Calvary Baptist Church: Recent Episodes
"He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But to as many who received Him, to them gave He the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name..." (John 1:10-12). "He was despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief" (Isaiah 53:3). Jesus had established quite a reputation in Galilee. He had cast out demons, healed the lame and sick, cleansed lepers, raised the dead, and preached to large crowds. Jesus was now preparing to send His apostles on their first foray into a hostile world without His physical presence (6:6b-13). In His preparation, He took the apostles to His hometown where they saw firsthand the hostility they were likely to experience in their ministry for Him.
To be "in Christ" (8:1) is to be joint heirs with Him in eternal glory. In the epistle to the Ephesians, Paul prays "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe..." (Ephesians 1:17-19). "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered in the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him" (I Corinthians 2:19). The blessings God has in store for those "in Christ" are beyond our present comprehension. The Holy Spirit gives us a "guarantee (earnest) of our inheritance" (Ephesians 1:13). We can sing with boldness: Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood. (Fanny Crosby) There is, however, an unpleasant reality for Christians. There is "the sufferings of this present time" (8:18). We live in a fallen world. When Adam sinned, the whole creation was thrown into chaos. Victory comes to the Christian when we realize "the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
"Who can this be" (4:41)? The apostles were learning very quickly who Jesus was. He had calmed the sea, cast out demons and healed a woman. A desperate man had come to Jesus begging Him to heal his daughter. The situation went from difficult to impossible. The child was dead. Only God had power over life and death. Is Jesus God?
The story of two mothers and one son is the most well-known displays of King Solomon's wisdom. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in the life of Solomon.
There was no rest for the disciples. After a harrowing trip across the lake, the men encountered another multitude of people seeking Jesus. For the fourth time in chapter 5 we see someone begging Jesus (vs. 11,17,18,23). A prominent man and a destitute woman came to Jesus. One has a daughter and the other is a daughter. In this we see two acts of faith.
If God asked, "Ask! What shall I give you?," for what would you ask? Solomon's answer pleased the Lord. Be with us tonight as we begin our study in the life and times of King Solomon. Reading Scripture: 1 Kings 3: 1-15
"If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home in Him" (John 14:23). When a person is "in Christ Jesus," he has been led by the Holy Spirit into a union which involves the Trinity. He is called by the Spirit, saved by the Savior, and declared righteous by the Father. To be "in Christ Jesus" (8:1) is to be "led by the Spirit" (8:14), who leads us to "cry out, Abba Father." Paul uses the Roman law of adoption to illustrate our new relationship with God the Father. To be adopted a child was brought into a Roman court, his former relationships would be dissolved, and the new father would declare the privileges of being joint heirs with the other children. Paul shows how life in the Spirit provides intimacy with the Father.
What a voyage! When Jesus got into the boat with His disciples, they had no idea what a wild voyage they would be taking. First, they feared for their lives in a violent storm. When they reached their destination, they were confronted by a man who was the terror of the town. They had survived a storm they could see. Now, they were confronted by a demonic world they could not see.
The peaceful transfer of power is a relatively modern concept in governments. Even as Solomon was destined to become king following his father's reign, there was much turmoil and danger in the court. Be with us tonight as we have begun a new study in the book of 1 Kings.
Launch Out Into The Deep Our Lord takes people from all walks of life and uses their backgrounds, talents and weaknesses to perform His work through them. He took common fishermen and made them fishers of men. He took their boats and performed some of His most enduring miracles which teach us great truths. The apostles' boats were His boats. He took command of their possessions. He led them from the shallows of the seashore to the deep waters of faith. "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is a gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:8:10).
The Gospel of Jesus Christ has high expectations for those who receive it. Paul has exhorted his readers to let their conduct be worthy of the name by which they are called (1:17-26). A hostile world would be watching for identifiable characteristics of those who believe in Him. Paul now presses his appeal for unity and humility as the Philippians were to be a Christ-like testimony to those around them.
Does salvation give a Christian a license to sin? If God's grace abounds when we sin, then why should we not continue to sin so His grace can continue to abound. The repetition of the word "know" (vs. 3,6,11) indicates Paul wanted Christians to understand that doctrine and duty go hand in hand. A child of God is to act like a child of God. In Romans 5:12, Paul made a transition from "sins" as action to "sin" as a principle. Sin, in all its forms, should not reign over a child of God.
The Gospel of Jesus Christ has high expectations for those who receive it. Paul has exhorted his readers to let their conduct be worthy of the name by which they are called (1:17-26). A hostile world would be watching for identifiable characteristics of those who believe in Him. Paul now presses his appeal for unity and humility as the Philippians were to be a Christ-like testimony to those around them.
The battle has been won, but the nation is still divided. King David was tasked with reuniting his people and reestablishing order. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in the life of this great, but flawed man.
Leadership requires leaders to lead, even in the midst of personal loss. David's deep sorrow in the death of his son was causing great confusion after great victory. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in the life of King David.
The Effects of the fruit of righteousness On People 1. On the whole palace guard (1:12; 4;22) 2. On fellow saints (1:14) 3. On fellow preachers (1:15-18) In People 1. Confidence in adversity (1:14) 2. Confidence in the Holy Spirit (1:19,20) 3. Confidence in mission (1:21-24) 4. Confidence in the future (1:25,26) 5. Confidence in conduct (1:27-30)
Paul's letter to the Philippian Christians was intensely personal. It had been some ten years since Paul had started this first church on European soil. Paul, in his Roman captivity, had learned of the persecution in which the church was suffering. He used his present situation to encourage his fellow believers to live victoriously in their plight. In order to grasp Paul's passion for the ministry, let us dig deeply into his thoughts using methods of Bible study: Exegesis: the act of drawing out the meaning of a specific text to determine what the author originally intended to communicate Hermeneutics: concerns interpretation; establishing principles or rules for understanding and interpreting texts Homiletics: the art and science of preaching, specifically the study of composing and delivering sermons
The Effects of the fruit of righteousness On People 1. On the whole palace guard (1:12; 4;22) 2. On fellow saints (1:14) 3. On fellow preachers (1:15-18) In People 1. Confidence in adversity (1:14) 2. Confidence in the Holy Spirit (1:19,20) 3. Confidence in mission (1:21-24) 4. Confidence in the future (1:25,26) 5. Confidence in conduct (1:27-30)
Although history seems to be filled with coincidences, the fact is that there are no coincidences with God. Seeming happenstance is always God's providence. Be with us tonight as we continue our study of King David.
