? Temple Baptist Church - 4-24-2024John 15:12-17? Introduction:? ? A.? Another great benefit of abiding in Christ is that of friendship with Christ.? I find this amazing as we consider just Who this Friend is.? Three times in these three verses, Jesus Christ called His children friends!? 1.? Someone once said that if you end up with 5 True Friends in a lifetime, you are wealthy.? 2.? Here, we fine the possibility of having Jesus Christ as our Friend.? B.? The Value of our Friend.? 1.? Our Friend is Almighty Jehovah God, Creator and Sustainer of all things.? Our Friend created us for His pleasure and fellowship.? John 1:1-4? In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.? (2)? The same was in the beginning with God.? (3)? All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.? (4)? In him was life; and the life was the light of men.? 2.? Our Friend became our Propitiation.? Our Friend died in our place, bearing our sin and our shame.? He gave His life as He became sin for us Who knew no sin that we might be made the righteous of God in Him.? John 1:14? And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.? John 1:29? The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.? 3.? Our Friend is our Mediator between us and God the Father.? Our Friend makes peace between God the Father and us.? 1 Timothy 2:5? For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;? 4.? Our Friend is our Advocate with God the Father.? Our Friend speaks on our behalf when we cannot speak for ourselves.? 1 John 2:1? My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:? 5.? Our Friend is our High Priest.? Our Friend continually cleanses us from all sin and defilement with His own blood.? Hebrews 7:25-26? Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. (26)? For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;? 6.? Our Friend is our soon coming King of kings and Lord of lords.? Our Friend said that if He would go away, He would come again and take us home with Him.? When He comes back to set up His Kingdom, He will bring us with Him to rule and reign.? Revelation 19:11-16? And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.? (12)? His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.? (13)? And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.? (14)? And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.? (15)? And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.? (16)? And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.? C. And people relish friends in high places?? We have the Almighty, completely Sovereign, All Knowing, owns Everything, can do Anything, can Forgive anything God who just happens to Love us.? D.? True friendship is a valuable and rare commodity! We make many acquaintances as we pass through this life, but only very few true and genuine friends. In this passage, Jesus reveals something about the nature of His friendship with His people. When you have Him for your Friend, you have discovered a friendship that knows no limits. He is, by definition, the ultimate Friend.? Proverbs 18:24? A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.? E.? In a true friendship, there must be:? 1.? Investment.? While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.? The greatest love ever shown was at Calvary. There has never been a greater, nobler, or more costly display of love than that selfless moment when Jesus died for us on the cross.? 2.? Intimacy.? These disciples were Christ's inner circle.? They were privy to the most intimate discussions and sharing that only Christ could give.? True friends have a very personal and close relationship with each other.? A closeness that makes for personal sharing of our thoughts and lives.? 2 Samuel 1:26? I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women.? 3.? Involvement.? These disciples could share their inner most thoughts, fears, and cares with Christ.? Friends deeply care for what their friends care for.? Someone once said, “A burden shared is half a burden!”? There is more to intimate sharing than just listening.? ? John 11:33-35? When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled,? (34)? And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see.? (35)? Jesus wept.? F.? The Values of a having Christ as your True Friend:? 1.? A true friend loves at all times.? Unconditional love.? Proverbs 17:17? A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.? Psalms 41:9-10? Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.? (10)? But thou, O LORD, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them.? 2.? A true friend always builds you up and never tears you down.? ? 1 Corinthians 15:33? Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.? 3.? A true friend is always standing by you.? ? Hebrews 13:5? Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.? Psalms 27:9-10? Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.? (10)? When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.? 4.? A true friend cares deeply about you.? ? Hebrews 4:15-16? For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.? (16)? Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.? 1 Peter 5:7? Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.? 5.? A true friend makes you a better person.? ? Proverbs 27:17? Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.? 6.? A true friend gives you godly counsel.? ? Proverbs 27:9? Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.? Isaiah 25:1? O LORD, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.? 7.? A true friend will tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.? ? Proverbs 27:6? Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.? Ephesians 3:20-21? Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,? (21)? Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.? 8.? A true friend gave his life for us.? When I think of this, I think of the Medal of Honor, our nation's? highest military award for valor.? Due to the nature of this medal, it is commonly presented? posthumously.? ? John 15:13? Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.? Conclusion:? What a Friend we have in Jesus!? He gave His all for His Friends!

Preaching how God hates abortion has its place because He calls us to speak His truth in our generation, but it must be done in love and gentleness. God's most interested in drawing lost sinners to Himself through His Son Jesus Christ.

