A. How much do you know about some of the events surrounding the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ?
1. At Christ's crucifixion what did the soldiers place on his head? Crown of Thorns
2. For what of Christ's did the soldiers cast lots? Clothes
3. For how many pieces of silver did Judas betray Christ? 30
4. When Jesus died, for how long was there darkness over the land? 3 hours
5. For how long did Jesus remain after his resurrection before he ascended into heaven? 40 days
B. Almost everyone knows Tiger Woods has been the top media story of 2010 – unfortunately not for his golf, but extra-marital affairs. FOX reporter Britt Hume shared on national TV if Tiger Woods truly wanted to start over again, He needed to turn to Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ offers forgiveness and redemption.
1. Forgiveness, redemption, genuine hope – that is what the empty tomb and the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ is all about!
2. With all the hope that is available in a personal relationship with the Risen Savior, sadly most believers and unbelievers do not know how to live a life of genuine hope.
C. For example, I let go of hope when…
1. I doubt my difficult situation will turn around for the better
2. My fear of tomorrow robs me of today’s strength
3. I believe God is out to get me rather than help me
4. My life seems to have no motivating purpose
5. I feel more burned, bummed out than rested, recharged up!
D. There are four choices I must make today to live a life of genuine hope. Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ I can…
1. H - AVE MY FEARS REPLACED WITH THE ASSURANCE OF JESUS’ LOVE FOR ME
A. We are living in some pretty fearful times in America now – loss of jobs, struggling economy, terrorist threats, health, personal finances, etc.
1. Fear could easily win in our hearts and lives if we leave God of the equation.
2. If you are ever tempted to doubt God’s love, think of Calvary and the empty tomb!
3. Perhaps Jesus could love others who have their act together– but me? Sinful. Struggling. Selfish.
B. Jesus died willingly, sacrificially, lovingly, and triumphantly – through His death, you may live (John 11:15-26).
1. Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us…”
2. No one (on their own) is worthy of God’s unconditional love and acceptance, but Jesus wants a relationship with you not based on your goodness, but His grace!
2. O - VERCOME MY FAILURES THROUGH GOD’S COMPLETE FORGIVENESS.
A. All of the disciples forsook Jesus (Matthew 26:56)
1. They let pride, prayerlessness, people pleasing, etc. get in the way of true commitment to Jesus
2. Can you imagine the shame, disgrace they felt?
B. It’s easy to look back and see the failures of the disciples – how about your failures?
1. Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ your life does not need to be defined by failures, rather through His complete forgiveness.
2. Ephesians 1:7, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
3. It is very freeing to know that God is not looking down at your with a sin calculator today, but is longing to give you a fresh start.
4. A very famous sermon is called, “It’s Friday…but Sunday’s coming.”
On Friday, the forces of evil won over the forces of good, every friend and every disciple fled quaking in fear, the Son of God died on a cross. Yes it's Friday, but Sunday's comin'. The disciples who lived through both days, Friday and Sunday, never doubted God again. They had learned that even when God seems absent, he might be closer than ever; when God looks powerless, he might be more powerful than ever; when God looks dead, he might be coming back to life.
They learned that even when it's Friday, Sunday's comin!”
5. What seems hopeless and impossible in your life? Remember Sunday’s comin!’
3. P – LUG INTO GOD’S POWER FOR DAILY LIVING
A. The stone that had been placed over the door of Jesus’ tomb had been rolled away.
B. Why was the stone rolled away?
1. Not to let Jesus out of the tomb.
2. The stone was rolled away not to let Jesus out but to let others in!
a. The women, and later Peter and John, went inside the tomb to verify that it was empty.
b. The empty tomb is powerful proof of Jesus’ resurrection.
3. The stone was rolled away as proof that Jesus conquered death.
Acts 2:24, “…whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.”
A. Many believers live discouraged, dry, defeated lives because they fail to let go of their futile attempts to live victorious lives in their own strength and let the risen living Lord take over and live the victorious life through them by His resurrection power.
B. Galatians 2:20 "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."
C. It is the resurrected Christ living in us that gives us the strength to live victoriously.
D. Martin Luther once was so depressed over a prolonged period that one day his wife came downstairs wearing all black. Martin Luther said, "Who died?" She said, "God has." He said, "God hasn’t died." To which she replied, "Well, live like it and act like it."
4. E-NVISION MY FUTURE WITH CONFIDENCE IN THE LORD
A. Without the resurrection of Jesus Christ, there is no hope for everlasting life.
B. Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we will be reunited with our loved ones in Christ, we will be rewarded for our faithfulness to the Lord, we will be released from all pain, suffering, sadness, sorrow.
C. What is Easter about? It’s about the hope we have in Christ!
D. Have fears replaced with His love, Overcome failures through His forgiveness, Plug into God’s Power for daily living, Envision your future with confidence in the Lord!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Found Faithful to Jesus In Our Waiting - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11
There is an overwhelming sense of discouragement that is pervading in people’s lives today. Just this week, I met a check-out lady at CVS and asked her how things were going. “Awful,” was her reply. “My husband and I have one child, I’m pregnant with child # two, however, my husband just left me for another woman in Michigan. I don’t know what I’m going to do, $$$ is gone, I’m stressed out to the max.” How many of you know someone or feel that way today?
The Word of God gives great hope to those who are discouraged, disillusioned, downcast, etc. The Good News is that God is in control – Jesus is alive, risen, coming again and if you have Jesus as personal Lord and Savior, you can live in His peace today.
Reassurance (13) – One thing about these Thessalonian believers is that had put their faith in the Word of God. Now, because of the intense persecution that Paul faced as he brought them the Word of God, he was only able to stay with them a few short weeks. Paul taught them about worshipping and serving the One True and Living God, encouraging one another, spiritual warfare, witnessing, doing God’s will, etc. Paul also taught them to expect the Lord Jesus Christ could return at any moment. These new believers got so excited about the Lord’s return and began to prepare their lives to meet Him. However, while they waited for the Lord to return, some of their friends, families, loved ones died. This discouraged them b/c they felt their loved ones would miss out on the wonderful coming of our Lord. Paul encouraged them with the truth that when Jesus came back, their loved ones in Christ would be there, too! The world believes that death is the end of it all (sad). The follower of Christ knows the death is just the beginning to everlasting life in the Presence of the Lord!
Resurrection (14-15) – Why do believers in the Lord Jesus Christ have such hope? Our hope (confidence) is anchored in the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Because Jesus died and rose again, we will also. 2 Cor. 4:14 we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence. Rom 8:11 …if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you.” Where do you anchor your hope this morning? Is your hope in the AJC? Is your hope built on what is going on in the White House? Is your hope in your checkbook? If so, that is no hope. Real hope comes from building your life on the Word of God, what the Lord Jesus did for you on the innocent blood shed on the cross of Calvary, the empty tomb! Death, for the believer in Jesus, is not the end, but the beginning. According to Luke 16:22, an angel of the Lord will usher you into the very presence of the Lord. Think of the thief who was dying on the cross next to the Lord Jesus. Jesus did not say, “I hope you might someday be with me in paradise.” No, He said, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” Because Jesus died, our sin debt is paid in full. Because Jesus is risen we will spend eternity with Him (John 11:25).
Return (16) – The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with and come for His own. The trumpet of God will sound. Trumpets in the Bible were used to sound war, gather people, in this case the trumpet of God is going to assemble all in Christ.
Reunion (17-18) – We’ll see our loved ones in the Lord Jesus Christ again. Some of you have had husbands, wives, children, grandchildren who have died…you’ll see them again! There is no separation for loved ones in Christ. I’ll see my grandfather again. I will hear him say, “Ol’ Davy boy!” again! That’s why Christians face funerals with a different perspective than unbelievers. WE know that not even death can eternally remove us from our loved ones or of the glory of the return of our Savior. Psalm 4:8: I will both lie down in peace and sleep; for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.”
Regret (5:1-3) – While we do not know when the Lord will return for His own at the rapture of the church, the world does not know that the day of the Lord’s judgment is coming upon them. A day of incredible, fearful judgment is coming upon those who reject the saving grace of the Lord Jesus. A man may reject God, curse God, live a life for self, sin, and it seems like God does nothing about it. However, there is coming a day in the future when God will deal with a Christ-rejecting world. This day will come like a thief in the night. No thief I’ve ever known calls up the family he’s about to rob and says, “Now, make sure you are up and alert at 1 AM, I’m going to rob you blind!” Luke 12:39-40, “But know this, that if the mater of the house would have known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” The world leaders may even be promising peace, safety…no worries. Jesus said when He returned the days would be like the days of Noah, people eating, marrying, drinking, selling, buying…all of a sudden, judgment comes upon them.
Ready (5:4-11) – Thinking about the return of Jesus Christ ought to make us live with godly character, spiritual motivation, peace with the Lord and others. 2 Peter 3:11-14, “11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. 14 So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.” We ought to be leaving, close and clean to the Lord knowing He could return at any moment. We ought to be always looking for an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ with lost friends, family, co-workers, etc. We need to be a part of building up the body of Christ with our time, talent, treasures. We ought to be walking in the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ, and have petty differences laid at the foot of the cross. We ought to be encouraging one another in the body of Christ, spurring one another on toward love and good works. We ought to be at church faithfully, praying, in Bible study, spending time with God’s people over the Word of God! Always living with the thought in mind of the day when we will give an account to the Lord of the lives we lived – for self or for the Savior.
How can we be faithful while we wait for the Lord’s return? First, Paul says, “Be sober.” He is talking here about being alive to God’s will and purpose for your life (like a soldier on guard, alert). Be sensitive to what is going on around you, not sleeping, not half-hearted in your walk with the Lord. Second, he says, “putting on the breastplate of faith and love.” A soldier with his armor on is ready for action. Faith means we are trusting in the Lord and love means our relationship with others is pure, we are expressing tangibly our love for others. Third, he says we are to put on as helmet the hope of salvation (5:8-10). That is, we ought to be constantly thinking about what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. This is not a hope so salvation. This is a know so salvation. I know Jesus died for my sins. I know He rose again. I know I have turned from sin and placed all my faith in what He did for me at the cross of Calvary. I know Jesus has forgiven me, I know His Holy Spirit is in control, I know nothing can separate me from the love of God in Jesus Christ (not death, angels, suffering, pain, sorrow). Church, that is the kind of Savior we have in Jesus Christ. Fourth, he tells us to encourage and edify one another. We live in such a time when criticism, cut downs, fault-finding, bitterness, can fill the church. Instead of wasting your time on that, how about working on building up believers. Understanding they are sinners saved by grace just as you are. Understanding your call in life is to build people up in the Lord not bring people down!
We are living in a day right now and we are to be faithful in our worship and service to the Lord. While we worship, witness, work, we are waiting for the blessed hope, the glorious appearing of our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Our Response:
1. This morning, you may realize that you have never thought about this and you need to become a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. ABC - Admit to God you are a sinner, Ask for His forgiveness, Believe Jesus is God’s Son who died for your sins, was buried, rose again to give eternal life to you. Confess Him as Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9-10).
2. Is the Lord leading you to become part of the family of God here? If you have asked Christ into your heart, but never been baptized, then come today and join by baptism. If you have already been baptized and a member of another church and God is calling you here, then join this church family.
