In addition to the seven I Am statements that Jesus Christ gives in the book of John -e.g., the bread of life, light of the world, good shepherd, gate, resurrection, way truth and life, vine- we also have several occurrences where Christ declares to be THE I AM, that is God. Since Jesus was in fact God incarnate, how then shall we live in response to that--
On this Easter Sunday as we celebrate the victory that was won at Calvary we consider the last proclamations by John the Baptist about Jesus Christ. We see a humble man who knew his role was to decrease so Christ could increase, that Jesus is above all and from above with all things under his authority. Finally he boldly proclaims, the one who believes has eternal life-
Did John the Baptist loose faith or doubt who Christ was-- It's hard to say for certain but we do know he asked for confirmation and received glorious works and healings by Christ that fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies. Today we can join John in examining Christ, his actions, and his claims to know 'are you the one'--
Jesus Christ was baptized by John the Baptist. This point marks the beginning of his ministry on this earth and is the point at which the Spirit of God rests on him. John witnessed to these things explaining that God had told him to look for these signs which fulfill many of the prophecies by Isaiah and others. We also see all three parts of the Godhead active at once with unity in purpose.
John the Baptist proclaimed Jesus Chris as the lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world- Today we consider how Christ is able to take up and take away our sins and pardon and cleanse us from our sin once and for all through the power in his blood as a perfect sacrifice.
John the Baptist came to prepare the way of the Lord and make his paths straight. God sent John to be the forerunner of Jesus Christ and to preach repentance. Today we learn great lessons from John's message to straighten our walk, remove obstacles, and fill in the dips so we are ready for what the Lord wants to do with us.
Today we consider, mercy. It denotes an underserved pardon. We know that God is rich in mercy, that he gives freely, daily, and without reserve to those who approach him in faith. Let us call upon the name of the Lord and seek the mercy He gives.
Are we too quick to pass over the grace of God-- Do we understand our state before the Holy one and our need for grace-- The grace of Christ is what saves us and disciplines, comforts, and helps us throughout this life.
What does it mean to be a man-- Our society seems to be at war with the idea of manhood. It could be because men have been too often absent or abusive. What is needed today is for men to be on guard, stand firm in the faith, act like men, and be strong. And just as important to do all that in love. Today we challenge boys and men to choose to develop strength, courage, character and to live as a warrior, provider, protector, leader and with the purpose that Christ modeled and commanded, to be manly.
What can we learn from the parable of the ninety-and-nine sheep and the one who went missing-- We learn that Christ, the great Shepheard, loves us and is wiling to come find the one who is lost so we can be found-
What are you pursuing-- Are you pursuing knowledge-- Fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge and is a necessary for success in life. I preach on this topic to the Baptist Campus Ministry at MTSU.
In this message we are reminded of the importance of Christ's shed blood. It is the only source of remissions of sin and the way that we come to true fellowship with God and with each other.
The early church continued steadfastly in prayer. Prayer is essential to our lives and is the way we talk with God. Prayer is an act of worship, obedience, and the source of our strength when tempted. Christ modeled for us prayer by act and word. We need to ensure our prayers are not hindered by sin, flesh, selfishness, unbelief, or conflict.
As we continue considering what the early church did, we look to doctrine. Biblical doctrine are the teachings that align with scripture. We are instructed to devote our selves to correct doctrine continually and purposely. This is vital for us, as the way that we think impacts how we act.
Christian fellowship is vital to the health of individuals and the church. We need to be with each other, just as God chose to be with us at creation and Christ selected disciples to work with Him. We are told to consider, thoughtfully, how to stir one another up in love and good works--together. But we can't do that if don't want to 'bother' others or think we don't need help. Rather, let us commune together and all the more as we see the day approaching so that we can build the body of Christ so that the world knows Christ through our unity.
