Luke 22:7-23 -The Lord’ Supper is instituted
Manner and Means of Partaking
It is, of course, worth calling to attention what the Bible has to say about what the Lord’s Supper consists of, how often we are to partake of it, and in what manner we should do so.
Exodus 12:14-20 -The feast of unleavened bread, no leaven
Exodus 13:3-10 -The feast of unleavened bread, no leaven, remember
Acts 20:7-12 -The first day of the week
I Corinthians 11:17-34 -Properly partake of the Lord’s Supper
Examine Self
The Lord’s Supper is an opportunity to examine ourselves and see where we need to make corrections in our life. We should, at that moment, be careful to consider where our minds are, that we may be properly focused on Christ and His will. And we must look at whether our own lives are in line with Christ’s.
Galatians 6:1-5 -Each should examine his own work
Remembrance of Christ
We, as people, tend to forget things, don’t we? We have many holidays in this country, and most of them people don’t know why it is we celebrate them. Thus, Christ, in His Divine wisdom, established opportunity to be continually reminded.
II Timothy 2:8 -Remember
II Peter 3:1-2 -Bring to remembrance
Proclaim the Lord’s Death until He Comes
Each time we partake of the Lord’s Supper, we declare our faith that the Lord was crucified for our sins, was buried, rose again the third day, ascended to heaven, and will at some point return, that we may all face judgment.
Mark 15:22-37 -The crucifixion
Hebrews 9:16-28 -Christ’s sacrifice
Acts 1:9-11 -Christ will return
I Thessalonians 4:13-18 -Christ will return
Showing posts with label Church. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Church. Show all posts
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
Church Growth - 7/12/09am
Individual Growth
Before we focus on the growth of the church as a collective, let us spend time considering the growth that each Christian must have.
II Peter 3:17-18 -Grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord
II Peter 1:5-11 -Add to your faith...
Luke 17:5-10 -Increase our faith
Luke 2:51-52 -Christ grew
Luke 22:31-34 -Strengthen the brethren
Hebrews 10:24-25 -Do not forsake assembling yourselves together
I Corinthians 14:20-25 -If someone comes into the assembly
Numerical Growth
It is important for the church to grow in number. Not so that we can have more impressive numbers or more money, but rather so that as many can be saved as possible.
Acts 2:46-47 -The church grows
Acts 4:1-4 -The church grows
Acts 11:22-24 -The church is strengthened and grows
Acts 12:24 -The word of God grows
Acts 19:20 -The word of the Lord grows
I Timothy 2:1-7 -The Lord desires all men to be saved
I Corinthians 9:19-23 -Become all things to all men to save some
I Corinthians 3:1-9 -Men teach, God gives the increase
Spiritual Growth
It is vitally important that everyone grows spiritually. As we grow as individuals, we can strengthen others. And as we all grow together, and as we grow in number, the church will grow spiritually as a collective.
Ephesians 4:11-16 -Different roles for the edification of the body
Acts 14:21-26 -The souls of the church are strengthened
Colossians 2:16-19 -The church grows with the increase from God
Revelation 3:1-6 -Sardis, the dead church
Before we focus on the growth of the church as a collective, let us spend time considering the growth that each Christian must have.
II Peter 3:17-18 -Grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord
II Peter 1:5-11 -Add to your faith...
Luke 17:5-10 -Increase our faith
Luke 2:51-52 -Christ grew
Luke 22:31-34 -Strengthen the brethren
Hebrews 10:24-25 -Do not forsake assembling yourselves together
I Corinthians 14:20-25 -If someone comes into the assembly
Numerical Growth
It is important for the church to grow in number. Not so that we can have more impressive numbers or more money, but rather so that as many can be saved as possible.
Acts 2:46-47 -The church grows
Acts 4:1-4 -The church grows
Acts 11:22-24 -The church is strengthened and grows
Acts 12:24 -The word of God grows
Acts 19:20 -The word of the Lord grows
I Timothy 2:1-7 -The Lord desires all men to be saved
I Corinthians 9:19-23 -Become all things to all men to save some
I Corinthians 3:1-9 -Men teach, God gives the increase
Spiritual Growth
It is vitally important that everyone grows spiritually. As we grow as individuals, we can strengthen others. And as we all grow together, and as we grow in number, the church will grow spiritually as a collective.
Ephesians 4:11-16 -Different roles for the edification of the body
Acts 14:21-26 -The souls of the church are strengthened
Colossians 2:16-19 -The church grows with the increase from God
Revelation 3:1-6 -Sardis, the dead church
Saturday, May 2, 2009
The Lord's Supper - 4/26/09am
Luke 22:14-23 -Christ institutes the Lord’s Supper
Christ instated the Lord’s Supper, and we see that the feast of unleavened bread and Passover served as a foreshadowing of this. And we see that the bread used when Christ established this memorial was unleavened.
Exodus 12:14-20 -The feast of unleavened bread
We see that the Lord’s Supper is instituted on the basis of Christ’s body and blood. And that this was the beginning of the new covenant.
Mark 14:22-26 -The blood of the new covenant
Matthew 5:17 -Christ is the fulfillment of the law and prophets
Hebrews 8:1-13 -The new covenant is a better covenant
Matthew 26:26-30 -The blood was shed for the remission of sins
We also see that the first day of the week was the day established for us to partake of the Lord’s Supper. The first day of the week, the same day of Christ’s resurrection, is the proper time to remember Christ. And we see this contrasted with common meals, which were done often by various Christians.
Acts 20:7 -First day of the week
Acts 2:46-47 -Other sort of breaking bread
In his letter to Corinth, Paul gave instructions for partaking of the Lord’s Supper.
I Corinthians 11:17-22 -The Corinthians had not been properly partaking
I Corinthians 11:23-26 -The origin of the Lord’s Supper
I Corinthians 11:17-33 -The proper manner of partaking
Done communally
I Corinthians 10:14-22 -A communion/unity/fellowship/sharing with Christ
Worthy manner
Judge self
Not to fill the belly
In remembrance of Christ
Proclaim the Lord’s death
I Corinthians 15:1-19 -The primary importance of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection
I Thessalonians 4:13-16 -The Lord will return
Christ instated the Lord’s Supper, and we see that the feast of unleavened bread and Passover served as a foreshadowing of this. And we see that the bread used when Christ established this memorial was unleavened.
Exodus 12:14-20 -The feast of unleavened bread
We see that the Lord’s Supper is instituted on the basis of Christ’s body and blood. And that this was the beginning of the new covenant.
Mark 14:22-26 -The blood of the new covenant
Matthew 5:17 -Christ is the fulfillment of the law and prophets
Hebrews 8:1-13 -The new covenant is a better covenant
Matthew 26:26-30 -The blood was shed for the remission of sins
We also see that the first day of the week was the day established for us to partake of the Lord’s Supper. The first day of the week, the same day of Christ’s resurrection, is the proper time to remember Christ. And we see this contrasted with common meals, which were done often by various Christians.
Acts 20:7 -First day of the week
Acts 2:46-47 -Other sort of breaking bread
In his letter to Corinth, Paul gave instructions for partaking of the Lord’s Supper.
I Corinthians 11:17-22 -The Corinthians had not been properly partaking
I Corinthians 11:23-26 -The origin of the Lord’s Supper
I Corinthians 11:17-33 -The proper manner of partaking
Done communally
I Corinthians 10:14-22 -A communion/unity/fellowship/sharing with Christ
Worthy manner
Judge self
Not to fill the belly
In remembrance of Christ
Proclaim the Lord’s death
I Corinthians 15:1-19 -The primary importance of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection
I Thessalonians 4:13-16 -The Lord will return
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Tradition - 3/8/09am
The Good - Created by God, made binding by God
These are the traditions as passed on by the Lord through the apostles and the scriptures.
II Thessalonians 2:13-15 -The gospel, taught by epistle and word
II Corinthians 10:7-11 -Such as Paul was in letters, he was in person
II Thessalonians 3:6-12 -Manner of living taught by Christ and apostles
I Thessalonians 4:1-8 -Apostles taught the Lord’s commands, to be followed
I Corinthians 11:23 -Paul received instruction from the Lord
Matthew 28:18-20 -Apostles to teach what Christ had taught them
The Indifferent - Created by man, not made binding
These are things that we do out of tradition, simply because it makes things easier to do it the same way each time. They are things that are within what we are to do, that help us carry out the Lord’s traditions, yet we do not force other people, or expect congregations, to do things exactly the same way.
Order of Services
(How many songs, prayers, etc. In what order they’re done)
Meeting Times
(When? How many times on Sunday? Midweek studies?)
Seating
(Where we each tend to sit, pews, facing forward, sitting at the very front)
Peripherals
(song books vs. overhead vs. call and repeat, etc.)
I Corinthians 14:40 -Decently and in order
Romans 14:1-13 -Disputable things: matters of judgment
I Peter 2:13-17 -Do not misuse liberty
The Bad - Created by man, made binding by man
Man has created numerous traditions. And while that is not necessarily wrong, what is wrong is when we make these traditions binding on others and expect others to keep them. When man’s traditions are made equal to, or greater than, God’s tradition, we have sinned greatly.
Matthew 15:1-13 -Jews replaced God’s commandments with man’s
Galatians 1:13-17 -Jewish traditions, in which Paul persecuted church
Colossians 2:8-10 -Cheated by men according to man’s traditions
Titus 1:10-16 -Don’t heed fables and commandments of men
I Peter 1:13-21 -Aimless conduct received by tradition
The Bad - Created by God, made binding by God, done by rote
God has given us things to do. And perhaps we follow them. But if we do it only by habit and rote, we are holding to a sinful tradition. Following the Lord must be more than empty repetition and habit.
Isaiah 29:13-14 -Reverence for God is tradition learned by rote
Isaiah 1:11-20 -Israel’s obedience is just habit, and without meaning
These are the traditions as passed on by the Lord through the apostles and the scriptures.
II Thessalonians 2:13-15 -The gospel, taught by epistle and word
II Corinthians 10:7-11 -Such as Paul was in letters, he was in person
II Thessalonians 3:6-12 -Manner of living taught by Christ and apostles
I Thessalonians 4:1-8 -Apostles taught the Lord’s commands, to be followed
I Corinthians 11:23 -Paul received instruction from the Lord
Matthew 28:18-20 -Apostles to teach what Christ had taught them
The Indifferent - Created by man, not made binding
These are things that we do out of tradition, simply because it makes things easier to do it the same way each time. They are things that are within what we are to do, that help us carry out the Lord’s traditions, yet we do not force other people, or expect congregations, to do things exactly the same way.
Order of Services
(How many songs, prayers, etc. In what order they’re done)
Meeting Times
(When? How many times on Sunday? Midweek studies?)
Seating
(Where we each tend to sit, pews, facing forward, sitting at the very front)
Peripherals
(song books vs. overhead vs. call and repeat, etc.)
I Corinthians 14:40 -Decently and in order
Romans 14:1-13 -Disputable things: matters of judgment
I Peter 2:13-17 -Do not misuse liberty
The Bad - Created by man, made binding by man
Man has created numerous traditions. And while that is not necessarily wrong, what is wrong is when we make these traditions binding on others and expect others to keep them. When man’s traditions are made equal to, or greater than, God’s tradition, we have sinned greatly.
Matthew 15:1-13 -Jews replaced God’s commandments with man’s
Galatians 1:13-17 -Jewish traditions, in which Paul persecuted church
Colossians 2:8-10 -Cheated by men according to man’s traditions
Titus 1:10-16 -Don’t heed fables and commandments of men
I Peter 1:13-21 -Aimless conduct received by tradition
The Bad - Created by God, made binding by God, done by rote
God has given us things to do. And perhaps we follow them. But if we do it only by habit and rote, we are holding to a sinful tradition. Following the Lord must be more than empty repetition and habit.
