The Preached Word: Recent Episodes
Providence RPC
Scripture Reading: Matthew 9:9-13
I. Introduction
II. Marring of Discipleship
A. Easy-Believism
B. Legalism
C. Apathy
III. Discipleship is calling from:
A. Satan
B. Sin
C. Self
IV. Discipleship is calling to:
A. Christ
B. A life in Christ
C. A mission for Christ
V. Conclusion
- “The Master has come, and he called us to follow”
- “This is the way the Master trod, should not his servants tread it still”
- “Discipline yourselves for the purpose of godliness” 1 Tim 4.7
Scripture Reading: Ezra 10:1-17
Introduction
II. Dealing with Sin Starts with the Right Heart Attitude (v. 1,6)
III. Dealing with Sin Requires a Plan (v. 2-8)
IV. Dealing with Sin can be Messy (v. 3, 9-11)
V. Dealing with Sin Requires Accountability (v. 12-17)
VI. Conclusion
Scripture Reading: Genesis 16
Introduction
- We learn that human life is full of challenges and we must accept
God’s sovereignty over our lives regardless of how hard it is (vs 1-2).
- There will always be a challenge, a challenge to trust God that He can keep His promise and make it happens without our help and interference.
- Sarai’s plan was very common, very normal for the culture of her day. It was culturally legal (Nuzi Tablets).
- However, it was in direct violation of the one flesh principle which God had set down in Genesis, Chapter 2:24.
- Sarai’s action is a mistake. Galatians 4:22,23 − “For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by a slave woman and one by a free woman.
- But the son of the slave was born according to the flesh, while the son of the free woman was born through promise.”
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Such a drastic mistake, obviously, is not without dire consequences. Why then God did not stop Abram doing this foolish thing?
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When it appears that God has been preventing what we have been seeking, we should wait and be hesitant to “work” and take matters into our own hands (vs 1-2).
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Sarai’s words, in verse 2, betray a reluctance to accept the fact that God sovereignly prevented her from having a son.
- Sarai wanted to remove the cultural pressure to have children, especially sons, in those days.
- As for Abram, the pressure to have a son was even greater: (i) his name means “exalted father” or “father of nations” and Abraham means “father of multitude;” (ii) God’s repeated promise to give him a son is a burden.
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It is always a bad idea to try to accomplish God’s plan in your own way and your own timing, especially when it appears that God has prevented it from happening.
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We should only do our part when our motivation is right before God and out of faith (v 2).
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We may do things rightly and legally according to the law of the land, but when we are scheming to achieve what we are seeking for, we have sinned.
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We should never work with the wrong method (v 3).
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Derek Kidner: “This chapter marks another stage in eliminating every means but miracle towards the promised birth.” God has intended the promised birth must be a miracle.
- God’s plans come complete with His methods and His timing, and when we try to tamper with that in the power of the flesh, it messes everything up.
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Union with Hagar attempts to accomplish God’s work with the world’s methodology.
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Running away from problems is not the solution (vs 3-10).
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Problems that resulted from Abram’s passivity by going along with his wife, Sarai’s schemes: (i) Competition between Sarai and Hagar; (ii) False pride on Hagar’s part; (iii) Conflict between Abram and Sarai; (iv) Sarai mistreating Hagar.
- “Where have you come from?” Did God allow that trial for some reason?
- Running away does not change relationships, nor does it remove responsibility.
- “Where are you going?” seems to be intended to bring Hagar back to reality. Did Hagar think that going back to Egypt, her home country, after 10 years and with Abram’s child would solve the problem?
- God requires Hagar and all of us to be submissive to those in authority and that He will take care of the rest.
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1 Peter 2:18-20
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There are negative consequences for taking matters into our own hands (vs 11-12).
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The four family problems mentioned in point 5.
- Beyond family problems: conflict in Middle East
- Psalm 83:5–6
Conclusion
- It is very tempting to try to “help” God to make clear His will for our church by following the step of some of us who have left us.
- What is the purpose we are here in this church? Is our purpose here only to seek to be served? Therefore, when we feel we are not fed, then we leave?
- Pastor Doug Van Meter: “faithfully wait upon the Lord through fervent prayer, faithful proclamation of the Word, fidelity to our responsibility to the local church and faithful living out of the truths of God’s Word. If we will do so patiently then we can be assured of a harvest from and for God in His good time.”
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 13
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Without love we are nothing (vs 1 - 3)
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What true love is ( vs 4 - 7)
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Love in light of the end. ( vs 8 - 14)
Scripture Reading: Psalm 30
Sermon Outline
Introduction
- Psalm 30 is made up of 2 stanzas. 30:1-5 give an overview of David’s story
while 30: 6-12 unpacks the story with more important insight or details.
- The song describes David's near death experience, its cause, his plea for
deliverance, the reversal of his circumstances, and his response of
thanksgiving.
II. When we live as if our strength and not God’s favour is our security, we
live in danger of losing our souls (1-3, 7-9)
A. David nearly died (3, 9a)
B. David's heart was heavy (7)
III.We can easily be misguided by our prosperity and ease to become self-
sufficient (5-6,7)
A. David acknowledged that for a time he boasted of his prosperity (6)
B. He had to be woken up by his Father’s discipline (5,7)
“God whispers to us in our pleasures; he speaks to us in our work; he shouts
at us in our pain.” C. S. Lewis
IV. Our cries to the Lord distinguishes us as those who by faith endure
affliction even at the hand of God. (2,8,10)
A. David believed the Lord was yet present to hear his cry (30:2, 8)
B. David humbly reasoned and argued with God (9)
V. When we acknowledged God’s favour overshadow our affliction, we are
compelled to give thanks and praise to Him FOR EVER. (1-2, 4-5, 11-12)
A. The LORD answered David’ prayer (11-12)
B. David’s great turnaround was because of an even greater turnaround that
David’s greater Son, Jesus experienced
C. David acknowledged that the LORD’s discipline is brief but his favor lasts a
lifetime (4 - 5)
D.David exalted the Lord (1–2) for lifting him up
E. David cannot be silent in his joy (4-5, 11–12)
VI. Conclusion
- We can frequently become self-sufficient, until God wakes us up with a
thunderclap.
- But we are to hang on amid our afflictions because weeping may stay for a
night but joy comes with the morning. Our affliction is for a moment, but
his favour lasts a lifetime. So hang in there!
- God delivers us from our troubles so that we might give thanks and praise to
Him FOR EVER. It is not that God needs our praise. It is because worship
filled with praise and thanksgiving invigorates our souls. Give thanks in all
circumstances, Apostle Paul reminded in 1 Thes 5:18; for this is the will of
God in Christ Jesus for you.
Scripture Reading: Titus 3:1-8
Sermon Outline
I. Introduction
• Grace triumphs when all seems lost and hopeless.
• Being reminded of God’s grace that changed us will motivate us to show
His grace to others through our good deeds.
II. Reminder One: How we are to act towards the ungodly world vs 1-2
A. Submissive, obedient, and ready to do good to rulers and authorities
B. Speak evil of no one
C. Peaceable and Gentle to all
III. Reminder Two: You were once just like the people of the world vs 3
A. We were foolish and disobedient
B. We were deceived
C. We were enslaved by our passions and pleasures
IV. Reminder Three: Salvation is of the Lord vs 4-7
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We were saved by God’s grace and mercy
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We were saved by Christ our Saviour
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We were regenerated by the Hoy Spirit
II. Conclusion
• The doctrines of Grace must be preached in season and out of season
• The doctrines of Grace should motivate us to excel in good works for
God’s glory
Scripture Reading: Titus 2:11-15
Sermon Outline
Introduction
II. Grace Definition
III. Grace Saves v11
IV. Grace Sanctifies v12
V. Grace Gives Hope v13
VI. Grace Empowers v14
VII. Conclusion
Introduction
- The threat of false teachers and teaching can only be countered by the sound doctrine.
- Right doctrines shape and strengthen right living.
II. Graces and Character of the Christian Man vs 2,6
- Older men begin to exemplify sound faith, love, and steadfastness.
- Younger men learn to be self-controlled rather than being driven by their passions.
III. Graces and Character of the Christian Woman vs 3-5
- Older women seek opportunities to train up the next generation rather than point out their failures and wag their fingers.
- Younger women begin to love their husbands and children more than their careers.
IV. Graces and Character of Christian Servant vs 7-10
- Church workers are to be exemplarity and walk the talk of the Christian faith.
- Employees are to adorn sound doctrine with a submissive and industrious demeanour.
Conclusion
- The more we understand sound teaching the more we will practice sound living.
- If we’re ever going to see a reformation of deeds, it must begin with a recovery of our creeds.