This Christmas day we celebrate Jesus Immanuel, God with us. This is a great mystery, that he was fully God and fully man, living among us- The Incarnate God was willing to live as on of us, so he would save us. Now, God is seated that the right hand of God and the Holy Spirit is in the world, and if you are saved, the Holy Spirit lives inside of you. The question of all questions remains, 'who do you say I am'--
It was phosphide long ago by Micah that Jesus Christ would be born in Bethlehem. However, little town of Bethlehem was of no significance, yet God saw fit to use it. We are the same, of not lasting importance or significance, yet God wants to know us and use us. Will you obey today--
We continue our look at Old Testament prophesies about Christs' birth. Today consider the rod -or root- of Jesse that grows out of the stump to become Christ and some of his characteristics described in Isaiah.
The virgin birth of Jesus Christ is essential doctrine to who Christ is and why he is able to be our perfect sacrifice. Christ had to be fully man and fully God, yet without sin and therefore, could not be born from a man -Joseph- or he would be under the sin curse -nature- from Adam and the fall.
Let us center ourselves on Christ, and his coming. Remembering that we were walking in darkness until the Light of the world came as a baby to remove the oppressive yoke of sin and blindness so that we may know Him. He truly is our wonderful counselor, mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.
What are we thankful for today-- We should remember that we are to be thankful in any circumstances, even when we are not thankful for every event. There is an importance difference. And when we consider what Christ did on our behalf we should be thankful always, for 'this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.-
Our culture is obsessed with identities. We all want to choose our identity as it suites us and only include people like us while shunning those outside our group. But, how should a Christian identify-- Christ gave us a new commandment, that we are to love has he loved and then told us that the world will identify us by our love for one another. We need to live into this new command and ensure we are loving our brothers and sisters so the world will know who we are and say, -see how these Christians love one another.-
What are you looking at-- Is it the author and finishers of our faith- Jesus Christ-- Where we focus indicates what we are paying attention to and what we look at is the direction we go. Just as Christ had to look at the Father and do his will, so we today must stare at our Father and do his will in full obedience.
The fruit of the Spirit is the good work that the Holy Spirit grows and cultivates inside of us. When we yield to the Spirit we will bring forth- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Does your character reflect these fruits-- If not, what is standing in the way-- Are you obedient to Him-- How can you submit to the Spirit and allow Him to produce these spiritual fruits in you--
My father owns the cattle on a thousand hills, says the Psalm. How wonderful it is to know my father owns it all, I don't own anything. It is not my car, house, job, money, family, not even myself- We are not called to heatless worship and routinely giving away what isn't ours. But to to be thankful, repay my vows, and to acknowledge my dependence on him. God wants the only thing he has given us control over, ourselves- Obedience is what he desires and deserves.
We all know the idiom, 'You Reap what you Sow' commonly called the Law of the Harvest. Often it has a negative connotation, but it is also positive. If you need more patience, peace, love, prayer, help, encouragement, joy, blessings in your life- then, you should give those things to others as much as Christ has given you. And never grow wearing in doing good, but look to the Lord who supplies every need.
We consider the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant today. He received forgiveness of a debt the could never pay, yet was unmerciful to someone's who owed him very little. We are reminded both of the penalty that Christ paid for us, and warned to forgive our brothers and sisters.
Did Moses wear a veil to conceal the fading glory of the Lord-- We explore this and inquire of the veil of false pretense Christians wear the the veil of sin that keeps nonbelievers from the Lord.
Reading the Philippian letter we are reminded to think about what is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous, and praiseworthy. By focusing on these things, we can stand, rejoice, not be anxious, have the peace of God that passes all understanding, and know his will.
King Manasseh, one of the most horrible and evil men to ever live, experienced an extraordinary turn to God after he humbled himself and repented. He then removed the sin in his life and the land, sacrificed and worshiped God, lead the people back to God and was happy.
The Lord's Supper, The Lord's Table, Communion, Eucharist - all refer to the same act, that of obeying the commend of Christ to follow his example. We are to remember, submit, be thankful, celebrate, and give thanks that Jesus' blood of the new testament, which is shed for the remission of sins.
My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts, says the Lord. And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine, say the Lord in Isaiah 55. So why do we listen to our hearts and lean on our own understanding-- We are bounded by time, evilness, ourselves, and this physical work. God is not bound by anything and can provide all the answers. Stop trusting yourself and seek His thoughts and commune with Him. Stop trying to get saved, but confess and repent.