Having shown us the revelation of God's wrath upon unrighteousness, Paul has revealed to us the Gospel of God's grace through faith. A person condemned by sin can be declared righteous by his faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Not only so, but much more, a person is given access through faith into the very throne room of God where He invites the believer to dwell through prayer and fellowship with Him. A believer is reconciled to his Maker and secures the blessings of salvation not only in this life but throughout eternity. One of the most crucial passages in the word of God is verses twelve through twenty-one of chapter five. It ties the book of Genesis to salvation. "Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin...." Was there one original man? Were Adam and Eve historical personages? Was there death on earth before man sinned? Did God actually create male and female? Who were the only two men to walk the face of the earth who had no human fathers? Does any of it matter?
In most of his epistles Paul asserts his position as an apostle of Jesus Christ as he writes with apostolic authority. However, as he writes to the beleaguered Philippians, he writes as a friend. His purpose is to encourage the Philippians in their walk with Christ in a cruel world. Although Paul was imprisoned in Rome, he wrote with joyful optimism. "Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ" (1:6). He prayed that their love would abound and that they would be "filled with the fruits of righteous which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God" (1:11). What are "the fruits of righteousness"?
As Jeremiah prophesied Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians. Jeremiah watched as the city was starved into submission and then burned. The inhabitants were treated mercilessly--many were slaughtered, the rest taken captive back to Babylonia. Jeremiah surveys the city and is inspired of God to write. Lamentations (which means "loud cryings") is a set of five poems or elegies. It can be called "an elegy written in a graveyard." The chapters, except the middle one (chapter 3) have the same number of verses, that is, twenty-two, and the third chapter has three times the number of the others, that is, sixty-six. This is because there are twenty-two letters in the Hebrew alphabet. In chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4, each verse begins with each letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The third chapter runs in triplets and the first verse of each triplet begins with the corresponding Hebrew letter. The fifth chapter has 22 verses but does not follow the same pattern.
History is often determined by the counsel a leader was given. The long account of Absalom's rebellion turned on a single verse. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in the life of King David.
"Therefore, having been justified by faith...." Paul has presented to us the gospel of Christ (1:16). He has made clear two revelations: "the righteousness of God" (1:17), and the "wrath of God" against all ungodliness (1:18). He has shown all the world is guilty before God (3:19) and "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (3:23). But he has also revealed "the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe" (3:22). He has introduced to us some very blessed words: Grace: God's unmerited favor Righteousness: God's standard of perfection Redemption: a price that is paid Justification: a judicial act in declaring debts forgiven Propitiation: satisfaction that a debt is paid Imputation: an accounting term meaning something was given Reconciliation: a change in relationship from enemy to friend
"You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended (purpose) by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful" (James 5:11). The frustrating fact in the book of Job is that his counselors were not wrong in what they said. The problem was that they did not present God in the proper manner. To them, God was a mean-spirited Being who exacted punishment. Not once do we see them present God's whole counsel, "...that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful." Not once did they pray with or for Job. They had a head knowledge but lacked the spiritual insights that an ambassador of the Lord needs to bring God's healing to the soul. Four times in two verses (42:7,8), God reveals Job's relationship with Himself. In identifying Job as "My servant," our Lord vindicates and rewards His servant.
In war, many times it is difficult to distinguish friend from enemy. Passion and deception can rule the day. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in the life of King David. Scripture Reading: II Samuel 16
In chapters one through four the Apostle Paul revealed the Gospel of Christ. The two great revelations Paul made in Romans 1:16-18. First, the righteousness of God can only be attained through faith. Second, the wrath of God is revealed on all ungodliness and unrighteousness. A vivid picture is painted of man's ungodliness and how he is a slave of sin. We are taken to the courtroom of the Almighty where everyone is guilty before God. Beginning in chapter 3, verse 21, we are introduced to the righteousness of God. This righteousness can only be attained through faith in the provision God has made. We are introduced to several legal terms: Grace: God's unmerited favor Righteousness: God's standard of perfection Redemption: a price that is paid Justification: a judicial act of declaring debts forgiven Propitiation: satisfaction that a debt is paid Imputation: an accounting term meaning something was given Chapters five through eight introduce us to what God does in and through the believer once he is saved. A key word is RECONCILIATION. The believer is no longer an enemy of God but has begun a new relationship with his Savior. "Therefore, having being justified by faith...." We now see the great blessings that come from this justification.
Please note: The 1st seven minutes and 55 seconds sufferer from an unidentified interference. It may be difficult to understand. We apologize. "You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended (purpose) by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful" (James 5:11). The frustrating fact in the book of Job is that his counselors were not wrong in what they said. The problem was that they did not present God in the proper manner. To them, God was a mean-spirited Being who exacted punishment. Not once do we see them present God's whole counsel, "...that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful." Not once did they pray with or for Job. They had a head knowledge but lacked the spiritual insights that an ambassador of the Lord needs to bring God's healing to the soul. Four times in two verses (42:7,8), God reveals Job's relationship with Himself. In identifying Job as "My servant," our Lord vindicates and rewards His servant.
There will be no unrighteousness in heaven. Therefore, only those who are righteous will go there. Paul has established the fact that "the is none righteous, no, not one" (3:10). All the world is guilty before God (3:19). Beginning in Romans 3:21, Paul introduced to us the way a person can be declared righteous. He has introduced several terms: Grace: God's unmerited favor Righteousness: God's standard of perfection Redemption: a price that is paid Justification: a judicial act of declaring debts forgiven Propitiation: satisfaction that a debt has been paid
Absalom's rebellion cast a dark cloud on David's reign as king of Israel. Be with us tonight as we examine how it had a lasting effect on so many.
Can God create something that He Himself cannot destroy? The answer is, absolutely not! Job was humbled by the myriad of questions God had asked about His creation. God ends His questions with two animals He created which would bring terror to anyone who would be confronted by them. The behemoth (40:15-24) was (now extinct) a land animal which was practically indestructible by man. It was part of God's creation. God now brings His questioning to a climax with an animal which takes on supernatural proportions. Leviathan!
Whirlwinds and Dinosaurs Job 40 In chapter 39, our Lord questioned Job about twelve animals He had created. These animals were common animals which roamed the earth in Job's day. In God's second discourse (chapters 40 and 41), two other mysterious animals are described. Behemoth and Leviathan have more verses (forty-four) devoted to them than the other twelve combined. The obvious question is why God gave so much attention to these fearsome animals in this climactic portion of His message to Job.