Scripture Reading: Titus 1:10-16
Sermon Outline
I. Introduction
· The Eldership must be above reproach, godly and Spirit-gifted to
serve Christ and his church
· The Elders must guard the flock by refuting false teachers and by
correcting believers who have followed false teaching
II. The Eldership must guard the flock by refuting false teachers
· First, false teaching always damages
· Second, the greatest danger for false teaching always comes from
within the church.
A. Refute false teachers by teaching sound doctrines vs 9
B. Refute the false teachers by exposing their false teachings vs 14
- False teachers add works to salvation by faith in Christ alone vs 10
- False teachers focus on baseless speculation vs 14
- False teachers promote legalism vs 14
III. The Eldership must refute false teachers by exposing their sinful
behavior
A. Bad doctrine always results in bad behavior vs 15
B. False teachers are not usually so honest as to say that they are atheists or
the antichrist vs 16
IV. The Eldership must guard the flock by correcting believers who have
followed false teaching
A. Correct by warning of bad cultural and social norms vs 12
B. Correct by convincing strongly of the importance and narrowness of the
truth vs 13
Conclusion
Scripture Reading: Titus 1:5-9
Sermon Outline:
I. Introduction
II. Necessity of Godly Eldership vs 5
A. Every church without Elders is incomplete
B. Every church requires a plurality of Elders
III. Qualifications of Godly Eldership vs 6-8
A. A goodly man
B. A graceful man
C. A godly man
IV. Purpose of Godly Eldership
A. Feed the flock
B. Protect the flock
V. Conclusion
Scripture Reading: Titus 1:1-4
Sermon Outline
I. Introduction
a. Paul wrote and instructed Titus and the church down the ages on church
ministry; on how to do church.
b. Worldly principles and practices are preferred because they can bring in the
crowds.
c. God helping, we shall learn, relearn, and come face to face with the biblical
principles and practices of church ministry we glean from the Letter to Titus.
d. The first principle of church ministry is servanthood
II. Definition of Servanthood (v. 1a)
a. The word doulos for servant should be more accurately be translated as
bondslave.
b. The bondslave or doulos means that we have been chosen deliberately to serve
God and that we are God’s property
c. There’s a secondary sense in which we like being servants or slaves of God, that
we can also be His ambassadors.
III. Purpose of Servanthood (v. 1b-3)
a. Evangelism
b. Education
c. Sanctification
d. Expectation
e. Proclamation
IV. Passing on the Baton of Servanthood (v. 4)
a. Mentoring
b. Mimicking Christ
V. Conclusion
Scripture Reading: Psalm 95
Sermon Outline
I. Introduction
• Divided into 5 books, the psalms trace the ebb and flow of a life through the lens
of 3 main psalm types : hymns, laments and thanksgivings.
• Books 1 to 3 (Ps. 1-89) of the Psalms, trace this rise and fall of the Davidic
monarchy. At end of Book 3, the crisis of faith arises. Books 4 to 5 (Pss. 90-150)
provide insight into how to respond to this apparent failure of the promises made
to David and his descendants.
• Worship is not an add-on to our lives. It is the heart-beat of our spiritual lives. It is
not incidental. It is primary and it is fundamental. Not only is worship more
important than evangelism, fellowship, edification, discipleship or church planting,
but it is really the means to these things. (Deffinbaugh, B)
II. When things don’t turn out the way we like, we tend to stray away from
coming into God’s presence (8-11)
• As people who have experienced God’s blessings, we enjoy coming into the presence of the Lord
• But hearts can be hardened as we question and quarrel with God’s ways over our
disappointments. (8-9)
• God denies rest to those who stray from coming into His presence and acknowledging
Him as God. (10-11)
III. God is still great and still our covenant God even when we don’t
experience the promised Christian life at every point of our life. (3-5,7)
• God revealed Himself that He is a great God (3-5)
• God revealed Himself that He is our God (7)
IV. Because God is great and is our covenant God we find rest and
blessings worshipping and submitting to Him even when times are
challenging (1,2,6)
• Because God is great, He is worthy of all our worship (1-2)
• Because God is our God, He deserves all our submission (6)
V. Conclusion
• Today and whenever, if you hear God’s voice, God calls you to come and worship Him.
• Will you take heed to God’s voice even in challenging times.
• Worship exposes our hardness of heart and softens it to make way for the Lord’s
kingship. Often, He removes one blessing only to bestow another and a greater. We are His and He is ours.
Scripture Reading: Genesis 15
Sermon Outline
I. The context
a. “After these things.” Abram’s response to God seems to show a sign of his
doubt on God’s promise. God understood and confirmed His promise.
b. In confirming His promise, God has simply acted consistently with Himself, as
He always does and always must.
II. The means of justification (v. 6)
a. Romans 4:1-5, “What then shall we say was gained by Abraham, our forefather
according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has
something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture
say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.’
Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due.
And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the
ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.”
b. How can Abram be just before God? Paul answers: “It is not by works but by
faith.”
c. Works mean conformity to the moral law and obedience to the ceremonial law
(see Rom 4:10).
d. Hebrews 11:8 says, “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a
place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing
where he was going.”
e. John Calvin: The circumstance of time it is recorded in the Scripture that God
counted Abram’s faith as righteousness is very important and critical.
f. Faith is not the ground but the means of his righteousness.
g. Westminster Confession of Faith: “Faith, thus receiving and resting on Christ
and his righteousness, is the alone instrument of justification.”
III. The faith that leads to justification is the faith in the personal promise
of God regarding the Messiah or Christ (v. 5,6).
(i) Abram believed in the promise of God concerning his offspring – Jesus Christ.
- Galatians 3:16, “Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, ‘And to offsprings,’ referring to many, but referring to one, ‘And to your offspring,’ who is Christ.”
- Genesis 22:18 “and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.” Only through Jesus Christ, there will be many who will be blessed.
- John 8:56, “Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad.”
- Galatians 3:8, “[T]he Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, ‘In you shall all the nations be blessed.’”
(ii) Abram showed faith in the promise as made to him.
a. Galatians 2:20, “[He] loved me, and gave Himself for me”.
IV. The faith that justifies will persevere to the end (v. 18).
a. The faith that counts has the seal of the covenant.
b. God made a unilateral covenant with Abram in which He took full responsibility
for the fulfilment of these promises.
c. Abram's assurance is also our (every justified believer) assurance.
d. Luke 22:20, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in My
blood.”
V. Conclusion
a. How can a sinful person like me be right before a holy God? Can you settle that
question by trusting God’s Word concerning Christ?
b. Do you know Jesus Christ has saved you?
I. Introduction
II. Purpose of Christ’s Coming vs 1-3
- To judge the unbelieving and sinful world
- To save the believing and blessed elect
III. Preparation for Christ’s Coming vs 4
- Remember the law of God
- Observe the law of God
IV. Program of Christ’s Coming vs 5-6
- Preaching of the gospel throughout the world by the church
- Perilous times shall come upon the world and the church 2 Tim 3.1
V. Conclusion
- “And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.” 1 John
3.3
- “For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as
the waters cover the sea.” Habakkuk 2.14
“So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way from home
his father saw him, and his heart went out to him; he ran and hugged his son and
kissed him.” – Luke 15:20
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Our Rebellion
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Our Sinful and Wasteful Life
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Our Misery in Sin
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Our Repentance and Restoration Through Christ
I. Introduction
· It is frustrating to buy and use fake products as it would not stand the
test of time.
· Malachi’s sixth message to the people of God of old addresses the core
of the matter; Genuine faith in contra to Fake faith.
· Fake Believers will not stand the test of time. Genuine Believers will
persevere to the end because Christ preserves his people.
II. Contrary to Genuine Faith vs 13-15
A. They speak hard things about God
· Ungrateful to the Lord’s blessing
· Oblivious of their bad attitude towards God
B. They serve the Lord for material blessings
· Vain to serve the Lord when it is unfulfilling.
· Unprofitable to walk and worship the Lord when the material blessings
are not forthcoming.
C. They hold to a skewed and wrong view of God
· Go with the flow of the world
· Disillusion with God
III. Descriptions of Genuine Faith vs 16
A. They fear the Lord
· Not a slavish fear but an awe for the Lord
· Godly fear and faith in the Lord
B. They spoke with one another
· Law of God Deut 6.6
(Suggested by the Puritan Thomas Watson in his book The Great Gain of
Godliness)
· Exhortations – Preciousness of Christ, beauty of holiness, sinfulness of
sin, spiritual wellness
· Reproofs – silent in matters of faith, idle and worldly talks, sinfulness,
and waywardness
C. They esteemed God’s name
· The name of the Lord is meant his essence, his attributes, his person
· “Our mind should be steeped in holy thoughts” Thomas Watson
IV. Blessings of Genuine Faith vs 16b-18
A. The Lord pay attention and hear them
B. The Lord keep a book of remembrance for them
C. The Lord owns them as a treasured possession
D. The Lord will spare them from eternal condemnation
E. The Lord will distinguish them from the ungodly
V. Conclusion
· Thank the Lord for his manifold blessings in Christ!