3. Maybe you know it is time the Lord receive glory from your life. Your walk with Him has grown cold, apathetic. There is much darkness in the world because believers are not being the light God called us to be. Would you come in repentance?
4. It’s time to begin sharing the comfort of the Gospel, build up fellow believers, growing stronger in faith, love, and hope. Come and bow before your Lord. Ask Him for the courage to live close, clean, courageously in these last days.
The Word of God gives great hope to those who are discouraged, disillusioned, downcast, etc. The Good News is that God is in control – Jesus is alive, risen, coming again and if you have Jesus as personal Lord and Savior, you can live in His peace today.
Reassurance (13) – One thing about these Thessalonian believers is that had put their faith in the Word of God. Now, because of the intense persecution that Paul faced as he brought them the Word of God, he was only able to stay with them a few short weeks. Paul taught them about worshipping and serving the One True and Living God, encouraging one another, spiritual warfare, witnessing, doing God’s will, etc. Paul also taught them to expect the Lord Jesus Christ could return at any moment. These new believers got so excited about the Lord’s return and began to prepare their lives to meet Him. However, while they waited for the Lord to return, some of their friends, families, loved ones died. This discouraged them b/c they felt their loved ones would miss out on the wonderful coming of our Lord. Paul encouraged them with the truth that when Jesus came back, their loved ones in Christ would be there, too! The world believes that death is the end of it all (sad). The follower of Christ knows the death is just the beginning to everlasting life in the Presence of the Lord!
Resurrection (14-15) – Why do believers in the Lord Jesus Christ have such hope? Our hope (confidence) is anchored in the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Because Jesus died and rose again, we will also. 2 Cor. 4:14 we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence. Rom 8:11 …if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you.” Where do you anchor your hope this morning? Is your hope in the AJC? Is your hope built on what is going on in the White House? Is your hope in your checkbook? If so, that is no hope. Real hope comes from building your life on the Word of God, what the Lord Jesus did for you on the innocent blood shed on the cross of Calvary, the empty tomb! Death, for the believer in Jesus, is not the end, but the beginning. According to Luke 16:22, an angel of the Lord will usher you into the very presence of the Lord. Think of the thief who was dying on the cross next to the Lord Jesus. Jesus did not say, “I hope you might someday be with me in paradise.” No, He said, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” Because Jesus died, our sin debt is paid in full. Because Jesus is risen we will spend eternity with Him (John 11:25).
Return (16) – The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with and come for His own. The trumpet of God will sound. Trumpets in the Bible were used to sound war, gather people, in this case the trumpet of God is going to assemble all in Christ.
Reunion (17-18) – We’ll see our loved ones in the Lord Jesus Christ again. Some of you have had husbands, wives, children, grandchildren who have died…you’ll see them again! There is no separation for loved ones in Christ. I’ll see my grandfather again. I will hear him say, “Ol’ Davy boy!” again! That’s why Christians face funerals with a different perspective than unbelievers. WE know that not even death can eternally remove us from our loved ones or of the glory of the return of our Savior. Psalm 4:8: I will both lie down in peace and sleep; for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.”
Regret (5:1-3) – While we do not know when the Lord will return for His own at the rapture of the church, the world does not know that the day of the Lord’s judgment is coming upon them. A day of incredible, fearful judgment is coming upon those who reject the saving grace of the Lord Jesus. A man may reject God, curse God, live a life for self, sin, and it seems like God does nothing about it. However, there is coming a day in the future when God will deal with a Christ-rejecting world. This day will come like a thief in the night. No thief I’ve ever known calls up the family he’s about to rob and says, “Now, make sure you are up and alert at 1 AM, I’m going to rob you blind!” Luke 12:39-40, “But know this, that if the mater of the house would have known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” The world leaders may even be promising peace, safety…no worries. Jesus said when He returned the days would be like the days of Noah, people eating, marrying, drinking, selling, buying…all of a sudden, judgment comes upon them.
Ready (5:4-11) – Thinking about the return of Jesus Christ ought to make us live with godly character, spiritual motivation, peace with the Lord and others. 2 Peter 3:11-14, “11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. 14 So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.” We ought to be leaving, close and clean to the Lord knowing He could return at any moment. We ought to be always looking for an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ with lost friends, family, co-workers, etc. We need to be a part of building up the body of Christ with our time, talent, treasures. We ought to be walking in the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ, and have petty differences laid at the foot of the cross. We ought to be encouraging one another in the body of Christ, spurring one another on toward love and good works. We ought to be at church faithfully, praying, in Bible study, spending time with God’s people over the Word of God! Always living with the thought in mind of the day when we will give an account to the Lord of the lives we lived – for self or for the Savior.
How can we be faithful while we wait for the Lord’s return? First, Paul says, “Be sober.” He is talking here about being alive to God’s will and purpose for your life (like a soldier on guard, alert). Be sensitive to what is going on around you, not sleeping, not half-hearted in your walk with the Lord. Second, he says, “putting on the breastplate of faith and love.” A soldier with his armor on is ready for action. Faith means we are trusting in the Lord and love means our relationship with others is pure, we are expressing tangibly our love for others. Third, he says we are to put on as helmet the hope of salvation (5:8-10). That is, we ought to be constantly thinking about what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. This is not a hope so salvation. This is a know so salvation. I know Jesus died for my sins. I know He rose again. I know I have turned from sin and placed all my faith in what He did for me at the cross of Calvary. I know Jesus has forgiven me, I know His Holy Spirit is in control, I know nothing can separate me from the love of God in Jesus Christ (not death, angels, suffering, pain, sorrow). Church, that is the kind of Savior we have in Jesus Christ. Fourth, he tells us to encourage and edify one another. We live in such a time when criticism, cut downs, fault-finding, bitterness, can fill the church. Instead of wasting your time on that, how about working on building up believers. Understanding they are sinners saved by grace just as you are. Understanding your call in life is to build people up in the Lord not bring people down!
We are living in a day right now and we are to be faithful in our worship and service to the Lord. While we worship, witness, work, we are waiting for the blessed hope, the glorious appearing of our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Our Response:
1. This morning, you may realize that you have never thought about this and you need to become a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. ABC - Admit to God you are a sinner, Ask for His forgiveness, Believe Jesus is God’s Son who died for your sins, was buried, rose again to give eternal life to you. Confess Him as Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9-10).
2. Is the Lord leading you to become part of the family of God here? If you have asked Christ into your heart, but never been baptized, then come today and join by baptism. If you have already been baptized and a member of another church and God is calling you here, then join this church family.
3. Maybe you know it is time the Lord receive glory from your life. Your walk with Him has grown cold, apathetic. There is much darkness in the world because believers are not being the light God called us to be. Would you come in repentance?
4. It’s time to begin sharing the comfort of the Gospel, build up fellow believers, growing stronger in faith, love, and hope. Come and bow before your Lord. Ask Him for the courage to live close, clean, courageously in these last days.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Found Faithful to God's Will - 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
How many times have you asked the Lord or heard others ask, “God, what is your will for my life?” Have you ever asked God to show you His pleasant, pleasing, and perfect will for your life? Perhaps other than asking the Lord Jesus Christ to forgive your sins and come into your life as Lord and Savior, the decision to know and do God’s will is of utmost importance in your life.
Truths Concerning the Will of God
+ Salvation is His will for your life. God has made that very clear in His Word that none should perish, but that all should come to the Lord Jesus Christ in repentance and faith. You never have to ask the Lord, “God is it your will that I am saved?” The Lord Jesus Christ has already done EVERYTHING necessary for you to become a child of God. Jesus lived a sinless life, died a cruel death on the cross of Calvary, shedding His life’s blood for you and me. He was buried and on the third day, Jesus rose from the grave – victorious over Satan, sin, death, hell, and the grave. You must be willing to receive salvation as a free gift by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:12, Ephesians 2:8-9).
+Sanctification is His will for your life. Once you become a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, He begins a LIFETIME process of making your more like Jesus (Romans 8:28-29). Being sanctified means you are “set apart” from the world and into His service.
+Scripture Centered Believers in the Lord Jesus Christ must feed on the Word of God, the Scriptures are essential to your spiritual walk and vitality in the Lord (Matthew 4:4, 1 Peter 2:2, Psalm 119:9-10). How long can you go without physical food and expect to stay strong? The Word of God is food for your soul!
+Strong in the Lord The devil’s desire is to keep your lost or at the very best, an extremely weak Christian (Eph. 6:10-18).
+Serving the Lord and others The definition of joy is Jesus – Others – You! There is so much work to be done in our church and into this community. We are actively working on our Across GA 2010 – Every Christian caring – Every believer sharing – Every Georgian hearing. Are you involved in the harvest…or content to let others take your place?
+Secure in God’s grip of grace. We do what we do for the Lord BECAUSE He has chosen us to work through (John 15). No amount of works or service gives us eternal security – rather, out of that secure relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, we do the good works He’s planned in advance for us to walk in (Eph. 2:10).
+Stable, Serenity (Romans 5:1-5)
Lies from the Evil One Concerning God’s Will There is really no need to turn from sin to the Savior
God made you this way, so you can’t help but sin
You deserve anything you want RIGHT NOW – don’t delay
God will simply wink at your sin – it’s no big deal
You are better than most, you pray, give, attend church, etc.
The only sins that matter are the Big ones…sexual immorality, murder, hatred, pride, etc. Other sins such as gossip, un-forgiveness, jealousy, bitterness are simply not that big of a deal.
You are sufficient within yourself to defeat sin – no need for Bible study, prayer, accountability, etc.
Pleasing yourself is the highest priority of life – family, neighbors, church, etc. can take the back seat
God is not our for your good, but is really out to steal your joy
How to know and do the will of God
+Dedication to the Lord – 1 Thessalonians 4:1-2 - The Lord Jesus Christ must be my ultimate authority in life! (This is not optional)!
+ Desire to grow As parents and grandparents, think of the sheer joy it brings to your heart as that child begins to develop new ways, habits, activities, etc. that are positive. Can you remember the first time your child brushed their teeth? Put on their own clothes? Made their bed, meal, etc. Ephesians 4:12-16, “Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.”
+ Discipline yourself 1 Thessalonians 4:3 – There is a part God plays and a part you play in doing His will. God does not wave a magic wand over you so you always choose right – He doesn’t take away the wonderful taste of cake – there’s a part we must play.
+ Different character 1 Thessalonians 4:4-8 – We live in a sex saturated society (billboards, TV shows, magazines, internet, etc). Because you are a new creation in Christ Jesus – act like it! There are some websites to be avoided, places you simply cannot go anymore, movies, books, DVD’s that must go, improper relationships with others that must be cut off – You don’t do these things to BECOME holy…but because JESUS CHRIST made you holy through the cross! God's will is that we should avoid sexual immorality. The word translated "sexual immorality" is where we get our English word "pornography" and it refers to practices such as premarital sex, extramarital sex, homosexuality, lesbianism, sodomy, incest, etc. “Sexual Immorality”: any sexual activity that is not within the confines of a heterosexual relationship involving people who are legally married.
How many homes, churches, ministries, servants of the Lord have ruined their lives because their character was no different than unbelievers? No one can play with fire without getting burned! Proverbs 6:27-29, “Can a man take fire to his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? Can one walk on hot coals and his feet not be seared? So is he who goes in to his neighbor’s wife; whoever touches her shall not be innocent.”