The Psalmist beautifully reminds us that in a time when everything is uncertain, when we are scared, when the world seems coming to a close, when nation fight against nation. We should always remember, God is our refuge, a very present help in trouble, therefore we will not fear. Moreover, we should be still -stop our striving, business, frantic activity, fighting- and just be quite and know the Lord-
Here we consider Rahab's confession, faith, and actions. We have the same opportunity today and must consider what we know about the Lord, confess Him to be the one true God, and then act to demonstrate our faith. We are also reminded that we all have value no matter our past.
How do you face uncertainty in your life-- What if you don't know every step-- We are to know his word, be strong, be courageous and follow after him. Never forget to build a monument after he has carried you through. We examine Joshua and the Hebrews as they cross the river Jordan to reach the promise land and consider how farther along we will know all about it.
The Word or Logos is is alive, active, and the source of power in the scriptures. It is the Spirit of God that works in us to bring us to repentance and faith in Him so we can be saved.
Do you know the way of blessing and righteousness-- Psalm 1 gives the answer. We must renounce our relationship with the ungodly, sinners, and scornful while delighting in the law and meditating on it day and night. Only then will we be planted like a tree by the grace of a God who loves us.
The Scriptures tell use to be generous with all, even our enemies. God has been generous to us, giving life, finances, time, emotions, friendships, and most importantly His son. We should imitate God and be generous to others in our good works.
Concerned on the state of the world and the war between Russia and Ukraine we present some thoughts on- The Cause of War-Sin, Rumors of War, Living Peaceably with all-as far as it depends on you, Moral Panics - Virtue Signaling, and are reminded-God is not on our side. Instead, we are to live the Fruit of the Spirit, be ready, be transformed, and be on His side.
Sin is something we don't like to talk about- but understanding how we 'miss the mark' is essential for salvation and daily living. We can not believe in sin, ignore it, excuse it, and try to move the target, but we still will fail the standard because we don't set the standard. God has told us, 'to be holy as He is holy' - a positive command to bring us back to a relationship with Him.
Today we take a closer look at the Beatitudes to understand the characteristics of the Christian life. How we should act and the rewards and blessings -happiness- that come spiritually. We also receive encouragement when we are persecuted, attacked, and on trial for living righteously.
Let's be honest, we're not alright- We are anxious, worried, burdened, busy, distracted, overwhelmed, and troubled by many things. We must learn from Martha, Mary, and Jesus how to choose the good and better part- the one thing that is necessary, that matters, and will not be taken away-service to our Lord. Choose Him first because that's what's better for us -our advantage-, will last eternally, and all these 'other' things will be added unto you.
The Kingdom of Heaven is like Yeast- it beings small but increases, influences from within and not without, works invisibly but is evident, and takes time.
Are you being transformed by the renewing of your mind- Or are you being conformed, molded, patterned after the world and this present age- Only the power of God can break the mold at salvation and only with the Lords help can we continue to walk after Him in all His ways.
Did Christ call the Canaanite Woman a dog- Far from it- What we see is a lesson in her Worship, Persistence, Humility, and Faith collaborating with Jesus's Love, Power, Mercy, and Grace. It's a beautiful account with lessons for salvation and seeking help in our present trouble.
We must follow the warning God gave Cain, -...sin is crouching at the door. It's desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.- This is still true today, we must--through faith in Christ--overcome sin and not give it a foothold to dominate and rule over us.
The consolation of Israel that Simeon waited for was Jesus Christ. We wait today and listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit that we might be found righteous, devout and in the Spirit.
Most people are dehydrated, and few even know it. Today we explore if you are spiritually dehydrated and what you can do about it. Spiritual dehydration may be because you are unsaved and dead in your sins. But even the saved allow sin and failure to renew themselves to quench the Spirit.