· Test yourselves to see if you possess genuine faith in Christ
· Transformed by the renewing of our mind in Christ
I. Introduction
- Money is a sensitive topic in church in the light of financial scams and prosperity gospel
- The passage before us has been subjected to its fair share of Scriptural abuses
II. The Offense of Robbing God vs 6–9
- A gracious appeal for repentance
- A withholding of tithes and offerings for the House of God
- A lack of generosity towards the Lord
III. The Blessing of Giving to God vs 10–12
- An important question to ask when reading the Scriptures; what are the
differences and similarities between the biblical audience and us?
- The people of God of old is told that if they begin to bring in their tithes, thus
returning to the Lord will open the windows of heaven in blessing.
- God's promise in Malachi raises two questions we need to answer considering that Christ has come.
IV. Does God Command Christians to Tithe?
- Tithing formed the base of our giving to God
- We give as the Lord enables and enrich us 2 Cor. 9.7-8
V. Does God Promise Financial Blessing through Giving?
- The Lord bless His faithful stewards of what they own Lk. 19.26
- If you take giving as a strategy to get more money and blessing, your giving dishonours the Lord.
VI. Conclusion
- As we consider God's gracious gift in Jesus, how can we rob the Lord?
- Let us be motivated to give by the supreme generosity of Christ 2 Cor. 8.9
Apart from the Gospel, this makes no sense
Background of the Letter
I. Paul’s Reason for Writing
- Consideration #1: Paul’s Authority (v8-9)
- Consideration #2: Onesimus is Useful (v11, 13)
- Consideration #3: Paul Loves Onesimus (v10, 12)
- Consideration #4: Paul Saved Philemon (v19-20)
II. Paul’s Request (v17)
III. Paul’s Offer to Repay (v18-19)Application Questions 1. Do we love each other as family?2. Do we forgive each other?3. Do we think we are superior to others?
The Story So Far
I. God works out his promise to Jacob despite death (49:29-50:14)
II. God is sovereign over human evil for the good of his people (50:15-21)
III. God will work out his promise to his people despite Egypt (50:22-26; cf.
15:13)
The great gulf that begins in Genesis
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Share one thing on how your understanding or appreciation of God has grown.
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Share one way in which this world’s evil makes it hard for you to keep trusting God. Take some time to pray with one another.
I. Introduction
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We would make preparation to receive an important guest
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To be prepared is to be forewarned and forearmed
II. Receiving the Gospel vs 1
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Receive the Preacher of the Gospel
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Receive the Christ of the Gospel
III. Repenting of Sin vs 2,5
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Conviction of the seriousness of sin
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Cleansing of the stains of sin
IV. Responding with Sacrifices vs 3-4
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Purifying by the LORD
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Pleasing to the LORD
V. Conclusion
- Our Lord had come and He is coming again for His saints
- Are you prepared to meet the LORD?
I. Introduction
- Third message of Malachi to the people of God
- Seek to uncover the core spiritual ailment of the people of God i.e., faithlessness
II. Faithless to one another (v.10)
- May have reference to the incident of the oppression of the poor in Nehemiah 5
- Members of the covenant community are to love, be kind and bear with one another Jn 17.17, Eph 4.32, Col 3.13, instead of biting and devouring one another Gal 5.15
III. Faithless to God (vv. 11-12, 17)
- By offering polluted offerings to the LORD
- By marrying the daughters of foreign god
- By being cynical to God’s word
IV. Faithless to the wife of your youth (vv. 13-16)
- Seek to divorce their wives to marry the daughter of foreign god
- Seek to rewrite the creation ordinance of marriage
V. Conclusion
- Repent from your faithlessness Jer 3.22-23
- Resolve to serve the Lord faithfully Matt 25.21
- Rejoice in our God who is faithful 2 Tim 2.13
I. Introduction
- God’s people lived a very challenging life, it was not business as usual
- The Book of Psalms is also known as the Book of Praises, praise is the final word
- The psalm reflects a situation and sequence as 2 Chronicle 20:5-19
- The psalm provides a window into two key components of war; preparation and implementation
- “Psalm 20 was originally composed for use before some particular battle, then could have been used before any battle, and finally came to be used in the face of any threatening danger.” - Dr Mark Futato
- There are three kingdoms in WSC Q102
- God’s enemies are those who do not obey Him
II. Aspects of Preparation
Spiritual
- Pray for protection
- Pray for reinforcement
Organizational
- Plans to win
III. Attitudes of Implementation
Confidence
- God is certain to save His anointed
- God authorizes his resources to save His anointed
Humility
- God's people need to call upon the Lord to battle for His kingdom's sake
IV. Conclusion
- The victory of God's kingdom is certain
- God's people are instructed to pray for the success of their church
- Christ has ensured that victory is assured for His followers
- Each member must fervently pray and courageously embrace their responsibilities within the body of Christ
- 2 Chronicles 20:17 “ .... Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.’ Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you.”
- Christ is fighting alongside you to push back the darkness of Satan’s kingdom
- John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
- We must fight for God’s reign in the lives of His people
- To worship and glorify Him, till His kingdom of glory come
I. Introduction Psalm 2 and Psalm 1 serve as an introduction to the Psalter of 150 songs.
II. With ever rising anti-Christian sentiments everywhere, Christians are left wondering if we will enjoy the happy life Psalm 1 offers. (1-3)
A. God made David and his descendants to be kings to bring blessing to all nations (Genesis 12:1-3) B. But David sees the world in a rage of a violent uprising (1-3) C. This raging attitude continues in our own day. (Acts 4:25-28; Acts 13:33; Rev. 19:19)
III. In spite of world’s raging revolt against heaven, God has the last say as the ultimate Sovereign. ( 4-6)
A. God brushed aside the world’s futile attempts to stop his eternal purposes with a laugh. (4)
B. God rebukes the nations and declares he has already installed His king over all (5-6)
IV. God shall triumph over all nations and rulers through his anointed Son, the Messiah Jesus Christ (7-9)
A. God’s Messiah speaks for himself and affirms the decree God had made concerning Him (7a) B. The decree identifies the Davidic King as the Son of God. (7b) C. The decree also announces the king’s destiny (8) D. And finally the decree ascribed to the king the authority and power to rule. (9) E. The message of Psalm 2 holds out awesome hope for those who trust in God.
V. Our true happiness is found not in futile rebelling against God but to embrace His kingship through His Son, Jesus Christ (10-12)
A. The wise and the warned are invited to embrace the kingship of Christ. B. We embraced the kingship of Christ by serving the Lord and kissing the Son C. Blessed are those who find their refuge in Jesus Christ
VI. Conclusion
A. Living with the tension of the “not yet” in the midst of the perils and threats of the powers at work in the present world, Christians are tempted to be afraid and discouraged and to believe that these powers are the only reality in their lives. B. Psalm 2 gives us a reason to be faithful and not give up but persevere. When Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Mat 28:18), we are hearing the fulfilment of His request in Psa 2:8: “Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage” (Ps. 2:8). C. The certain coming dominion of the Christ over the entire universe assures believers of a victorious Christian life.
I. Introduction
- We had looked at the Lord’s charges against the priests (leaders) of God’s people for profaning the Lord’s altar the last time
- This morning we will see that this contempt that the priests had for God’s glory would bring God’s pronouncement on them.
II. The chastisements and judgements on ungodly leadership vs 1-4
- Chastisements/judgements are coming and blessings withhold
- Ill-effects on subsequent generations
- Dishonour to their name
- Removal from their offices
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The reasons for the Lord’s judgements?
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To wake them out of their spiritual slumber and contempt
- To purge and purify the leadership
III. The ideals of godly leadership vs 5-7 The LORD’S description of the ideal and godly priesthood cannot be traced to any that is mentioned in the Bible, except for Christ Himself who is our perfect High Priest
- Trustworthy and morally pure in doctrine.
- Unswerving in his judgments
- Pure and righteous in his conduct
- Focused in his work for the Lord
- Immersed in Biblical knowledge and the preserver of it
- Messenger of the Lord of hosts
IV. The measure (in contrast) of godly leadership vs 8-9
- Alignment with the ideal priesthood i.e., Christ
- Example to the flock
- Faithfulness and commitment
V. Conclusion
-
The LORD had pronounced His commandment on the priests of Malachi’s day because they had broken the covenant of Levi
-
We have a high standard to uphold, we must be faithful and accurate in what we teach
- We must also live our lives by the same standards that we teach by the Spirit’s empowering
Main point: Since Jesus is our superior high priest and perfect sacrifice, we can live out the priesthood and sacrificial life.