Isaiah 29:13-14 -Reverence for God is tradition learned by rote
Isaiah 1:11-20 -Israel’s obedience is just habit, and without meaning
Friday, February 20, 2009
The Church's Foundation - 2/22/09pm
Matthew 16:13-19 -On this rock Christ built His church
What is the rock being referred to here. Is it Peter? It is his confession? The rock that the church is founded on is the basic truth of what Peter said:
That Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ.
I John 2:22-25 -Antichrists deny that Jesus is the Christ
I John 5:1 -Children of God believe that Jesus is the Christ
That Jesus is the Son of God.
I John 5:1-13 -Not believing Jesus as the Son is calling God a liar
I John 4:12-16 -God abides in those who confess Jesus as God’s Son
Let us take a few moments to consider the foundation of the church.
I Corinthians 3:1-17 -Christ the foundation that we built ourselves upon
Ephesians 2:20-22 -Christ is the chief cornerstone
I Peter 2:1-8 -Christ is the Chief cornerstone
The church is built upon Christ. Not upon other men. But upon Christ. Who Christ was, and what Christ taught, that is, the gospel.
We must be built on His example.
John 13:13-17 -Follow Christ’s example
I Corinthians 11:1 -Follow Paul’s example, as he followed Christ’s
I Peter 2:21 -Christ set an example that we should follow
We must be built on His words.
Mark 8:38 -If we are ashamed of Christ’s words, He is ashamed of us
Luke 6:46-49 -Wise and foolish builders
John 14:23-24 -If we keep His words, the Farther will love us
I Corinthians 11:23 -Paul taught what Christ had taught
We see that we not limited only to following whichever words are in red, but also the rest of the inspired scriptures.
Jude 1:20-21 -Build yourselves ON your most holy faith
I Corinthians 2:1-5 -Paul preached Jesus, that their faith rested on God’s power, not man’s wisdom
Acts 8:26-40 -Philip preaches Jesus, the Eunuch obeys the gospel.
What is the rock being referred to here. Is it Peter? It is his confession? The rock that the church is founded on is the basic truth of what Peter said:
That Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ.
I John 2:22-25 -Antichrists deny that Jesus is the Christ
I John 5:1 -Children of God believe that Jesus is the Christ
That Jesus is the Son of God.
I John 5:1-13 -Not believing Jesus as the Son is calling God a liar
I John 4:12-16 -God abides in those who confess Jesus as God’s Son
Let us take a few moments to consider the foundation of the church.
I Corinthians 3:1-17 -Christ the foundation that we built ourselves upon
Ephesians 2:20-22 -Christ is the chief cornerstone
I Peter 2:1-8 -Christ is the Chief cornerstone
The church is built upon Christ. Not upon other men. But upon Christ. Who Christ was, and what Christ taught, that is, the gospel.
We must be built on His example.
John 13:13-17 -Follow Christ’s example
I Corinthians 11:1 -Follow Paul’s example, as he followed Christ’s
I Peter 2:21 -Christ set an example that we should follow
We must be built on His words.
Mark 8:38 -If we are ashamed of Christ’s words, He is ashamed of us
Luke 6:46-49 -Wise and foolish builders
John 14:23-24 -If we keep His words, the Farther will love us
I Corinthians 11:23 -Paul taught what Christ had taught
We see that we not limited only to following whichever words are in red, but also the rest of the inspired scriptures.
Jude 1:20-21 -Build yourselves ON your most holy faith
I Corinthians 2:1-5 -Paul preached Jesus, that their faith rested on God’s power, not man’s wisdom
Acts 8:26-40 -Philip preaches Jesus, the Eunuch obeys the gospel.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Edification - 1/25/09am
Edification has become, in many places, a justification for doing whatever people feel like “in service to God.” Many are the claims that instruments in worship are more edifying. Often we hear how church sponsored recreational activities are more edifying. Edification has become an excuse for many. Let us take a few moments to consider what edification is, and what it is not.
oikodome (oikos - a home & demo - to build). Literally, “the act of building”
-“Used only figuratively in the NT, in the sense of edification, the promotion of spiritual growth”
-(As a verb) Is used metaphorically in the sense of “edifying,” promoting spiritual growth and development of character of believers by teaching or by example, suggesting such spiritual progress as the result of labor
Acts 20:32-35 -Edified through God and His word of grace
We see here the means of edification: it is of God and through His word. The word of God does not always give the reader an uplifting feeling, but it is always good and useful for building up.
Romans 14:1-21 -Edify each other through action
We see here that edification requires effort and deliberation. We must decide to edify each other. We also see that edification is helping the weak to grow and become stronger. Edification, we see, is a deliberate effort to strengthen someone in the faith.
Romans 15:1-6 -Edification and hope through the scriptures and bearing one another’s weaknesses
I Corinthians 8:1-3 -Love builds up
When we think about what our love is for one another, we know that it’s utmost is a love that requires us to help each other be like Christ, that we may all be with Him for eternity. We do not do this by giving each other a good feeling, but by helping one another be better Christians.
I Corinthians 14:1-19 -Edification by way of being taught
In the context of spiritual gifts, we see that edification comes through being understandably taught, and that spiritual gifts were to be used to this purpose. If something is not understandable, it is pointless sound, and not edifying.
II Corinthians 13:1-14 -Instruction was given through Paul for edification
Teaching, even sharp teaching, is edifying. We can read through Paul’s letters, and we see that Paul’s teaching was not always that which would give an uplifting feeling. However, it was always good for strengthening one’s faith.
Ephesians 4:25-32 -No unwholesome words, only edifying
Words are to be edifying. Not that they make the listener happy or give an uplifting feeling, but that they are good for building up a person’s faith. Words are to be helpful, not detrimental. And in that way, they are edifying.
Colossians 2:6-7 -Rooted and built up in Him
We see that being “built up,” or edified, is an addition to how we are rooted in Christ. That we are to abound in Christ. This doesn’t require a feeling. Or belief in Christ is not founded on emotion. Edification is a strengthening of our Faith, not and uplifting of our feelings.
I Thessalonians 5:1-11 -Edify each other because of judgment
As we await the final Day of the Lord, we are to comfort each other and edify each other. This edification must be a strengthening of our faith, an encouragement to become more like Christ, that when judgment comes, we do not stand condemned.
Jude 1:20-21 -Build yourselves up on your most holy faith
We see this admonition to build ourselves up, the same original word as edify, in the faith. We see this tied to keeping ourselves in the love of God and to prayer. It is not a matter of feeling uplifted in our faith, but one of strengthening and growing in our faith.
Edification is not an emotion or feeling, but is something we must all put effort into and strive to do, both for ourselves and for others. We must learn what God wants, and strive to become better in following it. Are you growing/building up as you should? Are you helping others to grow and be built up?
oikodome (oikos - a home & demo - to build). Literally, “the act of building”
-“Used only figuratively in the NT, in the sense of edification, the promotion of spiritual growth”
-(As a verb) Is used metaphorically in the sense of “edifying,” promoting spiritual growth and development of character of believers by teaching or by example, suggesting such spiritual progress as the result of labor
Acts 20:32-35 -Edified through God and His word of grace
We see here the means of edification: it is of God and through His word. The word of God does not always give the reader an uplifting feeling, but it is always good and useful for building up.
Romans 14:1-21 -Edify each other through action
We see here that edification requires effort and deliberation. We must decide to edify each other. We also see that edification is helping the weak to grow and become stronger. Edification, we see, is a deliberate effort to strengthen someone in the faith.
Romans 15:1-6 -Edification and hope through the scriptures and bearing one another’s weaknesses
I Corinthians 8:1-3 -Love builds up
When we think about what our love is for one another, we know that it’s utmost is a love that requires us to help each other be like Christ, that we may all be with Him for eternity. We do not do this by giving each other a good feeling, but by helping one another be better Christians.
I Corinthians 14:1-19 -Edification by way of being taught
In the context of spiritual gifts, we see that edification comes through being understandably taught, and that spiritual gifts were to be used to this purpose. If something is not understandable, it is pointless sound, and not edifying.
II Corinthians 13:1-14 -Instruction was given through Paul for edification
Teaching, even sharp teaching, is edifying. We can read through Paul’s letters, and we see that Paul’s teaching was not always that which would give an uplifting feeling. However, it was always good for strengthening one’s faith.
Ephesians 4:25-32 -No unwholesome words, only edifying
Words are to be edifying. Not that they make the listener happy or give an uplifting feeling, but that they are good for building up a person’s faith. Words are to be helpful, not detrimental. And in that way, they are edifying.
Colossians 2:6-7 -Rooted and built up in Him
We see that being “built up,” or edified, is an addition to how we are rooted in Christ. That we are to abound in Christ. This doesn’t require a feeling. Or belief in Christ is not founded on emotion. Edification is a strengthening of our Faith, not and uplifting of our feelings.
I Thessalonians 5:1-11 -Edify each other because of judgment
As we await the final Day of the Lord, we are to comfort each other and edify each other. This edification must be a strengthening of our faith, an encouragement to become more like Christ, that when judgment comes, we do not stand condemned.
Jude 1:20-21 -Build yourselves up on your most holy faith
We see this admonition to build ourselves up, the same original word as edify, in the faith. We see this tied to keeping ourselves in the love of God and to prayer. It is not a matter of feeling uplifted in our faith, but one of strengthening and growing in our faith.
Edification is not an emotion or feeling, but is something we must all put effort into and strive to do, both for ourselves and for others. We must learn what God wants, and strive to become better in following it. Are you growing/building up as you should? Are you helping others to grow and be built up?
Saturday, January 3, 2009
The Assembly - 1/04/09am
Who?
Who is together in the assembly? Who is required to gather together, and who may enter the assembly?
Hebrews 10:24-25 -Christians
I Corinthians 14:22-23 -An unbeliever or unlearned person
What?
What are we to do in the assembly? What acts are we to engage in together?
Colossians 3:16 -Sing
Ephesians 5:19 -Sing
Acts 4:23-24 -Group prayer
I Thessalonians 5:17 -Pray without ceasing
Acts 20:7-11 -Paul preaching at Troas
I Timothy 4:13 -Public reading, preaching, and teaching
Acts 20:7 -Lord’s Supper
I Corinthians 11:17-32 -Directions for partaking of the Lord’s Supper
I Corinthians 16:1-2 -Collection for the saints
II Corinthians 9:1-9 -Cheerful giver
When?
When are we specifically told to meet? When must we gather together?
Acts 20:7 -First day of the week
Mark 16:9 -Christ rose on the first day of the week
Where?
Where can we assemble? Does the Bible teach of specific locations?
Acts 2:46-47 -Temple courts
Acts 5:12 -Solomon’s Colonnade
Acts 12:12 -House
Acts 19:9 -School of Tyrannus
Acts 20:6-8 -An upper room
Why?
Why do we assemble? What is our purpose in doing so?
Hebrews 10:24-25 -Provoke to love & good works, exhorting
Acts 13:1-2 -Worship the Lord
Invitation
Romans 12:1-2 -Offer ourselves as sacrifice as our worship
Who is together in the assembly? Who is required to gather together, and who may enter the assembly?
Hebrews 10:24-25 -Christians
I Corinthians 14:22-23 -An unbeliever or unlearned person
What?
What are we to do in the assembly? What acts are we to engage in together?
Colossians 3:16 -Sing
Ephesians 5:19 -Sing
Acts 4:23-24 -Group prayer
I Thessalonians 5:17 -Pray without ceasing
Acts 20:7-11 -Paul preaching at Troas
I Timothy 4:13 -Public reading, preaching, and teaching
Acts 20:7 -Lord’s Supper
I Corinthians 11:17-32 -Directions for partaking of the Lord’s Supper
I Corinthians 16:1-2 -Collection for the saints
II Corinthians 9:1-9 -Cheerful giver
When?