Do we rely on science and research to make spiritual decisions- Has science crept into our churches and into our lives taking the place of our true worship of God- Does our search for knowledge and truth in science lead us to the same path as the original sin in the garden- I'm afraid yes. We must not worship science, but God through scripture and in spirit.
We bring to a close our sermons on the attributes of God. But, not because we have reached the end of them or because we have mastered our understanding of them. Today we discuss Immanuel, God with Us, as we prepare for Christmas and reflect on how a proper view of God will lead us to say -That I might know Him' and avoid the downward course of humanity.
A proper view of God requires we wrestle with the concept of sovereignty and holiness. Do we have free will and how can a sovereign God allow us to do things contrary to his good pleasure- We also struggle to understand that God is Holy. He is separate but we can be holy as he is holy if we have faith in Him.
God's grace is His unmerited favor canceling our debt. He did this because of His Love. God is Love and we know, His love has no beginning, no end, is infinite, has no limit, is faithful and more. All of God's attributes are expressed in his Love toward us--that he loved us first.
We continue our exploration of who God is with a look at Justice and Mercy. Justice is what should be and dispensing of punishment for what is not. Mercy God's compassionate love toward us. We all deserve justice for our sin, but Jesus Christ and God's Mercy provides a way for justice to be fulfilled.
God is good- That statement rings true in all ways and for all time, 'No one is good except for God.' Why did he care for us, create us, send His Son to die for us--not because we deserved it, but because He is good. God is also faithful. He protects us from evil, limits temptations, forgives sin and sanctifies us and will do so because he keeps his promises.
We continue to explore a right way to think of God. Today we describe that God is Wisdom, His Omnipotence, - Omnipresence. God has our highest welfare in mind, the wisdom to plan it, and the power to achieve it-
As we continue our exploration of who God is so that we may have a proper view of Him and thus honor and worship Him as we ought, we consider several more attributes today. God is immutable- that is He does not change. God is Omniscience- that is He knows everything. God is self-existing- He did not come from anywhere.
We continue our study of who God is- perusing a proper view of Him so we can give Him Honor and Thanks or Worship. We proclaim God as Self-sufficient- the father has life in himself and He does not need anything. God is Eternity- from everlasting to everlasting. He is outside of time and has no beginning. He is Infinite- limitless, boundless, and immeasurable. And yet, he choose to give us grace, mercy, love, peace, and hope- Oh how wonderful our God-
We continue our study of who God is- perusing a proper view of Him so we can give Him Honor and Thanks or Worship. We proclaim God as incomprehensible- as in not the same or resembling the created. Ultimately, we cannot describe God with reason and logic, but we can know him through faith and love. Then, we consider attributes of God- something true about Himself that He revels to us through creation, Scripture, - Christ. These are not parts of God, but a unified nature. He is not part love and part wrath, but both together- Incomprehensible, right-
-They knew God, but did not honor Him as God or give thanks to Him. -This is how the downfall of a society begins. Next we develop futile thinking, become foolish with darkened hearts, exchange God for idols, are given up to our lusts and a depraved mind saturated with sin. We know better--through creation, but choose self, greed, hate, deception, and a debased mind. The only way out of the destruction of culture is the proper fear, honor, and worship of God- resulting in filling of the Spirit.
Are you pleasing to God- It's an important question, one with an eternal reward and one that guides us as we live each day. Is it your constant ambition to please Him- We need a shift in mind-set to reconsider what we do on a moment by moment basis and understand what is pleasing to the Lord. It involves bringing every thing that we do -social media, video, music, motives, games, time- captive to Him.
The Scriptures tell us there is eternal life. A life after this physical body dies. We will spend eternity in one of two places, heaven or hell. Christ died to save us so we could begin our 'life' now and spend eternity with Him. -Do you believe this-- A vital question that we must ask ourselves.
Have you considered that the same stars and moon we see in the night sky today is the same Adam and Eve, Noah, Isaiah, Daniel, and even Jesus looked at- They have been the same, just a God has remained the same yesterday, today and forever. Importantly, the Spirit that indwells believers is the same that was before creation and will be after the moon and stars are gone.