I) Introduction
- The Superiority of Jesus
II) Melchizedek's priesthood is superior to Aaron's
- Melchizedek's high position as king-priest
- Melchizedek is an immortal priest
- Melchizedek’s blessings are multi-generational
III) Jesus comes from the superior order of Melchizedek’s priesthood
- Jesus’ priesthood has the power of eternal life
- Jesus , the high priest, brings the saints close to God
IV) Jesus guarantees a superior covenant
- Jesus is not like any other priest who comes and goes
- Jesus has taken an oath with God to fulfil His high priestly role
V) Jesus is the perfect sacrifice for God’s people
- God desires to dwell among His people
- Jesus is the once and for all sacrifice at the Cross
VI) Conclusion
- Live out the priesthood and sacrificial life
- Embrace our role as multi-generational priest
Hebrews 5:11-14, 6:1-12
I) Beware of spiritual lethargy
- Deafness
- Sluggishness
- Immaturity
II) Do not presume participation equates to salvation
III) Seek growth with the full assurance of hope that comes from the gospel
- Be earnest in maturing internally and serving externally
I) Introduction
II) The High Priest of God
a) The beginning of the Levitical priesthood of Israel
b) The role of the High Priest
c) The High Priest, Aaron
III) Jesus is the High Priest of God
a) Jesus’ priesthood is in the order of Melchizedek’s priesthood
b) Genesis 14, Psalm 110:4
IV) Jesus is the Merciful High Priest
a) Jesus sympathizes with His people’s weaknesses
b) Jesus prays for His people continuously
V) Jesus is the Faithful High Priest
a) Jesus learned obedience in His suffering
b) Jesus did not sin in His suffering
VI) Conclusion
a) We must hold fast to believing that Jesus, the Son of God, is our great High Priest.
b) We are to confidently draw near to Jesus’ throne of grace to receive His mercy and help.
I. Introduction
a. If God is sovereign in history, as the Bible claims Him to be (e.g., Acts 4:28), then His hand is to be seen as guiding history to achieve His purposes.
b. It is the first time here that God's plan of redemption for His people and specifically His promises to Abram intersect with secular, national history.
c. James 2:14 says, “What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?”
II. True faith produces love, sympathy and forgiveness that seeks to restore a brother or sister who has fallen into difficulties or sin (vv 1-14).
a. Abram demonstrates a forgiving spirit toward his nephew and seeks to rescue him despite how Lot had treated him.
b. All believers in Christ, are called to exhibit the same sort of forgiveness toward those who have wronged us and commanded to rescue those who have fallen into sin (Gal 6:1). Three principles:
- We must separate ourselves from the love of the world (the spiritually matured).
- We need preparation and wisdom to rescue the fallen brethren.
- It must base on principle and not results.
III. True faith produces courage (vv 14-16).
a. Abram springs into war with only 318 of his trained men and his allies against a vast army of four powerful kings. He is not a king but just a rancher.
b. God passes no moral disapproval of Abram’s conduct in the Scripture and even awarded him with victory.
c. “I have lifted my hand to the LORD” (v 22) seem to signify a solemn oath promises the Lord that if He would give him success, he would not enrich himself by his campaign. d. It is Abram’s faith in the Lord that He will give him victory that produces his courage. IV. True faith produces humility and loyalty to God (vv 17-24).
a. It was providential that Melchizedek’s appearance interrupted the meeting of Abram and the king of Sodom.
b. It puts Abram’s victory in proper theological perspective.
c. Abram may be a brilliant military strategist and his bravery cannot be doubted but the victory was God’s!
d. Abram acknowledgment (giving a tenth of everything) demonstrated his humility.
e. Bera, though, has been humiliated in defeat, was trying to show himself as superior, generously allowing Abram to keep the goods.
f. To accept anything from a pagan king would be to give him the opportunity to suppose that his giving was responsible for Abram’s success (“I have made Abram rich”).
g. Abram also remembered his vow to the Lord (v 22) that he must honour it. h. Abram did what he did, even at a personal sacrifice, in order that he might be loyal to the LORD.
i. And Abram’s greatest victory is the victory over self-righteousness: he does not expect his Amorites allies to follow his standard of conduct but let them have their due. V. Conclusion
a. God is in control of history.
b. This chapter provides us with a divine commentary on the decisions made in Chapter 13. History weighs the decisions of men.
c. Abram’s faith is increasingly showing himself to be a faithful servant of God, like the Seed of the woman who one day would come, God’s great Servant, Jesus the Messiah, the son of Abraham.
d. As we look to Abram, may we be encouraged, but may we look beyond him to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.
I. Introduction
II. The Author
• Malachi - the messenger of God
• A contemporary or late contemporary of Nehemiah the Governor 420BC
• The word of God always supports and goes with the work of God
III. The Purpose
• To show the messiness of the people of God
• To correct the messiness of the people of God
• To point to the coming Messiah who would fix the messiness of the people God
IV. The First Charge (v2-5)
• They doubt God’s love
• They left God’s love
• They spurn God’s love
V. Conclusion
Big idea: God mercifully preserves, gently speaks and graciously reassures Hisweary servant.
I. God mercifully preserves (v1-8)
II. God gently speaks (v9-14)
III. God graciously reassures (v15-18)
IV. Reflection Questionsa. How do you reach out to a weary soul?b. In the midst of the challenges of life and ministry, what can you doto be still before the Lord?
I. Introduction
a. The text invites us to decide what we truly believe about Jesus’ historical resurrection.
II. What the skeptics did before Jesus’ resurrection
a. They prepared to secure Jesus’ tomb.
III. How the skeptics reacted to the news of Jesus’ resurrection
a. The Roman soldiers guarding the tomb fainted.
b. The Jewish leaders bribed the soldiers to spread fake news.
IV. What the followers did before Jesus’ resurrection
a. They prepared to mourn Jesus’ death.
V. How the followers reacted to the news of Jesus’ resurrection
a. They departed with reverence and great joy.
VI. Conclusion
When you believe in the resurrected Jesus,
- He will help you overcome your fears and find peace.
- He will lift you from despair and bring you great joy.
- He will empower you to triumph over death.
I. One Parade
II. Two Aspects of Jesus’ Identity
a) Jesus is the _____________ Messianic King.
b) Jesus is the _____________ Messianic King.
III. Three Responses
a) The ____________ response
b) The ____________ response
c) The ____________ response
IV. Conclusion
“Who is this?”
I. Introduction
II. Noisy lives filled with pride and over-reaching ambition often rob us of quietness our souls are privileged to possess.
a. The centre piece of Psalm 131 is the image of a weaned child in the mother’s arms
b. But this song begins with a confession of trust in negative terms – “my heart is not lifted up ...........”
c. Noise in our soul begins with our swollen pride
- Proverbs 6:16, Proverbs 8:13, James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5
d. That noise is reinforced by chasing ambitious impossibilities
- For when dreams increase and words grow many, there is vanity; but God is the one you must fear. (Ecclesiastes 5:7)
e. And noise amplifies and begets deafening noise
- 2 Timothy 2:22
III. Amid our noisy lives, cultivating humility and contentment in God restore a child-like quietness in our soul for our Godward journey.
Quieting the soul takes effort
- “I have calmed and quieted my soul.”
b. Quieting the soul begins with putting aside the sources of noise in our souls and cultivating humility
- “It is one of the shortest psalms to read, but one of the longest to learn” – Charles Spurgeon
c. Quieting the soul builds trust, confidence and contentment in the Lord like a weaned child’s relationship with the mother
- Ephesians 4:22-23
d. Another way of looking at importance of quietness of the soul amid our noisy lives is a wheel revolving on its axle
IV. We are to embody and share this contented hope in the Lord for the life and ministry of the church
a. The call to hope in the Lord
“My times are in Your hand
whatever they may be,
pleasing or painful, dark or bright,
as You know best for me”.
Psalm 130:7-8
b. We are to hope now and always.
“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”- Corrie ten Boom
V. Conclusion
a. Amid our noisy lives, cultivating humility and contentment in God restore a child-like quietness in our soul.
b. Trust, confidence and contentment in the Lord find their home in a quieted soul.
c. Only one who is humble, hopes in the Lord
d. We are to hope in the Lord now and always by faith in the work and person of our Lord.
A. Introduction
B. Opposition 6.1-19
- Distraction
- Insinuation
- Intimidation
- Association
C. Resolution
- Resoluteness vs 3
- Forthrightness vs 8
- Prayerfulness vs 9
- Perceptiveness vs 12
D. Incompletion 7.1-4
- Completed
- Completing
E. Conclusion
“Let not your heart be troubled,” His tender word I hear,And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears;Though by the path He leadeth, but one step I may see;His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.
29Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin?And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will.30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.31 Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29-31
What can we learn about God from these 7 verses?
I. He Cares for Lowly Me!
- Psalm 138:6
- Cf. Genesis 22
II. He Cares for Lowly Me with Real Needs! (v.5)
- God, in His ordinary providence, makes use of means, yet is free to work without, above, and against them, at His pleasure.