When are we specifically told to meet? When must we gather together?
Acts 20:7 -First day of the week
Mark 16:9 -Christ rose on the first day of the week
Where?
Where can we assemble? Does the Bible teach of specific locations?
Acts 2:46-47 -Temple courts
Acts 5:12 -Solomon’s Colonnade
Acts 12:12 -House
Acts 19:9 -School of Tyrannus
Acts 20:6-8 -An upper room
Why?
Why do we assemble? What is our purpose in doing so?
Hebrews 10:24-25 -Provoke to love & good works, exhorting
Acts 13:1-2 -Worship the Lord
Invitation
Romans 12:1-2 -Offer ourselves as sacrifice as our worship
Sunday, December 21, 2008
"Let Us" in Hebrews - 12/21/08pm
Although it may be rare to hear someone actually say, “let us” today, we often hear it in the shortened contraction of, “let’s.” It is a statement of encouragement to engage in an activity together. With this in mind, let us consider the “let us” statements in the book of Hebrews.
Hebrews 3:16-4:13 -Let us fear, lest we fall short 4:1
-Let us be diligent to enter that rest 4:11
As the Israelites did, we too look forward to a rest. We have fear, so that we do not fall short. We must be diligent and work hard to enter into that risk.
Hebrews 4:14-5:3 -Let us hold fast our confession 4:14
-Let us come boldly to the throne 4:16
We must hold firmly to the faith. If we do so, we can approach God with confidence.
Hebrews 5:12-6:3 -Let us leave elementary teachings and mature 6:1
We must move beyond understanding only the basic first principles of Christ, and be able to understand the meat of the word.
Hebrews 10:11-25 -Let us draw near with a true heart 10:22
-Let us hold fast the confession of our hope 10:23
-Let us consider one another 10:24
Because of Christ’s sacrifice, we can approach God with a true heart. We must abide in the faith, holding fast our hope. We must consider how to help each other in this.
Hebrews 12:1-11 -Let us lay aside every weight 12:1
-Let us run with endurance the race 12:1
We must put away anything that hinders our walk with Christ. We must run the long distance race, not stopping.
Hebrews 12:25-29 -Let us have grace 12:28
We must follow the Lord, accepting His grace, that we might receive the kingdom.
Hebrews 13:1-17 -Let us go forth to Him 13:13
-Let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God 13:15
As we live, we must strive to become more like Him. We must continually offer praise for what He has done for us.
Hebrews 3:16-4:13 -Let us fear, lest we fall short 4:1
-Let us be diligent to enter that rest 4:11
As the Israelites did, we too look forward to a rest. We have fear, so that we do not fall short. We must be diligent and work hard to enter into that risk.
Hebrews 4:14-5:3 -Let us hold fast our confession 4:14
-Let us come boldly to the throne 4:16
We must hold firmly to the faith. If we do so, we can approach God with confidence.
Hebrews 5:12-6:3 -Let us leave elementary teachings and mature 6:1
We must move beyond understanding only the basic first principles of Christ, and be able to understand the meat of the word.
Hebrews 10:11-25 -Let us draw near with a true heart 10:22
-Let us hold fast the confession of our hope 10:23
-Let us consider one another 10:24
Because of Christ’s sacrifice, we can approach God with a true heart. We must abide in the faith, holding fast our hope. We must consider how to help each other in this.
Hebrews 12:1-11 -Let us lay aside every weight 12:1
-Let us run with endurance the race 12:1
We must put away anything that hinders our walk with Christ. We must run the long distance race, not stopping.
Hebrews 12:25-29 -Let us have grace 12:28
We must follow the Lord, accepting His grace, that we might receive the kingdom.
Hebrews 13:1-17 -Let us go forth to Him 13:13
-Let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God 13:15
As we live, we must strive to become more like Him. We must continually offer praise for what He has done for us.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Individuals and the Church - 11/16/08pm
Revelation 3:1-6 -Separation of “church” and “certain people”
There exists a great deal of confusion, even among brethren, of the differences between an individual Christian, the local church, and the universal church. To some, there is no distinction whatsoever. And if one person does something, then the church has done so. The result has been to allow more and more things into the church that have no place in it. Let us consider what the Bible says!
What organization?
Let us take a few minutes to look at the difference in the local and universal church, and the place of the individual in both.
The organization of the local church is simple:
Christ is the head
Ephesians 1:19-23 -Christ is the head of the church
Local congregations are to strive for elders and deacons
Titus 1:5-9 -Titus to appoint elders in every church
I Peter 5:1-4 -Elders to shepherd, not lord over the flock
I Timothy 3:8-13 -Deacon qualifications
Acts 6:1-4 -The first “deacons”
The universal church is even more simple
Christ is the head
Colossians 1:13-18 -Christ is the head of the church
The universal church is not made up of local congregations, but of saved believers.
Acts 2:47 -The saved are added to the church
The role of one is not always the role of another
In discipline
Matthew 18:15-17 -From individual to the church
In benevolence
James 1:19-27 -Pure and undefiled religion (individual)
If “visiting” requires building and supplying, then “visiting” those in prison (Matthew 25:36, 39) requires building and supplying
II Corinthians 9:10-15 -Supplying the needs of the saints (church)
Galatians 6:1-10 -Do good to all men (individual)
I Timothy 5:3-16 -Care for widows: individual vs. church
If there’s no separation between individual and church, than when the individual cares for a widow, the church is caring for a widow, which was supposed to be the work of an individual…
In socializing/recreation and “fellowship”
Acts 2:42-47 -Assembling at temple, eating house to house
Salvation is retail, not wholesale
Salvation is based on the individual, not as an organization. Simply meeting as a member of a church of Christ is not sufficient for salvation. We will each be judged on our own, and not as a group. Individuals will be saved.
Ezekiel 18:20-23 -The soul who sins will die, the righteous will not
Ecclesiastes 11:9, 12:13-14 -All actions will be judged
I Peter 1:15-17 -Got judges, not showing favoritism
Revelation 20:11-15 -Judgment according to actions
There exists a great deal of confusion, even among brethren, of the differences between an individual Christian, the local church, and the universal church. To some, there is no distinction whatsoever. And if one person does something, then the church has done so. The result has been to allow more and more things into the church that have no place in it. Let us consider what the Bible says!
What organization?
Let us take a few minutes to look at the difference in the local and universal church, and the place of the individual in both.
The organization of the local church is simple:
Christ is the head
Ephesians 1:19-23 -Christ is the head of the church
Local congregations are to strive for elders and deacons
Titus 1:5-9 -Titus to appoint elders in every church
I Peter 5:1-4 -Elders to shepherd, not lord over the flock
I Timothy 3:8-13 -Deacon qualifications
Acts 6:1-4 -The first “deacons”
The universal church is even more simple
Christ is the head
Colossians 1:13-18 -Christ is the head of the church
The universal church is not made up of local congregations, but of saved believers.
Acts 2:47 -The saved are added to the church
The role of one is not always the role of another
In discipline
Matthew 18:15-17 -From individual to the church
In benevolence
James 1:19-27 -Pure and undefiled religion (individual)
If “visiting” requires building and supplying, then “visiting” those in prison (Matthew 25:36, 39) requires building and supplying
II Corinthians 9:10-15 -Supplying the needs of the saints (church)
Galatians 6:1-10 -Do good to all men (individual)
I Timothy 5:3-16 -Care for widows: individual vs. church
If there’s no separation between individual and church, than when the individual cares for a widow, the church is caring for a widow, which was supposed to be the work of an individual…
In socializing/recreation and “fellowship”
Acts 2:42-47 -Assembling at temple, eating house to house
Salvation is retail, not wholesale
Salvation is based on the individual, not as an organization. Simply meeting as a member of a church of Christ is not sufficient for salvation. We will each be judged on our own, and not as a group. Individuals will be saved.
Ezekiel 18:20-23 -The soul who sins will die, the righteous will not
Ecclesiastes 11:9, 12:13-14 -All actions will be judged
I Peter 1:15-17 -Got judges, not showing favoritism
Revelation 20:11-15 -Judgment according to actions
Monday, October 6, 2008
Emotion, not "Emotionalism" - 10/5/08am
When you read passages such as Mark 15:16-37, what goes through your mind? Do you simply think, “My, that’s an interesting fact?”
Or how about passages such as Matthew 11:28-30? Do you simply think to yourself, “that’s nice?”
What we will see in scripture is that emotion is tied to faith. It is not the basis of our faith, nor the ultimate display of it, but it is an outcome.
Emotion is tied to righteousness:
Luke 17:11-19 -His emotion is apparently tied in with faith
James 5:13 -The relationship between singing to god and emotion
Happiness and Joy
Matthew 5:12 -Christ tells us to rejoice and be glad
Acts 2:46 -Disciples eat daily with gladness
Acts 5:41 -Apostles rejoice
Acts 8:35-39 -Ethiopian eunuch rejoices
Acts 11:23 -Peter is glad
Acts 13:47-48 -Gentiles were glad that they could be included
Acts 16:25-34 -Jailor converted, rejoices
Philippians 4:4 -Rejoice in the Lord always!
Sorrow
Psalm 51 -David’s sorrow at having sinned with Bathsheba
Matthew 26:69-75 -Peter weeps after denying Christ
2 Corinthians 7:10 -Godly sorrow
Righteous Anger
Exodus 32:19-21 -Moses is angry at the Israelite’s sin
John 2:13-17 -Jesus clears the temple
Ephesians 4:26 -Anger is not condemned, but we are warned to be properly angry
Fear
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 -Fear God and keep his commandments
I Peter 2:17 -Fear God
Awe
Psalm 33:8 -Let all men stand in awe of Him
Luke 5:26 -Full of awe and gave glory to God
Peace
John 16:32-33 -Christ taught that we might have peace
Romans 5:1-2 -Peace ion Christ (as well as joy)
Philippians 4:6-7 -Peace of God
There is a place in worshipping God for emotion. Christ showed godly emotion. The apostles showed godly emotion. Perhaps we should too?
If you haven’t been baptized, now is the opportunity to have the peace that comes with Christ, that you may rejoice in being saved. Or perhaps you are sorrowful that you have drifted away from God, and wish to return. Or perhaps you simply want the prayers of the saints for strength and encouragement. Now is the opportunity set aside here to come forward as we stand and sing.
Or how about passages such as Matthew 11:28-30? Do you simply think to yourself, “that’s nice?”
What we will see in scripture is that emotion is tied to faith. It is not the basis of our faith, nor the ultimate display of it, but it is an outcome.
Emotion is tied to righteousness:
Luke 17:11-19 -His emotion is apparently tied in with faith
James 5:13 -The relationship between singing to god and emotion
Happiness and Joy
Matthew 5:12 -Christ tells us to rejoice and be glad
Acts 2:46 -Disciples eat daily with gladness
Acts 5:41 -Apostles rejoice
Acts 8:35-39 -Ethiopian eunuch rejoices
Acts 11:23 -Peter is glad
Acts 13:47-48 -Gentiles were glad that they could be included
Acts 16:25-34 -Jailor converted, rejoices
Philippians 4:4 -Rejoice in the Lord always!