Today's category: DrunksGive Me A Push? ? ? ? ? ? A man is in bed with his wife when there is a rat-a-tat-tat on the door. He rolls over and looks at his clock, and it's half past three in the morning. "I'm not getting out of bed at this time," he thinks, and rolls over.? ? ? ? ? ? Then, a louder knock follows. "Aren't you going to answer that?" says his wife.? ? ? ? ? ? So he drags himself out of bed and goes downstairs. He opens the door and there is man standing at the door. It didn't take the homeowner long to realize the man was drunk.? ? ? ? ? ? "Hi there," slurs the stranger. "Can you give me a push?"? ? ? ? ? ? "No, get lost. It's half past three. I was in bed," says the man and he slams the door. He goes back up to bed and tells his wife what happened.? ? ? ? ? ? "Dave, that wasn't very nice of you," she says.? ? ? ? ? ? "Remember that night we broke down in the pouring rain on the way to pick the kids up from the babysitter, and you had to knock on that man's house to get us started again? What would have happened if he'd told us to get lost?"? ? ? ? ? ? "But the guy was drunk," says the husband.? ? ? ? ? ? "It doesn't matter," says the wife. "He needs our help and it would be the Christian thing to help him." So the husband gets out of bed again, gets dressed, and goes downstairs. He opens the door, and not being able to see the stranger anywhere, he shouts, "Hey, do you still want a push?" And he hears a voice cry out, "Yeah, please." So, still being unable to see the stranger, he shouts,? ? ? ? ? ? "Where are you?"? ? ? ? ? ? "I'm over here," the stranger replies, "on your swing."View hundreds more jokes online.Email this joke to a friend

? Temple Baptist Church - 4-17-2024John 15:11? Introduction:? A.? In verse 11, we find two kinds of “Joy.”? ? 1.? My Joy.? “remain in you”? A Joy that is found ONLY in Jesus Christ!? ? a)? The Joy of Salvation.? The Joy of Sanctification.? The Joy of Security.? The Joy of Serving.? ? b)? The Key words are “remain in” which implies that the joy of God is given to every believer and can be removed by the believer.? ? ? ? c)? “Living for Jesus” is a song that describes our Joy that is found in abiding in Jesus Christ:? Living for Jesus, a life that is true,Striving to please Him in all that I do;Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,This is the pathway of blessing for me.Refrain:O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee,For Thou, in Thy atonement, didst give Thyself for me;I own no other Master, my heart shall be Thy throne;My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.Living for Jesus Who died in my place,Bearing on Calv'ry my sin and disgrace;Such love constrains me to answer His call,Follow His leading and give Him my all.Living for Jesus, wherever I am,Doing each duty in His holy Name;Willing to suffer affliction and loss,Deeming each trial a part of my cross.Living for Jesus through earth's little while,My dearest treasure, the light of His smile;Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem,Bringing the weary to find rest in Him.2.? Your Joy.? The key words here are “be full.”? The implication here is that the believer can have Joy to some degree and still not have fulness of Joy.? To have fulness of Joy is totally tied to the “My Joy” that is found only in our abiding in Christ.? “I had rather be an old time Christian that anything I know!”? Nehemiah 8:10? Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.? 3.? “Your Joy!”? I hear so much “Woe is me” preaching in our day.? People live lives of quiet desperation because of circumstances while God wants His people to enjoy life!? He wants them to enjoy His creation!? Proverbs 15:13? A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.? Proverbs 17:22? A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.? Ecclesiastes 2:24? There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.? Ecclesiastes 3:10-13? I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.? (11)? He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.? (12)? I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life.? (13)? And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.? Ecclesiastes 3:22? Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?? Ecclesiastes 5:18-19? Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion.? (19)? Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.? Ecclesiastes 8:15? Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.? Ecclesiastes 9:7-9? Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.? (8)? Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment.? (9)? Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.? B.? What is this joy of Christ?? I want to look at the best definition that I have ever seen, and it comes from your Bible because “My Joy” is not found in our circumstances which are subject to change.? It is completely found in the “God of my salvation” and the “God … my strength!”? *** Habakkuk 3:17-19? Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: ? (18)? Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. ? (19)? The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.? 