God is the One who pours out His Spirit upon you, indwells you, has given you new life. We are commanded to offer ourselves to the Savior, rather than sin…if you have problems with this, your problem is not with me, rather God! 1 Thess. 4:8
What if I’ve failed? Who hasn’t? Take you sins and failures to the cross, leave them there, for they are under the blood of Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:7, 1 John 2:2)! Jesus sees us in our sin and shame – yet with eyes of mercy (John 8:12). He does not want us to wallow in past sin, guilt, and will not use us mightily if we choose to focus more on our guilt than His grace. Jesus forgives failures – Mark 16:7, “…and Peter.” – Lk. 22:31-32, 61-62 – God is more willing to forgive than we are to receive it ourselves!
+Devotion in life ambition 1 Thessalonians 4:9 – The more you grow in the love walk, the more you are walking in the will of God!
+Decide your companions 1 Thessalonians 4:10-11 – People you don’t need to be hanging around continually would include busybodies, apathetic believers, people who tear you down, etc. Find people who are going to call you to go higher in integrity, work, devotion to God’s will. The people you hang around with most are going to determine much about the direction of your life! 1 Cor. 15:33, “Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”
+Discipleship orientation 1 Thessalonians 4:12 – People are watching you – By the way you live, work, do your daily business, would it cause others to want to follow Jesus? Are you late for work, downing employees, giving half-hearted effort?
+Delight Yourself in the Lord Share brief testimony of Glen Mann, Scotty and C.O.P.I.N Ministries, etc.
+Day of the Lord What kind of an account of your life, lifestyle, do you want to give to the Lord? In light of that day (Bema Seat), all should desire to live faithful to the will of God.
Our Response:
1. This morning, are you walking in the will of God? Do you understand that Jesus perfectly did the will of God? He is the only One who never failed, thus we need His forgiveness. Remember ABC. Admit to God you are a sinner. Believe Jesus Christ is God’s Son. Confess Jesus is Lord and trust His work on the cross.
2. Today, would you like to become a member of this church family? Perhaps you’ve received Jesus, but have never been baptized. If you are a member of another church and have been baptized, yet sense God is calling you here, then join us this morning.
3. Are you willing to walk in God’s will beginning today? Is there a sin that is keeping you from following Jesus? Are you willing to bring it to the Lord today? Turn away from sin and turn your eyes upon Jesus who will empower you to walk in new life today!
4. Is there a friend you need to ask to keep you accountable in the area of purity, pleasing God in areas such as home life, marriage, work, friendships, etc?
5. If you have failed, there is freedom from failure – Ask God to forgive you, choose now to live in purity, receive His forgiveness, take the next step forward in Christ.
6. Dwell much this week on how much better it is to be actively doing Gods’ will, rather than progressively sinking in sin.
Truths Concerning the Will of God
+ Salvation is His will for your life. God has made that very clear in His Word that none should perish, but that all should come to the Lord Jesus Christ in repentance and faith. You never have to ask the Lord, “God is it your will that I am saved?” The Lord Jesus Christ has already done EVERYTHING necessary for you to become a child of God. Jesus lived a sinless life, died a cruel death on the cross of Calvary, shedding His life’s blood for you and me. He was buried and on the third day, Jesus rose from the grave – victorious over Satan, sin, death, hell, and the grave. You must be willing to receive salvation as a free gift by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:12, Ephesians 2:8-9).
+Sanctification is His will for your life. Once you become a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, He begins a LIFETIME process of making your more like Jesus (Romans 8:28-29). Being sanctified means you are “set apart” from the world and into His service.
+Scripture Centered Believers in the Lord Jesus Christ must feed on the Word of God, the Scriptures are essential to your spiritual walk and vitality in the Lord (Matthew 4:4, 1 Peter 2:2, Psalm 119:9-10). How long can you go without physical food and expect to stay strong? The Word of God is food for your soul!
+Strong in the Lord The devil’s desire is to keep your lost or at the very best, an extremely weak Christian (Eph. 6:10-18).
+Serving the Lord and others The definition of joy is Jesus – Others – You! There is so much work to be done in our church and into this community. We are actively working on our Across GA 2010 – Every Christian caring – Every believer sharing – Every Georgian hearing. Are you involved in the harvest…or content to let others take your place?
+Secure in God’s grip of grace. We do what we do for the Lord BECAUSE He has chosen us to work through (John 15). No amount of works or service gives us eternal security – rather, out of that secure relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, we do the good works He’s planned in advance for us to walk in (Eph. 2:10).
+Stable, Serenity (Romans 5:1-5)
Lies from the Evil One Concerning God’s Will There is really no need to turn from sin to the Savior
God made you this way, so you can’t help but sin
You deserve anything you want RIGHT NOW – don’t delay
God will simply wink at your sin – it’s no big deal
You are better than most, you pray, give, attend church, etc.
The only sins that matter are the Big ones…sexual immorality, murder, hatred, pride, etc. Other sins such as gossip, un-forgiveness, jealousy, bitterness are simply not that big of a deal.
You are sufficient within yourself to defeat sin – no need for Bible study, prayer, accountability, etc.
Pleasing yourself is the highest priority of life – family, neighbors, church, etc. can take the back seat
God is not our for your good, but is really out to steal your joy
How to know and do the will of God
+Dedication to the Lord – 1 Thessalonians 4:1-2 - The Lord Jesus Christ must be my ultimate authority in life! (This is not optional)!
+ Desire to grow As parents and grandparents, think of the sheer joy it brings to your heart as that child begins to develop new ways, habits, activities, etc. that are positive. Can you remember the first time your child brushed their teeth? Put on their own clothes? Made their bed, meal, etc. Ephesians 4:12-16, “Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.”
+ Discipline yourself 1 Thessalonians 4:3 – There is a part God plays and a part you play in doing His will. God does not wave a magic wand over you so you always choose right – He doesn’t take away the wonderful taste of cake – there’s a part we must play.
+ Different character 1 Thessalonians 4:4-8 – We live in a sex saturated society (billboards, TV shows, magazines, internet, etc). Because you are a new creation in Christ Jesus – act like it! There are some websites to be avoided, places you simply cannot go anymore, movies, books, DVD’s that must go, improper relationships with others that must be cut off – You don’t do these things to BECOME holy…but because JESUS CHRIST made you holy through the cross! God's will is that we should avoid sexual immorality. The word translated "sexual immorality" is where we get our English word "pornography" and it refers to practices such as premarital sex, extramarital sex, homosexuality, lesbianism, sodomy, incest, etc. “Sexual Immorality”: any sexual activity that is not within the confines of a heterosexual relationship involving people who are legally married.
How many homes, churches, ministries, servants of the Lord have ruined their lives because their character was no different than unbelievers? No one can play with fire without getting burned! Proverbs 6:27-29, “Can a man take fire to his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? Can one walk on hot coals and his feet not be seared? So is he who goes in to his neighbor’s wife; whoever touches her shall not be innocent.”
God is the One who pours out His Spirit upon you, indwells you, has given you new life. We are commanded to offer ourselves to the Savior, rather than sin…if you have problems with this, your problem is not with me, rather God! 1 Thess. 4:8
What if I’ve failed? Who hasn’t? Take you sins and failures to the cross, leave them there, for they are under the blood of Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:7, 1 John 2:2)! Jesus sees us in our sin and shame – yet with eyes of mercy (John 8:12). He does not want us to wallow in past sin, guilt, and will not use us mightily if we choose to focus more on our guilt than His grace. Jesus forgives failures – Mark 16:7, “…and Peter.” – Lk. 22:31-32, 61-62 – God is more willing to forgive than we are to receive it ourselves!
+Devotion in life ambition 1 Thessalonians 4:9 – The more you grow in the love walk, the more you are walking in the will of God!
+Decide your companions 1 Thessalonians 4:10-11 – People you don’t need to be hanging around continually would include busybodies, apathetic believers, people who tear you down, etc. Find people who are going to call you to go higher in integrity, work, devotion to God’s will. The people you hang around with most are going to determine much about the direction of your life! 1 Cor. 15:33, “Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”
+Discipleship orientation 1 Thessalonians 4:12 – People are watching you – By the way you live, work, do your daily business, would it cause others to want to follow Jesus? Are you late for work, downing employees, giving half-hearted effort?
+Delight Yourself in the Lord Share brief testimony of Glen Mann, Scotty and C.O.P.I.N Ministries, etc.
+Day of the Lord What kind of an account of your life, lifestyle, do you want to give to the Lord? In light of that day (Bema Seat), all should desire to live faithful to the will of God.
Our Response:
1. This morning, are you walking in the will of God? Do you understand that Jesus perfectly did the will of God? He is the only One who never failed, thus we need His forgiveness. Remember ABC. Admit to God you are a sinner. Believe Jesus Christ is God’s Son. Confess Jesus is Lord and trust His work on the cross.
2. Today, would you like to become a member of this church family? Perhaps you’ve received Jesus, but have never been baptized. If you are a member of another church and have been baptized, yet sense God is calling you here, then join us this morning.
3. Are you willing to walk in God’s will beginning today? Is there a sin that is keeping you from following Jesus? Are you willing to bring it to the Lord today? Turn away from sin and turn your eyes upon Jesus who will empower you to walk in new life today!
4. Is there a friend you need to ask to keep you accountable in the area of purity, pleasing God in areas such as home life, marriage, work, friendships, etc?
5. If you have failed, there is freedom from failure – Ask God to forgive you, choose now to live in purity, receive His forgiveness, take the next step forward in Christ.
6. Dwell much this week on how much better it is to be actively doing Gods’ will, rather than progressively sinking in sin.
Investing Your Life in the King's Service - Matthew 25:14-30
Elvis Presley is known as the “King of Rock-n-Roll.” Perhaps there’s been no greater music entertainer in the past 100 years that has used his talents to shake up the crowd, like Elvis. Thinking over the latter years of Elvis’ life and his drug overdose, do you think he would do things differently if given another chance? Do you think he would have invested in a different way?
Our Heavenly King has given each of us the awesome opportunity to invest our lives, using the gifts and talents He’s invested in us to minister. The best investment of your life is investing back into the King’s service! We will give an account one day of our faithfulness or unfaithfulness… The King of Kings will say, “Well done!” or “Wicked, worthless, wasted.” Which will it be for you?
Distant Journey (14) – The Lord Jesus Christ is in heaven right now, yet He has gifted every single child of His with various gifts (Eph. 4:8). He gives each of us ample time to make use of those gifts and we simply must be obedient to His call upon our lives. This is no time to be goofing off, wasting time, doing our own thing, rather we should be saying, “Lord, how have you gifted me?”
Delegating Talents (15) – God is the One who gives the talents to His people. To one servant, He gave five. To another, He gave two. To yet another, He gave one. We must always remember God is the One who has given us what we have. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, “…not your own, bought with a price, glorify God!” Our ultimate accountability is to the Lord.