Sorrow
Psalm 51 -David’s sorrow at having sinned with Bathsheba
Matthew 26:69-75 -Peter weeps after denying Christ
2 Corinthians 7:10 -Godly sorrow
Righteous Anger
Exodus 32:19-21 -Moses is angry at the Israelite’s sin
John 2:13-17 -Jesus clears the temple
Ephesians 4:26 -Anger is not condemned, but we are warned to be properly angry
Fear
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 -Fear God and keep his commandments
I Peter 2:17 -Fear God
Awe
Psalm 33:8 -Let all men stand in awe of Him
Luke 5:26 -Full of awe and gave glory to God
Peace
John 16:32-33 -Christ taught that we might have peace
Romans 5:1-2 -Peace ion Christ (as well as joy)
Philippians 4:6-7 -Peace of God
There is a place in worshipping God for emotion. Christ showed godly emotion. The apostles showed godly emotion. Perhaps we should too?
If you haven’t been baptized, now is the opportunity to have the peace that comes with Christ, that you may rejoice in being saved. Or perhaps you are sorrowful that you have drifted away from God, and wish to return. Or perhaps you simply want the prayers of the saints for strength and encouragement. Now is the opportunity set aside here to come forward as we stand and sing.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
God's Chosen People - 8/31/08pm
God Chose Abraham
Genesis 12:1-3 -God makes 3 promises to Abraham
Genesis 17:1-22 -God chose Abraham
“everlasting” is olam with the preposition le, meaning a weaker sense.
It means “for the duration” or “until the end of the current era.”
It is also used in conjunction with the Sabbath, Passover, Levitical priesthood, burnt offerings, the lamp burning in the tabernacle, circumcision, and Canaan as a possession.
Genesis 28:10-15 -Reaffirmed with Jacob, Abraham’s grandson
God Chose the Children of Israel
Exodus 19:3-6 -Israel is a chosen nation
The Covenant was Fulfilled and Completed
The Nation:
Exodus 1:1-14 -The size of the children of Israel
Exodus 12:31-39 -The size of the children of Israel
The Land:
Joshua 11:16-23 -Joshua conquers the promised land
The Seed:
Matthew 5:17 -Christ came to fulfill the covenant
Galatians 3:5-9 -Gentiles blessed through promise to Abraham
I Timothy 2:1-7 -Christ wants, and was ransom for, all men to be saved
The Covenant Had been Finished
Colossians 2:14 -Nailed to the cross
Ephesians 2:14-16 -Abolished the Old Law
Hebrews 8:13 -The Old was obsolete, and so replaced
God Chose His Church
Colossians 3:12-13 -The church is the chosen/elect of God
I Peter 2:9-11 -Christians are a chosen generation/people
I Peter 1:1-5 -For obedience, hope, inheritance, and salvation
Numbers 14:26-38 -God punishes those who refuse to enter the land
Just as those who were disobedient among God’s people in the Old Testament could not enter the promised land, so it is with us. Will you obey? Or will you be cast out as unfaithful to the Lord?
Genesis 12:1-3 -God makes 3 promises to Abraham
Genesis 17:1-22 -God chose Abraham
“everlasting” is olam with the preposition le, meaning a weaker sense.
It means “for the duration” or “until the end of the current era.”
It is also used in conjunction with the Sabbath, Passover, Levitical priesthood, burnt offerings, the lamp burning in the tabernacle, circumcision, and Canaan as a possession.
Genesis 28:10-15 -Reaffirmed with Jacob, Abraham’s grandson
God Chose the Children of Israel
Exodus 19:3-6 -Israel is a chosen nation
The Covenant was Fulfilled and Completed
The Nation:
Exodus 1:1-14 -The size of the children of Israel
Exodus 12:31-39 -The size of the children of Israel
The Land:
Joshua 11:16-23 -Joshua conquers the promised land
The Seed:
Matthew 5:17 -Christ came to fulfill the covenant
Galatians 3:5-9 -Gentiles blessed through promise to Abraham
I Timothy 2:1-7 -Christ wants, and was ransom for, all men to be saved
The Covenant Had been Finished
Colossians 2:14 -Nailed to the cross
Ephesians 2:14-16 -Abolished the Old Law
Hebrews 8:13 -The Old was obsolete, and so replaced
God Chose His Church
Colossians 3:12-13 -The church is the chosen/elect of God
I Peter 2:9-11 -Christians are a chosen generation/people
I Peter 1:1-5 -For obedience, hope, inheritance, and salvation
Numbers 14:26-38 -God punishes those who refuse to enter the land
Just as those who were disobedient among God’s people in the Old Testament could not enter the promised land, so it is with us. Will you obey? Or will you be cast out as unfaithful to the Lord?
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Descriptions of the Church - 8/10/08am
Romans 16:16 “churches of Christ”
I have, for some time, taken issue with referring to some words on a sign as a “name” of a church. I may be splitting hairs, but I think of those words as a “description” of the church. The church needs no proper name, as Christ only established one (Much as we do not assign a name to the moon, since we have only one moon. However, planets with multiple moons have names for their moons.). What we find in scripture are a number of different descriptions of it, each of which gives us some insight into the nature, purpose, an construction of the church.
Descriptions that Denote Ownership
Acts 20:28 “church of God”
The church belongs to God. If it is the Lord’s, then the way it operates, the way it is organized, and those in it must act in accordance with His wishes.
I Timothy 3:15 “church of the Living God”
While being close to the previous one, this indicates an ongoing ownership, not simply a reference to the founder: I AM retains ownership.
Hebrews 12:23 “church of the firstborn”
The church of the firstborn: Christ. This denotes several things about the church:
A) It belongs to Christ, the firstborn of God
B) I calls to mind the authority of God as the Father
C) “Firstborn” indicates others born after, which would be us as Christians
Descriptions of Authority
Acts 19:8 “kingdom of God”
The kingdom of God suggests absolute authority on God’s part.
Ephesians 5:5 “kingdom of Christ and God”
This suggests the role not only of the Father, but of the Son in the church as having authority.
Colossians 1:13 “kingdom of His dear Son”
Once again, a reference to the Son, Christ, as king over the church. Also a note on the relationship between the Father and the Son: His dear Son. It gives us a little understanding of God’s view of when we go against Christ’s wishes in the church.
Descriptions that Denote Composition
Acts 9:1 “disciples of the Lord”
A disciple is someone who learns and follows someone else. The disciples of the Lord are followers of Christ. If someone is not truly following Christ: both His teachings, His actions, and His beliefs, then such a person is not a disciple and is not a member of the church.
Acts 9:2 “the Way”
Our closeness to Christ (the way, the truth, and the light). The church should be indistinguishable from Christ in its characteristics. It also indicates how many paths there are to salvation and heaven.
I Corinthians 14:33 “church of the saints”
A saint is one who is sanctified: that is, set apart for God’s purpose. The church is made up of such people. We also see, I believe, hints of “the Sabbath was made for man,” in this. The church is for our benefit, not we are here for the church’s benefit.
Colossians 1:18 “Christ’s body”
Not only does this indicate who is in charge, it also tells us about function. We each serve a specific purpose in the body. And as the body, we are to carry out the orders passed on from the head. If we are not obeying the head, we’re not part of the body.
Ephesians 2:22 “the household of God”
Christians are the household of God. God is the head of the house, and His household is made up of those who are part of His family.
Revelation 2:1, 8, 12, 18 “church in ____________”
Revelation 3:1, 7, 14
This is the most common description of a local congregation: a group of Christians in a specific location. More specifically, it means, “assembly in______.” The church (local) is made up of people in a close geographic proximity. The church (universal) is made up of people in many places, often far away.
In Parables
Matthew 13:31-32 The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed
The church began small: very small. It has grown, however. And grown quite large!
Matthew 13:33 The kingdom of heaven is like leaven
The church has growth. Both numerically and spiritually.
Matthew 13:44 The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure in a field
The church is something precious. It is so precious that we need to be willing to give up everything to be a part of it.
Matthew 13:45 The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking pearls
The church is precious not just to those who happen to find it, but also to those seeking it (and truth and God, etc.).
Matthew 13:47-50 The kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet
The church is like a net: those that “join” aren’t always doing as they should. But nonetheless, we try to save as many souls as possible, and in the end, the Lord will be the judge.
Matthew 20:1-16 The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner
The reward promised for being a part of the church is the same, regardless of when you put on Christ. If you convert in your youth, middle age, or when you are elderly, the promise is there of eternal life. But remember, we are not guaranteed so much as another minute. Will you be a worker in the Lord’s vineyard? Will you join yourself to His church and be baptized? Will you continue serving faithfully?
I have, for some time, taken issue with referring to some words on a sign as a “name” of a church. I may be splitting hairs, but I think of those words as a “description” of the church. The church needs no proper name, as Christ only established one (Much as we do not assign a name to the moon, since we have only one moon. However, planets with multiple moons have names for their moons.). What we find in scripture are a number of different descriptions of it, each of which gives us some insight into the nature, purpose, an construction of the church.
Descriptions that Denote Ownership
Acts 20:28 “church of God”
The church belongs to God. If it is the Lord’s, then the way it operates, the way it is organized, and those in it must act in accordance with His wishes.
I Timothy 3:15 “church of the Living God”
While being close to the previous one, this indicates an ongoing ownership, not simply a reference to the founder: I AM retains ownership.
Hebrews 12:23 “church of the firstborn”
The church of the firstborn: Christ. This denotes several things about the church:
A) It belongs to Christ, the firstborn of God
B) I calls to mind the authority of God as the Father
C) “Firstborn” indicates others born after, which would be us as Christians
Descriptions of Authority
Acts 19:8 “kingdom of God”
The kingdom of God suggests absolute authority on God’s part.
Ephesians 5:5 “kingdom of Christ and God”
This suggests the role not only of the Father, but of the Son in the church as having authority.
Colossians 1:13 “kingdom of His dear Son”
Once again, a reference to the Son, Christ, as king over the church. Also a note on the relationship between the Father and the Son: His dear Son. It gives us a little understanding of God’s view of when we go against Christ’s wishes in the church.
Descriptions that Denote Composition
Acts 9:1 “disciples of the Lord”
A disciple is someone who learns and follows someone else. The disciples of the Lord are followers of Christ. If someone is not truly following Christ: both His teachings, His actions, and His beliefs, then such a person is not a disciple and is not a member of the church.
Acts 9:2 “the Way”
Our closeness to Christ (the way, the truth, and the light). The church should be indistinguishable from Christ in its characteristics. It also indicates how many paths there are to salvation and heaven.
I Corinthians 14:33 “church of the saints”
A saint is one who is sanctified: that is, set apart for God’s purpose. The church is made up of such people. We also see, I believe, hints of “the Sabbath was made for man,” in this. The church is for our benefit, not we are here for the church’s benefit.
Colossians 1:18 “Christ’s body”
Not only does this indicate who is in charge, it also tells us about function. We each serve a specific purpose in the body. And as the body, we are to carry out the orders passed on from the head. If we are not obeying the head, we’re not part of the body.
Ephesians 2:22 “the household of God”
Christians are the household of God. God is the head of the house, and His household is made up of those who are part of His family.
Revelation 2:1, 8, 12, 18 “church in ____________”
Revelation 3:1, 7, 14
This is the most common description of a local congregation: a group of Christians in a specific location. More specifically, it means, “assembly in______.” The church (local) is made up of people in a close geographic proximity. The church (universal) is made up of people in many places, often far away.
In Parables
Matthew 13:31-32 The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed
The church began small: very small. It has grown, however. And grown quite large!
Matthew 13:33 The kingdom of heaven is like leaven
The church has growth. Both numerically and spiritually.
Matthew 13:44 The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure in a field
The church is something precious. It is so precious that we need to be willing to give up everything to be a part of it.
Matthew 13:45 The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking pearls
The church is precious not just to those who happen to find it, but also to those seeking it (and truth and God, etc.).
Matthew 13:47-50 The kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet
The church is like a net: those that “join” aren’t always doing as they should. But nonetheless, we try to save as many souls as possible, and in the end, the Lord will be the judge.