1.? In these verses, we find both the “Cause” and “Effect” of the Christian's Joy.? The cause and effect is certainly not found in our circumstances as our days are so full for sin and sorrow!? Noah's Day, Lot's Day, Falling Away Days, Laodicean Days, Perilous Times all work together in our day to cause God's people to fret and fear.? Habakkuk used the word “Yet” to introduce “I will rejoice” and “I will joy!”? 2.? In Verses 18-19, we find the Cause of Joy:? a)? The God of my Salvation.? True Christian Joy comes from God in the form of Eternal Salvation.? John 15:13? Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.? b)? The LORD God, my Strength.? True Christian Joy is maintained in the spiritual Strength that comes from God, not circumstances.? John 15:5? I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.? 4.? In Verses 17-18, we find the Effect of Joy:? a)? Though things go wrong, and they do; though life is hard, and it is:? b)? Rejoicing comes from our inner fountain of Joy.? ? ? ? ? ? ? 5.? There was a day when praise and rejoicing were spontaneous, not something “worked up” by emotion.? “Popcorn Testimonies” have become a thing of the past.? We need to get our Joy back and Rejoicing will follow without having to be stirred or worked up.? Rejoicing is more than an emotion; it is a realization brought about by relationship and remembrance!? 6.? We live in days when pastors feel the necessity to stir our emotions with fleshly music and preaching as to produce rejoicing.? Thus, they become Promoters—not Pastors, Entertainers—not Preachers.? ? a.? A Pastor is none of these things.? He is to feed the flock of God, not stir them up.? Churches now have “Praise Leaders!”? ? b.? I find that preaching the Word is a divider because the Word brings about the knowledge of sin, the need for repentance, and division from the world.? c.? Rejoicing should be a spontaneous result of an inner Joy found in the Lord.? Rejoicing is a product of that inward Joy, not the cause of Joy.? Romans 12:12? ? Rejoicing in hope;? patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;? Philippians 3:1? ? Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord.? To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.? Philippians 4:4? ? Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.? 7.? The hymns of the Faith no longer cause Rejoicing, so the modern day “church” is now in the “Entertainment Business” instead of reproving, rebuking, and Exhorting with all longsuffering and doctrine.? Modern day preaching and music reflect the world because most professing “Christians” are more worldly than spiritual.? C.? Both rejoicing and joy are to be despite our circumstances, not because of them!? Most Christians live in discouragement with little joy.? ? Why?? The answer is simple.? 1.? Because Of Sinfulness - Matthew 24:12? And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.? ? (God's people are not drunks and harlots, but sin creeps in and we now walk at a guilty distance from God and the joy is gone.)? 2.? Because Of Our Situations - Matthew 14:30? But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.? ? (God's people have their eyes upon the “wind and waves” of circumstance and not upon Christ.? When Peter looked up instead of looking down, he saw the Lord of the “wind and waves” and once again walked on the water.)? D.? Many Christians live in defeat with no joy at all.? 1.? For The World, Joy Is Found In Circumstances – Luke 12:16-21? And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:? And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.? ? And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.? But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.? 2.? For The Christian, Joy Is Found Despite Circumstances - 2 Corinthians 7:4? Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.? 2 Corinthians 8:2? How that? in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty? abounded unto the riches of their liberality.Colossians 1:11? Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power,? unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;? 1 Thessalonians 1:6? And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord,? having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost:? E.? Loss of joy comes through:? 1.? Losing the freshness of our salvation.? 2.? Losing the burning love for our Saviour.? 3.? Losing the excitement of our service.? WHERE THE CHRISTIAN FINDS HIS JOY? 1.? Christian Joy Is Found In Salvation - Luke 10:20? Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.? Psalms 35:9? And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD: it shall? rejoice in his salvation.? Psalms 51:12? Restore unto me? the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.? Psalms 132:16? I will also clothe her priests? with? salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy.? Isaiah 12:3? Therefore? with joy? shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.? 2.? Christian Joy Is Found In The Holy Ghost - Romans 15:13? Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing,? that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.? Joy Is Not Found In The Things Of The World - Romans 14:17? For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink;? but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.? 3.? Christian Joy Is Found In God's Word - Nehemiah 8:9-12? And Nehemia