From Romans 1:1 to 3:20 Paul reveals the wrath of God upon all ungodliness. It is firmly established that we are all ungodly. Beginning in 3:21, and through the rest of the epistle, Paul expounds on the remedy, the good news of redemption in Christ Jesus. This good news is proclaimed to all, both Jew and Gentile, who believe. "But now" (3:21) God reveals His righteousness and how it can be attained by all who believe. There are several terms Paul introduces and expands upon in the following chapters: Grace: God's unmerited favor Righteousness: God's standard of perfection Redemption: a price that is paid Justification: a judicial act of declaring debts forgiven Propitiation: satisfaction that a debt was paid There is one more important word that Paul will introduce. Forgiveness of sin has been paid through the shed blood of our Savior. A child of God is forgiven, but he is not innocent. Then, how does one become "righteous?" The answer is IMPUTATION! "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted (imputed) to him for righteousness" (4:3).
"Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than the sparrows" (Matthew 10:29-31). In God's questions to Job, eight verses deal with the creation week, twenty-seven with the physical world and its functions, and thirty-three with the nature of animals. These thirty-three verses give clear testimony of God's providential care for all His creation (Morris). The questions God asks Job imply a care for His creation which is far beyond man's comprehension. Job had noted that one could learn about the reality of our Creator by the study of animals (12:7-10). God now mentions twelve animals.
"But now...." What a turning point! Paul has stated two revelations of God in Romans 1: 16-18. In verse 16, the righteousness of God has been revealed. In verse 18, the wrath of God is revealed against all ungodliness. God will judge all of us according to truth, according to our deeds, and according to the Gospel (2:1-16). The Jew has no advantage over the Gentile. "There is none righteous, no not one (2:17-3:18). Paul's conclusion is that the law merely sets a standard that no one can reach (3:19-20). "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (3:23). God's hatred of sin demands justice. "But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed." How does one become righteous in the court room of God?
Absalom's exile left David with a dilemma. His indecision left the king vulnerable to manipulation. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in the tragedy that consumed the last years of David's reign. Message: Reading Scripture: 2 Samuel 14
Job 38: 12-38 God interrogated Job with a list of seventy-seven questions. In doing so, God invited Job to explore His creation. His opening questions are calls to examine the earth He created (vs.3-11). His next series of questions deal with the functions of the "cosmos" (vs.12-38).
Job's three "friends" had spent themselves trying to convince Job that his sufferings were a result of hidden sin. The young Elihu had droned on in an academic discourse in theology. Now, after months of suffering, God speaks. "The four-chapter message direct from God that climaxes the book of Job is unparalleled by anything else in the Bible. Even unbelieving scholars acknowledge it is one of the world's greatest masterpieces in literature" (Henry Morris). Amazingly, God says nothing concerning the problem of human suffering. His discourses cover 123 verses and ask 77 questions. God's subject is creation! He reveals His power in and loving care of His creation. "To everything there is a season, a time and purpose under heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1). This remarkable conclusion of Job reveals the answers for a hurting world are found in the One who created it. It is the fear (holding in awe) of the Lord which marks the beginning of our wisdom and understanding (Job 28:28).
The rift in David's family would grow to full-blown civil war due to David's tolerance of Amnon's horrible injustice. The rift would dominate the second half of David's reign.
The younger Elihu listened to the conversations of Job and his three "friends" and was convinced he had the answer to Job's sufferings. He used Job's own words to condemn Job. He also castigates all the older men for not knowing God as he knew Him.
Paul has presented the case that all humans are slaves to sin in chapter one. In chapter two, Paul sets forth the case that the Jew is as guilty as the Gentile of sin and unbelief. A person's heritage, indoctrination, religious rituals, or education cannot make him righteous before God. A person is a child of God "from the heart" (2:29) and not by the letter of the law. The Jew would ask, "What is the advantage of circumcision?" A good lawyer knows the answer to a question before he asks it. Paul sets forth a series of questions and answers them. Then he lays out a fourteen-count indictment to all mankind "that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God" (3:20). "It cannot escape notice how completely the doctrine of the Jews has been transferred by ritualists to Christianity." (Charles Hodge). If, by any means, anyone escapes the verdict of guilty, "he will never truly rely upon the shed blood of the Guilt-Bearer, Christ!" (William R. Newell).
The younger Elihu listened to the conversations of Job and his three "friends" and was convinced he had the answer to Job's sufferings. He used Job's own words to condemn Job. He also castigates all the older men for not knowing God as he knew Him.
The gospel of Christ "is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek" (1:16). For the righteousness of God is revealed to man through salvation (1:17). One must realize that the wrath of God is revealed "against all ungodliness" (1:18). Paul, the lawyer, takes us to the courtroom to declare we are inexcusable. If a person is truly "saved," what is he "saved" from? The answer: the wrath of God! Paul declared the gospel "to the Jew first." Therefore, Paul takes the Jew to task. His conclusion: "There is none righteous (Jew or Gentile), no, not one" (3:10). He drives home that point in the second half of chapter two. The specific application is to the Jew, but the practical application is to Jew and Gentile alike.
King David was never the same after his fateful fall into sin. He seemed to become more indecisive in dealing with his problems. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in the life of this great but flawed man.
Chapters 29-31 form Job's closing monologue. In chapter 29, he recounts the good old days "when God watched over me." In chapter 30, Job cries out to God in his present misery. In chapter 31, Job seeks vindication from God. Chapter 31 is a checklist of "blameless and upright man" (1:8).
Chapters 29-31 form Job's closing monologue. In chapter 29, he recounts the good old days "when God watched over me." In chapter 30, Job cries out to God in his present misery. In chapter 31, Job seeks vindication from God. Chapter 31 is a checklist of "blameless and upright man" (1:8).
Job's three counselors have exhausted their arguments. They had tried to convince Job that he had some hidden sin that was causing his misery. Job steadfastly maintained his innocence. Job closes the argument with an extended discourse (chapters 27-31) of his perception of the ways of God. To Bildad, he stated that he had examined "the mere edges of His ways" (26:14). Before reviewing his life (chapter 29-31), he refutes the wisdom of men and seeks the wisdom of God.
The The book of Romans is the most comprehensive book of the Gospel in the entire Bible. It forms the basis of true Christianity. How can unrighteous man be reconciled to God? That has been a question over the ages: "It may be that deity may forgive sin, but I do not know how." (Socrates, 500 B.C.) How can a just God forgive sin without compromising His own righteousness? How can the unjust be declared righteous? Romans 2:1-16 is an expansion of the principle found in 1:18. "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness...." Then, Paul describes the path of depravity societies follow when they "suppress the truth" (1:19-32). Sodom's depravity was caused by her suppression of the truth.