Matthew 20:1-16 The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner
The reward promised for being a part of the church is the same, regardless of when you put on Christ. If you convert in your youth, middle age, or when you are elderly, the promise is there of eternal life. But remember, we are not guaranteed so much as another minute. Will you be a worker in the Lord’s vineyard? Will you join yourself to His church and be baptized? Will you continue serving faithfully?
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Citizens of the Kingdom - Gospel Meeting Sermon 5 - 4/27/08am
Philippians 3:20 -Our citizenship is in heaven
So what happens next, after you’ve obeyed the gospel call and been baptized? What do you do next? Do you just sit there? Or are there things that we are supposed to be doing? Let us, as in all things, consult the Bible!
First things first…Rejoice!
It is a great day when someone comes to Christ! That person should rejoice in their salvation and the promise of eternal life. In fact, don’t just rejoice then, but continue in your rejoicing over it for the rest of your life.
Acts 8: 38-39 -Ethiopian Eunuch rejoices
Philippians 4:4 -Rejoice always in the Lord
Acts 5:40-41 -Rejoice even when persecuted
Now, why would you rejoice at being beaten? Think about it: that means that people are seeing you living the life of a Christian! That means that people can tell where you stand! And if they can see that, then they see the example you’re setting. Which means they’re probably learning from you. So even if you are persecuted (and we are fortunate to not face beatings in this place and time), rejoice!
I Peter 4:16 -Glorify God when we suffer as Christians
Study and Learn More About God’s Truth
Baptism is truly the starting point of it all. Once you have obtained your citizenship, you must continue to study God’s word, that you can better understand what God’s will is, and how to accomplish it.
Ezra 7:10 -Ezra’s example of setting our heart to study
Romans 15:4 -The things written are for our learning
Acts 18:24-28 -Apollos, mighty in the scriptures, was taught
It is something that never ends. We never “know it all.” We must continue to study and search out in the scriptures what God wants.
Live a Christ-like Life
As a Christian, you must begin molding your life to match Christ’s. This takes a great deal of time and study to do. We must shape ourselves to His will and example.
I Corinthians 11:1 -Follow Paul’s example in following Christ
I Peter 2:21-22 -Called to follow Christ’s example
I Timothy 1:15-16 -The example of patient teaching
This is what it means to “walk with God.” If we wish to walk in the light, then we must match ourselves to Christ. We must be in agreement with Him.
I John 1:5-7 -Walk in the light
Amos 3:3 -Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?
Colossians 2:6-7 -As you received Christ, walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him
Grow as Christians
After we convert and come to Christ, we must grow and develop. Part of this is an outcome from studying God’s word.
II Peter 3:18 -Grow in grace and knowledge
Hebrews 5:12-14 -The milk of the word, the first principles
II Peter 1:5-8 -Growth by adding these things
Part of growing as a Christian is to actually get out and practicing what you learn. We cannot stop with study, but as we have seen, we must put it into practice.
James 1:22-25 -Do not merely hear the word, but do it
We should, as Christians, be eagerly looking for ways in which we can grow. We should be looking intently at ourselves, looking for our failings so that we can improve in those areas. We should be looking for ways we can serve each other. We should be looking to take on more responsibility in our service to God, perhaps looking to be a teacher or an Elder some day.
I Timothy 3:1-7 -Elder must not be a new convert
Titus 2:3 -Older women should be able to teach the younger women
Teach Others
We must strive to teach others. As we talked about earlier this week, teaching is an integral part of what we must do. And there is no one who cannot teach. After all, if you have obeyed the gospel, then you can explain to others why you did so, can you not?
Matthew 28:18-20 -Go to all the world, teaching
Acts 8:4 -The church is scattered, and goes teaching
Endure to the End
We must continue our walk with God until the end. We must not give up. We cannot stop. We cannot “retire” from being Christians. It’s a life-long commitment. And as the song says, “the longer I serve Him, the sweeter He grows.”
Matthew 24:13 -He who endures to the end will be saved
Revelation 2:10 -Be faithful unto death
If we do not endure, if we do not continue to walk with God, then it has all been for nothing. And make no mistake, it is possible to reject your salvation!
Luke 8:11-15 -Seed on the rock = fallen away
Hebrews 6:6 -If one falls away
So what happens next, after you’ve obeyed the gospel call and been baptized? What do you do next? Do you just sit there? Or are there things that we are supposed to be doing? Let us, as in all things, consult the Bible!
First things first…Rejoice!
It is a great day when someone comes to Christ! That person should rejoice in their salvation and the promise of eternal life. In fact, don’t just rejoice then, but continue in your rejoicing over it for the rest of your life.
Acts 8: 38-39 -Ethiopian Eunuch rejoices
Philippians 4:4 -Rejoice always in the Lord
Acts 5:40-41 -Rejoice even when persecuted
Now, why would you rejoice at being beaten? Think about it: that means that people are seeing you living the life of a Christian! That means that people can tell where you stand! And if they can see that, then they see the example you’re setting. Which means they’re probably learning from you. So even if you are persecuted (and we are fortunate to not face beatings in this place and time), rejoice!
I Peter 4:16 -Glorify God when we suffer as Christians
Study and Learn More About God’s Truth
Baptism is truly the starting point of it all. Once you have obtained your citizenship, you must continue to study God’s word, that you can better understand what God’s will is, and how to accomplish it.
Ezra 7:10 -Ezra’s example of setting our heart to study
Romans 15:4 -The things written are for our learning
Acts 18:24-28 -Apollos, mighty in the scriptures, was taught
It is something that never ends. We never “know it all.” We must continue to study and search out in the scriptures what God wants.
Live a Christ-like Life
As a Christian, you must begin molding your life to match Christ’s. This takes a great deal of time and study to do. We must shape ourselves to His will and example.
I Corinthians 11:1 -Follow Paul’s example in following Christ
I Peter 2:21-22 -Called to follow Christ’s example
I Timothy 1:15-16 -The example of patient teaching
This is what it means to “walk with God.” If we wish to walk in the light, then we must match ourselves to Christ. We must be in agreement with Him.
I John 1:5-7 -Walk in the light
Amos 3:3 -Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?
Colossians 2:6-7 -As you received Christ, walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him
Grow as Christians
After we convert and come to Christ, we must grow and develop. Part of this is an outcome from studying God’s word.
II Peter 3:18 -Grow in grace and knowledge
Hebrews 5:12-14 -The milk of the word, the first principles
II Peter 1:5-8 -Growth by adding these things
Part of growing as a Christian is to actually get out and practicing what you learn. We cannot stop with study, but as we have seen, we must put it into practice.
James 1:22-25 -Do not merely hear the word, but do it
We should, as Christians, be eagerly looking for ways in which we can grow. We should be looking intently at ourselves, looking for our failings so that we can improve in those areas. We should be looking for ways we can serve each other. We should be looking to take on more responsibility in our service to God, perhaps looking to be a teacher or an Elder some day.
I Timothy 3:1-7 -Elder must not be a new convert
Titus 2:3 -Older women should be able to teach the younger women
Teach Others
We must strive to teach others. As we talked about earlier this week, teaching is an integral part of what we must do. And there is no one who cannot teach. After all, if you have obeyed the gospel, then you can explain to others why you did so, can you not?
Matthew 28:18-20 -Go to all the world, teaching
Acts 8:4 -The church is scattered, and goes teaching
Endure to the End
We must continue our walk with God until the end. We must not give up. We cannot stop. We cannot “retire” from being Christians. It’s a life-long commitment. And as the song says, “the longer I serve Him, the sweeter He grows.”
Matthew 24:13 -He who endures to the end will be saved
Revelation 2:10 -Be faithful unto death
If we do not endure, if we do not continue to walk with God, then it has all been for nothing. And make no mistake, it is possible to reject your salvation!
Luke 8:11-15 -Seed on the rock = fallen away
Hebrews 6:6 -If one falls away
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Entering the Kingdom - Gospel Meeting Sermon 4 - 4/22/08
Romans 1:16 -The gospel is the power of God for salvation to all
How does a person enter the kingdom? What does it require? What are the steps to gain citizenship? If you look around you in the world, you will find many answers to this question. Let us consult the Bible, and see what God says about entering His kingdom.
God Has Provided for us:
A plan
God has always had a plan. He has always been prepared and ready. And He has been fully successful in carrying out His plan. After all, who can thwart God? His plan took all things into account, and He made all things ready for our salvation.
Genesis 3:15 -First prophecy of Christ
John 19:23-30 -Fulfillment of scripture: indicates preparation
Acts 2:14-21 -The church was a fulfillment and part of this plan
An Atoning sacrifice
Throughout the Old Testament, people offered sacrifices to roll their sins forward. The Father sent His Son to die in our place as a final, perfect sacrifice. It is because of this Sacrifice that we can have entrance into His kingdom.
I John 1:7 -Christ’s sacrifice, atoning of sins, and obedience
I John 4:10 -Christ was sent as an atoning sacrifice for our sins
Grace: what it is and what it isn’t
Grace is a gift. It is something that is extended to us by God. This does not mean that we are forced to take it. Nor does it mean that we do not have to carry out our part. God offers the gift, He makes salvation available. But we have to fulfill the proper conditions and actually reach out for it.
Ephesians 2:4-10 -By grace, not by works that we should boast
Jude 1:4 -Changing the grace of God to a license for immorality
Joshua 6:2-20 -God gives, Israel obeys, Israel takes (conditional)
Instructions
Fortunately, God tells us exactly what we need to do to reach out and take hold of His gift. The Bible contains directions and guiding examples, teaching us exactly what we need to do.
II Peter 1:3 -God has given us everything we need
II Timothy 3:16-17 -All of His instructions are useful and good
James 2:8-13 -We will be judged by the Law of liberty
We Must Respond:
In Faith
We must have faith. Faith serves as a basis for the rest that we must do. After all, if we do something that happens to be right, but don’t have any faith, what good is it? It is an essential part of our walk with God, and it is essential for entrance into the kingdom.
Hebrews 11:6 -Without faith it is impossible to please Him
Hebrews 11:1 -Definition of faith
However, we cannot stop with faith. That is not the full extend of how we must respond to God’s merciful offer. And when you really think about it, faith is a requirement. Having faith is a form of obedience!
John 6:29 -The work of God is to do believe
Some people teach that this passage means that God is doing the work of faith. Let us break it down in context and see who it is that must believe.
John 6:24-27 -Christ teaches the crowd that they must work for the food unto eternal life
John 6:28 -The people ask what they must do to do this work
John 6:29 -Christ tells them the work is to believe
John 6:30 -The people respond and ask what signs they have so that they can believe
Also, if this is the case, then how can I John 3:23 be explained? Faith is a commandment. We know we must believe, and so we do. It is obedience to what was written. If we must obey in this, we must obey in all matters. If we do not have to obey in this, then the Bible is invalidated.
In Obedience
As with faith, we are expected to obey Him in all things, if we wish to enter the kingdom. Let us not balk at obeying the things that have been commanded!
Repentance -II Corinthians 7:10
Confession -Romans 10:9-10
Baptism -Acts 2:38
(Baptism is unto remission of sins, not because of - Matthew 26:28 - was Christ’s blood poured out unto or because of the forgiveness of sins?)
This is what is necessary to enter into the kingdom. Tomorrow night we will talk about what to do after you have become a citizen of the kingdom, and of what is expected of you.
How does a person enter the kingdom? What does it require? What are the steps to gain citizenship? If you look around you in the world, you will find many answers to this question. Let us consult the Bible, and see what God says about entering His kingdom.