? Temple Baptist Church - 4-14-2024Psalm 119:113-120? Introduction:? A.? Psalm 119 – The Magnification of the Word of God.? 176 verses broken down into 22 stanzas with each stanza containing 8 verses.? Each stanza begins with one of the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet with each verse of the stanza in Hebrew beginning with the correlating letter.? An Acrostic. A masterpiece that only God the Word could have given to us.? B.? SAMECH – infinity or infinite – also used for support or ladder – The 15th? letter of the Hebrew alphabet – its numerical number is 60 which represents completeness.? It is one of the two closed letters with the other being found in MEM in its final form at the end of a word.? It is circular in form with no beginning or end and protects that which is within.? C.? We understand that we live in a sinful world and in sinful times.? ? 1.? In my lifetime, I have seen the world changing in so many ways as it downwardly spirals into utter depravity.? As God's children, we try to abstain from all appearance of evil while living in the midst of it.? 2.? More than ever before, we need to realize that God holds our lives in His hands.? We have a promise of perpetual protection as we walk with God within the Word of God.? ? 3.? We need to make sure that we remain within the “hedge” that God has placed around us.? Through willful sin and willful ignorance, we often remove ourselves to some degree out of the protection of our Lord.? D.? In Jewish tradition, SAMECH represents one's inner journey.? Verse 113 begins with the words “I hate vain thoughts.”? ? These words show the importance of maintaining the invisible man as well as the physical man.? Proverbs tells us “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.” (Proverbs 23:7)? E.? While we can only see the outside, God is a Discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.? Who we are is what we are inwardly!? This 15th stanza shows the believer that there are Divine inner and outer protection available and this protection is found in God's Word.? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? F.? God affords the believer “layers” of protection that will help to keep one's heart and mind (1) Stable and therefore (2) Stayed upon the Lord.? Then there is the outward layer of protection afforded the believer.? 1.? ? Verse 113.? Our Spirit.? The Word of God protects our thought life.? The godly man's hatred of vain thoughts.? Vain – to no avail or worthless.? The most dangerous battlefield known to man is the struggle of good and evil thoughts.? The greatest wars are waged in the mind of the believer.? Inherently, man has a God given understanding of both right and wrong.? I heard it said that man does not have a problem knowing right from wrong.? The struggle is choosing right over wrong.? Here, we once again find the love of God's Law as the deciding factor in our thought life.? ? 2 Corinthians 10:3-5? For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:? (4)? (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)? (5)? Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;? 2.? Verse 114.? Our Surety.? God protects our temporal life.? The child of God is hated by Satan, the world.? God is our infinite Refuge during the hard times of life, but it is through God's Word that we find our sanctity and peace.? When everything is going wrong in life, everything we need is in our hand tonight.? Protection from temporal calamities and persecutions.? God's Word is our chamber of retreat where we hide and find safety both physical and spiritual.? It is in the Word of God that we hide while taking the “shield of faith” in our hands.? The Word of God? supplies us grace, strength, light, life, and comfort here, and for glory hereafter.? Psalms 9:9? The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.? 3.? Verse 115.? Our Sanctification.? God protects our interaction with the world.? The world is a constant distraction of God's people and the ultimate state becomes defilement.? Our protection is through the Word of God.? We that are saved are not only separatist, we are separated from.? In this verse, we see the desire of the godly to distance himself from those who do evil.? This does not speak of staying away from every sinner for the Bible says that we would have to leave this world to do so.? It means to stay away from those who have a pattern of life that is wicked.? “Evildoers” is a persistent condition.? The Power of the wicked:? Psalms 37:35? I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree.? 4.? Verse 116.? ? Our Stability.? God protects our feebleness in life.? The Word of God is the “Rock” upon which we stand.? Unmovable, unshakable, unerring, an anchor is an ever changing world.? Through the Bible, we can be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord according to 1 Corinthians 15:58.? Paul said, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”? Psalms 94:17-18? Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul had almost dwelt in silence.? (18)? When I said, My foot slippeth; thy mercy, O LORD, held me up.? 5.? Verse 117.? Our Safety.? God protects us in the perils of life.? We live in perilous times.? In the news, all we hear is about the dangers of living in the greatest nation on earth.? Because sentence against evil works is not executed, people have no respect for law and order.? ? Ecclesiastes 8:11? Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.? Proverbs 21:31? The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.? 6.? Verse 118.? Our Sinfulness.? God protects us in our temptations in life.? One of Newton's Third Law of Motion states: “? For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.”? Spiritually, though God is so often gracious to the sinner, with willful sin, for the most part it is followed by a willful judgment.? Their deceit is falsehood.? What they appear outward is not the reality of that which we see outwardly.? Hebrews 4:12? For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.? 7.? Verse 119.? Our Salvation.? God protects us from our enemies in life.? The Lord will take care of the wicked.? We just need to love and stay with the Word of God.? The wicked may seem to be on the winning side for a while but the justice of the Lord will be manifested.? Jeremiah 6:28-30? They are all grievous revolters, walking with slanders: they are brass and iron; they are all corrupters.? (29)? The bellows are burned, the lead is consumed of the fire; the founder melteth in vain: for the wicked are not plucked away.? (30)? Reprobate silver shall men call them, because the LORD hath rejected them.? 8.? Verse 120.? Our Submission.? Our protection, “safety is of the Lord,” is perpetually in the hand of God.? Life is still hard at best, but remaining in the will of God through the Word of God affords the child of God a perpetual protection.? Proverbs 19:23? The fear of the LORD tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

Often in the quest towards marriage and finding “the one,” something happens. It's easy to overlook things that may not seem that big of a deal while dating, but these things could be destructive patterns once married. But love doesn't have to be blind. There's no reason to settle for unhealthy or harmful relationships, simply to pursue being married.We all have sin issues that we deal with on a daily basis. We've all made mistakes that we often wish we could do-over. We all need the grace and freedom that only Christ Himself can offer. But our marriages are healthier when we recognize red flags in our dating relationships, instead of choosing not to see problems at all.God cares about the decisions we make. He cares about who we marry. And we can trust He will give guidance, and help us see some red flags to be aware of along the way.Photo credit: ©GettyImages/dragana991

Today's category: ChristmasDesparate Measures? ? ? ? ? ? Little Johnny went to his mother demanding a new bicycle. His mother decided that he should take a look at himself and the way he acts. She said, "Well Johnny, it isn't Christmas and we don't have the money to just go out and buy you anything you want. So why don't you write a letter to Jesus and pray for one instead." After his temper tantrum his mother sent him to his room. He finally sat down to write a letter to Jesus.? ? ? ? ? ? Dear Jesus,? ? ? ? ? ? I've been a good boy this year and would appreciate a new bicycle.? ? ? ? ? ? Your Friend,? ? ? ? ? ? Little Johnny? ? ? ? ? ? Now Little Johnny knew that Jesus really knew what kind of boy he was (Brat).? ? ? ? ? ? So, he ripped up the letter and decided to give it another try.? ? ? ? ? ? Dear Jesus,? ? ? ? ? ? I've been an OK boy this year and I want a new bicycle.? ? ? ? ? ? Yours Truly,? ? ? ? ? ? Little Johnny? ? ? ? ? ? Well, Little Johnny knew this wasn't totally honest so he tore it up and tried again.? ? ? ? ? ? Dear Jesus,? ? ? ? ? ? I've thought about being a good boy this year and can I have a new bicycle?? ? ? ? ? ? Signed,? ? ? ? ? ? Little Johnny? ? ? ? ? ? Well, Little Johnny looked deep down in his heart, which by the way was what his mother was really wanting. He crumpled up the letter and threw it in the trash can and went running outside.? ? ? ? ? ? He aimlessly wandered about; depressed because of the way he treated his parents and really considering his actions. He finally found himself in front of a Catholic Church.? ? ? ? ? ? Little Johnny went inside and knelt down, looking around not knowing what he should really do. Little Johnny finally got up and began to walk out the door and was looking at all the statues. All of a sudden he grabbed a small one and ran out the door. He went home hid it under his bed and wrote this letter.? ? ? ? ? ? Jesus,? ? ? ? ? ? I've broken most of the Ten Commandments; shot spit wads in school, tore up my sister's Barbie doll and lots more. I'm desperate. I've got your mama. If you ever want to see her again, give me a bike.? ? ? ? ? ? Signed,? ? ? ? ? ? You know whoView hundreds more jokes online.Email this joke to a friend