III. He Cares for Lowly Me with Real Needs_________! (v.6-7)
- How should I respond to such a God?
Our God is far greaterthan words can make known,Exalted and holy, He reigns on His throne. In infinite splendor He rules over all;Yet He feeds the poor sparrows,and He knows when they fall.
He rides the wild heavens,He strides thro’ the seas;The high mountains trembleto hear His decrees.His voice with great thunderingssounds from above;But to His own childrenHe whispers His love.
His power is great and will ever endure,His wisdom is peaceable, gentle, and pure.But greater than all these glories I see,Is the glorious promise that He cares for me.
- Worship your God and have a _____ confidence in Him!
Read our 7 verses again, and what do you see?
Worship your God and have a _____ confidence in Him!
I) Introduction
- Have you ever wondered why Jesus could not be an angel?
II) The status of Angels (v5)
- Present
- Future
III) The status of Man (v6-8)
- Present
- S____________
- Future
IV)The status of Jesus as fully Man (v9)
- E____________
- H____________
V) Conclusions
- Jesus is fully Man and _____________ to angels in the world to come.
- I am _______________ with Christ Jesus ______________ & _____________________.
- I have Christ’s ____________, _____________, and, _______________.
FOUR SCENARIOS OF LIFE
- Scenario 1: PSALM 107:4-9
- Scenario 2: PSALM 107:10-16
- Scenario 3: PSALM 107:17-22
- Scenario 4: PSALM 107:23-32
TWO REVERSALS IN LIFE (PSALM 107:33-41)
ONE MESSAGE FOR LIFE:
- Covenant
- Redeemed
AND NOW FOR YOUR DAILY LIFE
- Cry ________________ so that you can shout _____________________!
- Aim to be _____________ grateful, not grumpily ________________!
I) Introduction (1a)
- Jesus is superior to the angels, prophets, national leaders, or priests.
- The church was facing the problem of people falling away.
II) We must pay the closest attention, lest we drift away from the gospel (1b-3a)
- We drift away from the gospel by being legalistic. (1, 2a)
- We drift away from the gospel by being licentious. (2-3a)
III) We must pay the closest attention, for the Lord and God confirmed the gospel. (3b, 4).
- The Holy Spirit has given gifts to church members.
- Each church member has gifts to help each other from falling away.
IV) Conclusion: The gift of peacemakers in the church. Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Hebrew 12:4, ‘Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.’
- Keep the gospel-safety in the church.
- Stop our drift towards legalism or licentiousness.
- Seek Christ’s peace and forgiveness with God for ourselves and others in the gospel.
I. Introduction
II. Peace in the church can be elusive.
- Paul faced such a situation in the Philippian church (4:2)
- Euodia and Synthche fell out with one another
- Tension between members affects the church’s well-being
III. We are all to help bring peace in the church (4:3)
IV. In unsettling times, we are to stop worrying but to rejoice, forbear and pray with thanksgiving (4:4-6,8)
- Again rejoice in the Lord always
- Let your reasonableness be known
- Pray, supplicate, request and give thanks
V. God promises us peace and safeguard us from anxieties when we in Christ practice what we learned. (4:7,9)
- God promises His peace to keep out anxieties
- Peace of God and peace with God
- Practice what we learned
VI. Conclusion
- In unsettling times, the Apostle is saying to us. Stop worrying. Instead rejoice in the Lord always. Don’t be drag down by the situation. In gentleness, forbear. Finally, pray with thanksgiving.
- But importantly, practise what you have received and the God of peace will be with us.
- All of us have a part to play to bring pieces together and peace to the church.
Big Idea: 'Jesus is superior to angels; let us have the confidence to believe in Christ’s name.'
- His name is above the angels. (4-7)
- His nature and role are incomparable and beyond the angels. (8-12)
- He rules over the angels (13-14)
- Depend on the Spirit, sacrifice our lives as spiritual worship by the mercies of God. (v1)
- Push back, sacrifice the world’s bad ideas by the renewal of the mind. (v2a)
- Be a church member, sacrifice self-will by testing and discerning God’s will together. (v2b)
A. Introduction
B. The Unusual Circumstances
C. The Peculiar Problem
D. The Greatest Gift
E. Conclusion
Introduction
Its Meaning
- Terror and Dread Deut (2.24-25)
- Veneration and Honour (Isa 6.1-6)
- It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God (Heb 10.31)
Its Movements
- See sins as God sees it vs 1 - 6
- Listen and obey His word as God instructs it vs 7 - 11
- Turn from sins as God commands it vs 12 - 13
- Love one another as God loves us vs 14 - 18
Its Maintenance
- Grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord
- Grow in communication and confidence with the Lord vs 19
- Grow in fellowship with godly Christians Psa 119.63, 1 Cor 15.33
Conclusion
I) Introduction
II) The call to believe in God with His promises (5-38)
III) The call to believe in a Savior with God’s mercy (46-56, 67-79)
IV) The call to believe in Jesus with the Holy Spirit’s joy (39-45, 56 - 66, 80, 2:1-7)
V) Conclusion: God calls us to the certainty of faith in Jesus
I) Introduction
- The kingdom of God will face opposition from the enemy of the soul and his cohorts
- The war of the ages begins in the garden of Eden Gen 3.15
II) The Causes
- The distinctiveness of the people of God
- The holiness of the people of God
- The war of the ages with the people of God Gen 3.15
III) The Strategies
- Mockery and Accusation vs 2-3
- Threats vs 7-8
- Rumours-mongering and discouragement vs 10-12
IV) The Counterattack
- Pray vs 4-5, 9
- Trusting God vs 14
- Put on the full armour of God vs 15-20
V) Conclusion
- Watch and Pray Matt 26.41
- Fight the good fight of faith 1 Tim 6.12
Big Idea: God’s common grace for all people and Jesus’ saving grace for God’s children.
-
God’s common grace for the disciples and skeptics in the same boat. (27:39-44)
-
God’s common grace through the unusual kindness of humanity. (28:1-3, 7)
-
God’s saving grace through the disciples’ gospel ministry. (28:3-6, 8-10)
I. Introduction
- We learned from Nehemiah Chapter 2 that, preparation, praying and planning are essentials for the work of faith or service to God
- There would always be opposition to God’s work
- Godly leadership and loving relationship is paramount in the Lord’s service
II. Leadership of the Body of Christ vs 1-2, 9, 12, 14-19, 28
- Exemplary and Servanthood
- Delegation and Empowerment
- The Spirit of God gifts and empowers the Body of Christ in the service of God
III. Service of the Body of Christ vs 1, 12, 20-27
- For the Lord
- For and with one another
- All the members of the Body are involved
IV. Disruption in the Body of Christ vs 5
- They will be some who will not “shoulder” the Lord’s work
- The tragedy of the church is the missing gifts i.e., the missing servants of God
V. Conclusion
- Godly leadership is essential to the well-being of the Body of Christ
- Love and loving relationship are the glue to hold the Body of Christ together
- The goal: “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendour, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish” (Eph. 5:25-27)
I. Introduction
- By the good hand of God, 50 000 Jews have returned to the promised land after 70 years of exile to rebuild the Temple in 538 BC
- However the walls and gates of Jerusalem, the city of God, have been lying in ruins for 150 odd years since the exile. The people of God are in great trouble and shame too
- When Nehemiah the cupbearer in the King’s palace heard of the low situation of God’s people from his brother Hanani, he is overwhelmed with grief. He seeks the Lord in mourning, fasting, and praying for many days before he began the work of faith.
II. Preparation for the work of faith vs 1-2
- 4 months have passed since Nehemiah received the “bad news” from his brother and his prayerful decision to do something about it.
- Preparation for the man of God in the work of faith in the following areas is needful – character, graces and giftings, maturity, spirituality, knowledge
- Waiting on the Lord before you can do anything is not new for the people of God
III. Praying for the work of faith vs 3-8
- The king notices Nehemiah’s sad disposition and asks Nehemiah what’s bothering him instead of sending him to the gallows for spoiling his chill out session with the queen
IV. Planning for the work of faith vs 9-18
- Nehemiah conducts a survey personally and, on the ground, to assess the magnitude of the problem. A kind of SWOT analysis
- Nehemiah shares the vision of rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem with the people of God through empathy. He encourages them by acknowledging the good hand of the Lord upon him and the work ahead.
V. Plans to undermine the work of faith vs 10, 19-20
- The children of the world are displeased when Nehemiah comes along to seek the welfare of God’s people.
- They accuse the Nehemiah and the Jews for plotting a rebellion when they hear that they are going to rebuild the walls.
- Like father like children, the Devil and the Accuser of our brothers are on the prowl to stop anyone from seeking the welfare of God’s children by his many devices. all that he has, and he will curse you to your face.’”