The death of an infant is always an emotionally tragic event. Does an infant go to heaven? Be with us tonight as we continue our study of II Samuel.
Bildad's short speech is the last from Job's "counselors." Again, he does not bother to answer Job's last challenge for his counselors to prove him wrong as to the ways of God (24:25). Bildad sums up the whole conversation by repeating Eliphaz's original charge that Job was in rebellion against God (4:17-21). Job's three friends saw God as transcendent, but impersonal. To them, God's sovereignty over His creation brought order, but was brutal to those who disobeyed Him. They voiced no relationship with the living God.
Paul has stated that the righteousness of God is revealed to all those who believe (1:16,17). The Gospel delivers a believer from sin. He breaks the power of cancelled sin, He sets the prisoner free; His blood can make the foulest clean; His blood availed for me. (Charles Wesley) There is another revelation in the Gospel. "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness..." (1:18).
When approaching a king, even a prophet had to be careful how he addressed a king's crimes. Nathan was that prophet, and God gave him a wonderful story which caused King David to convict himself. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in II Samuel (chapter 12).
God never moves without purpose or plan When trying His servant and molding a man. Give thanks to the Lord though His testing seems long; In darkness He giveth a song. (Ron Hamilton) Job's comforters have turned into debaters. The first two rounds of speeches had become increasingly acrimonious and decreasingly beneficial. Eliphaz's gentleness had turned to stern rebuke. Bildad became more accusatory, and Zophar finished his case in a huff. Now, Eliphaz calls one last time for Job's repentance. Meanwhile, Job's flashes of confidence rise to new heights as he seems to realize that his duress was a test of faith and not a punishment for evil.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new. Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation" (II Corinthians 5:17-20). The goal of the Christian's ministry is to be reconciled to God and to help others find peace with God also. There are three ways of approaching one in need: 1. Condemnation: judging a person (Romans 8:31-37) 2. Accommodation: making light of sin (Romans 6:1-4) 3. Reconciliation: helping a person in their walk with God (Titus 3:1-7)
King David has reached the height of his reign when moral disaster struck, a moral lapse which would plague the rest of his life. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in II Samuel.
The Epistle of Romans is Paul's magnum opus. Martin Luther called it, "The chief book of the New Testament....It deserves to be known by heart, word for word, by every Christian." Paul wrote the epistle on his third visit to the city of Corinth.
With increasing acrimony Job's "miserable comforters" drive home the point that God punishes the wicked. They see God as a dispenser of vengeance, totally lacking in love and grace. They echo the developing cults of angry gods who demand personal sacrifice, even child sacrifice, to assuage the penalty for sin. They concentrate on the present situation with no idea of a future and eternal judgment. Job, in his suffering, begins to see the future. In his darkness, his faith shines. His statement, "For I know my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth..." (18:25) resounds through the ages as future believers have found hope in their Redeemer.
"Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they be of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world" (I John 4:1). Job's three "counselors" have been anything but comforters. Their narrative that God always blesses the righteous and punishes evil doers has led to their judging Job as a hypocrite hiding some personal sin. They have not prayed for him or with him. Eliphaz is convinced he has spiritual authority because of the "vision" he described in his first speech (4:12-16). His spiritual experience had convinced him he knew the mind of God.
Whereas King David's kindness was joyfully accepted by Mephibosheth, it was rejected by the people of Ammon. Their rejection proved disastrous. Be with us tonight as we continue out study in II Samuel, chapter 10.
A very good reason to praise our Lord is because He considers praise "beautiful" (v. 1). This psalm is a call to worship. The people are led in a song of praise and affirmation of faith (vs. 20-22).
Job has endured the discouragement of a spiritist philosopher and a know-it-all traditionalist. Now he faced the most brutal of them all, a bigoted dogmatist. These men show no empathy to Job's plight. They have not listened to his questions (9:2,4,14;10:20). Zophar showed the least amount of patience and got the strongest reaction from Job.
Like bunker buster bombs, Job's friends drive the issue of Job's sufferings deeper and deeper. Eliphaz, in his hyper spiritualism, saw Job's sufferings as Job's punishment for unconfessed sin. His words contained elements of truth but were filled with ignorance of God's ways. Now, Bildad drives the dagger deeper. Not only does he call Job a blow-hard (8:2), but he said Job's children died because of unconfessed sin. He showed no sympathy for Job's sorrow.
In chapter 3, Job had unleashed his emotions to his three friends. This gave them the opportunity to voice their opinions as to why Job suffered. Eliphaz, the oldest and wisest, is first to offer his analysis.
Adam was created on the sixth day of creation. Consequently, his first full day of existence was God's day of rest. What a day that must have been for Adam to observe the beautiful world God had made! Unfortunately, sin soon entered the picture, and the world has been restless ever since. "But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt" (Isaiah 57:20). Paul paints a sad picture of man in his rebellion against God. He tells Timothy, "But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: for men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness, but denying its power" (II Timothy 4:1-5). In his pursuit of happiness, man becomes a slave of sin filled with all kinds of psychological problems. Jesus asks, "For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul" (Matthew 16:26)? Counselors tell us that there are five major problems that plague a person's soul: emptiness, loneliness, guilt, fear of death, and insecurity. Jesus offers rest for the restless.
The story of David and Mephibosheth is one of the most beautiful examples of God's grace in the entire Old Testament. Be with us this evening as we continue our study in the book of II Samuel.
Satan, the accuser of the brethren, had challenged God to destroy Job "without cause" (2:4). Satan, unknowingly to Job, had been defeated by Job's blessing the Lord rather than cursing Him (1:21;2:10). Now, Satan's challenge was that Job would curse God if Job's own physical life was tormented. There are other instances in the Bible where God allowed Satan certain liberties with His servants. Peter would have been sifted like wheat if Jesus allowed it (Luke 22:31). Paul had a "messenger of Satan" buffet him (II Corinthians 12:7). Hymenaeus and Alexander were delivered to Satan "that they may learn not to blaspheme" (I Timothy 1:20). However, Satan can do no more than God allows. In this sense, Satan is just a tool in God's ultimate will. Job's three friends wept when they saw Job's physical condition. They silently supported him with their presence for seven days. Finally, Job unleashes his feelings in an emotional rant. This sets in motion a series of dialogues, set in poetry, which examine the depths of human suffering.