Fractured TrustDr. John GoetschThu, 04/11/2024 - 00:10 Every relationship is formed and perpetuated by an invisible link called trust. That binding link is forged through loving communication, meticulous integrity, and honest transparent motives.Trust is defined as “confidence, faith, belief, sureness, reliance, certitude, and conviction.” By its very nature, trust is generally built over time, yet it can be fractured instantaneously by a single word, action, or attitude. Though it's not impossible to rebuild trust, once it has been fractured, it's like a fractured bone—it doesn't heal immediately, and it has a huge impact on every aspect of one's life.? Our relationship with Jesus Christ is built on this trust factor. Most of us did not get saved the moment we first heard the gospel. It took some time for the Holy Spirit to gently draw us to the honest truths of God's Word as they were preached or shared with us. We listened to others share their testimonies of their confidence in God and eagerness to grow in their relationship with Him. We realized something was missing in our life, but we wanted to be certain that our faith was based on something concrete, real, and trustworthy. We recall the overwhelming assurance we received from God the moment our sins were forgiven and we became a child of God. Our trust then grew as we worshiped Him, obeyed Him, and served? Him.? Satan knows that the only way we can truly please God is with this whole-hearted trust and unwavering faith. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews? 11:6). Because Satan knows this, he is wholly and completely set on fracturing our trust in God. Note that he is not content with a slight stress fracture of your spiritual pinky finger. He has a sledgehammer, and he wields it with every intent to break every bone in your spiritual being. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8).How exactly does Satan go about fracturing our trust? Let's go back to the beginning. God provided a beautiful place called the Garden of Eden for the first man and woman to live. After placing them there, He gave them a commandment: “And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:16-17). This was a simple command, and in it God emphasized the freedom He was giving man: of all these trees “thou mayest freely eat.” God was in no way prohibiting man, but rather protecting him through His guidance and instruction.? When Satan enters the Garden in Genesis chapter 3 his strategy is quickly seen. He begins by planting a doubt in Adam's and Eve's minds about God. “. . . Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?” (Genesis 3:1). He plants the thought in their minds that God is not trustworthy—that He is perhaps withholding something good from them and that He really does not have their best interest in mind. Satan then proceeds to suggest the opposite of God's words: “And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die” (Genesis 3:4). He is slandering the very character of God by challenging His holy integrity and the trustworthiness of His Word. Adam and Eve took the bait, and the entire human race plunged into sin. All because of a fractured trust!Now let's be honest: we are not looking at a myriad of trees in a garden trying to figure out what we can eat and what we cannot. But the subtle strategy of Satan never changes, and we must likewise guard against a fractured trust.? We clearly read in God's Word that God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1), but we entertain thoughts of perhaps other possibilities based on scientific theories.? We read that God made two genders—male and female (Genesis 1:27)—and we look in the mirror and know that we are one or the other yet wonder if perhaps we should choose the opposite.? We read that “marriage is honorable” and sanctioned by God (Hebrews 13:4), but we imagine we might be missing out on something by remaining faithful to our spouse.? We read that God founded, empowers, and protects the local church (Matthew 16:18), but we think we might be happier with less involvement or commitment.? Once we allow ourselves that sliver of doubt, uncertainty, question, fear, suspicion, or distrust—we are in trouble. We then begin to look at everything in God's Word through that lens of uncertainty.? So, what do we do when we have allowed Satan to fracture our trust in God? What do we do when we find ourselves with doubts that are subtly displacing the solid trust we had in? God?The answer is simple: we go back to the truth. We remind ourselves that it is never God who fractures our trust. “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” (Numbers 23:19). Indeed, we serve a God who “cannot lie” (Titus 1:2).? Jesus Himself is the truth: “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). Rebuilding trust in God is a matter of turning to Him in faith and getting to know Him as He is. “And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee” (Psalm 9:10).Just as it would be nearly impossible to walk a mile with two broken legs or to carry a heavy object with two broken arms, it is impossible to love God and live wholeheartedly for Him with a fractured trust. But when we turn in trust to God, we are blessed. “O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him” (Psalm 34:8).? ? Category Christian Living Tags Faith Christian Living

Preaching how God hates abortion has its place because He calls us to speak His truth in our generation, but it must be done in love and gentleness. God's most interested in drawing lost sinners to Himself through His Son Jesus Christ.