The Scriptures admonish us to lay aside both weight and sin so we can run the race. It is often easy to see the sin we need to stop, but what about the weight -burden, hinderance- that we carry with us- If we are to be ready to run the race we must lay aside our burdens--even the 'good' burdens we carry and focus on Christ.
Hearsay is telling what you don't know firsthand. Here's the question, what do you know about God that someone else has not told you- Are you relying on what others have told you, or do you know God-
We need to be more like Enoch, who -1- walked with God, -2- pleased God, and -3- witnessed for God. Only when we daily fellowship with Him, obey him, and have faith in Him, will we truly be able to enjoy Him, fellowship with Him, and serve Him.
What is the chief end of man- This is a vital question for all of us to ponder and ensure we are living correctly. This is very true for those seeking to know the Lord's purpose for their lives. We tend to make life about us -me, myself, - I- neglecting our duty to glorify the Lord- Answer- Man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever.
For those who are lost and unsaved won't you try again- The Lord rewards those who diligently seek him. If you have never been satisfied with the your standing before the Lord, try again- Like Abraham, the Widow, and the Neighbor--try again until he answers you- For those who have been saved, don't give up on others--try again.
What I need is to want to need Him more- This should be our hearts cry. While we fill our lives with all the wordily 'needs' and wants we neglect the spiritual need- to the point we fail to even realize our need for Him. Do you diligently seek Him and long for Him as your most essential need-
We are reminded today that Baptism is illustrates the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. And, that baptism follows salvation and to be saved one must experience conviction for their sins, repent of those sins, place their faith in the Lord, and display fruit of a new life.
Brother Jim Hargrove, beloved former pastor of Taylor's Chapel, returns after a long absence-do to very poor health-to share a message the Lord placed on his heart for the church. He warns of the coming end, efforts of the enemy, and the need to live faithfully for the Lord.
Many are lonely today- both spiritually and emotionally. Particularly hard hit are men, Generation Z, Millennials and Gen X. It is not good for us to be alone. We should seek out other believers for fellowship and seek the Lord to help when we feel lonely.
Names are important and understanding what Beulah and Hephzibah mean will lead us to a deeper understanding of how God views us- delighting in us and longing to care for us as in a marriage. This passage demonstrates the way God loves us and how fathers must love their wives.
The parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector teaches us not to rely on our own goodness, but on the mercy of God. Without conviction, confession, and faith there can be no justification.
There is one God in three co-equal parts- Father, Son, - Holy Spirit. We can never fully understand the concept of the Trinity, but should seek after it nonetheless.
Are you willing to obey the Master and go out into the deep like Simon, Andrew, James - John- Are you willing to leave all behind and follow Christ- Are you playing in the shallows or have you been affected by Jesus- The church desperately needs individuals who are acquainted with and affected by Christ.
Do we understand what it means to sacrifice something- It must be -1- our best, -2- cost us something, and -3- with no expectation of a reward. We are called to daily sacrifice our time, prayers, praise, will, body, talents, money, and more for Christ.
What about the Lawyer who Christ told the parable of the Good Samaritan to- We need to know what is correct -Orthodoxy- and must do what is correct -Orthopraxy- or we are missing the point of loving our neighbor -anyone we encounter-.
Jesus Christ is the perfect fulfillment of all three roles- Prophet, Priest, - King. As such, we owe him our allegiance, obedience, and praise.
As we come to an end to our Ascent of the Psalms let us ponder how Good and Pleasant it is to dwell together in unity.
As we continue in the Ascent we cry out to the Lord, 'Remember-' As we journey though life left us not seek a place for the Lord more than his presence among us. For His rightful dwelling place is within us as he cloths us with His righteousness and we can rest forever.
Why- One of the most difficult questions we can ask. The typical answer should be, 'I don't know but the Lord does' So then, the question often should transition to- 'what.' What should I learn- What should I do now-
The Lord will bring us out of the depths when we cry out to the Lord with our voice. When we wait and hope for him. He is the only one who can redeem us. We must be careful not to be proud but to calm and quite our souls before him.