V. Conclusion
- Preparation, Praying and Planning amongst others are required for the effectiveness of the work of faith for God, so let us work on it
- Opposition to the work of faith is to be expected, so let us put on the full armour of God to battle against it.
Introduction
1. Abram’s faithlessness and failure in his character (12:10-16)
a) There is no indication in the Scripture that Abram sought the Lord’s guidance in this situation nor that the Lord told him to go to Egypt.
b) Abram knew very well that he would be put into a position where he had to lie and compromise and he still decided for it.
c) A sharp rebuke of Abram, the friend of God, for his untruthfulness from the godless, unbeliever, Pharaoh.
d) Many trustworthy commentators think Abram has sinned: John Calvin, Derek Kidner, William Henry Griffith Thomas, and Ligon Duncan, etc.
2. God’s faithfulness (12:17-20)
a) God uses a pagan king’s rebuke to get Abram back to the Promised Land to uphold His divine call.
b) God’s covenant are preserved by His sovereign intervention alone, not by Abram.
c) If Abram had got what he deserved, he would have been killed in order for Pharaoh to keep Sarai and all his possessions.
d) Is your God bigger than all the circumstances of your lives?
3. Abram’s repentance and restoration to his faith (13:1-4)
a) Abram returned back to the place of worship. The place where he had built an altar and called on the name of the Lord.
b) He repented and was restored to his faith by God’s grace alone.
c) Is there no punishment for Abram’s sin?
Applications
1. If you are called of God for His purpose, expect to be tested.
Why does God allow His children to be tested and live a suffering lives?
i) It is to test the genuineness of their faith.
ii) To produce perseverance and steadfastness in us.
iii) To show that God’s grace is sufficient for us.
iv) God is treating us as His sons to share His holiness.
2. The covenant promises are preserved only by the sovereign Lord’s intervention.
i) Repentance is not putting things right by our own effort after messing up our lives.
ii) Shorter Catechism Q 87 defines repentance unto life “as saving grace, by which a sinner, being truly aware of his sinfulness, understands the mercy of God in Christ, grieves for and hates his sins, and turns from them to God, fully intending and striving for a new obedience.”
3. Know the purpose of your calling.
i) Abram knew what God has promised him, the land of Canaan and not Egypt (v 10 – “sojourn”)
God advances His gospel through the persuasive witness with passionate rationality in a reasonable world.
I) Introduction (25:23-27)
II) The persuasive witness humbly submits oneself for the salvation of others. (26:1-11)
III) The persuasive witness passionately offers rationality for the hope of the gospel (12-23, 25)
IV) The persuasive witness purposefully elicits responses in a reasonable world. (24. 26-32)
God’s perfect justice for His Kingdom is established with the gospel in a world of imperfect justice.
I) Discern God’s providential justice for His Kingdom (1-5)
II) Trust in God’s unchanging justice though Man does imperfect justice (6-12)
III) Submit to God’s ruling justice with patience for the gospel to work ( 13-22)
I Introduction
II. God calls us to keep in mind that we are made after God’s likeness when we become His sons and daughters. (4:20, 22)
- We have experienced a new creation. (4:24)
- We have received a new mind that is constantly being renewed. (4:23)
- God’s will and purpose motivates us live out our Christlikeness
III. As believers made in the life-changing likeness of God, we are to live out our Christ-like identity by the renewing power of His Spirit (4:21-22)
- Our old family ties are put off
- We are to put on a radical new lifestyle in its place
- C. We are entrusted with new family commitments and responsibilities
- God has given us everything we need to live out our Christ-like identity
IV. Conclusion
- As God's children, we should always keep in mind that we are new creations and that we are given a Spirit renewing mind.
- We who are united to Christ need to remind ourselves continually that we have a new Christ-like identity.
- We can to live out this identity for God has given all things we need for this life.
- Family likeness is a booster in difficult times because it assures us in a real sense we are participants in Christ and receivers of His very life.
God advances His gospel through the faithful witness with a clear conscience in a secular world.
I. The challenges of the faithful witness in a secular world. (1–9)
II. The faithful witness’s gospel response with a clear conscience toward God. (10-21)
III. The faithful witness living out the gospel with a clear conscience toward Man. (22-27)
Believers are enabled to rejoice by God's power in the restoration process.
I. Introduction: Rejoice, Aim for Restoration (11-13)
II. Depend on the power of Christ for restoration. (1-4)
III. Examine ourselves for restoration. (5,6,8)
IV. Pray for restoration. (7,9,10)
V. God's Word of Blessing (14)
Christians are to speak to the concerns of each other's soul with edification
I. Convey the issue of the relationship
II. Express the love relationship
III. Share the plead to restore the relationship
The fool's godly jealousy over Jesus' gospel is divine love for God's people
Introduction
Throughout its history, the church has led a precarious existence.
-
God’s call of Abram
-
The call is a command to forsake idolatry in its every form and fashion.
- It is an unconditional call out of God’s pure grace.
-
God’s call is often accompanied with many difficulties.
-
God’s blessings to Abram
-
When God calls us, He will also equip us with His grace and blessings.
-
Abram’s response to the call
-
Abram was asked to walk ‘blindly’ with God to an unknown land.
- Why does Moses emphasize that Abram built altars to the Lord?
Conclusion
If you have received the blessings of God’s salvation, you are under the responsibility to do all you can to be the channel of that blessing to those who have not heard. Be part of this history God is making in the world, establishing His kingdom on earth.
The power of Christ’s grace strengthens the humble who are suffering for the gospel
I) The positive encounter with the power of grace (2-7a)
II) The negative encounter with the power of grace (7-9a)
III) The power source of grace for the humble (9b-10)
Main Idea: Boasting like a fool to confront and comfort
I) The boastful confidence that is not from the Lord (16-21)
II) The foolish boasting, confronting other fools (22-27)
III) The foolish boasting, comforting believers in the church (28-33)
Main Idea: The fool’s godly jealousy over Jesus’ gospel is divine love for God’s people
I) The jealous fool of God boasts about the gospel truths. (1-4, 10-12)
II) The jealous fool of God is not inferior to the impostors. (5-11)
III) The jealous fool of God pushes back the impostors. (12-15)
I. Introduction
- The historical narrative took place during the postexilic period – around 445 BC to 430 BC. Judah was a small backwater province (no longer an independent kingdom) of the Persian Empire
- The characters a. Main cast: Nehemiah the Cupbearer b. Supporting casts: Ezra the Scribe, the Priests, the Levites, the remnant of the Children of Captivity, and the enemies of God’s People.
- Main Theme: Rebuilding the spiritual lives of the people of God through rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, the worship of God, and the lives of the people
II. The unfolding of the Crisis vs 1-3
- The remnant of the children of the captivity were in trouble and shame.
- The city of God – Jerusalem’s wall and gates lie in ruins for almost 150 years
- What is the crisis you are facing in your life?
- How do you evaluate the crisis in your life?
III. The reaction to the Crisis vs 4
- The common ways one reacts to a crisis a. Anxious, Fearful, Disappointed, Dejected, Depressed
- The child of God should and can cast his care and crisis to God in prayer 8
IV. The resolution of the Crisis vs 5-11
- Praised the God of heaven vs 5
- Confessed and identified oneself with the sin of God’s people vs 6-7
- Laid hold on God’s covenant mercy and promises vs 8-11
V. Conclusion
- Each crisis in life is essentially a faith crisis – a test to show us how much we trust in the Lord and what is our esteem of God
- We can carry everything including our crisis of life to the Lord in prayer
- Christ, who faced the greatest crisis in his life, yes, in the history of mankind, cried to the LORD at the garden of Gethsemane and on the cross. Though God seemed silent, and the crisis seemed long, yet the LORD raised Christ from the dead to give Him the victory over sin and death.
I. Introduction
II. Christ’s loving relationship with His church is reflected in the Christian marriage union (v.31)
A. Just as “two become one flesh “in marriage, believers are one with Christ and part of Him. (v.31-32)
B. In this spiritual and mystical union, Christ is joined to believers as their head and husband. (v.23)
III. In spiritual union with Christ, we enjoy the privileges of spiritual life and strength, Christ’s intercession and advocacy, His companionship, guidance and protection as His bride. (v.26-29)
A. Christ is our indwelling life and strength
B. Christ is our Intercessor and Advocate
C. Christ is our companion, guide and protector
IV. Conclusion
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“God being ours, whatsoever is in God, whatsoever God can do, whatsoever he has, is ours, because He is ours.” -- Richard Sibbes
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Hence Christians ought not to lose their bearings when life’s journey is beset with a pandemic of dark storms when we take to heart the truth that Christ is with them and in them.
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Indeed, if we be in Christ, and Christ, the Lord of all, is our head and husband, then the privileges and benefits of belonging to Christ are truly infinite.
Main Idea: Let the Christian boast in the Lord to influence others with the gospel truths.