God Has Provided for us:
A plan
God has always had a plan. He has always been prepared and ready. And He has been fully successful in carrying out His plan. After all, who can thwart God? His plan took all things into account, and He made all things ready for our salvation.
Genesis 3:15 -First prophecy of Christ
John 19:23-30 -Fulfillment of scripture: indicates preparation
Acts 2:14-21 -The church was a fulfillment and part of this plan
An Atoning sacrifice
Throughout the Old Testament, people offered sacrifices to roll their sins forward. The Father sent His Son to die in our place as a final, perfect sacrifice. It is because of this Sacrifice that we can have entrance into His kingdom.
I John 1:7 -Christ’s sacrifice, atoning of sins, and obedience
I John 4:10 -Christ was sent as an atoning sacrifice for our sins
Grace: what it is and what it isn’t
Grace is a gift. It is something that is extended to us by God. This does not mean that we are forced to take it. Nor does it mean that we do not have to carry out our part. God offers the gift, He makes salvation available. But we have to fulfill the proper conditions and actually reach out for it.
Ephesians 2:4-10 -By grace, not by works that we should boast
Jude 1:4 -Changing the grace of God to a license for immorality
Joshua 6:2-20 -God gives, Israel obeys, Israel takes (conditional)
Instructions
Fortunately, God tells us exactly what we need to do to reach out and take hold of His gift. The Bible contains directions and guiding examples, teaching us exactly what we need to do.
II Peter 1:3 -God has given us everything we need
II Timothy 3:16-17 -All of His instructions are useful and good
James 2:8-13 -We will be judged by the Law of liberty
We Must Respond:
In Faith
We must have faith. Faith serves as a basis for the rest that we must do. After all, if we do something that happens to be right, but don’t have any faith, what good is it? It is an essential part of our walk with God, and it is essential for entrance into the kingdom.
Hebrews 11:6 -Without faith it is impossible to please Him
Hebrews 11:1 -Definition of faith
However, we cannot stop with faith. That is not the full extend of how we must respond to God’s merciful offer. And when you really think about it, faith is a requirement. Having faith is a form of obedience!
John 6:29 -The work of God is to do believe
Some people teach that this passage means that God is doing the work of faith. Let us break it down in context and see who it is that must believe.
John 6:24-27 -Christ teaches the crowd that they must work for the food unto eternal life
John 6:28 -The people ask what they must do to do this work
John 6:29 -Christ tells them the work is to believe
John 6:30 -The people respond and ask what signs they have so that they can believe
Also, if this is the case, then how can I John 3:23 be explained? Faith is a commandment. We know we must believe, and so we do. It is obedience to what was written. If we must obey in this, we must obey in all matters. If we do not have to obey in this, then the Bible is invalidated.
In Obedience
As with faith, we are expected to obey Him in all things, if we wish to enter the kingdom. Let us not balk at obeying the things that have been commanded!
Repentance -II Corinthians 7:10
Confession -Romans 10:9-10
Baptism -Acts 2:38
(Baptism is unto remission of sins, not because of - Matthew 26:28 - was Christ’s blood poured out unto or because of the forgiveness of sins?)
This is what is necessary to enter into the kingdom. Tomorrow night we will talk about what to do after you have become a citizen of the kingdom, and of what is expected of you.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Keys of the Kingdom - Gospel Meeting Sermon 3 - 4/21/08
Matthew 16:19 -The keys of the kingdom of heaven
There is much confusion about what these keys are, and what their importance is. What do they signify? What does it mean? Let us consider what the verses says, and what the Bible has to teach us.
~The keys of the kingdom is the gospel of Christ~
The keys indicate the ability to open and close. So the question is, what was about to be opened? The church! The church was about to be made open to all people. Not only the Jews, but to gentiles as well. And as we will see, this is exactly what Peter did.
Acts 2:1-41 -Peter preaches the church to the Jews for the first time
Acts 10:24-48 -Peter teaches Cornelius, the first Gentile convert
Romans 1:16 -The gospel is the power of salvation to all
The kingdom was opened to all! And of course, this was not only the duty of Peter, but of all who follow Christ.
Matthew 28:18-20 -Go to all nations, teaching them
Moreover, Christ states that what they will bind will have been bound in heaven, and what is loosed will have been loosed in heaven. This does not mean that Peter and/the apostles had the right to make laws for the church, and that what they created would be made binding. But rather that they will strive to make the binding and loosening they teach in accordance with what has been established in heaven already.
Think of it in this way: when we teach, we do not teach what we want and expect God to back us up. Rather, we teach in accordance with what God has mandated. We bind what God has bound, and we loose where God has loosed in our teaching.
I Timothy 6:3-5 -Condemnation of one who teaches what does not agree with Christ’s teaching
Ephesians 4:15 -We must speak the truth in love
Galatians 1:6-92 -If anyone teaches another gospel, let him be accursed, but rather, we should teach what God has revealed
The Apostles, and we today, must teach in accordance with God wants. He does not change His will to match our, but we must change ours to match His.
The basis for what we teach is the gospel, the scriptures contained in the Bible.
I Peter 4:11 -Let us speak as the oracles of God (ie. Only what God wants said)
Acts 17:1-4 -Paul teaches by reasoning from the scriptures
I Corinthians 2:2 -Christ, and Him crucified
Paul reasoned from the scriptures to teach Christ. As he did, so must we.
Acts 8:4-8, 26-40 -Phillip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
We see an example of our teaching here in this passage.
-Philip preached about Christ to Samaria and the Eunuch
-Philip preached from the scriptures, using what God had provided
-Philip’s teaching of Christ included baptism and information about salvation
Have you obeyed the gospel of Christ? Have you taken advantage of what has been opened for you, of the keys of the kingdom?
There is much confusion about what these keys are, and what their importance is. What do they signify? What does it mean? Let us consider what the verses says, and what the Bible has to teach us.
~The keys of the kingdom is the gospel of Christ~
The keys indicate the ability to open and close. So the question is, what was about to be opened? The church! The church was about to be made open to all people. Not only the Jews, but to gentiles as well. And as we will see, this is exactly what Peter did.
Acts 2:1-41 -Peter preaches the church to the Jews for the first time
Acts 10:24-48 -Peter teaches Cornelius, the first Gentile convert
Romans 1:16 -The gospel is the power of salvation to all
The kingdom was opened to all! And of course, this was not only the duty of Peter, but of all who follow Christ.
Matthew 28:18-20 -Go to all nations, teaching them
Moreover, Christ states that what they will bind will have been bound in heaven, and what is loosed will have been loosed in heaven. This does not mean that Peter and/the apostles had the right to make laws for the church, and that what they created would be made binding. But rather that they will strive to make the binding and loosening they teach in accordance with what has been established in heaven already.
Think of it in this way: when we teach, we do not teach what we want and expect God to back us up. Rather, we teach in accordance with what God has mandated. We bind what God has bound, and we loose where God has loosed in our teaching.
I Timothy 6:3-5 -Condemnation of one who teaches what does not agree with Christ’s teaching
Ephesians 4:15 -We must speak the truth in love
Galatians 1:6-92 -If anyone teaches another gospel, let him be accursed, but rather, we should teach what God has revealed
The Apostles, and we today, must teach in accordance with God wants. He does not change His will to match our, but we must change ours to match His.
The basis for what we teach is the gospel, the scriptures contained in the Bible.
I Peter 4:11 -Let us speak as the oracles of God (ie. Only what God wants said)
Acts 17:1-4 -Paul teaches by reasoning from the scriptures
I Corinthians 2:2 -Christ, and Him crucified
Paul reasoned from the scriptures to teach Christ. As he did, so must we.
Acts 8:4-8, 26-40 -Phillip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
We see an example of our teaching here in this passage.
-Philip preached about Christ to Samaria and the Eunuch
-Philip preached from the scriptures, using what God had provided
-Philip’s teaching of Christ included baptism and information about salvation
Have you obeyed the gospel of Christ? Have you taken advantage of what has been opened for you, of the keys of the kingdom?
Sunday, April 20, 2008
The King of the Kingdom - Gospel Meeting Sermon 2 - 4/20/08pm
Hebrews 7
What does this passage teach us about Christ?
King of Righteousness (v 2)
Christ is the King of Righteousness. His kingdom is made up of the Righteous, and His decrees are righteous.
Ephesians 4:22-24 -Put on the new self, created to be like God in righteousness
II Timothy 3:16-17 -Scripture is for equipping in righteousness
II Timothy 4:8 -The Lord awards a crown of righteousness
King of Peace (v 2)
Christ is the King of Peace. He does not guarantee peace between His followers and the world, quite the opposite. But He makes peace between believers possible, and grants us an individual peace, knowing our eternal outcome.
Romans 15:13 -The Hope of God will fill us with joy and peace
Philippians 4:4-7 -The hope that surpasses all understanding
Psalm 119:165 -Those who love God’s word have peace
Acts 10:36 -The gospel of peace
Priest Forever (v 3)
Not only is Christ our king, but He is also our chief priest. He provides for us spiritually, forever.
I Peter 2:9-10 -Christians are a royal priesthood
Hebrews 4:14-5:10 -How Christ is our high priest
Able to Save Completely and Forever (vv 23-25)
Christ has the power to save us. Not only can He save us, but His salvation is complete. And it has no expiration date on it. Our salvation will not disappear unless we reject it.
Acts 4:8-12 -Salvation is found only in Christ
Romans 8:35-39 -There is no external force that separates us from God
He Was Our Perfect Sacrifice (vv 26-28)
Christ fulfilled the Old Law and served as our perfect, final sacrifice. It is because of what He gave that we can have salvation and eternal life. Is it through His sacrifice that we have forgiveness of sins.
I Peter 2:24 -He bore our sins so that we might die to sin
Hebrews 9:27-10:4 -Christ died for our sins
I John 2:2 -He is our atoning sacrifice
He Has All Authority (Matthew 28:18-20)
Christ has been given complete authority by the Father. His will shall be done. His decrees are firm, and His judgments are set. What He says is what goes.
Mark 1:21-28 -Authority over the demons, people recognize His authority
Hebrews 2:6-8 -Everything is put under His feet
He Does Not Require Great Feats to Follow (Matthew 11:28-30)
Christ’s commands as King are all fairly simple and straightforward. He does not require greats feats and accomplishments. Just simple faith and obedience.
Luke 17:7-10 -We are just servants, doing what is asked
I John 2:3-6 -Obey His commands, walk as He did
Are you willing to follow Him? Are you willing to make Him your King and walk as He did?
What does this passage teach us about Christ?
King of Righteousness (v 2)
Christ is the King of Righteousness. His kingdom is made up of the Righteous, and His decrees are righteous.
Ephesians 4:22-24 -Put on the new self, created to be like God in righteousness
II Timothy 3:16-17 -Scripture is for equipping in righteousness
II Timothy 4:8 -The Lord awards a crown of righteousness
King of Peace (v 2)
Christ is the King of Peace. He does not guarantee peace between His followers and the world, quite the opposite. But He makes peace between believers possible, and grants us an individual peace, knowing our eternal outcome.
Romans 15:13 -The Hope of God will fill us with joy and peace
Philippians 4:4-7 -The hope that surpasses all understanding
Psalm 119:165 -Those who love God’s word have peace
Acts 10:36 -The gospel of peace
Priest Forever (v 3)
Not only is Christ our king, but He is also our chief priest. He provides for us spiritually, forever.
I Peter 2:9-10 -Christians are a royal priesthood
Hebrews 4:14-5:10 -How Christ is our high priest
Able to Save Completely and Forever (vv 23-25)
Christ has the power to save us. Not only can He save us, but His salvation is complete. And it has no expiration date on it. Our salvation will not disappear unless we reject it.