The Lord will bless us, spiritually, if we fear -reverence- Him and walk after Him. Even in the face of our afflictions and those who hate us, they will -not prevail against' us but will be driven back in disgrace. Yet, we must not bless, support, approve, or allow -even by inaction- sin.
Our Freedom from sin and punishment should result in our shouting with joy as the desert is watered with the Sprit and our weeping will turn to joy. We must remember unless we are living for the Lord our building, watching, and labor is in vain. May we seek to work for the Lord sharing with the world the good news that we can become the children of God.
We continue our Ascent in the Psalms. We are reminded the Lord is on our side- Even as the world tries to flood over us, He is our protector. We also know our souls have escaped the fowlers snare. We are reminded that He is like an unmovable mountain and we trust Him. Weaknesses shall not rest on us if we do good and walk straight-
As we continue the Psalms of Ascents we are reminded that we must we should be glad to go up to the house of the Lord where we are bound firmly together with peace. And that we are to lift our eyes unto Him to behold his mercy and grace which is more than enough.
As we consider the 15 psalms of Ascent we consider what to do when we are in distress -Psalm 120- and where our help comes from--from the Lord- He never sleeps nor slumbers and He will keep you- -Psalm 121-.
'I Don't Know'- are three words we don't like to say. However, as the world presses in and tests us we must be ready to give an answer, if possible. Especially to our family, children, and to spiritual issues. -1- If you don't know and 'can' you need to know. -2- If you don't' know and 'can't' know, admit it--the Lord knows- -3- If you don't know the Lord, you don't know anything.
Who or what did you worship last week- Don't fool yourself, if it was not the Lord, you filled that void with something- We must -1- remove our idols of worship and -2- be obedient to Him so that we can say, -As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord--
Haggai reminds us to trust in the Lord in the face of external troubles such as discouragement, frustration, false accusations, and orders to stop. The people also faced internal struggles believing the time had not come and using the Lords gifts for themselves rather than His service. Haggai reminds us to be obedient, remember we are the Lords temple, and to -Consider your ways and thoughtfully reflect on your conduct-
God does not generally do things 'to' us or 'for' us, but 'with' us- God desires to collaborate with us, not because he has to but because he wants to. What is require on our end is faith and obedience.
Esau sold his birthright for a bowl of beans. He preferred to feed his belly for a day than consider the financial, emotional, and spiritual ramifications with his his father Isaac and brother Jacob. Are you selling something dear to you for momentary pleasure- Have you despised the privilege you have to know your Spiritual Father for what the world offers you-
Are you like Phillip--giving technically correct answers to the challenges of life or like Andrew and Peter presenting in faith all that we have to the Lord. During challenging times we must seek truth and follow the Bread of Life no matter the costs--where else will we go-
In this message, Brother Joshua discusses effective leadership, God-called -and Holy Spirit-inspired- preaching, and effective pastoring.
The 'season' of treating COVID as the most important thing in our life or responding as if it's an emergency is long past. The new year will not bring an end to COVID as long as there is fear, power, and money involved. COVID is real, but we must also respond to the damage that is caused by societal 'response' to Corona -lockdown, arrests, stopping education - church, masks, etc.- that is outpacing COVID deaths at a scale never before seen. It it the defining 'First Great Test of the Last Great Century' -see sermon- where we must decide as believers how to respond- merely to 'live' or to 'thrive.' We must allow the Lord to ask us, as Elijah, 'What Are You Doing Here-' and obediently respond, even in the midst of danger and poor public opinion.
The world is looking for peace. But, did Christ come to bring Peace at his birth or a sword- He brought both- true peace with God through his sacrifice and reconciliation but that peace can bring conflict with the world as he does not give peace the way the world does. Do you have true peace with God- Is he pleased with you-
This week we celebrate joy. Joy because God is with us and came to save us when we couldn't save ourselves. The joy of the Lord is our strength, he is the giver of joy. His joy is in us and our joy is in Him. But we can allow a thief -or ourselves- to steal, kill, or render useless our life -joy-, but Christ came to give us life -joy- abundantly-
Advent is a season of faith. We are reminded that Christ is the Author and Perfecter of our faith. That there is a difference between faith and belief -as we know them today-, and that we must put faith into Christ which results in good words. Let us celebrate in faith that Christ appeared unto me to be our perfect example.