Differing Talents (15) – Not everyone has the same talent, and that is completely fine. The call is not for us to get jealous about the one who has more talent, rather to be faithful with what God has invested into our own lives! For example, I look at Billy Graham, Dr. James Dobson, Dr. James Merritt, or Dr. Charles Stanley and say, “I will never be as talented as they, can’t preach/teach, have as big ministry or church.” It’s easy to think they are more special in God’s eyes because of what’s been accomplished through them. However, God gives each of us a gift (some five, two, or one). If we are a five, be the five. Two, be the two. One, be the one. He’s not asking for us to become someone else, but to be the unique person He’s created us to be. Also, He’s not looking for our church to be like the mega church down the road, yet, He is looking for us to be faithful with what He’s invested into our lives – to touch others, minister, serve, reach out. We need to take His call upon our lives with all seriousness. The gifts we have belong to the Lord and are to be used for His glory.
Dependable Servants (16 & 17) – These two servants of the Lord did exactly what God had intended for them to do. Both of them used their God given time, talent, treasure, testimony, etc. faithfully. The man with five talents, gained five more. The man with two talents, gained two more. Both of these men doubled their talent treasury. Both of these servants knew they would give an account one day of how they invested their Master’s talents. They could have chosen to say, “Well, thank God, I’m gifted, and that’s enough.” Instead, they took the attitude of, “My Master has invested into my life. Just as He’s invested in me, I will invest into others.” Both servants did not waste time, but immediately began to invest their talents. Some say, “I will get on board with God, one day.” “When the economy gets better, then I’ll give.” “When I’m retired, I’ll begin to think about being a witness for the Lord, etc.” “When I began to feel a little better, I’ll start taking this whole call to serve God a little more seriously.”
Disloyal Servant (18) – In Jesus’ day, to dig a hole and put your valuables in the ground was normally a safe thing. However, the Master had not called His servants to bury their talents, rather to use those talents to gain more. Why did this one talented man do that? Perhaps he saw that others had more and felt like his didn’t really matter. Perhaps he got busy doing so many other things that he forgot about His Master’s purpose? Maybe he said, “Well, my Master is not returning for a long time, I’ll be about His business after taking care of my things first.”
Day of Reckoning (19) – We will give an account to God one day with what He’s given to us – 2 Corinthians 5, Hebrews 9:27, Romans 14, etc. Thinking of that day ought to motivate each of us to faithfulness to the Lord.
Disciple’s Praised (20-23) – It ought to be the desire of our heart to hear the Lord say of us, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Even in this life, the greatest thing we can do is give back with a grateful heart for all God has given us. The one who had doubled to ten talents was told the exact same thing the one who had doubled to four, “Well done, enter into the joy of your Lord!” If we are faithful with what God give us, He can entrust more to us. If we are not faithful with the little things, how can He entrust us with more?
Distorted View of God (24-26) – This third servant had the same opportunity as the others, but did not have the proper view of his Master. He said the Master was a “hard man.” Look back at how kind the Master had been to each of the three. He blessed them with what they didn’t naturally have, He gave them plenty of to invest, He praised the first two for their faithfulness. Many people don’t believe God is good, kind, faithful, giving…because of their distorted view of God, they don’t serve Him! The servant also tried to blame the Master of bad character (many people blame God) as the reason for their unfaithfulness. The servant also said, “I was afraid, went and hid your talent in the ground…” The servant is simply full of excuses as to why he could not be found faithful. This is a very selfish way to live. This is a life turned inward, instead of a life lived upward to God in thanksgiving and outward to others in service, ministry.
Description of the servant (26) – “wicked” and “lazy.” Do you understand that you don’t have to be involved in some massive sin, yet the Lord could still say of you, “wicked, lazy servant.” Some people come to church week in and week out, yet never do anything with what they’ve heard. They think they please God simply because they warm a pew.
Devotion Rewarded (27-29) – This is the call of God upon our lives. Wholehearted devotion to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Faithfulness to God and His kingdom is rewarded, unfaithfulness to God and His kingdom is punished. How many of God’s people choose to be the third servant? How many churches bury the gifts in the sand that God has given them to share with their community.
Darkness Demanded (30) - God is light, in Him there is no darkness. Away from the Lord's presence is beyond terrible. What a wake up call!
Decisions Must Be Made – Will I use what God has given me to His glory and the benefit of others? Will I anticipate the day and the joy of hearing Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” Will I take what the Master has given me and bury it in the sand? Will I come up with every excuse in the book as to why I couldn’t and wouldn’t be faithful to my Master? This parable could also serve as a wake up call to Colonial Woods Baptist Church. God is the Master of this church and deserves, demands faithful and loving service until He returns.
My challenge to God’s church tonight is: Will we be found faithful or fearful? Will we have a vision to grow, be renewed, use our gifts, or live for self alone? Perhaps it is time to focus more of our time and efforts into hearing God speak to our hearts clearly about what He’d have done…and then get on board with His plan.
How can I best invest my life in service to the King of Kings?
Spend Time Getting to Your Mater and King Better
Use what God’s given you to advance His Kingdom…now
Refuse to compare yourself with the more talented…be faithful with what He’s given you.
Anticipate hearing the King say to you, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Have a healthy fear of God’s judgment on the unfaithful servants
Our Response:
1. May we be reminded that God is the King and He has richly blessed each of us with the ability to invest our lives in His kingdom.
2. Let go of things that are keeping you from truly knowing the Lord better and being about His business.
3. Understand that we have nothing to boast or brag about on our own – His amazing grace is what motivates us to faithful service.
4. Put your gifts into practice this week. God gave you gifts for the building up of believers right here at CWBC.
5. May we praise God that our King is coming, our salvation is secure, He is faithful!
Our Heavenly King has given each of us the awesome opportunity to invest our lives, using the gifts and talents He’s invested in us to minister. The best investment of your life is investing back into the King’s service! We will give an account one day of our faithfulness or unfaithfulness… The King of Kings will say, “Well done!” or “Wicked, worthless, wasted.” Which will it be for you?
Distant Journey (14) – The Lord Jesus Christ is in heaven right now, yet He has gifted every single child of His with various gifts (Eph. 4:8). He gives each of us ample time to make use of those gifts and we simply must be obedient to His call upon our lives. This is no time to be goofing off, wasting time, doing our own thing, rather we should be saying, “Lord, how have you gifted me?”
Delegating Talents (15) – God is the One who gives the talents to His people. To one servant, He gave five. To another, He gave two. To yet another, He gave one. We must always remember God is the One who has given us what we have. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, “…not your own, bought with a price, glorify God!” Our ultimate accountability is to the Lord.
Differing Talents (15) – Not everyone has the same talent, and that is completely fine. The call is not for us to get jealous about the one who has more talent, rather to be faithful with what God has invested into our own lives! For example, I look at Billy Graham, Dr. James Dobson, Dr. James Merritt, or Dr. Charles Stanley and say, “I will never be as talented as they, can’t preach/teach, have as big ministry or church.” It’s easy to think they are more special in God’s eyes because of what’s been accomplished through them. However, God gives each of us a gift (some five, two, or one). If we are a five, be the five. Two, be the two. One, be the one. He’s not asking for us to become someone else, but to be the unique person He’s created us to be. Also, He’s not looking for our church to be like the mega church down the road, yet, He is looking for us to be faithful with what He’s invested into our lives – to touch others, minister, serve, reach out. We need to take His call upon our lives with all seriousness. The gifts we have belong to the Lord and are to be used for His glory.
Dependable Servants (16 & 17) – These two servants of the Lord did exactly what God had intended for them to do. Both of them used their God given time, talent, treasure, testimony, etc. faithfully. The man with five talents, gained five more. The man with two talents, gained two more. Both of these men doubled their talent treasury. Both of these servants knew they would give an account one day of how they invested their Master’s talents. They could have chosen to say, “Well, thank God, I’m gifted, and that’s enough.” Instead, they took the attitude of, “My Master has invested into my life. Just as He’s invested in me, I will invest into others.” Both servants did not waste time, but immediately began to invest their talents. Some say, “I will get on board with God, one day.” “When the economy gets better, then I’ll give.” “When I’m retired, I’ll begin to think about being a witness for the Lord, etc.” “When I began to feel a little better, I’ll start taking this whole call to serve God a little more seriously.”
Disloyal Servant (18) – In Jesus’ day, to dig a hole and put your valuables in the ground was normally a safe thing. However, the Master had not called His servants to bury their talents, rather to use those talents to gain more. Why did this one talented man do that? Perhaps he saw that others had more and felt like his didn’t really matter. Perhaps he got busy doing so many other things that he forgot about His Master’s purpose? Maybe he said, “Well, my Master is not returning for a long time, I’ll be about His business after taking care of my things first.”
Day of Reckoning (19) – We will give an account to God one day with what He’s given to us – 2 Corinthians 5, Hebrews 9:27, Romans 14, etc. Thinking of that day ought to motivate each of us to faithfulness to the Lord.
Disciple’s Praised (20-23) – It ought to be the desire of our heart to hear the Lord say of us, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Even in this life, the greatest thing we can do is give back with a grateful heart for all God has given us. The one who had doubled to ten talents was told the exact same thing the one who had doubled to four, “Well done, enter into the joy of your Lord!” If we are faithful with what God give us, He can entrust more to us. If we are not faithful with the little things, how can He entrust us with more?
Distorted View of God (24-26) – This third servant had the same opportunity as the others, but did not have the proper view of his Master. He said the Master was a “hard man.” Look back at how kind the Master had been to each of the three. He blessed them with what they didn’t naturally have, He gave them plenty of to invest, He praised the first two for their faithfulness. Many people don’t believe God is good, kind, faithful, giving…because of their distorted view of God, they don’t serve Him! The servant also tried to blame the Master of bad character (many people blame God) as the reason for their unfaithfulness. The servant also said, “I was afraid, went and hid your talent in the ground…” The servant is simply full of excuses as to why he could not be found faithful. This is a very selfish way to live. This is a life turned inward, instead of a life lived upward to God in thanksgiving and outward to others in service, ministry.
Description of the servant (26) – “wicked” and “lazy.” Do you understand that you don’t have to be involved in some massive sin, yet the Lord could still say of you, “wicked, lazy servant.” Some people come to church week in and week out, yet never do anything with what they’ve heard. They think they please God simply because they warm a pew.
Devotion Rewarded (27-29) – This is the call of God upon our lives. Wholehearted devotion to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Faithfulness to God and His kingdom is rewarded, unfaithfulness to God and His kingdom is punished. How many of God’s people choose to be the third servant? How many churches bury the gifts in the sand that God has given them to share with their community.
Darkness Demanded (30) - God is light, in Him there is no darkness. Away from the Lord's presence is beyond terrible. What a wake up call!
Decisions Must Be Made – Will I use what God has given me to His glory and the benefit of others? Will I anticipate the day and the joy of hearing Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” Will I take what the Master has given me and bury it in the sand? Will I come up with every excuse in the book as to why I couldn’t and wouldn’t be faithful to my Master? This parable could also serve as a wake up call to Colonial Woods Baptist Church. God is the Master of this church and deserves, demands faithful and loving service until He returns.
My challenge to God’s church tonight is: Will we be found faithful or fearful? Will we have a vision to grow, be renewed, use our gifts, or live for self alone? Perhaps it is time to focus more of our time and efforts into hearing God speak to our hearts clearly about what He’d have done…and then get on board with His plan.
How can I best invest my life in service to the King of Kings?