Acts 4:8-12 -Salvation is found only in Christ
Romans 8:35-39 -There is no external force that separates us from God
He Was Our Perfect Sacrifice (vv 26-28)
Christ fulfilled the Old Law and served as our perfect, final sacrifice. It is because of what He gave that we can have salvation and eternal life. Is it through His sacrifice that we have forgiveness of sins.
I Peter 2:24 -He bore our sins so that we might die to sin
Hebrews 9:27-10:4 -Christ died for our sins
I John 2:2 -He is our atoning sacrifice
He Has All Authority (Matthew 28:18-20)
Christ has been given complete authority by the Father. His will shall be done. His decrees are firm, and His judgments are set. What He says is what goes.
Mark 1:21-28 -Authority over the demons, people recognize His authority
Hebrews 2:6-8 -Everything is put under His feet
He Does Not Require Great Feats to Follow (Matthew 11:28-30)
Christ’s commands as King are all fairly simple and straightforward. He does not require greats feats and accomplishments. Just simple faith and obedience.
Luke 17:7-10 -We are just servants, doing what is asked
I John 2:3-6 -Obey His commands, walk as He did
Are you willing to follow Him? Are you willing to make Him your King and walk as He did?
What is the Kingdom? - Gospel Meeting Sermon 1 - 4/20/08am
Matthew 6:33 -Seek first the kingdom of God
It is worth asking ourselves the question: what is the kingdom that we are to be seeking? After all, how can we seek it if we don’t even know what it is? And so we will spend some time examining what the scriptures tell us about the Kingdom of God. Let us consider some New Testament passages which give us a brief timeline, and see if we can nail down the appearing of the kingdom.
The Kingdom, the Church, and Believers
Mark 1:15 -The kingdom is “at hand;” indicating it’s coming soon
Mark 9:1 -The kingdom will come in the lifetime of some hearers
Acts 1:6-8 -Disciples ask when if He will now restore the kingdom. He tells them it will happen with the Holy Spirit
Acts 2:1-21 -The Holy Spirit comes on the apostles
Acts 8:12, Acts 19:8 -The kingdom and the gospel
Matthew 16:16-19 -”kingdom” and “church” are used interchangeably
We have an indication here that the Kingdom and church are one and the same! Indeed, they cannot be separated. And as we can continue on, we can see that the kingdom is indeed here now!
Ephesians 5:3-5 -We must not be this way to be part of the kingdom
Colossians 1:13 -Paul writes that Paul and the church in Colossi had already been brought into the kingdom!
I Thessalonians 2:10-12 -The church in Thessalonica were called into the kingdom
Hebrews 12:28 -The church is receiving the kingdom already!
Revelation 1:4-6 -The churches have been made into a kingdom
Revelation 1:9 -John writes than he and those he writes to are members of the kingdom
Does this mean that once we die, if we die in Christ, we are no longer part of the kingdom? Of course not! Such an assumption is absurd. The kingdom is an inclusive term. It includes the church established by Christ, and those who have “fallen asleep” in Christ.
I Corinthians 15:17-24 -Those who have fallen asleep still have their reward and citizenship in the kingdom
Hebrews 11:13-16 -The heavenly citizenship of the faithful in the OT
As God and Christ are eternal, so is the kingdom. Those who followed Him have that assurance. The Kingdom is the body of the saved.
The Nature of the Kingdom
John 8:36 -Christ’s kingdom is not of this world, but is spiritual
If we make the assumption that Christ’s kingdom is a physical kingdom, we make the same mistake that the early opponents of Christ made!
Luke 17:20-21 -The Pharisees were expecting an earthly kingdom, yet it was already in their midst!
We, as Christians, should not expect an earthly nation or kingdom. We are plainly told that such is not going to happen. Instead, we are part of the spiritual kingdom. If we expect an earthly nation, then we set ourselves opposed to Christ’s kingdom as much as the Pharisees did.
Won’t the Kingdom Come in the Last Days?
Of course! The last days have already begun, actually. And not in 1947, either. The last days began on Pentecost, with the establishment of the church.
Acts 2:16-17 -”The last days” are fulfilled
Hebrews 1:1-2 -”These last days” defined by being spoken to by the Son
Isaiah 2:1-5 -In the last days shall be the mountain of the Lord’s Temple
Daniel 2:31-45 -In the time of the 4th kingdom (Rome), the Kingdom of God will be established, enduring forever.
Won’t you become a citizen of this kingdom? Won’t you join yourself to those who follow Him, the church? Won’t you recognize the King?
It is worth asking ourselves the question: what is the kingdom that we are to be seeking? After all, how can we seek it if we don’t even know what it is? And so we will spend some time examining what the scriptures tell us about the Kingdom of God. Let us consider some New Testament passages which give us a brief timeline, and see if we can nail down the appearing of the kingdom.
The Kingdom, the Church, and Believers
Mark 1:15 -The kingdom is “at hand;” indicating it’s coming soon
Mark 9:1 -The kingdom will come in the lifetime of some hearers
Acts 1:6-8 -Disciples ask when if He will now restore the kingdom. He tells them it will happen with the Holy Spirit
Acts 2:1-21 -The Holy Spirit comes on the apostles
Acts 8:12, Acts 19:8 -The kingdom and the gospel
Matthew 16:16-19 -”kingdom” and “church” are used interchangeably
We have an indication here that the Kingdom and church are one and the same! Indeed, they cannot be separated. And as we can continue on, we can see that the kingdom is indeed here now!
Ephesians 5:3-5 -We must not be this way to be part of the kingdom
Colossians 1:13 -Paul writes that Paul and the church in Colossi had already been brought into the kingdom!
I Thessalonians 2:10-12 -The church in Thessalonica were called into the kingdom
Hebrews 12:28 -The church is receiving the kingdom already!
Revelation 1:4-6 -The churches have been made into a kingdom
Revelation 1:9 -John writes than he and those he writes to are members of the kingdom
Does this mean that once we die, if we die in Christ, we are no longer part of the kingdom? Of course not! Such an assumption is absurd. The kingdom is an inclusive term. It includes the church established by Christ, and those who have “fallen asleep” in Christ.
I Corinthians 15:17-24 -Those who have fallen asleep still have their reward and citizenship in the kingdom
Hebrews 11:13-16 -The heavenly citizenship of the faithful in the OT
As God and Christ are eternal, so is the kingdom. Those who followed Him have that assurance. The Kingdom is the body of the saved.
The Nature of the Kingdom
John 8:36 -Christ’s kingdom is not of this world, but is spiritual
If we make the assumption that Christ’s kingdom is a physical kingdom, we make the same mistake that the early opponents of Christ made!
Luke 17:20-21 -The Pharisees were expecting an earthly kingdom, yet it was already in their midst!
We, as Christians, should not expect an earthly nation or kingdom. We are plainly told that such is not going to happen. Instead, we are part of the spiritual kingdom. If we expect an earthly nation, then we set ourselves opposed to Christ’s kingdom as much as the Pharisees did.
Won’t the Kingdom Come in the Last Days?
Of course! The last days have already begun, actually. And not in 1947, either. The last days began on Pentecost, with the establishment of the church.
Acts 2:16-17 -”The last days” are fulfilled
Hebrews 1:1-2 -”These last days” defined by being spoken to by the Son
Isaiah 2:1-5 -In the last days shall be the mountain of the Lord’s Temple
Daniel 2:31-45 -In the time of the 4th kingdom (Rome), the Kingdom of God will be established, enduring forever.
Won’t you become a citizen of this kingdom? Won’t you join yourself to those who follow Him, the church? Won’t you recognize the King?
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Why Do We Sing? - 4/13/08am
Matthew 26:30 -Christ and the apostles sing a hymn
Acts 16:25 -Apostles sing in prison
We see the example of singing in the New Testament. And often we discuss why we don’t use instrumental music in our worship, and things like that. However, today I want to talk about the why of it. I want to talk about the reasons the Bible tells us to sing.
…To Praise and Glorify God
James 5:13
Hebrews 2:12
Romans 5:9-11
I Corinthians 1:5
We should be praising God in our singing. We should be extolling His greatness and giving Him the glory, as in all things. Our songs should be offered up for this reason.
We should praise Him for the things He has done
Exodus 14:15-31 -Parting of the Red Sea
Joshua 10:9-14 -Stopping the sun in the sky
Psalm 139 -His wisdom, knowledge, and power
We should praise Him for the things He has promised
Matthew 25:31-46 -Separating out evil from good in the last day
Ecclesiastes 3:16-17 -Lack of justice on earth will be exchanged for true justice
We should praise Him and glorify Him to avoid punishment
(Not our primary focus, of course, but it is useful to look at how God views lack of praise, or failing to give Him the proper credit. It gives us an idea of how important it is to God.)
Numbers 20:6-12 -Moses
Daniel 4:28-35 -Nebuchadnezzar
Acts 12:21-23 -Herod
Songs that we sing that praise and glorify God:
5 How Great Thou Art
9 Our God, He is Alive
21 Praise the Lord
35 O Worship the King
54 Praise Him! Praise Him!
…To Show our Gratitude
Colossians 3:16
Ephesians 5:19
Our songs should reflect the thanks we have for the things God has given us. They should reflect how much God has given us.
For what He has done (sacrifice, church, the word, blessings, etc.)
John 3:16 -God sent His son
Ephesians 1:3 -Jesus has blessed us spiritually
For what He has promised (salvation)
Hebrews 5:7-10 -Salvation for those who obey
Songs we sing that thank God for what He has done
392 Count Your Blessings
10 We Thanks Thee, Lord
420 O Thou Fount of Every Blessing
…To Teach Each Other
Colossians 3:16
Ephesians 5:19
We should be using our songs to speak to one another and teach each other. Our songs should be useful for teaching and learning from. It is worth noting that this is a form of teaching that is aimed primarily at those in the church, and not outside.
We must be careful of what we teach
II Peter 2:1 -False teachers bring destruction on themselves
Matthew 12:36-37 -Give an account of what we say
Songs we sing that Teach
460 The World’s Bible
416 Do All in the Name of the Lord
630 Watch and Pray
326 Trust and Obey
An Outcome of Singing is Emotion
Believe it or not, it is ok to have emotion. We should not be ruled by our emotions, and our emotions should not be the basis for our faith. But we should be touched to the heart by the Word, and I do not know many people who are not touched emotionally by singing. Emotion is an outcome of our faith. Emotion is based on faith, not our faith is based on emotion.
Awe -Luke 5:26 -The people are full of awe and glorify God
Joy -Philippians 4:4 -Rejoice always in the Lord
Sorrow -Matthew 25:69-75 -Peter weeps after denying Christ
Peace -Philippians 5:6-7 -The peace of God
Fear -II Corinthians 7:15 -Fear and trembling
We even have songs about the emotions that we find in the Lord
223 Peace, Perfect Peace
186 I Stand Amazed
251 I’m Happy Today
Acts 16:25 -Apostles sing in prison
We see the example of singing in the New Testament. And often we discuss why we don’t use instrumental music in our worship, and things like that. However, today I want to talk about the why of it. I want to talk about the reasons the Bible tells us to sing.
…To Praise and Glorify God
James 5:13
Hebrews 2:12
Romans 5:9-11
I Corinthians 1:5
We should be praising God in our singing. We should be extolling His greatness and giving Him the glory, as in all things. Our songs should be offered up for this reason.
We should praise Him for the things He has done
Exodus 14:15-31 -Parting of the Red Sea
Joshua 10:9-14 -Stopping the sun in the sky
Psalm 139 -His wisdom, knowledge, and power
We should praise Him for the things He has promised
Matthew 25:31-46 -Separating out evil from good in the last day
Ecclesiastes 3:16-17 -Lack of justice on earth will be exchanged for true justice
We should praise Him and glorify Him to avoid punishment
(Not our primary focus, of course, but it is useful to look at how God views lack of praise, or failing to give Him the proper credit. It gives us an idea of how important it is to God.)