Advent is a season of waiting, which is an art. A time to draw closer to the Lord through trusting, seeking, and prayer. The Prophets waited for the first Advent. Today, we remember and celebrate the first while hoping for the second.
Will we learn as the Hebrews did in Exodus Chapter 1 through 17 to trust Him daily- Will we set a memorial so we -1- Remember, -2- Listen Diligently, and -3- Obey- -The Lord Is My Banner-- may that be our rallying cry and central focus, this Thanksgiving 2020.
The change from Old Covenant to New Covenant occurred when Christ sacrificed His life and rose to conquer death. Just prior to this Christ established communion and told us to 'do this in remembrance of him.'
We are made to be united in one Spirit for one purpose- loving God and loving others. We are not designed to be uniform. There is nothing else we can be unified on as our shared culture vanishes. Let us seek the one and only thing that binds us together in perfect unity--the Spirit of God-
The world is telling us, 'there is nothing to celebrate this year.' But, they are so wrong. We remember and celebrate- God is in control, Christ is seated in heaven, and the Spirit is working in us. Let our celebration the rest of this year be a witness to the world-
You are alive, but are you thriving- There is a major difference and the world, apart from God, may be physically living, but does is not thriving. The only way we will live, grown, and thrive is in Him-
God does not called the qualified- he qualifies the called. It is an important distinction. We are called to -1- salvation and then -2- work for him--not based on our current qualifications. Rather, after our obedience will he provide the needed qualifications. No on in sculptures was called because of their qualifications--except Jesus Christ who was, and is, and will be both qualified and called-
The saved -wheat- are in the world -field- with the tares -unsaved-weeds- planted by the enemy -devil-. The Lord will send his harvesters -angles- back to separate the wheat from the weeds at the end of time. Tares look like wheat until when the fruit emerges and they are seen for what they are--poisonous bitter weeds- Are you wheat or weeds--only the Lord can change you-
Modern society has moved from making physical idols to ones hidden in our heart. Idols are- anything I put before God, anything I want with all my heart, anything I can't stop thinking of, anything I give all my love. To remove idols in our life, we must fill our lives with God. God will not share us, we must stop worshiping things -idols- that are not even worth it-
2020 has been a life changing year. It has been 6 months and 19 days since we were last -physically- together. What has changed in your life- I have a fear that we are wasting our lives- Consider the sermon I preached the last Sunday we physically met, -Redeeming the Time in the Face of Uncertainty- Things will not be better anytime soon. So what are we to do- We are to -1- live in the life you are given, -2- in the place you are, -3- with the people you have influence AND -4- Love the Lord while -5- loving others- That's it- Remember, '-Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last- -C. T. Studd-.
How are we to worship- In Spirit - Truth through prayers, communion, songs, offerings, scriptures, preaching - teaching, fellowship, and service. Worship is contained within these acts, not the reverse. We must worship Him because He deserves it, demands it and it is our duty--its why we are still here, to worship-
Why do we worship- Because He is the only one worth worshiping, He deserves its, He demands it. Who can worship- Only those who have been saved and received the spirit of the Lord.
Jesus is Lord, that is he has total authority over us, whether we like it or not, or even know it. As a result all we have to do is submit to his Lordship. But too often we try to go it alone, forging our own way.
Where should we worship--everywhere in Spirit and Truth. When should we worship--at all times as a constant lifestyle. Praise and worship cannot come from hearts filled with unconfessed sin.
What is worship- Many have never considered the importance of answering this question. Worship is 'the art of losing oneself in the adoration of another.' The only one we should worship is the Lord- Join us as we consider- what, who, where, when, why, - how to worship.
We are called to daily obedience to Christ. We must be walking with Him daily to know what we are to do. Obedience isn't easy--but it's always right. Our obedience to Him proves our love for him, demonstrates our faithfulness to him, glorifies him and brings blessings for us.