Spend Time Getting to Your Mater and King Better
Use what God’s given you to advance His Kingdom…now
Refuse to compare yourself with the more talented…be faithful with what He’s given you.
Anticipate hearing the King say to you, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Have a healthy fear of God’s judgment on the unfaithful servants
Our Response:
1. May we be reminded that God is the King and He has richly blessed each of us with the ability to invest our lives in His kingdom.
2. Let go of things that are keeping you from truly knowing the Lord better and being about His business.
3. Understand that we have nothing to boast or brag about on our own – His amazing grace is what motivates us to faithful service.
4. Put your gifts into practice this week. God gave you gifts for the building up of believers right here at CWBC.
5. May we praise God that our King is coming, our salvation is secure, He is faithful!
Friday, February 26, 2010
Found Faithful in Spiritual Warfare
1 Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, 2 and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, 3 that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this. 4 For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know. 5 For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain. 6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always have good remembrance of us, greatly desiring to see us, as we also to see you— 7 therefore, brethren, in all our affliction and distress we were comforted concerning you by your faith. 8 For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord. 9 For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God, 10 night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith? 11 Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way to you. 12 And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you, 13 so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.
- 1 Thessalonians 3:1-13
Introduction
Dr. Frank Page once stated, “The Christian life is not a playground…it is a battleground.” Some have taken the issue of spiritual warfare to extremes while others are not taking it seriously enough. The truth is spiritual warfare is going on continually and every follower of the Lord Jesus Christ should desire to be found faithful to our Commander and Chief Shepherd.
First, being found faithful in spiritual warfare involves…
I. Preparing like a Privileged Soldier in God’s Army
A student prepares for his exams.
A lawyer will prepare for his bar exams.
An athlete will prepare for his sporting contest.
A follower of the Lord Jesus Christ must prepare diligently for spiritual warfare.
Three statements concerning spiritual preparation:
A. Preparation begins with our family identity
Look at verses 1-3, “Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, and sent Timothy, our brother…”
Let’s be reminded that we who belong to the Lord Jesus, belong to one another as “brothers” and “sisters” in Christ.
We are a family of faith.
The hymn says, “I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God – washed in the fountain and cleansed by His blood!”
God’s presence and power rests upon people who are rightly related to Himself and to one another.
Psalm 133:1 states, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”
Preparing like a soldier begins by understanding you are not in this fight alone, but others are going to be there in the trenches with you.
B. Preparation is activated through servant ministry
Not only was Timothy a dear brother, but also a “minister of God.”
Timothy was willing to get off the bench and get into the game spiritually.
He was not willing to let the rest of his fellow soldiers serve in God’s army and himself not report for duty.
Every single one of us in the body of Christ is a minister unto God.
Just as soldiers need solid participation and teamwork to accomplish their military goals, so the body of Christ needs every member ministering to the glory of God if God’s will is to be accomplished.
1 Peter 4:10 states , “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”
C. Preparation labors in the gospel of Christ
Verse 2 points out that Timothy was a brother, minister of God, and “fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ…”
An interesting survey might be to ask everyone who comes to church what the most important thing in this church.
Answers may vary – worship style, nursery, methods of reaching out, etc.
More important than anything in the church is the gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Without the cross of Calvary, without the shedding of Jesus’ precious blood, without the resurrection, we are lost and in our sins.
The word of God says, “For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures…” 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
A friend reminded me this week, “We are all equal at the foot of the cross.”
Laboring in the gospel of Christ means I’m ready to evangelize those without Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior.
Laboring in the gospel of Christ also means I’m available to encourage God’s people – going and teaching, making disciples of Christ!
Timothy prepared himself like a privileged soldier in the army of the Lord. He was rightly related to Jesus, others, and was walking in obedience to his Commander and Chief!
Second, being found faithful in spiritual warfare involves…
2. Standing in the Supernatural Strength of the Lord
“What God expects us to attempt, He also enables us to achieve.”
- Pastor Stephen Olford.
Three benefits to standing in the strength of the Lord.
First, the Lord’s strength will…
A. Enables us to overcome Satan’s deceptions
Satan was doing all he could to shake up, discourage, defeat these new followers of Christ in Thessalonica.
Paul writes, “I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain.”
These new Christians had taken their stand on the gospel of Jesus Christ, not the “health and wealth” gospel that dominates America.
If you believe you are supposed to come to Jesus for a life of no problems, pain, persecution, etc. that’s not the gospel.
Paul knew that Satan could be whispering lies in their ears like, “If God really loved you, you wouldn’t be suffering like this.”
“If Jesus is really God Almighty, you would not have to go through pain.”
Perhaps Satan tried to get them to believe Paul had abandoned them, didn’t love and care for them.
God never tempts us to sin – but God does test us to deepen our walk with Him.
Luke 22:31-34, “31 And the Lord said “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” 33 But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” 34 Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”
Even though Simon’s faith faltered under pressure, He repented and was restored by the Lord Jesus…used greatly in God’s kingdom purposes.
The essence of spiritual warfare is Satan’s lies vs. God’s truth.
Believing Satan’s lies will eventually make you bitter and angry.
Believing God’s truth will enable you to overcome no matter what you face.
Recently two men died of cancer on the same day in rooms side by side.
One man was bitter and angry at God because God had allowed this cancer into his life.
He told the hospital staff no one was allowed in his room.
The other man wanted his family, friends, pastor there with him.
He told everyone how thankful he was for God’s sustaining grace and that Jesus had prepared a place for him.
He thanked all his family, friends, ministers for all the love and prayers they had showered upon him.
He rejoiced in the Lord that God had something better awaiting him in Heaven.
Second, standing in supernatural strength of the Lord will…
B. Empower us to mature spiritually
What was the evidence these believers were growing strong in the Lord?
Timothy brought back the report and shared the good news of their “faith and love.”
“Faith” means we are rightly related to God.
“Love” means we are rightly related to one another.
If you love God, you are going to love God’s people.
"We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other…" (2 Thessalonians 1:3).
"For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love" (Galatians 5:6).
"And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love" (1 Corinthians 13:13).
“Love talked about can be easily turned aside, but love demonstrated is irresistible.” —W. Stanley Mooneyham, Men of Integrity, Vol. 3, no. 5.
Even amidst the toughest of circumstances, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and love toward one another can move mountains!
Third, standing in the supernatural strength of the Lord will…
C. Encourage others joy in the Lord
Paul got fired up when he heard how these new believers were growing.
He says, “For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord.”
Seeing God’s power at work in the life of His people is extremely encouraging.
At the State Evangelism Conference we saw evidence of God’s Spirit working through the teenagers of Bartow County.
One youth said, “Jesus called us to go preach the gospel, serve others in His Name…not just come to church.” (Cool)
How many times do we focus on those things that are most discouraging over the things that are most encouraging?
When I see people rising up to become the people Jesus has called them to be, in spite of their difficulties, limitations, past, it brings great joy to my heart.
If we spend the majority of our time focusing on the defeats, discouragements, disappointments of life – Satan will have won a victory.
If we spend the majority of our time focusing on the good news of Jesus Christ, encouraging one another, being glad in the life God has blessed us with, working together for the Lord Jesus in a spirit of unity – the Savior will have the victory in our lives.
Third, being found faithful in spiritual warfare involves…
3. Unleashing the Unlimited Power of God in Prayer
Dr. Stan Wilkins would say, “No prayer, no power. Little prayer, little power. Much prayer, much power.”
“Satan trembles when he sees, the weakest saint upon his knees.”
Prayer was necessary in our Savior’s life, the Apostle’s lives, the early churches life.
Through the power of God in prayer – victories were won, souls saved, miracles wrought, etc.
How can I unleash the unlimited power of God in prayer?
First, unleashing the unlimited power of God in prayer means…
A. Praying for God’s spiritual direction in our own lives
God, what would you have me to do?
I will give an account first of my own life to God…not yours!
Sometimes, we just need to mind our own business with the Lord!
Second, unleashing the unlimited power of God in prayer means…
B. Praying for others to grow in their sincere love/loyalty to God
Four kinds of love…
*Eros Love – physical love
* Storge Love – parent/child love
* Phileo Love – cherishing love, husband and wife, family to one another, deepest of abiding friendships
* Agape Love – a willing , selfless love
Warren Wiersbe said in counseling couples in marriage preparation, “If your wife became paralyzed three weeks after your were married, do you love her enough to stay with her and care for her?”
True love deepens in difficulty.
Shallow love disappears in difficulty.
Third, unleashing the unlimited power of God in prayer means…
C. Praying that everyone of our lives will bring honor and glory to God
God is the One we owe our very lives to.
Everyone of us ought to be consumed with knowing, following, growing in our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Thinking about our Lord’s soon coming ought to quicken us to realize life is more than jobs, possessions, money – what really matters is our own growing relationship to Jesus and bringing others along with us!
"But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you" (1 Peter 5:10).
Conclusion
Being found faithful to God in spiritual warfare means preparing yourself like a good soldier in Christ Jesus, standing in the supernatural strength of the Lord, and unleashing the unlimited power of God in prayer.
Response
Make sure your own relationship with the Lord is where it needs to be.
Remember – ABC’s of salvation
A – Acknowledge your sin to God – repent, U-Turn
B – Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ - trust in His finished work on Calvary
C – Call upon the name of the Lord (Romans 10:9-10, 13) – turn to Jesus
Be encouraged today that God is at work though the difficulties, setbacks, etc.
As a Christian, are you on active duty?
Is there someone you need to encourage, establish today in their walk with the Lord?
Your prayers make an eternal difference in the lives of others – will you unleash the unlimited power of God in prayer this week?
- 1 Thessalonians 3:1-13
Introduction
Dr. Frank Page once stated, “The Christian life is not a playground…it is a battleground.” Some have taken the issue of spiritual warfare to extremes while others are not taking it seriously enough. The truth is spiritual warfare is going on continually and every follower of the Lord Jesus Christ should desire to be found faithful to our Commander and Chief Shepherd.
First, being found faithful in spiritual warfare involves…
I. Preparing like a Privileged Soldier in God’s Army
A student prepares for his exams.
A lawyer will prepare for his bar exams.
An athlete will prepare for his sporting contest.
A follower of the Lord Jesus Christ must prepare diligently for spiritual warfare.
Three statements concerning spiritual preparation:
A. Preparation begins with our family identity
Look at verses 1-3, “Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, and sent Timothy, our brother…”
Let’s be reminded that we who belong to the Lord Jesus, belong to one another as “brothers” and “sisters” in Christ.
We are a family of faith.
The hymn says, “I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God – washed in the fountain and cleansed by His blood!”
God’s presence and power rests upon people who are rightly related to Himself and to one another.
Psalm 133:1 states, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”
Preparing like a soldier begins by understanding you are not in this fight alone, but others are going to be there in the trenches with you.
B. Preparation is activated through servant ministry
Not only was Timothy a dear brother, but also a “minister of God.”
Timothy was willing to get off the bench and get into the game spiritually.
He was not willing to let the rest of his fellow soldiers serve in God’s army and himself not report for duty.
Every single one of us in the body of Christ is a minister unto God.
Just as soldiers need solid participation and teamwork to accomplish their military goals, so the body of Christ needs every member ministering to the glory of God if God’s will is to be accomplished.