God gave King David great victories over enemies which surrounded Israel. However, the severity in which David treated his enemies raises questions about his tactics. Be with us tonight as we continue our study of King David. Message: David Made a Name For Himself Reading Scripture: 2 Samuel 8: 1-18
"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities; against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places" (Ephesians 6:13). Job was a wealthy man. He was a good father. He loved the Lord. He taught his family to love the Lord. He was the epitome of godly success. Yet, he lost it all. He had no idea that there was a spiritual war going on, and he was the focus. He was a victim of Satan's rage. Yet, what did he do when he was viciously attacked? He worshiped!
His names reveal his character 1. Satan: one who opposes; Matthew 4:10 2. Devil: "diabolos" accuser, slanderer; Ephesians 4:26-27 3. Lucifer: light bearer; Isaiah 14:12 4. Beelzebub: lord of the flies; Matthew 12:24 5. Belial: worthlessness or wickedness; Deuteronomy 13:13 6. Abaddon: destroyer; Revelation 9:11 7. The Serpent; II Corinthians 11:3 8. The evil one; I John 5:19 9. The prince of the power of the air; Ephesians 6:12 10.The god of this age; I Corinthians 4:4 11.Father of lies: John 8:44 12.The tempter; Matthew 4:3 13.Accuser of the brethren; Revelation 12:10 14.The dragon; Revelation 12:9
Have You Considered My Servant Job? Job 1 The book of Job is a masterpiece of Literature. Its depth and thoroughness in dealing with human suffering and divine justice has intrigued generations of readers. Although Genesis comes first in our Bibles, the internal evidence in Job indicates the book may be the oldest extant book in the world. The book reveals the gigantic gap between God's perspective and man's perspective. The angelic warfare which occurs in "the heavenlies" (Ephesians 1:3;6;10) is visualized for us. Man's wisdom and Satan's power are shown to be limited by God's sovereignty.
Then and Now II Samuel 7: 18-29 "For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope." (Romans 15:4)"
The last vision of Daniel (chapters 10-12) prophesies the fate of Israel from Daniel and Darius' time (11:1) to the "end of days" as we know them. Daniel 12 has been called the climax of world history. Beginning in Daniel 11:36 through chapter 12 seven major factors are revealed: 1. There will be a world ruler. 2. There will be a world religion. 3. There will be a world war. 4. There will be a time of great tribulation for Israel. 5. God will deliver His people at the end of the tribulation. 6. There will be resurrection and judgment. 7. There will be reward for the righteous. Daniel 11: 36-45 reveals the first three of these factors. Now comes the climax.
When God Says No 2 Samuel 7: 1-17 David's great desire was to build a temple to house the ark of God. Our Lord had other plans. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in II Samuel.
The Conclusion of the Whole Matter Ecclesiastes 12:9-14 "When will they ever learn? When will they ever learn?" "The answer my friend is blowing in the wind, the answer is blowing in the wind." Three thousand years before these songs were written, a famous "Preacher" said, "I have seen the works that are done under the sun, and indeed, all is vanity and grasping for the wind" (1:14). As it has been said, "One thing we learn from history is that man does not learn from history." One thing that Solomon has learned in life "under the sun" is that "all is vanity" (1:2,14;2:11,17;3:19;11:8;12:8). Solomon has used the word "all" over seventy times in Ecclesiastes. There is life with God (the Shepherd,12:11), or there is life without Him "under the sun." A life of purpose, or a life of emptiness, it is all or nothingness (vanity).
Rejoicing and Remembering Ecclesiastes 11:9-12:8 "The chief end of man is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever." (Westminster Shorter Catechism) "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly" (John 10:10). The old man is now summing up his lectures to his students. He has experienced the joys of life with God and the emptiness of life without Him. He is now coming to his conclusion. Life under the sun is fleeting. True meaning and purpose in life can only be found in knowing the One who created life.
Wars and Providence Daniel 11 Chapters 10-12 of the book of Daniel form the last great vision of the aged prophet. Chapter 10 reveals the great spiritual war that goes on between the forces of Satan and the God of heaven. In chapter 11 we are given a detailed prophecy of the wars of Persians, Greeks, and Romans. This prophecy is so accurate in its fulfillment that skeptics try to discredit as being written hundreds of years later. This prophecy was given to Daniel in 534 B.C..
Solomon has made the transition from a morbid pessimism of life "under the sun" (chapter 1-4) to the didactic approach of giving common sense advice to a younger generation. He is now coming to some basic conclusions about life. There are principles of business which are true to Christians and to non-Christians alike.
Solomon continues his observations of life with some pithy sayings concerning day to day "evils" he has seen "under the sun." Wisdom and folly have no social barriers. "Folly is set in great dignity" (v.6). Many a great person has been brought down by his own foolishness. There are certain laws of nature that apply to all no matter one's position in life.
David had pure motives in his desire to bring the ark to Jerusalem, but he failed to seek God for instructions which led to tragedy. Be with us tonight as we continue our systematic study of the Word of God.
What Are These Stones? Joshua 4:1-7, 19-24 "And you shall remember that the Lord your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not. So, He humbled you, allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna which you did not know, that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord" (Deuteronomy 8:2,3). "Remember" is commanded 15 times in the book of Deuteronomy.
Things I Have Seen Under the Sun Ecclesiastes 9:13-10:7 The old man has told us of the emptiness of living "under the sun." As he has come out of the doldrums, he now gives objective observations of the rat race life can be. In preceding verses, he has surmised that "time and chance" (v.11) happens to us all. There are no guarantees in life under the sun. Human ability does not guarantee genuine success (9:11,12). Therefore, we should make the most of the time and the circumstances in which we find ourselves (9:7,8). Now, Solomon's observations and proverbial language dominate the rest of the book.
When God Answers Our Prayers Daniel 10: 1-21 "Prayer is an art, and as in all art, there is achievement in a full measure of dedication" (W.A Criswell). The last three chapters of the book of Daniel record the prophetic future of Israel which is without parallel anywhere else in Scripture. This fourth great prophecy is again set in the venue of Daniel's prayer life.