Numbers 20:6-12 -Moses
Daniel 4:28-35 -Nebuchadnezzar
Acts 12:21-23 -Herod
Songs that we sing that praise and glorify God:
5 How Great Thou Art
9 Our God, He is Alive
21 Praise the Lord
35 O Worship the King
54 Praise Him! Praise Him!
…To Show our Gratitude
Colossians 3:16
Ephesians 5:19
Our songs should reflect the thanks we have for the things God has given us. They should reflect how much God has given us.
For what He has done (sacrifice, church, the word, blessings, etc.)
John 3:16 -God sent His son
Ephesians 1:3 -Jesus has blessed us spiritually
For what He has promised (salvation)
Hebrews 5:7-10 -Salvation for those who obey
Songs we sing that thank God for what He has done
392 Count Your Blessings
10 We Thanks Thee, Lord
420 O Thou Fount of Every Blessing
…To Teach Each Other
Colossians 3:16
Ephesians 5:19
We should be using our songs to speak to one another and teach each other. Our songs should be useful for teaching and learning from. It is worth noting that this is a form of teaching that is aimed primarily at those in the church, and not outside.
We must be careful of what we teach
II Peter 2:1 -False teachers bring destruction on themselves
Matthew 12:36-37 -Give an account of what we say
Songs we sing that Teach
460 The World’s Bible
416 Do All in the Name of the Lord
630 Watch and Pray
326 Trust and Obey
An Outcome of Singing is Emotion
Believe it or not, it is ok to have emotion. We should not be ruled by our emotions, and our emotions should not be the basis for our faith. But we should be touched to the heart by the Word, and I do not know many people who are not touched emotionally by singing. Emotion is an outcome of our faith. Emotion is based on faith, not our faith is based on emotion.
Awe -Luke 5:26 -The people are full of awe and glorify God
Joy -Philippians 4:4 -Rejoice always in the Lord
Sorrow -Matthew 25:69-75 -Peter weeps after denying Christ
Peace -Philippians 5:6-7 -The peace of God
Fear -II Corinthians 7:15 -Fear and trembling
We even have songs about the emotions that we find in the Lord
223 Peace, Perfect Peace
186 I Stand Amazed
251 I’m Happy Today
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Our Passover Lamb - 04/06/08am
Our Passover Lamb
A portion of why we have the Old Testament still with us and for us is that it provides foreshadowing. We can look at the Old Testament and see a glimmer of what was to come with the New Covenant And of course, we look back to the Old Testament to help us understand the New Testament. Many of the concepts found in the New are found in the Old: often with the new covenant focusing on the spiritual side of the concept, and the old focusing on the physical.
Hebrews 8:5 -Tabernacle/temple a shadow of what’s in heaven
Hebrews 10:1 -The Old Law was shadow of what was to come
Colossians 2:16-17 -OT holidays were a shadow of the reality of Christ
I would like to take some time today to examine one of the celebrations in the Old Covenant that found it’s reality and fulfillment in Christ.
Exodus 11:1-10 -God promises the plague on the firstborn
-God makes a clear separation between those who do and do not follow Him
Exodus 12:1-30 -The Passover is instituted
-The Israelites must obey to be passed over
-If you were the firstborn, would you have put just a little blood on the doorframe, or lots? Would they have been eager to obey, or hesitant?
-The Israelites were saved by the blood of a sacrificed, and eaten, lamb
-The lamb was to be an unblemished 1 year old males (taking the place of firstborn males)
-The bones of the lamb were not to be broken (Exodus 12:46)
-God kept His promise, and destroyed the firstborn of Egypt
John 19:16-37 -The crucifixion of Christ
-If you remember, the time for this was the feast of unleavened bread, as described in Exodus.
-Christ was or sacrifice for us, and the fulfillment of the Passover.
He was an unblemished lamb (I Peter 1:18-21)
His bones were not broken (John 19:36)
Through His blood we are passed over for death
(Romans 5:9, I John 1:7)
The result is freedom from bondage (John 8:31-38, Rev 1:5)
We must partake of the Passover lamb, as the Israelites were to partake of the Passover lamb (John 6:51-58)
Christ is the fulfillment of the Passover. He was the ultimate sacrifice. As our Passover Lamb, He took our place in death. For the sins we are guilty of, He offered Himself, so that we could be passed over in the final day, and not suffer the second death. Through His sacrifice, we have opportunity to have life everlasting.
-Much as the Passover and feast of unleavened bread were to be remembered, so it is with Christ’s sacrifice for us (Mark 14:12-26)
Just as they were to remember, we are to remember (Acts 20:7)
Anytime we sin, we make the sacrifice of Christ, our Passover, of no account. We try to make it meaningless by those sins.
Hebrews 6:4-6 -Through sin, we crucify Christ again
So the question is, are we crucifying Christ again? Have we made His death of no account? Do we ignore His sacrifice for our sins?
A portion of why we have the Old Testament still with us and for us is that it provides foreshadowing. We can look at the Old Testament and see a glimmer of what was to come with the New Covenant And of course, we look back to the Old Testament to help us understand the New Testament. Many of the concepts found in the New are found in the Old: often with the new covenant focusing on the spiritual side of the concept, and the old focusing on the physical.
Hebrews 8:5 -Tabernacle/temple a shadow of what’s in heaven
Hebrews 10:1 -The Old Law was shadow of what was to come
Colossians 2:16-17 -OT holidays were a shadow of the reality of Christ
I would like to take some time today to examine one of the celebrations in the Old Covenant that found it’s reality and fulfillment in Christ.
Exodus 11:1-10 -God promises the plague on the firstborn
-God makes a clear separation between those who do and do not follow Him
Exodus 12:1-30 -The Passover is instituted
-The Israelites must obey to be passed over
-If you were the firstborn, would you have put just a little blood on the doorframe, or lots? Would they have been eager to obey, or hesitant?
-The Israelites were saved by the blood of a sacrificed, and eaten, lamb
-The lamb was to be an unblemished 1 year old males (taking the place of firstborn males)
-The bones of the lamb were not to be broken (Exodus 12:46)
-God kept His promise, and destroyed the firstborn of Egypt
John 19:16-37 -The crucifixion of Christ
-If you remember, the time for this was the feast of unleavened bread, as described in Exodus.
-Christ was or sacrifice for us, and the fulfillment of the Passover.
He was an unblemished lamb (I Peter 1:18-21)
His bones were not broken (John 19:36)
Through His blood we are passed over for death
(Romans 5:9, I John 1:7)
The result is freedom from bondage (John 8:31-38, Rev 1:5)
We must partake of the Passover lamb, as the Israelites were to partake of the Passover lamb (John 6:51-58)
Christ is the fulfillment of the Passover. He was the ultimate sacrifice. As our Passover Lamb, He took our place in death. For the sins we are guilty of, He offered Himself, so that we could be passed over in the final day, and not suffer the second death. Through His sacrifice, we have opportunity to have life everlasting.
-Much as the Passover and feast of unleavened bread were to be remembered, so it is with Christ’s sacrifice for us (Mark 14:12-26)
Just as they were to remember, we are to remember (Acts 20:7)
Anytime we sin, we make the sacrifice of Christ, our Passover, of no account. We try to make it meaningless by those sins.
Hebrews 6:4-6 -Through sin, we crucify Christ again
So the question is, are we crucifying Christ again? Have we made His death of no account? Do we ignore His sacrifice for our sins?
Friday, March 28, 2008
Christ's Model Prayer - 3/23/08am
Christ’s Model Prayer
We often discuss how we should pray and what we should pray about. It can be useful to look to our ultimate example, Christ, and see what He taught on prayer. And of course, a good place to start with that is the example prayer that He showed to his disciples.
Matthew 6:5-15 -Christ’s model prayer
This prayer, and the context surrounding it, helps us to understand how we are to pray, and what we are to pray.
How to Pray:
Matthew 6:5-6 -Not for public acclaim
Matthew 6:7-8 -Not babbling or using many words
-God knows what we need before we ask
The Model Prayer:
This prayer shows us different aspects of prayer, and different types of prayer
Matthew 6:9 -Pray to God the Father
Matthew 6:9 -Praise to God
James 3:9-12 -With the tongue we praise the Lord
I Peter 1:23-9 -Why we praise God
A Form of praise is offering thanksgiving to God for the things He has done. This is the recognition of who has provided for us all that we need, and a recognition of where the glory for it belongs.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 -Pray continually, giving thanks
Philippians 4:4-7 -Present all prayers with thanksgiving
Matthew 6:10 -The kingdom is already here, now
Matthew 16:28 -The kingdom came in the 1st century
Colossians 1:12 -The kingdom
Matthew 6:10 -The Lord’s Will, not our own
Matthew 26:42 -Let this cup pass from me…
Matthew 6:11 -Asking for what we need in life
Ephesians 6:17 -All kinds of prayers and requests
I Timothy 5:5 -Putting reliance on God
James 4:1-3 -Asking with the right motives
James 5:13-16 -Prayer for when in trouble or sick
I John 5:14-15 -When we ask, God hears us
Matthew 6:12 -Asking for forgiveness
Acts 8:18-24 -Simon the Sorcerer
Psalm 51 -David’s Psalm/prayer of repentance
Matthew 6:13 -Asking for deliverance from temptation
James 1:13-15 -Tempted by evil desires, not by God
I Corinthians 10:13 -God will provide a way of escape
God Answers Prayers
Genesis 25:21 -God answers Isaac’s prayer
I Chronicles 14:10 -God answers David’s prayer
We often discuss how we should pray and what we should pray about. It can be useful to look to our ultimate example, Christ, and see what He taught on prayer. And of course, a good place to start with that is the example prayer that He showed to his disciples.
Matthew 6:5-15 -Christ’s model prayer
This prayer, and the context surrounding it, helps us to understand how we are to pray, and what we are to pray.
How to Pray:
Matthew 6:5-6 -Not for public acclaim
Matthew 6:7-8 -Not babbling or using many words
-God knows what we need before we ask
The Model Prayer:
This prayer shows us different aspects of prayer, and different types of prayer
Matthew 6:9 -Pray to God the Father
Matthew 6:9 -Praise to God
James 3:9-12 -With the tongue we praise the Lord
I Peter 1:23-9 -Why we praise God
A Form of praise is offering thanksgiving to God for the things He has done. This is the recognition of who has provided for us all that we need, and a recognition of where the glory for it belongs.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 -Pray continually, giving thanks
Philippians 4:4-7 -Present all prayers with thanksgiving
Matthew 6:10 -The kingdom is already here, now
Matthew 16:28 -The kingdom came in the 1st century
Colossians 1:12 -The kingdom
Matthew 6:10 -The Lord’s Will, not our own
Matthew 26:42 -Let this cup pass from me…
Matthew 6:11 -Asking for what we need in life
Ephesians 6:17 -All kinds of prayers and requests
I Timothy 5:5 -Putting reliance on God
James 4:1-3 -Asking with the right motives
James 5:13-16 -Prayer for when in trouble or sick
I John 5:14-15 -When we ask, God hears us
Matthew 6:12 -Asking for forgiveness
Acts 8:18-24 -Simon the Sorcerer
Psalm 51 -David’s Psalm/prayer of repentance
Matthew 6:13 -Asking for deliverance from temptation
James 1:13-15 -Tempted by evil desires, not by God
I Corinthians 10:13 -God will provide a way of escape
God Answers Prayers
Genesis 25:21 -God answers Isaac’s prayer
I Chronicles 14:10 -God answers David’s prayer
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