1 Peter 4:10 states , “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”
C. Preparation labors in the gospel of Christ
Verse 2 points out that Timothy was a brother, minister of God, and “fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ…”
An interesting survey might be to ask everyone who comes to church what the most important thing in this church.
Answers may vary – worship style, nursery, methods of reaching out, etc.
More important than anything in the church is the gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Without the cross of Calvary, without the shedding of Jesus’ precious blood, without the resurrection, we are lost and in our sins.
The word of God says, “For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures…” 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
A friend reminded me this week, “We are all equal at the foot of the cross.”
Laboring in the gospel of Christ means I’m ready to evangelize those without Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior.
Laboring in the gospel of Christ also means I’m available to encourage God’s people – going and teaching, making disciples of Christ!
Timothy prepared himself like a privileged soldier in the army of the Lord. He was rightly related to Jesus, others, and was walking in obedience to his Commander and Chief!
Second, being found faithful in spiritual warfare involves…
2. Standing in the Supernatural Strength of the Lord
“What God expects us to attempt, He also enables us to achieve.”
- Pastor Stephen Olford.
Three benefits to standing in the strength of the Lord.
First, the Lord’s strength will…
A. Enables us to overcome Satan’s deceptions
Satan was doing all he could to shake up, discourage, defeat these new followers of Christ in Thessalonica.
Paul writes, “I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain.”
These new Christians had taken their stand on the gospel of Jesus Christ, not the “health and wealth” gospel that dominates America.
If you believe you are supposed to come to Jesus for a life of no problems, pain, persecution, etc. that’s not the gospel.
Paul knew that Satan could be whispering lies in their ears like, “If God really loved you, you wouldn’t be suffering like this.”
“If Jesus is really God Almighty, you would not have to go through pain.”
Perhaps Satan tried to get them to believe Paul had abandoned them, didn’t love and care for them.
God never tempts us to sin – but God does test us to deepen our walk with Him.
Luke 22:31-34, “31 And the Lord said “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” 33 But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” 34 Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”
Even though Simon’s faith faltered under pressure, He repented and was restored by the Lord Jesus…used greatly in God’s kingdom purposes.
The essence of spiritual warfare is Satan’s lies vs. God’s truth.
Believing Satan’s lies will eventually make you bitter and angry.
Believing God’s truth will enable you to overcome no matter what you face.
Recently two men died of cancer on the same day in rooms side by side.
One man was bitter and angry at God because God had allowed this cancer into his life.
He told the hospital staff no one was allowed in his room.
The other man wanted his family, friends, pastor there with him.
He told everyone how thankful he was for God’s sustaining grace and that Jesus had prepared a place for him.
He thanked all his family, friends, ministers for all the love and prayers they had showered upon him.
He rejoiced in the Lord that God had something better awaiting him in Heaven.
Second, standing in supernatural strength of the Lord will…
B. Empower us to mature spiritually
What was the evidence these believers were growing strong in the Lord?
Timothy brought back the report and shared the good news of their “faith and love.”
“Faith” means we are rightly related to God.
“Love” means we are rightly related to one another.
If you love God, you are going to love God’s people.
"We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other…" (2 Thessalonians 1:3).
"For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love" (Galatians 5:6).
"And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love" (1 Corinthians 13:13).
“Love talked about can be easily turned aside, but love demonstrated is irresistible.” —W. Stanley Mooneyham, Men of Integrity, Vol. 3, no. 5.
Even amidst the toughest of circumstances, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and love toward one another can move mountains!
Third, standing in the supernatural strength of the Lord will…
C. Encourage others joy in the Lord
Paul got fired up when he heard how these new believers were growing.
He says, “For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord.”
Seeing God’s power at work in the life of His people is extremely encouraging.
At the State Evangelism Conference we saw evidence of God’s Spirit working through the teenagers of Bartow County.
One youth said, “Jesus called us to go preach the gospel, serve others in His Name…not just come to church.” (Cool)
How many times do we focus on those things that are most discouraging over the things that are most encouraging?
When I see people rising up to become the people Jesus has called them to be, in spite of their difficulties, limitations, past, it brings great joy to my heart.
If we spend the majority of our time focusing on the defeats, discouragements, disappointments of life – Satan will have won a victory.
If we spend the majority of our time focusing on the good news of Jesus Christ, encouraging one another, being glad in the life God has blessed us with, working together for the Lord Jesus in a spirit of unity – the Savior will have the victory in our lives.
Third, being found faithful in spiritual warfare involves…
3. Unleashing the Unlimited Power of God in Prayer
Dr. Stan Wilkins would say, “No prayer, no power. Little prayer, little power. Much prayer, much power.”
“Satan trembles when he sees, the weakest saint upon his knees.”
Prayer was necessary in our Savior’s life, the Apostle’s lives, the early churches life.
Through the power of God in prayer – victories were won, souls saved, miracles wrought, etc.
How can I unleash the unlimited power of God in prayer?
First, unleashing the unlimited power of God in prayer means…
A. Praying for God’s spiritual direction in our own lives
God, what would you have me to do?
I will give an account first of my own life to God…not yours!
Sometimes, we just need to mind our own business with the Lord!
Second, unleashing the unlimited power of God in prayer means…
B. Praying for others to grow in their sincere love/loyalty to God
Four kinds of love…
*Eros Love – physical love
* Storge Love – parent/child love
* Phileo Love – cherishing love, husband and wife, family to one another, deepest of abiding friendships
* Agape Love – a willing , selfless love
Warren Wiersbe said in counseling couples in marriage preparation, “If your wife became paralyzed three weeks after your were married, do you love her enough to stay with her and care for her?”
True love deepens in difficulty.
Shallow love disappears in difficulty.
Third, unleashing the unlimited power of God in prayer means…
C. Praying that everyone of our lives will bring honor and glory to God
God is the One we owe our very lives to.
Everyone of us ought to be consumed with knowing, following, growing in our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Thinking about our Lord’s soon coming ought to quicken us to realize life is more than jobs, possessions, money – what really matters is our own growing relationship to Jesus and bringing others along with us!
"But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you" (1 Peter 5:10).
Conclusion
Being found faithful to God in spiritual warfare means preparing yourself like a good soldier in Christ Jesus, standing in the supernatural strength of the Lord, and unleashing the unlimited power of God in prayer.
Response
Make sure your own relationship with the Lord is where it needs to be.
Remember – ABC’s of salvation
A – Acknowledge your sin to God – repent, U-Turn
B – Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ - trust in His finished work on Calvary
C – Call upon the name of the Lord (Romans 10:9-10, 13) – turn to Jesus
Be encouraged today that God is at work though the difficulties, setbacks, etc.
As a Christian, are you on active duty?
Is there someone you need to encourage, establish today in their walk with the Lord?
Your prayers make an eternal difference in the lives of others – will you unleash the unlimited power of God in prayer this week?
Friday, February 19, 2010
Found Faithful to the Word
13 For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe. 14 For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus. For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did from the Judeans, 15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men, 16 forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost. 17 But we, brethren, having been taken away from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavored more eagerly to see your face with great desire. 18 Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us. 19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? 20 For you are our glory and joy. 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
Introduction
There are thousands of books on the market today encouraging church growth. The Bible is the best church growth book of all time!
I. The Word of God Brought Power – Trust It!
A. The Word Must Be Preached
Note – The Bible is not man’s word about God, but God’s word to man. I thank God that you believe His Word! What if you didn’t?
Note – If I did not believe the Bible was the Word of God to teach, train, warn, witness, encourage, edify – I would not be in the ministry – I would not study it – I would not share it. I could be golfing, vacationing, sleeping, working, spending time with family, watching TV, etc.
Note - Because the Bible is the Word of God and it is the truth, there is every reason in the world to study, share, speak, surrender to it. “God cannot lie,” Paul tells is in Titus 1:2. God is the Author of this book – He is Faithful and True!
2 Timothy 3:16-17, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Note – I thank God today for faithful parents, SS teachers, Pastors, friends who speak the Word of God. (Dr. John Sullivan, Dr. Mark Brister, Dr. Stephen Trammel, Pastor Tom Cobb). Through their faithful preaching of the Gospel, I came to believe that Jesus Christ loved me, died for my sins, was buried, rose again, and now lives in me by His Spirit! How about you?
Note - You have heard the story. God is in heaven and an angel comes up and God says, "My plan is to give the Good News to my children on earth and ask them to share it." And the angel says, "What if they don't? What is plan B?" And God says, "There is no plan B."
B. The Word of God Must Become Personal
Note – Some do not believe the Bible is really the Word of God – or believe only the parts that are convenient
Note – Many are watering down God’s word to conform to their beliefs rather than letting God’s word be truth in their life
“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” – John 17:17
Note – A man once said to a pastor, “I don’t believe in hell.” The pastor said, “Your unbelief doesn’t cancel out the truth of God’s word.”
Note – Do you personally believe (rely) on God’s truth – Jesus is God and the Only way to the Father? The Lord Jesus Christ lived a sinless life, died on the cross of Calvary, was buried, and on the third day rose again? That you cannot attain eternal life by your way, but must come before God as a sinner repenting of sin and trusting only in the Lord Jesus Christ? Do you believe His Holy Spirit lives in you, empowers you, leads you, gifts you? Do you believe Jesus is coming again for His own? You are not your own, but have been bought at a price? The Word must become personal!
Note - Theologian Norman Geisler taught why the Bible is to be trusted…
Science verifies it. Before science believed these things the Bible said: the earth is round (Isa. 40:22); the earth is suspended (Job 26:7); the universe had a beginning (Gen. 1:1); it has been expanding (Isa. 42:5); it is running down (Ps. 102:26); human bodies are made of the earth’s elements (Gen. 2:7);
The Scribes or writers claimed the Bible to be God’s Word
The Scriptures contents confirm the Word of God. There are hundreds of prophecies that have been 100% fulfilled – (an interesting study is to look at the prophecies that Jesus fulfilled)
The Savior Testified to it. Jesus claimed to be God, He was confirmed as God by the acts of God, and He said the Bible is the Word of God.
The Stones Verify the Bible. Archaeology has found NOTHING that has ever refuted the Bible and thousands of finds that have verified things written in the Bible.
The Structure of the Bible. It is a book of great diversity but a supernatural unity. It was written over thousands of years by around 40 writers who all describe one problem (sin), one cure (salvation), through one person (Jesus) for one purpose (the glory of God)
The Spirit witnesses to our soul. God’s Spirit testifies of the Bible’s trustworthiness.
The Saved. Believers testify of the change the Bible has made in their lives.
II. The Word of God Brought Persecution – Testify to It!
A. The Persecution of Saints
“For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus. For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did from the Judeans, who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men, forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16
Note – Despite the Jews constant watching for the arrival of their Messiah, they missed him when he came, and even killed him (Matthew 27:25). The Jewish leaders thought Jesus was a false prophet, and they didn’t want his teachings to spread, so they opposed all who preached about him (Acts 4:18). – Life Application Bible Commentary, 1 & 2 Thessalonians.
Note – Every person who stands for God’s truth, godly living is going against the flow and will take heat for it (1 Timothy 3:12).
Note – Some of our suffering is due to sinful choices (that is not suffering for Christ). Some of our suffering is due to living out God’s will.