Be with us tonight as we continue our study of King David. Immediately after David was established as king over all Israel, he faced a challenge which would determine the fate of two nations for generations to come. Message: Defining Moments Reading Scripture: 2 Samuel 5: 17-25
Authority, Mystery, and Mortality Ecclesiastes 8:2-9:12 Solomon continues his musings on life and meaning. Beginning in chapter 5, he has written of the wisdom he had gained from his experiences "under the sun." As he progresses, he becomes more and more convinced that the meaning of life can only be found in the Person who gives life. "Life under the sun" is filled with contradictions, complexities and certainties. Only when we realize there is a "time for every purpose under heaven" under God's sovereign control can find true meaning and purpose in life.
At times, we meet people who have walked with God, but go off on a tangent and defy all reason and experience. They have allowed the ways of the world to become dominant in their lives, and revolt against the wisdom of God (Proverbs 8:1-9:6). Solomon was such a man. The time he spent "chasing the wind" could never be made up. He had suffered bitter experiences "under the sun." He hated life (2:17). Beginning in chapter 6, Solomon begins thinking in a more God-centered way. The terms "wise" and "wisdom" become much more prevalent in his thinking. He has learned the hard way about the nasty facts of life. He now speaks from experience. True meaning and joy in life can only come from a walk with God.
When David finally became king, one of the first actions he took was to capture Jerusalem. This is a very important event that reverberates through the rest of the Bible. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in the life and times of King David.
King Solomon has shared his disillusionment in seeking satisfaction in life apart from the presence of God. He has explored nature, philosophy, pleasure, materialism and religion. He has found all these pursuits to be empty of meaning and lacking in satisfaction. Beginning in chapter 5, Solomon gives earthy advice from an old sinner's observations. His lessons are brutally honest.
The church in Ephesus was in many ways the apex of Paul's ministry. The letter Paul wrote to the church sets forth God's revelation of the church as an organism and the part churches would play in the accomplishment of God's purposes for the earth. God has blessed all believers "with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places in Christ" (1:3). The believers' opportunity and obligation are to discover "what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints" (1:18). In verses 1-14 of the first chapter, Paul sets forth the riches of God's grace. In verses 13-15, Paul prays that we will discover them.
Our Lord reveals Himself through His Word. The psalmist's love of God's Word -v. 97- gives him as sense of direction through the blessings and perils of life. In this octave he meditates on the ways God has taught him along the way. -Nun- is the fourteenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and consequently, every verse in this octave begins with this corresponding letter.
Love takes the initiative. Like faith, it shows its true colors in the actions of the one expressing it. The psalmist has struggled with fears and doubts but has settled his faith in God's Word -vs. 89-96-. There is a sweetness in our relationship with our Savior when we can sing----Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus. Just to take Him at His Word.----Just to rest upon His promise. Just to know- -Thus said the Lord.'---This octave does not have a prayer request in it. It is an exclamation of the joy the psalmist experienced in God's comfort through His Word.
The tenth chapter of Joshua contains one of the greatest miracles is the Old Testament. When God made the sun and moon stand still, He had to change the order of the universe-
Chapters 49-57 form the second section of part two of Isaiah. Part one -chapters 1-39- centers on the judgment of God upon Judah and the surrounding nations. Part two -chapter 40-66- is arranged in a definite and identifiable plan which centers on the comfort of God.
After admitting that his enemies had -almost- made an end of him in the last octave -vs. 81-88-, the psalmist rebounds with one of the great statements of faith in the Bible- -Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven.----After tossing about on a sea of trouble, the Psalmist here leaps to shore and stands upon a rock. Jehovah's word is not fickle nor uncertain- it is settled, determined, fixed, sure, unmovable.--Spurgeon--The psalmist is regaining his bearings after a period of doubt. He is saved, both temporally and eternally, by the Word of God.
Our spiritual warfare is filled with many dangers and snared. Joshua had to contend with enemies who were amassing against Israel and deceptive people who were seeking to gain his favor.
The poetry which constitutes the book of Isaiah is divided into two parts. Chapters 1-39 consists of charges against Judah and subsequent punishments. God miraculously delivered Judah from Sennacherib's army -chapters 36-39-, but Isaiah prophesied that Babylon would rise to power and carry Judah into captivity -39-5-6-. Interspersed in these chapters are God's repeated invitation for Judah to repent and turn back to his Maker.--Chapters 40-66 form a matchless prophesy of restoration. Babylon, which had not become a world power in Isaiah's lifetime, would be defeated by the Medes and Persians. Isaiah even identifies the conqueror by name, Cyrus -chapter 45-1- 150 years before he was born- --In this prophecy of world events, Isaiah offers God's salvation to all who will listen. He presents the coming Messiah as the hope of the world.
Life is filled with uncertainties and situations beyond our control. The psalmist was facing enemies who threatened his life, or life, as he knew it.--As he meditates on God's Word and seeking God's solace through prayer, he expresses great confidence in God as he battles fear of the future. In previous sections, he acknowledges God care -vs. 65-73-. In this section -kaph-, his mind goes from fear to faith and back again -see vs. 89, 97, 105-.---This octave is the midnight of this psalm, and very black it is... The strain will after this become more cheerful...- Spurgeon
The Hebrew letter -Yodh- is a small letter much like an apostrophe in our language. When Jesus said that not one -jot or tittle- or His Word would pass away -Matthew 5-17-18-, He was referring to this letter. Every verse in this eight-verse section of Psalm 119 begins with this letter.--The psalmist is progressing in his meditation on God's Word. He is determined to keep his mind on God and His Word rather than on the problems caused by his enemies. In the previous section he writes, -It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes- -v. 71-. In this section He states, -...in faithfulness You have afflicted me- -v. 75-. He has confidence in God's judgments even when they seem to go against him.
Joshua and Israel suffered a grievous defeat because they trusted in their own plans and forgot to seek God's will. Victory came when they repented and sought God's direction.
Chapters 43-45 of Isaiah contain phenomenal prophecies that prove the inspiration of the Bible. Isaiah prophesies that Israel would return as a nation before she was ever defeated and taken into exile. In Isaiah 44-26-45-7, God even names the person who will defeat Babylon and allow Israel to return and even subsidize the nation's restoration over 150 years before the person was even born-
Every verse in this section begins with the Hebrew letter -teth.- The Hebrew word for -good- begins with this letter. Consequently, the psalmist focuses on God's goodness. The Hebrew word for good is used six times in these eight verses.---Good- is God's standard of perfection, -Then God saw everything He made, and indeed it was very good- -Genesis 1-31-. Jesus emphasized this in his question to the rich young ruler when He asked, -Why do you call Me good-- No one is good but One, that is, God- -Mark 10-18-.--God's goodness is a progression in the psalmist's thoughts as he finds comfort in God's affliction -v. 50- and fellowship with God in the night seasons -vs. 55-62-. He has come to a point where he can see that God has been good to him all through his pilgrimage -v. 54- in life.