? Temple Baptist Church - 4-3-2024John 15:1-2? Introduction:? A.? In John 15:1, we find the last of the Seven “I AM's” of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is openly claiming to be the great “I AM THAT I AM” of the Old Testament, Jehovah God.? ? 1.? The Jews fully understood the ramifications of each of these statements.? Jesus Christ was telling them? that it was He who spoke to Moses? from the burning bush in the Book of Exodus!? 2.? This Jews knew that Jesus was a great teacher who did things that could have only been done by one sent from God.? ? Here we find great accountability!? John 3:1-2? There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:? (2)? The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.? B.? The Book of John portrays Jesus Christ as the Son of God which makes Him Divine.? In the Book of John, we find that each of the seven “I AM's” express a different aspect of Who and what Jesus did.? “I Am Bread of Life” – John 6:35.? We need sustenance.? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? “I Am Light of The World” – John 8:12.? We need luminance.? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? “I Am Door of The Sheep” – John 10:9.? We need entrance.? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? “I Am the Good Shepherd” – John 10:14.? We need guidance.? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? “I Am Resurrection and The Life” – John 11:25.? We need assurance.? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? “I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life” – John 14:6.? We need salvation.? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? “I Am the True Vine” – John 15:1.? We need abiding.? C.? Each of the “I AM's” expressed a different attribute of Jesus Christ and these aspects could only be pertain to Almighty God.? 1.? ? In the phrase “I AM,” we find singularity.? Jesus Christ, in each of these sayings, is telling the world that these 7 things find their totality in Him and Him alone.? ? 2.? ? There is also an unstated truth? found in these words.? If there is a “True Vine,” and there is.? His name is Christ Jesus, our Lord.? ? Then there must also be “False Vines,”? and there are.? 3.? ? Too often God's people break away from their attachment to Jesus Christ? and become attached to the “vines” of this world.? These attachments stop fruit bearing for God and cause fruit bearing for their worldly vines.? We will deal with these believers later.? D.? The analogy:? “I am the true vine.”? I want to look at three aspects of the analogy as to give us the right Biblical perspective of what Christ is telling us in these verses.? 1.? ? The Prophetic aspect? fulfilled in Christ Jesus.? “I am the True Vine.”? 2.? ? The Owner's aspect? fulfilled in the Father.? “My Father is the Husbandman.”? Luke 10:21? In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.? 3.? ? The Spiritual aspect? fulfilled in the Believer.? “Every branch in me.? Romans 12:5? So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.1.? The Prophetic aspect fulfilled in Christ Jesus.? ? a.? When our Lord gave the truths found in John 15 concerning the relationship of the believer to Christ in abiding in the “True Vine,”? these were not unfamiliar words? to the Jew.? ? When speaking to the Pharisees,? our Lord told them Who He was!? John 8:57-58? Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?? (58)? Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.? Christ was before Abraham making Christ the Great I AM!? Genesis 1:1? In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.? Ephesians 3:9? And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:? Colossians 1:15-17? Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:? (16)? For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:? (17)? And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.? Revelation 4:11? Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.? b.? We find the Prophecy of the True Vine in the Book of Isaiah which was written app. 740 years before the birth of Christ.? Isaiah 11:1? And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:? ? A rod: a strong branch; a stem: the trunk or stump; a Branch: capitalized: Christ Jesus, which grows from “his roots!”? 1)? “A Branch (Christ, Israel's Messiah) shall grow our of His roots.”? The Branch …His roots!” Christ is both the Root and the Branch that grew from the Root through the Stem of Jesse: of the linage to David.? Isaiah 11:10? And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.? Here, in the same context, Christ the Branch is called the “root of Jesse” from which Christ came.? 2)? Chapter 11 of Isaiah is also prophetic of the Millennial Kingdom of the last days which will transpire after the end of the Tribulation Period or Jacob's Trouble.? At the time that the Book of Isaiah was written, this is prophetic of an event that will be 2,740 years in the future (740 BC to 2,000+ years AD).? Isaiah, chapter 53, which is prophetic of the Messiah's rejection and crucifixion, Christ Jesus is called a “tender plant … as a root out of dry ground.”? A Babe is born in the darkness of Israel Who is the almighty Jehovah God, the “Root!”? Isaiah 53:1-2? Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?? (2)? For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.? 3)? In the last chapter of the Bible, Revelation 22, we find that Christ Jesus is the “root and the offspring of David.”? As the Root, He bears David and as the “offspring,” David bears Christ.? Revelation 22:16? I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.? c.? ? In the Book of Luke, chapter 3:23-38, we find the genealogy of Christ from “(as was supposed) the son of Joseph back to Adam who was the son of God.? Luke 3:23? And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli,? Luke 3:38? Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God.? Conclusion:? ? The Prophecy of Christ, the True Vine, was neither foreign nor was it unknown to the Jews.? “I AM the True Vine” simply spoke of Israel's Messiah, Christ Jesus, being Jehovah God of old.? 1.? Christ is both the “Root” and the “Vine.”? Revelation 22:16? I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.? ? Christ is the root from which David, the King of Israel, was born.? 2.? Christ was the root from which the Messianic Line came.? John 8:58? Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.? ? 3.? God's children are the branches that grow out of the vine.? Notice I said “grow out” of the vine because the vine is Christ!