Some love themselves too much. Others hate themselves. There is a third way--gaining your value through the Lord's love for you- Loving others as yourself - should reflect the internal love and self-worth you know from a true relationship with Christ--as a child of the King-
The world is trying to imitate Christianity, but it's only giving a half-truth and is a counterfeiter. Yes, there is something wrong with the world--sin nature- yes you are contributing to it--active sin- BUT NO, there is nothing you can do individually about it. Only the Lord can provide absolution.
God IS love- It is not an attribute that he fulfills, but He is the very essence of love. This love that now fills believers should be evident in our love for others where it is perfected.
We have been Lulled to sleep in the lap of society, just as Samson by Delilah. We know better, just as Samson. COVID and unrest are the first great test of the last great century. Will Christians wake-up and turn to the Lord- Will we center our lives on Faith, Hope, and Love-
So much of the world is fake, how do we know what is true- Study the authentic--Creation, Christ, Spirit, Scriptures, Faith, Hope, - Love- Are you a 'fake' Christian or an authentic Christian-
Hope as described in the Scriptures is 'confident expectation' not the wishful thinking--as we use the word today. Do you have hope- What are you hoping in- Is your life marked by hope- Are you ready to give an answer for the hope that is within you-
Fearing God means having such a reverence for Him that is has a great impact on the way we live our lives.
In a world of injustice, we must -1- know peace -salvation-, -2- know justice -biblical truth-, and -3- do justice -daily - personally-.
We are not RE-opening, because- -1- the body of Christ never closed, -2- we worship in Spirit and Truth, -3- we never stopped loving each other, and -4- the power of God does not need to be re-started. People, places, things, and traditions may RE-open, but not the Lord or His people.
Conviction is necessary for salvation. Conviction is not- guilt, fear, forced confession, merely knowledge of right and wrong. Conviction is the work of the Holy Spirit to reveal our state before a Holy God.
What does it mean to 'contend for the faith-' Contend means- 'strive, to use earnest efforts to obtain, or defend and preserve.' You cannot contend for what you don't have. And contending is best done done before any test.
What's in a name- Names have meaning and are a sign of authority when assigned and submission when changed. Has the name above all names, Jesus, written your name in the book of life-
One of the most often miss-quoted verses of scripture, -judge not, that ye be not judged' -Mt. 7-1-. We are not to judge others unfairly, superficially, hypocritically, harsh'y, self-righteously, or untruly but with 'right judgment' -John 7-24-. We ARE to judge, with the love and compassion that Christ had, that of a parent patiently teaching a child so the child may be healthy.
Society has a preoccupation and fear of death--physical death. But little knowledge and scant regard for spiritual death. Physical death is inevitable, but spiritual death has already occurred and we must be 'born again from above' -that is spiritually- to be re-united now and forever with our Lord. Our bodies will die, but our spirits will remain and either receive eternal reward -because of what Christ did by conquering death- or eternal punishment for our rejection of His gift. Are you alive-
How often do we consider if the Lord is on OUR side- We hear these concepts echoed in questions like, 'would Jesus have been a Democrat or Republican-' We must realize that God is not on either side--there is only one side--God's side- We need a paradigm shift to re-focus ourselves to be on HIS side, and to stop trying to get God on OUR side.
What can the clouds and fire leading the Hebrews though the desert teach us about following God today-
What is your purpose in life- The scripture clearly teaches us -1- Glorify God - Enjoy Fellowship w- Him, -2- Love Each Other, -3- Work, -4- Have Dominion Over the Earth. Sharing a common purpose tears down all other barriers and units us. The world is searching for purpose, are you ready to share 'the' purpose with them-
'Peace be unto you' is the message Christ gave his followers after he arose from the grave. Today we sill need peace, the peace that only he can give us. This message reminds us what peace is and where it comes from while encouraging us to seek His peace, not the worlds.
Do you know the power of God--Do you have the power of God living in you--Do you live by the power of God-
This world is not my home- Let us be strangers and pilgrims that desire a better country and the city that is to come.