Heth is the eighth letter in the Hebrew alphabet. Every sentence in this section begins with this Hebrew letter. In the previous section Zayin, the psalmist -remembered- God's Word in affliction. God was his comfort in affliction. God's Word had become songs at night in the -house of his pilgrimage.- God's Word had been personalized. It had become -mine- -v. 56-.
During this special service, Judy Lashley will be playing favorite Christmas songs and some of our people will be reading stories of the birth of the King.
Why does our Lord choose to work His miracles in such mysterious ways-- The fall of Jericho was one of the most unusual conquests in history.
How beautifully Dr. Luke weaves the incarnation and virgin birth into a concise story- He combines prophecy, the activity of God and angels, and the delicate salvation.
The psalmist is finding comfort in his -pilgrimage- -v. 54- through life on earth. In a previous section, he has prayed -cause me to walk in path- -v. 35-. As he progresses in his prayer, he now says -You have caused me to hope- -v. 49-. The key word is -mine- -v. 56-. In the previous section Waw, the psalmist is seeking for the deeper understanding of God's Word. Now, this Word has become -mine.---Through the struggles of life, God seeks to speak to us through His Word. When we find comfort in God's Word, we are experiencing the ultimate joy of truly knowing our Lord.
After the children of Israel crossed the Jordan and into the promised land, God gave Joshua a series of perplexing commands.
In Isaiah 40 we are told, -those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.- In Luke 2, we see two older people, Simeon and Anna, who were waiting on the Lord. What a contrast from the theologians in Matthew 1 who knew the prophecy of the place of Jesus' birth but had no interest in following the wise men. The theologians knew the Scriptures. Simeon and Anna knew the God of the Scriptures.
Every sentence in this sixth section of Psalm 119 begins with the letter Waw. Most words in Hebrew that begin with this letter are conjunctives, which mean they are a continuation of thought. Our prior section -He- stressed a desire for understanding the deep meaning of word of God.--In this section we see the desire for the power of the Word of God to have its full effects in the believer. The psalmist is seeking the liberty that comes from the loving confidence of knowing God through His word.
Monuments are an important marker to teach our children important lessons of the past. Our Lord instructed Joshua to set up a series of stones to mark the great day when the people crossed over the Jordan.
The book of Isaiah contains 66 chapters. The first 39 chapters are messages of warnings and judgment upon the children of Israel and the surrounding nations. Interspersed in these messages is the promise of the coming of the Messiah and His coming kingdom. Chapters 40-46 are a Messianic poem occupied with the message of Divine grace and the blessings of salvation which it brings.
The letter -he- in the Hebrew alphabet carries with the idea of guidance. -It is used at the beginning of verbs to make them causative... 'Cause me to learn', 'cause me to understand,' 'Cause me to walk' and so forth.- David Guzik--Each of the sentences in this section begins with he and expresses an appeal for guidance. -It is not an appeal for direction in some special case of difficulty, but for a clear manifestation of the meaning of the will of God.- G.C. Morgan --We see a desire not only to know the Word -the -what--, but to understand -the -why-- how it applies to our lives.
-For since the creation of the world His attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were they thankful, but became futile in their thoughts and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools...- Romans 1-20-23
In the previous section -Gimel-, the psalmist expressed a dependence and a delight in God's Word amid intense trials. In Daleth, he again expresses his desperation to gain victory through prayer and through God's Word.
Joshua had very big shoes to fill in succeeding Moses as Israeli's leader. However, God rose to the occasion in providing Joshua strength for the battles ahead.
In chapters 10 and 11 Isaiah paint a bleak picture of Judah and Israel's -northern ten tribes- future because of their disobedience. Yet, interspersed in these passages are the promises that -the Holy One of Israel- -10-20- will preserve a remnant and will be reconciled with them. Chapter 12 is a psalm which Isaiah composes as -praise in advance- of God's final fulfillment of the promises He made to Abraham and David.
The first three verses of Psalm 119 are beatitudes proclaiming the basis for a happy life by seeking the Lord with a whole heart. The rest of the psalm is essentially a prayer seeking God's revelation through His Word.
It is remarkable the number of parallels this book has with the New Testament book of Ephesians.
It has been said that God brings His people into such a condition as to not know what to do so that He can teach them what He can do. It wasn't that the children of Israel weren't seeking counsel. It was that they were seeking counsel in all the wrong places -8-19-22-. In this morass Isaiah preaches that hope was coming. The light would shine in darkness. The Messiah would come. God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.---The zeal of the Lord of hosts would perform this.-
-For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.--Hebrews 4-12--The emphasis of the longest psalm in the Bible is on the vital ministry the Word of God has in the spiritual life of God's children. Its 176 verses describe how the Word is the means of our growth in holiness. It provides instruction on how to handle the challenges and pressures that always accompany the Christian's life in this world.--The first three verses of Psalm 119 are beatitudes proclaiming the basis for a happy life by seeking the Lord with a whole heart. The rest of the psalm describes how God reveals Himself to us through His Word. The psalm is a acrostic. It is divided into 22 sections of 8 verses each. The first word of each verse of each section begins with the corresponding letter of the Hebrew alphabet. -The first 8 verses begin with -aleph- the next 8 begin with -beth- and so on-.
Moses is the only man in recorded history whose funeral was conducted by God Himself. There is great significance in this event. Be with us tonight as we conclude our study in the book of Deuteronomy.
The Bible is the Revelation of Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament, He is PREDICTED. In the Gospels, He is REVEALED. In the book of Acts, He is PREACHED. In the epistles He is EXPLAINED. And in the book of Revelation, He is EXPECTED.--Isaiah is preaching to a sinful nation that has rejected God. They have turned to wizards and necromancy -8-20- and are paying a terrible price for their rejection of God's love. They are being -driven into darkness- -8-21-. In the midst of this darkness, the great promise of the Light of the World is coming.
The last of the six Hallel -Hallelujah- psalms -113-118- which was song at the feasts of Israel is of great prophetic importance. It begins and ends by quoting Ezra 3-11 where Ezra is leading a joyful congregation in the dedication of the post-exilic temple. It is prophetic in the sense that it portends Jesus' triumphal entry, His rejection, and His triumphant resurrection.
The two chapters closing the book of Deuteronomy are filled with prophecies and events that affect the rest of Scripture. There are also blessed promises that we can apply to our own lives.