15But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. 16Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. - 1 Peter 4:15-16
B. The Provoking of Satan
“…Satan hindered us…” 1 Thessalonians 2:18
Note – Paul eagerly wanted to minister to these new believers, but was Satanically hindered. Always remember, followers of Jesus Christ have an enemy, Satan. He wants no one encouraged, evangelized.
Note – Jesus is Lord of the harvest and our lives. His power is greater than the enemy – He wants to work through us to touch lives with the Good News that Jesus saves. Satan will do all he can to stop believers from sharing the love of Jesus.
Note – Do the Olympic athletes give up because of difficulty? Are you going to let Satan stop you from being faithful to the Word?
“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” – Galatians 6:9
Note – Pastor Luis Rodriguez was called of the Lord to start a church in Puerto Rico. Upon arrival, he was astonished at the lack of commitment from the church people. Only one other couple showed up for prayer meeting. God spoke to Pastor Luis’ heart, “It is for one life, one soul I’m sending you to Coamo. Don’t worry about the ones who made excuses and didn’t come.” Two faithful couples have started a tremendous church there. The name of the church is Raham, Hebrew for “have compassion.”
While Satan does work to hinder a faithful church…saints can hinder God’s work as well. Each of us should ask the Lord – Am I?
Hindering Church?
Complainer
Content to stay home
Contentious
Careless in giving and listening
Carnal (not living like saved)
Helping Church?
Comforter
Consistent, Faithful to attend
Cordial, Friendly
Committed, focused on Jesus and His Word
Christ-like, maturing
III. The Word of God Brought Perspective – Treasure It!
“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not eve you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy.” 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
Note – Paul looked beyond the pain and saw people in the presence of Jesus Christ for all eternity.
People Are Priority – “Look” – Eyes of Jesus
Note – What two things last forever? The Word of God (Isaiah 40:8) and people (John 3:16) – Who will you look at differently this week – through the eyes of Jesus?
Evangelism Is Essential – “Learn” & Eliminate Excuses
* I am afraid
* I don’t know how to
* People will not respond (80-90% will come to church if invited)
* People do not want to hear
* I haven’t been a Christian long enough
* I don’t know any lost people
Note – Learn this…practice it with neighbor, co-worker, your child, grandchild…
The Problem – “All have sinned” – Romans 3:23
The Penalty – “The wages of sin is death” – Romans 6:23
The Provision – “God commendeth his love toward us in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
The Promise – “Confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9)
Note – ABC Plan – Admit to God (Sinner), Believe In your Heart God raised the Lord Jesus, Confess Jesus…Call on His Name
Caring is Courageous – Love Is Essential
Note – What would happen if each SS class tried to increase by 2 people? What would happen in our church if everyone brought 1 other along with themselves?
Crowns for the Committed
Note – An interesting article I read this week said the number one reason churches stay small is, “We don’t want it to grow.”
Christ is Coming
Note - Someone has said: A rich person can sign his name to a check and make it worth millions – that’s capital. A government can mint currency by engraving and printing – that’s money. An artist can take an inexpensive canvas and paint a picture on it and make it worth thousands – that’s art. God can take a worthless, sinful life, wash it in the blood of Christ, put His Spirit into it, and make it a blessing to humanity – that’s salvation!
Conclusion
The Word of God powerfully changes lives – We will face persecution for faithfulness to Jesus – but our perspective must be the joy of seeing others come to know the Lord who has forgiven, freed us, and found us!
Response
Come to Jesus – Admitting sin to God, Believing in Jesus, Calling on His Name. (Romans 10:13)
If you’ve received Jesus, but never been baptized or are without a church home – come today in commitment to follow God’s will. (Matthew 28:18-20, Ephesians 2:18-20)
Others need to come today with a new heart for reaching others – someone was faithful to reach you, who are you reaching out to for Jesus’ sake? (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20)
Introduction
There are thousands of books on the market today encouraging church growth. The Bible is the best church growth book of all time!
I. The Word of God Brought Power – Trust It!
A. The Word Must Be Preached
Note – The Bible is not man’s word about God, but God’s word to man. I thank God that you believe His Word! What if you didn’t?
Note – If I did not believe the Bible was the Word of God to teach, train, warn, witness, encourage, edify – I would not be in the ministry – I would not study it – I would not share it. I could be golfing, vacationing, sleeping, working, spending time with family, watching TV, etc.
Note - Because the Bible is the Word of God and it is the truth, there is every reason in the world to study, share, speak, surrender to it. “God cannot lie,” Paul tells is in Titus 1:2. God is the Author of this book – He is Faithful and True!
2 Timothy 3:16-17, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Note – I thank God today for faithful parents, SS teachers, Pastors, friends who speak the Word of God. (Dr. John Sullivan, Dr. Mark Brister, Dr. Stephen Trammel, Pastor Tom Cobb). Through their faithful preaching of the Gospel, I came to believe that Jesus Christ loved me, died for my sins, was buried, rose again, and now lives in me by His Spirit! How about you?
Note - You have heard the story. God is in heaven and an angel comes up and God says, "My plan is to give the Good News to my children on earth and ask them to share it." And the angel says, "What if they don't? What is plan B?" And God says, "There is no plan B."
B. The Word of God Must Become Personal
Note – Some do not believe the Bible is really the Word of God – or believe only the parts that are convenient
Note – Many are watering down God’s word to conform to their beliefs rather than letting God’s word be truth in their life
“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” – John 17:17
Note – A man once said to a pastor, “I don’t believe in hell.” The pastor said, “Your unbelief doesn’t cancel out the truth of God’s word.”
Note – Do you personally believe (rely) on God’s truth – Jesus is God and the Only way to the Father? The Lord Jesus Christ lived a sinless life, died on the cross of Calvary, was buried, and on the third day rose again? That you cannot attain eternal life by your way, but must come before God as a sinner repenting of sin and trusting only in the Lord Jesus Christ? Do you believe His Holy Spirit lives in you, empowers you, leads you, gifts you? Do you believe Jesus is coming again for His own? You are not your own, but have been bought at a price? The Word must become personal!
Note - Theologian Norman Geisler taught why the Bible is to be trusted…
Science verifies it. Before science believed these things the Bible said: the earth is round (Isa. 40:22); the earth is suspended (Job 26:7); the universe had a beginning (Gen. 1:1); it has been expanding (Isa. 42:5); it is running down (Ps. 102:26); human bodies are made of the earth’s elements (Gen. 2:7);
The Scribes or writers claimed the Bible to be God’s Word
The Scriptures contents confirm the Word of God. There are hundreds of prophecies that have been 100% fulfilled – (an interesting study is to look at the prophecies that Jesus fulfilled)
The Savior Testified to it. Jesus claimed to be God, He was confirmed as God by the acts of God, and He said the Bible is the Word of God.
The Stones Verify the Bible. Archaeology has found NOTHING that has ever refuted the Bible and thousands of finds that have verified things written in the Bible.
The Structure of the Bible. It is a book of great diversity but a supernatural unity. It was written over thousands of years by around 40 writers who all describe one problem (sin), one cure (salvation), through one person (Jesus) for one purpose (the glory of God)
The Spirit witnesses to our soul. God’s Spirit testifies of the Bible’s trustworthiness.
The Saved. Believers testify of the change the Bible has made in their lives.
II. The Word of God Brought Persecution – Testify to It!
A. The Persecution of Saints
“For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus. For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did from the Judeans, who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men, forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16
Note – Despite the Jews constant watching for the arrival of their Messiah, they missed him when he came, and even killed him (Matthew 27:25). The Jewish leaders thought Jesus was a false prophet, and they didn’t want his teachings to spread, so they opposed all who preached about him (Acts 4:18). – Life Application Bible Commentary, 1 & 2 Thessalonians.
Note – Every person who stands for God’s truth, godly living is going against the flow and will take heat for it (1 Timothy 3:12).
Note – Some of our suffering is due to sinful choices (that is not suffering for Christ). Some of our suffering is due to living out God’s will.
15But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. 16Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. - 1 Peter 4:15-16
B. The Provoking of Satan
“…Satan hindered us…” 1 Thessalonians 2:18
Note – Paul eagerly wanted to minister to these new believers, but was Satanically hindered. Always remember, followers of Jesus Christ have an enemy, Satan. He wants no one encouraged, evangelized.
Note – Jesus is Lord of the harvest and our lives. His power is greater than the enemy – He wants to work through us to touch lives with the Good News that Jesus saves. Satan will do all he can to stop believers from sharing the love of Jesus.
Note – Do the Olympic athletes give up because of difficulty? Are you going to let Satan stop you from being faithful to the Word?
“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” – Galatians 6:9
Note – Pastor Luis Rodriguez was called of the Lord to start a church in Puerto Rico. Upon arrival, he was astonished at the lack of commitment from the church people. Only one other couple showed up for prayer meeting. God spoke to Pastor Luis’ heart, “It is for one life, one soul I’m sending you to Coamo. Don’t worry about the ones who made excuses and didn’t come.” Two faithful couples have started a tremendous church there. The name of the church is Raham, Hebrew for “have compassion.”
While Satan does work to hinder a faithful church…saints can hinder God’s work as well. Each of us should ask the Lord – Am I?
Hindering Church?
Complainer
Content to stay home
Contentious
Careless in giving and listening
Carnal (not living like saved)
Helping Church?
Comforter
Consistent, Faithful to attend
Cordial, Friendly
Committed, focused on Jesus and His Word
Christ-like, maturing
III. The Word of God Brought Perspective – Treasure It!
“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not eve you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy.” 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
Note – Paul looked beyond the pain and saw people in the presence of Jesus Christ for all eternity.
People Are Priority – “Look” – Eyes of Jesus
Note – What two things last forever? The Word of God (Isaiah 40:8) and people (John 3:16) – Who will you look at differently this week – through the eyes of Jesus?
Evangelism Is Essential – “Learn” & Eliminate Excuses
* I am afraid
* I don’t know how to
* People will not respond (80-90% will come to church if invited)
* People do not want to hear
* I haven’t been a Christian long enough
* I don’t know any lost people
Note – Learn this…practice it with neighbor, co-worker, your child, grandchild…
The Problem – “All have sinned” – Romans 3:23
The Penalty – “The wages of sin is death” – Romans 6:23
The Provision – “God commendeth his love toward us in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
The Promise – “Confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9)
Note – ABC Plan – Admit to God (Sinner), Believe In your Heart God raised the Lord Jesus, Confess Jesus…Call on His Name
Caring is Courageous – Love Is Essential
Note – What would happen if each SS class tried to increase by 2 people? What would happen in our church if everyone brought 1 other along with themselves?
Crowns for the Committed
Note – An interesting article I read this week said the number one reason churches stay small is, “We don’t want it to grow.”
Christ is Coming
Note - Someone has said: A rich person can sign his name to a check and make it worth millions – that’s capital. A government can mint currency by engraving and printing – that’s money. An artist can take an inexpensive canvas and paint a picture on it and make it worth thousands – that’s art. God can take a worthless, sinful life, wash it in the blood of Christ, put His Spirit into it, and make it a blessing to humanity – that’s salvation!
Conclusion
The Word of God powerfully changes lives – We will face persecution for faithfulness to Jesus – but our perspective must be the joy of seeing others come to know the Lord who has forgiven, freed us, and found us!