I. Introduction (17)
II) Everyone boasts about some things (17a)
III) The bad type of boasting ( 7-13, 18a)
IV) The good type of boasting ( 13-17, 18b)
V) Conclusion (17)
Main Idea: Christian maturity is vital for contending the gospel truths of Jesus.
I) The meekness and gentleness of the heart (1-2)
II) The warfare of the mind (3-5a)
III) The capture of the will. (5b,6)
I. Introduction
II. Necessity of the newness of life (Eph 2.1-3)
- Dead in trespasses and sins without Christ
- Dominated by the world and the prince of the power of the air
- Doomed because you are the children of wrath
III. Entry into the newness of life
- Christ has opened the door to the newness of life in his death and resurrection so that sinners may enter in
- You are to embrace Christ and the good news of salvation and turn away from sin
IV. Walking in the newness of life
- Confess your faith in Christ by baptism
- Combat sin
- Consecrate yourselves to God
V. Conclusion
Men’s action (vs 3-4): reveals their depraved character.
- Prideful and boastful character.
- Willful defiance character against God’s will.
God’s response (vs 5-8): reveals the grace of God for mankind and His faithfulness to restore His kingdom on earth.
- It shows God’s grace to Christians.
- It reveals God’s faithfulness to his plan of salvation.
Conclusion (v 9).
- When you face up with God you are against something which is in every respect immeasurably superior to yourself.
- A proud man is always looking down on things and people; and as long as we are looking down, we cannot see something that is above us.
- Our hope for life eternal in heaven must be based on God’s grace alone.
I. Introduction: The presence of a misplaced priority, a misplaced perspective, a misplaced godliness amid God’s people speaks of a greater spiritual concern – a misplaced kingship of Christ.
II. Ways of rejecting the Kingship of Christ - (a)substitution, (b)syncretism
III. Ways to reinstate the Kingship of Christ (v.22-23) - (a)God is going to shake the cosmos, (b)God is going to overthrow all kingdoms and dominions, (c)Christ has come to set up his kingdom
VI. Ways to live our lives under the kingship of Christ (v.23) - (a)avail oneself to serve the Lord, (b)answer the call to serve the Lord, (c)acknowledge the kingship of Christ
V. Conclusion: Christ is coming again to (a)judge the unbelieving, (b)bring his people home, and is (c)building his kingdom of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
I. Introduction II. The misuse of Scripture. III. The right use of Scripture. IV. Blessings for the right use of Scripture. V. Conclusion
God’s people will have His comfort and joy in godly grief. Introduction (2-4) I) Filling up those afflicted with comfort (5-8) II) Expecting earnestness in godly grief (9-12) II) Rejoicing when godly grief has proved true (13-15) Conclusion (16)
God loves the cheerful giver, sowing and reaping according to the gospel. I. The biblical principle of sowing and reaping(vs 6,7, 10) II. The benefits of sowing and reaping (vs 8, 10-14). III. The gracious generosity of God’s people glorifies Him (vs 9, 12, 13, 15)
The good administration of generous gifts encourages us to love one another. I. Heartfelt appeal for help(vs 8:16-19) II. Thoughtful preservation of integrity. (vs 8:20-24) III. Superfluous communication beyond doubt. (vs 9:1-56)
I. Introduction II. God sent His Son to redeem us so that we might be adopted as His sons now and for ever. (Gal 4: 4-5) III. God sent His Spirit so that we might experience our sonship and enjoy its privileges by having confidence, peace, boldness and stability to face whatever the world throws at us. (Gal 4:6-7) IV.Conclusion
Main Point: The gracious generosity of a believer must be motivated by the gospel truths. Outline I) God’s abundance for His people. (14, 15) II) God’s fairness for His people. (12, 13, 14c, 15) III) Jesus’s grace for God’s people. (8, 9, 10, 11)
Main Point: Believers must excel in everything to bear the marks of gracious generosity. Outline I) The gospel with gracious generosity (1-2) II) The marks of gracious generosity (3-5) III) The call to excel in gracious generosity (6-7)
Main Idea: God’s people are to bring holiness to completion to receive His promise I) A biblical principle leads to the commands. (14, 17, 7:1b) II) The two commands to bring holiness to completion. (14-17, 7:1c) III) The promises of a personal God. (16c, 18, 7:1a)
Introduction. 1. All nations are of one blood and have one need. 2. All nations have only one way of salvation. 3. The election of grace and the church in its progress. Conclusion.
I) Know God through Christ’s Love. (5:11-15) II) Work together through Christ’s reconciliation. (5:16 – 6:2) III) Warm hearts through open hearts. (6:3-11)
I. Introduction II. The flawed perspective (vs 3-4) III. The real perspective ( vs 5-8) IV. The end in perspective ( vs 9)
Main Point: God’s grace to believers through the witness of an
unlikely confessor.
I) The situation and profile of an unlikely confessor (24, 25,
26)
II) The grace for the unlikely confessor (26, 27)
III) The witness to other unlikely confessors. (28, 29)
We are the frail vessels made to show God’s surpassing power in His gospel.
I. Our frailty in afflictions points to our lack of power. (7,8,9,12,16,18)
II. Our frailty in carrying the gospel points to God’s surpassing power. ( 8-14)
III. Our frailty in sensory perception is to be recalibrated heavenward. ( 15-18)
I) Turn away from gazing at the fading glory of the old form
of ministry and life v7-11
II) Turn to face the new form of ministry and life with the gospel
v8,11-16
III) Unmask to reflect the transforming ministry and life of the
Spirit v17, 18
I. Introduction
II. The value of our life’s work is only as significant as how much of it is spent for Jesus Christ.(v1-2a)
III. Our life’s work is significant and blessed only when our work is Godengaged and God-reliant. (2b-5)
IV. Conclusion
The Winning Smell of a Christian will spread from Life to Life.
I) The Smell of the Solider. (14)
II) The Two Smells on the Street. (15,16)
III) The Smell Spreads to the Spectators. (14b, 16b, 17)
I. . Introduction
II. Reasons for our misplaced priority Ezra 4.4-6, vs 2-4
III. Results of our misplaced priority vs 5-6, 9-11
IV. Resources to reorder our misplaced priority vs 12-15
V. Conclusion
Introduction
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We learn that sin can strike anyone, even the godly and the spiritual giant (v. 21).
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We all easily become calloused toward sin (vv. 21-23).
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We notice that sin grows, multiplies and spreads (vv. 24-27).
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The human race needs a new heart.
Conclusion
The love that obeys brings the church to life in everything.
I) The test of Love (v1,2,3 4) II) The test of Rest (v12,13) III) The test of Encouragement (v7,8) IV) The test of Obedience (v5,6,9,10,11)
Considering God’s promises, we are to resolve conflicts with godliness.
I): Approach with Godly sincerity (12-14)
II): Square with God’s promises (15-20)
III) Work with one another for the joy in Christ. (21-24).
Main idea: God encourages us with what Christ has done and doing through us.
I) Introduction (1,2)
II) Praise Who God is. (3, 4a)
III) Remember What Christ did. (5,6,7, 10)
I. Introduction
II. The Christmas story begins with a lost war where the defeated human race became enslaved to death and the Prince of this world (2:15)
III. The Christmas message is a victory celebration of the birth of Jesus, the founder of our salvation, in a war with death and the devil that we could never ever win on our own (2:14)
IV. Conclusion
The church is to pray for the sufferer, restore the sinner, and reclaim the wanderer.
I. Two things a sufferer should do ( 13,14,15 )
II. Two things the elders could do ( 15,16,17,18,19 )
III. Two things the church would pursue ( 14,16,19,20 )
While we suffer the world’s sin, we must strengthen our hearts.
I.We are not to avenge those who made us suffer. ( 1-6 )
II.We are to be patient until the coming of the Lord. ( 7-11 )
III.We are to keep our integrity with trust in our Lord. ( 12 )
I. Introduction
II. Complaints of an angry servant of God vs 1 - 4
III. Probable reasons for an angry servant of God
IV. Ways to restore an angry servant of God vs 5 – 11
V. Conclusion
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The purpose of the covenant (vv.1-7): To highly value human life.
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The promise of the covenant (vv. 8-11).
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The sign of the covenant, a rainbow in the clouds (vv. 12-13).
1) Do not misplace your confidence in your plan. (13, 14)
2) Explore God’s will in your plan. (15)
3) Carry out your plan without arrogance. (16, 17)
I) Worldly wisdom and its fruits II) Godly wisdom and its fruits III) The Goal of Wisdom
I. Commission renewed by God vs 1-5
II. Conviction of sin brought by God vs 6-9
III. Compassion displayed by God vs 10
IV. Conclusion
I. Introduction
II. In these last days, Jesus forewarns of many giving up faith and prayer
III. (Main idea) Last day living requires God’s people to remain in prayer and wait confidently for God to bring justice to His children.