On Moses' 120th birthday, he gave his final admonitions to his people as he transferred leadership to Joshua and the elders. He then sings what is called the Song of Moses in which He describes God as the -Rock of his Salvation.-
From time to time in the Old Testament our Lord made appearances in His pre-incarnate form. The eternal Son of God gives a foretaste of His power as Prophet, Priest and King.
It is significant that this shortest psalm is the central -chapter- in the Bible. It is the fourth psalm sung during the Passover meal.--Interestingly our Lord would sing this the night He was betrayed. It is an invitation to Gentiles to join in on praising the Lord. Jesus, our Passover lamb, died for the whole world. Paul quotes the first verse in Romans 15-11, -God so loved the world, that He gave...- -John 3-16-. Our Lord is giving the Gospel invitation- -Whosoever will, may come--
After issuing final instructions to a new generation in their preparation to enter the Promised Land, Moses issues a series of conditional blessings and curses which proved to be quite prophetic.
The Biblical prophets spoke to the problems in their own times and yet their preaching embodied eternal principles. Their predictions extended to the distant future. Isaiah is considered the prince of the prophets. His rich descriptive language is unsurpassed in all of Scripture. His name means -Jehovah's Salvation.- The structure of Isaiah parallels the structure of the Bible.--There are 39 chapters in the first section of Isaiah which are concentrate on sin and coming judgement. -There are 39 books in the Old Testament.- The last 27 chapters, Isaiah 40-66, concentrate on the coming Messiah and the Messianic age. -There are 27 chapters in the New Testament.---Isaiah's ministry covered the reigns of -Uzziah, Jothan, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, king of Judah- -v. 1-. Many believe that he was martyred during the early reign of Manasseh, less than a century before Israel went into captivity.
From time to time in the Old Testament our Lord made appearances in His pre-incarnate. The eternal Son of God gives a foretaste of His power as Prophet, Priest and King.
In Scripture, the word -cup- often symbolizes the pleasant or bitter experiences of life. -My cup runneth over- -Psalm 23-5-, -The cup of God's wrath- -Isaiah 51-17-, -The cup of blessing- -1 Corinthians 10-16-. Our Lord used this term during the Passover meal- -For this cup is my blood of the new testament which is shed for many for the remission of sins- -Matthew 26-27-. Also, in the garden He prayed- -If it be possible, let this cup pass from me- -Matthew 26-38-.--This psalm is the fourth of six psalms sung with the Passover meal -113-118-. The -cup of salvation- is depicted in the psalmist's prophetic hope of meeting his Messiah.
As the children of Israel prepared to go into the Promised Land, Moses gives final instructions as to how they were to conduct themselves once there. Many of these instructions have a profound influence in Israel's history.
We welcome Kirill Swiderski from the Chosen People Ministries with us. He speaks on the recent completed Feasts that Jews around the world observed. These feasts point to the atoning work of Jesus. We look forward to having a richer understanding of God's great work of redemption as it unfolds in Scripture.
The middle psalm sung at the Passover celebrations -113-118-, would be one of the psalms sung by Jesus and His disciples the night before His crucifixion. It is especially meaningful to consider this psalm as we contemplate it being sung by Jesus on that poignant occasion.--The song was written after the Babylonion exile. Israel was plagued by idolatry throughout her history. The exile marked a departure from her past. Now, idols are abhorred.
The book of Acts is the inspired history of the Gospel of Jesus Christ as it spread from Jerusalem to the world. It ends as it began- -speaking of things pertaining to the kingdom of God -1-3, 28-31- -and ye shall be witnesses of Me- -1-8, 28-30-.---Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.--Winston Churchill
What a day- Joseph woke up one morning as a prisoner and ended the day as the second most powerful man in the world. Be with us tonight as we continue our series in Genesis -chapter 41-. The message is entitled- When Dreams Come True.
Jesus, therefore, knowing all things that would come upon Him-.- -v.4-. We serve an omniscient -all knowing- almighty God. Nothing escapes His senses or His control. When He asks questions, it is not to gain information, but to bring the listener to reality. -Adam, where are you-- -Who told you that you were naked-- -What is this you have done-- -Genesis 3- -The Pharisees and Sadducees -priestly class- came out in force to arrest Jesus. They brought a Roman -detachment- -100 troops- to intimidate any people who were loyal to Jesus. Despite such show of force Jesus was in complete control. The intimidators became the intimidated. The Gospel writers record seven questions our Lord asked those who thought they were in control.
Somewhere at the base of the Mount of Olives there was a garden named for an -oil press- -Gethsemane- which was there or had been a prominent feature in the past. Here, Jesus brought His disciples to escape the crowds during their trips to Jerusalem. Here, He rested with them, prayed with them, and taught them. Judas knew well where to find Him. -On this cold night, the Lord came to pray with His disciples one final time before the greatest tragedy in history would take place the following day. His hour had come. As the Lamb of God, He would suffer and die. As our Great High Priest, He would bear our sins upon a -tree.- The agony had begun- -My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even unto death- -v.28-.
There were three different times in Joseph's life when dreams changed the course of his life. Be with us tonight as we continue our series in the book of Genesis. The message is entitled- The Butler and the Baker -chapter 40-.
Joseph was betrayed, sold into slavery, slandered and thrown into prison. Yet, a few years later, he could say, -God meant it for good.- Tonight's message is entitled- The Lord Was with Joseph -Genesis 39-.
In the night before His crucifixion, our Lord spent much time in prayer. He concluded His conference with His disciples -chapter 13-16- with what many have called the greatest prayer ever recorded. In this prayer-- He prayed for Himself -vs. 1-5- -Father, the hour has come.-
The story of Joseph is strangely interrupted by the dark sin of Judah in Genesis 38. It seems as though Jacob's sons were destroying any possibility of fulfillment of the covenant God made with Abraham -the Messiah would come through his offspring-. Be with us tonight as we continue our study in Genesis. The message is entitled- Tamar- God's Providential Grace.
In this magnificent prayer of our Lord, we see that He prayed for Himself as He had finished the work our Father had Him to do. He sought now to be glorified and to glorify His Father as He was ready to pay the ultimate price for our redemption. He prayed with eternity in view. Eternal life with all its benefits is given to all who know Him -vs. 1-5-.-Now He turns His attention to His disciples. He was leaving them on earth as He went to His Father. They were saved through His ministry -17- 6-13-. He prays for their sanctification for their own ministry -17- 14-17- and He prays for them as they will be sent into a hostile world -17- 18-19-