Response
Come to Jesus – Admitting sin to God, Believing in Jesus, Calling on His Name. (Romans 10:13)
If you’ve received Jesus, but never been baptized or are without a church home – come today in commitment to follow God’s will. (Matthew 28:18-20, Ephesians 2:18-20)
Others need to come today with a new heart for reaching others – someone was faithful to reach you, who are you reaching out to for Jesus’ sake? (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20)
Saturday, February 13, 2010
FOUND FAITHFUL IN OUR WITNESS FOR JESUS
1 THESSALONIANS 2:1-12
INTRODUCTION
1 For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain. 2 But even[a] after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict. 3 For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. 4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. 5 For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. 8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. 9 For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; 11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged[b] every one of you, as a father does his own children, 12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.
Note – The Apostle Paul was forced to flee for his life because of the intense persecution found in Thessalonica. His attackers and accusers tried to discourage and discredit his ministry by stating he was a failure, false minister (only desiring money and praise). The church in Thessalonica was a new church full of new believers in Christ. Without a strong foundation and assurance of this they could easily be led astray and into error. This is one of the main reasons why the Apostle Paul needed to write and remind them that he was a true witness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, he had lived godly before them, and the need now was for these new believers to faithful in their witness and walk in the Lord Jesus Christ.
I. OUR MOTIVATION: HIS GREAT COMMISSION
A. Undeserved Suffering
Note – Everywhere Paul went, he suffered for preaching and teaching the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. He had been persecuted in Thessalonica, just as in Philippi.
20 And they brought them to the magistrates, and said, “These men, being Jews, exceedingly trouble our city; 21 and they teach customs which are not lawful for us, being Romans, to receive or observe.” 22 Then the multitude rose up together against them; and the magistrates tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods. 23 And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely. 24 Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.
Note – The world would look at the Apostle Paul – persecuted, prisons, preaching, and say, “Foolish,” and “Failure.” However, the Apostle Paul knew what God had called him to do. God was his ultimate authority and he longed to hear the Lord say, “Faithful.”
Note - J.C. Penney, the great merchant, was once asked, “What were the two greatest motivators in his life?” Without hesitation he said, “I can tell you in four words: Jesus Christ and adversity.” He went on to explain that adversity taught him never to give up, always start over again, keep his faith strong, and realize that adversity makes a person strong. —Norman Vincent Peale, Plus Magazine, July/Aug. 1985, p. 28.
Note – Stay faithful in your witness to the Lord, do what He’s called you to do. He is looking for your faithfulness, not necessarily success!
B. Unlimited Strength
Note – The source of Paul’s courage was the Lord.
Note – Paul was not naturally bold, yet he grew in boldness over his lifetime due to the power, presence, and promises of God.
"I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God" - 1 Corinthians 2: 3-5
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might…praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— 19 and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel…” - Ephesians 6:18-19
Note – God will give you the boldness if you ask Him for it
Note – I’m thankful for the people God used in my life to speak up boldly for Jesus. For example, my minister of youth, Tom Harrison, spoke often of God’s will for our lives being that of purity and saving ourselves until marriage. He was bold to tell us the truth of God’s word and not compromise, even though it was not a popular message!
Note – Will you dare to be that kind of person in another’s life?
II. OUR MINISTRY: GROWING IN COMPASSION
Note – (1) We will focus more on pleasing God, instead of man.
Note – How much sharing our faith is done to (a) Get rid of guilt (b) Make brownie points with God? (c) Impress others with the “number of souls we brought to Jesus” or (d) Pleasing the heart of God?
3 For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. 4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. 5 For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ.
Note – Sales people often use deception, clever TV ads, etc. to get you to buy their product (I bought hook, line, and sinker for a sorry weed-eater).
Note – (2) We will intentionally cultivate caring relationships inside and outside the body of Christ
7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. 8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.
Note – This will take time, tenderness, tenacity
Note – Can you imagine a family bringing their newborn home, setting him down by himself and saying, “You are on your own now. Milk and juice are in the fridge. Curfew is 10 PM.”
"As one whom his mother comforts, So I will comfort you; And you shall be comforted in Jerusalem" - Isaiah 66:13
Note – (3) We will push ourselves to show more of God's love to others
For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe
Note – The Jews believed if you did not teach your child to work, you taught him to be a thief. Paul was a tentmaker and a pastor.
Note – I admire so many of you for your hard work ethic on the job, with your family and yet you are also commit much of your life to Christ’s service in the church. People joke about ministers only working 1 hour a week – in reality a minister’s work is never done.
Note – Lazy Christians makes lousy witnesses. It’s not about your boss – but remembering Jesus is your Number One Boss. Is He pleased? (Colossians 3:23)
III. OUR MARK: GODLY IN CHARACTER
You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; 11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, 12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.
Note – People are watching our whole lives – not just with what we say with our lips, but how we conduct our lives
Note – Pastors young son became ill with a terminal cancer. Although the boy had accepted Christ, the pastor was not sure how to talk to his son about dying and meeting the Lord. After earnestly seeking the direction of the Holy Spirit, he went with a heavy heart through the hospital ward to the boy's bedside. First he read a passage of Scripture and had a time of prayer with his child. Then he gently told him that the doctors could promise him only a few more days to live. "Are you afraid to meet Jesus?" asked the father. Blinking away a few tears, the little boy said, "No, not if He's like you, Dad!"
Note – I’m so thankful to God my dad encouraged me to follow the Lord Jesus Christ. He led the way through taking time with me, loving mom, praying at every meal, bringing us to Sunday school and church.
Note – I’m sure it would have been easier for him to stay at home, rest, hunt, watch football, etc. My dad was found faithful in his witness of Jesus to me.
Conclusion:
To be found faithful in our witness to the Lord and others it must stem from – Our motivation (The Great Commission) – Our ministry (Growing in Compassion) – and Our mark (Godly Conduct). This is the kind of witness that honors the Lord and impacts the world!
INTRODUCTION
1 For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain. 2 But even[a] after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict. 3 For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. 4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. 5 For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. 8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. 9 For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; 11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged[b] every one of you, as a father does his own children, 12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.
Note – The Apostle Paul was forced to flee for his life because of the intense persecution found in Thessalonica. His attackers and accusers tried to discourage and discredit his ministry by stating he was a failure, false minister (only desiring money and praise). The church in Thessalonica was a new church full of new believers in Christ. Without a strong foundation and assurance of this they could easily be led astray and into error. This is one of the main reasons why the Apostle Paul needed to write and remind them that he was a true witness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, he had lived godly before them, and the need now was for these new believers to faithful in their witness and walk in the Lord Jesus Christ.
I. OUR MOTIVATION: HIS GREAT COMMISSION
A. Undeserved Suffering
Note – Everywhere Paul went, he suffered for preaching and teaching the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. He had been persecuted in Thessalonica, just as in Philippi.
20 And they brought them to the magistrates, and said, “These men, being Jews, exceedingly trouble our city; 21 and they teach customs which are not lawful for us, being Romans, to receive or observe.” 22 Then the multitude rose up together against them; and the magistrates tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods. 23 And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely. 24 Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.
Note – The world would look at the Apostle Paul – persecuted, prisons, preaching, and say, “Foolish,” and “Failure.” However, the Apostle Paul knew what God had called him to do. God was his ultimate authority and he longed to hear the Lord say, “Faithful.”
Note - J.C. Penney, the great merchant, was once asked, “What were the two greatest motivators in his life?” Without hesitation he said, “I can tell you in four words: Jesus Christ and adversity.” He went on to explain that adversity taught him never to give up, always start over again, keep his faith strong, and realize that adversity makes a person strong. —Norman Vincent Peale, Plus Magazine, July/Aug. 1985, p. 28.
Note – Stay faithful in your witness to the Lord, do what He’s called you to do. He is looking for your faithfulness, not necessarily success!
B. Unlimited Strength
Note – The source of Paul’s courage was the Lord.
Note – Paul was not naturally bold, yet he grew in boldness over his lifetime due to the power, presence, and promises of God.
"I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God" - 1 Corinthians 2: 3-5
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might…praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— 19 and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel…” - Ephesians 6:18-19
Note – God will give you the boldness if you ask Him for it
Note – I’m thankful for the people God used in my life to speak up boldly for Jesus. For example, my minister of youth, Tom Harrison, spoke often of God’s will for our lives being that of purity and saving ourselves until marriage. He was bold to tell us the truth of God’s word and not compromise, even though it was not a popular message!
Note – Will you dare to be that kind of person in another’s life?
II. OUR MINISTRY: GROWING IN COMPASSION
Note – (1) We will focus more on pleasing God, instead of man.
Note – How much sharing our faith is done to (a) Get rid of guilt (b) Make brownie points with God? (c) Impress others with the “number of souls we brought to Jesus” or (d) Pleasing the heart of God?
3 For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. 4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. 5 For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ.
Note – Sales people often use deception, clever TV ads, etc. to get you to buy their product (I bought hook, line, and sinker for a sorry weed-eater).
Note – (2) We will intentionally cultivate caring relationships inside and outside the body of Christ
7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. 8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.
Note – This will take time, tenderness, tenacity
Note – Can you imagine a family bringing their newborn home, setting him down by himself and saying, “You are on your own now. Milk and juice are in the fridge. Curfew is 10 PM.”
"As one whom his mother comforts, So I will comfort you; And you shall be comforted in Jerusalem" - Isaiah 66:13
Note – (3) We will push ourselves to show more of God's love to others
For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe
Note – The Jews believed if you did not teach your child to work, you taught him to be a thief. Paul was a tentmaker and a pastor.
Note – I admire so many of you for your hard work ethic on the job, with your family and yet you are also commit much of your life to Christ’s service in the church. People joke about ministers only working 1 hour a week – in reality a minister’s work is never done.
Note – Lazy Christians makes lousy witnesses. It’s not about your boss – but remembering Jesus is your Number One Boss. Is He pleased? (Colossians 3:23)
III. OUR MARK: GODLY IN CHARACTER
You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; 11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, 12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.
Note – People are watching our whole lives – not just with what we say with our lips, but how we conduct our lives
Note – Pastors young son became ill with a terminal cancer. Although the boy had accepted Christ, the pastor was not sure how to talk to his son about dying and meeting the Lord. After earnestly seeking the direction of the Holy Spirit, he went with a heavy heart through the hospital ward to the boy's bedside. First he read a passage of Scripture and had a time of prayer with his child. Then he gently told him that the doctors could promise him only a few more days to live. "Are you afraid to meet Jesus?" asked the father. Blinking away a few tears, the little boy said, "No, not if He's like you, Dad!"
Note – I’m so thankful to God my dad encouraged me to follow the Lord Jesus Christ. He led the way through taking time with me, loving mom, praying at every meal, bringing us to Sunday school and church.
Note – I’m sure it would have been easier for him to stay at home, rest, hunt, watch football, etc. My dad was found faithful in his witness of Jesus to me.
Conclusion:
To be found faithful in our witness to the Lord and others it must stem from – Our motivation (The Great Commission) – Our ministry (Growing in Compassion) – and Our mark (Godly Conduct). This is the kind of witness that honors the Lord and impacts the world!
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