IV. Conclusion
Main idea: We must bridle our hearts with the gospel truths to rein in our speech.
I) The Open Challenge to the Teacher-Speaker (1-2)
II) The Good Potential of Speech (2-5)
III) The Bad Potential of Speech (6-8)
IV) The Open Challenge to the Inconsistent Speaker (9-12)
Main idea: We must act and live out what we believe to be certain of the saving faith of
Christ.
I) Faith without action is not beneficial (14-18)
II) Faith without action is worse (19-20)
III) Faith with action is a living faith. (21-26)
We must examine our faith that shows partiality and let the gospel resolve our sin.
I) Introduction (1) II) The results of showing partiality (2-4) III) The (deeper) reasons not to show partiality (5-11) IV) The resolution to show no partiality. (12-13)
I. Introduction
II. Confessing vs 1 - 3
III. Trials vs 4 – 6
IV. Clinging vs 7 – 10
V. Conclusion
Main Point: You must practice godly wisdom on the go to counter self-deception.
Introduction: The wise instructions for practice (19)
Instruction 1: Be slow to anger ( vs 20-22 )
Instruction 2: Be quick to listen ( vs 23-25 )
Instruction 3 : Be slow to speak ( vs 26)
Conclusion: The restatement to practice godly wisdom ( vs 27 )
Main Point: When we are tempted, let us return to the truths of the gospel.
1.) The modes of temptations, desires and sins ( vs 13–15 )
2.) The heavenly Father giving good gifts ( vs 16-17 )
3.) The kind of children of God. ( v. 18)
Main Point: There are advantages for the believer in a trial.
Outline:
I) The lowly believer is esteemed (9)
II) The rich person is esteemed (10-11)
III) The one endured is ensured (12)
Introduction
Have you ever experienced being abandoned by somebody?
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The situation Noah and his household were in (Genesis 7 & 8)
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God remembered Noah (v. 1)
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Since God in His faithfulness remembered Noah, we also learned that Noah remembered God (v. 20)
Conclusion
I. Introduction
II. God’s mercies made a sinner self-sufficient, but a saint unworthy (14)
III. (Main idea)) Blessed are you whom God humbles and purges of pride and self-righteousness to rest completely in Jesus’ righteousness.
IV. Conclusion
I) Ask God for wisdom. 5
II) Ask God in faith. 6
III) Ask God expectantly to receive. 7-8
I. Introduction
II. God is Sovereign in Providence vs 3,7
III. God is Sovereign in Creation vs 4, 11, 13
IV. God is Sovereign in Salvation vs 5, 10, 14, 16
V. Conclusion
I) Assess the Christian Joy in its entirety (1-2)
II) Experience the Christian Joy in trials (3)
III) Perfect the Christian Joy lacking in nothing (4)
I. Introduction
II. Our Lord is grieved and offended by the sin of the nations vs 2
III. Our Lord can save any sinner vs 2
IV. Our Lord uses means to save sinners vs 1,3
V. Conclusion
I) He exposes the plot with His curse (12-19)
II) He overwhelms the plot with His might. (20-30)
III) He overturns the plot with His justice. (31-35)
1) The Empowering courage with the authority of God (22:22-30)
2) The Rebuking courage with the words of God (23:1-5)
3) The Perceiving courage with the doctrines of God (23:6-11).
A) Background of mistaken identity (21:27-40)
B) The believer defends the new identity in Christ from three perspectives:
I) The World - The old identity in the world. (22:3-5)
II) The Savior - The appointed identity takes on new commitments. (22:6-11)
III) The Church - The spiritual new identity with baptism. (22:12-16)
C) The believer concluding defense. (22:17-21)
I. Introduction
II. Paul was in the pursuit of the peace of Christ for the world.
III. The three characteristics of his opposition pursuing their self-centered peace.
IV. The three-fold responses of Paul in his pursuit of the peace of Christ.
V. The three take-home questions.
Introduction
I. God holds us accountable for neglecting the use of His gifts (vv. 19-23)
II. Main idea: What we do now with God’s gifts and His word have eternally irreversible consequences (vv. 24-31)
Introduction
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The facts about the Ark and the Flood
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It is a picture of believer’s salvation in Christ in the midst of judgment.
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Points to the future final judgment of unbelievers and the final salvation of
all believers.
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The Spirit guides the believer through the commitments. (1-6)
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The Spirit anchors the believer with the Word of God. (7-12)
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The Spirit gets ready the believer to fulfill the Will of God. (13-16)
Sermon Topic: Our Identity in Christ (2): Saint & Sinner
I. Introduction
II. Plead for Forgiveness vs 1-6
III. Prayer for Cleansing & Restoration vs 7-12
IV. Promise of Service & Thanksgiving vs 13-17
V. Petition for Protection vs 18-19
Vi. Conclusion
I. Introduction
II. We are Sons of God Gal 4.1-7
III. We are Siblings in the Household of God Eph 2.17-22
D. Conclusion
Bible text: Acts 20:17-38
Preacher: Pastor Terence Ng
Since the Holy Spirit has made Elders care for the church, we must pay careful attention to ourselves and one another.
- Follow Christ-like example. (18-24)
- Admonish one another. (25-32)
- Help with giving. (33-38)
Bible texts: Deuteronomy 10:12-22, Colossians 2:11-12, Galatians 3:27
Preacher: Pastor Terence Ng
Since the Lord God is a promise keeper, we must put on Christ with the sign of His Promise
- Worship with all your heart for your good (Deut. 10:12-15)
- Apply a visible sign for the good of others (Deut. 10:16-19)
- Live a life of promise in Christ (Deut. 10:20-22, Col. 2:11-23, Gal. 3:27)
Bible Text: Acts 20:1-16
Preacher: Pastor Terence Ng
Outline:
Since the Holy Spirit brings life to the church through His people, we must find every opportunity to come together.
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Needful encouragements for the disciples (vv.1-6)
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Greater comfort of the resurrection (vv.7-12)
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Returning celebration of the Pentecost (vv.13-16)
Scripture text: Acts 19:21-41
Preacher: Pastor Terence Ng
Since the Holy Spirit is working powerfully, we must resolve to trust His work prevails over the confusions in our lives.
- Discern the Spirit’s impacting work (vv. 24-27)
- Do not rush into the Spirit’s resolving work (vv. 28-34)
- Have quiet confidence in the Spirit’s vindicating work (vv. 35-41)
Scripture text: Joel 2:15-32Preacher: Moses Tang
I. Introduction
- The first trumpet in Joel chapter 2 verse 1 called upon God’s people to take a hard look at the divine judgements and chastisements and trials of faith in the eye of the storm.
- The second trumpet in Joel chapter 2 verse 15 called upon God’s people to turn from their sins that the Lord may restore the locust-eaten years to them and blesses them with seasons of spiritual revival.
II. Repentance vv. 15-17“Here again the Prophet reminds them that there was a need of deep repentance for not only individuals had transgressed, but the whole people had become guilty before God, and we also know how many and grievous their sins had been. There is no wonder then that the prophet requires a public profession of confession.” John Calvin
- Who? All of God’s people; The greatest to the youngest (yes even nursing infants) and including those who are on official leave and bliss.
- It is not a casual gathering of God’s people but a “press them to come together” assembly to address this very urgent matter.
- How? Turn from our sins. Set aside a time for fasting and prayer. Plead for the Lord’s mercy. Pray for the Lord’s blessing.
III. Restoration vv. 18-27“See how ready God is to succour and relieve his people, how He waits to be gracious; as soon as ever they humble themselves under his hand, and pray and seek his face, He immediately meets them with His favours.” Matthew Henry
- The Lord will be merciful to His people.
- The Lord will bless His people materially.
- The Lord will protect His people from their enemies.
But the greater blessings are:
- The Lord will restore the locust-eaten years to His people.
- The Lord will be in the midst of His people.
IV. Revival vs 28-32“The prophet had encouraged the nation to repentance by announcing the temporal blessings which would be consequent thereon. This was the lower sphere of blessings consequent to their repentance...Now the prophet mentions the higher blessings to follow, - the spiritual, of which the temporal was but a type.” Biblical Illustrator
- The Lord will bless His people with seasons of spiritual revival. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
- The fulfilment of this prophecy took place on the Day of Pentecost as recorded in Acts 2. And the Lord continues to pour out His Spirit in great measure upon the church from time to time for His glory.
- I for one am praying, working, and watching for seasons of spiritual revival.
V. Conclusion
- Harden not your hearts nor be stubborn with the Lord. cf. Hebrews 3:8, 2 Kings 17:14
- Return to the Lord without hesitation and reservation. cf. Zechariah 1:3-4
- Hope in the Lord that He will do great things for us for His glory when we return to Him – our first love. cf. Haggai 2:18-19, Revelation 2:4-5