? Temple Baptist Church - 3-31-2024Psalm 119:105-112? Introduction:? A.? Psalm 119: 176 verses, 22 stanzas, 8 verses in each stanza, each verse in the Hebrew begins with the corresponding letter of the Hebrew Alphabet.? An amazing example of Divine Design.? ? 1.? In Psalm 119, we find the magnification of the Word of God.? 2.? In Psalm 119, we find a reciprocal relationship.? a)? The relationship of the Word of God to the believer and? b)? The relationship of the Believer to the Word of God.? 3.? In Psalm 119, we find that a one-way relationship is no relationship at all!? If the Bible means little or nothing to the believer, then the Bible is of little or no help to him/her.? B.? Thus, the importance of our Bible, the Word of God is magnified in this Psalm.? Think about it.? 1.? What would we do without our Bible?? 2.? What would we know about God, Jesus Christ, creation, sin, and salvation without our Bible.? 3.? How would we fare in this life without our Bible.? We would be like sheep without a Shepherd!? A life of accident with no meaning.? C. Tonight, the Hebrew letter NUN is the fourteenth letter of the Hebrew Alphabet.? NUN means “faithfulness.”? ? The Psalm begins with Guidance in verse 105.? The older that we get in the Lord, the more we understand His faithfulness.? 2 Timothy 2:13? If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.? D.? In the first verse of NUN, we find the faithfulness of God in guidance from beginning to end.? Psalms 119:105? NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.? 1.? A Lamp to guard our Steps.? Our walk with God has a beginning and the Lamp of God's Word begins to guide each step.? Job 23:11? My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined.? Psalms 37:23? The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.? 2.? A Light to light our Path.? Our walk with God has an ending as God's Word lights our Path till the end of the road.? ? a)? His Paths are Old Paths as God does not change.? Jeremiah 6:16? Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.? b)? His Paths are often hidden Paths as to keep our eyes upon both our steps and ultimate home.? Psalms 77:19? Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.? E.? The Word of God shows the Believer that God is Faithful to guide and teaches the Believer to be Faithful to follow!? 1.? Verse 105.? We will be Faithful in our Walk with God.? a.? The Word of God is faithful to guide our Walk.? Each step we take is a step in the light of the Lamp of God's Word.? If you have ever walked with a lamp, you will understand what the Psalmist is saying.? You cannot see much around or ahead of you when using a lamp.? But it shows you where you are stepping.? So many, when come to a place where a hard decision is made, we must rely on the Bible to show us the next step to take.? One step at a time and you will be fine.? b.? The Word of God is faithful to guide our Path.? While working in the coal mines, I wore a light on my hard hat. You could turn the button on the side of it to broaden the beam of light as to use it for close work.? You could also narrow the beam of light and see at a great distance.? We would call it a seal beamed light.? It show you down the path but did not reveal the individual steps that it would take to get there.? c.? We can see up close so as not to stumble and we can also see afar so as not to waver.? 1 John 1:5-7? This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.? (6)? If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:? (7)? But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.? 2.? Verse 106-108.? The Word of God is faithful to guide our Words.? a.? Verse 106.? Faithful to Keep our Word.? Our words or vows made to the Lord are to be kept in faithfulness.? So many begin right but end wrong.? They begin down the road of service but are distracted and enticed by other things that take precedence.? ? b.? Verse 107.? Faithful in our Afflictions.? So many serve the Lord when the going is good and great things are happening, but the Word of God helps us to trust the Lord with trial come and discouragement soon follows.? They use such words as “I used to do this or that but no longer do.? Faithful to death is what Paul said in 2 Timothy, chapter 4.? “I finished my course.”? c.? Verse 108.? The Word of God is faithful to guide our Worship.? Our offerings to God will be directed by being Bible oriented.? In Bible College, most young preachers with families were about as poor as a “church mouse.”? One preacher said that he was to broke to pay attention.? There was some thing that we said to encourage each other:? “Just praise the Lord anyhow!”? Worship is not based upon good or bad.? Worship is based upon Who and What our precious Lord means to us.? 3.? Verses 109-110.? The Word of God is faithful to guide:? a.? Verse 109.? The Word of God is faithful to guide our Thinking.? Our soul is in our hands.? The Word of God will help us to keep our hearts in line.? In order to remember something, we must have seen something, heard something, experienced something, or read something.? The value of having God's Word to read, hear, and study can expose us to Truth and have Scripture to remember when needed.? We also have the precious Holy Spirit to help us to recall what we have read, heard, and studied. The Old Testament believers did not have a house full of Bibles or carry electronic devices that have the Bible on them.? b.? Verse 110.? The Word of God is faithful to guide us around the Pitfalls and Traps of the wicked.? Satan is devious in his ways and his followers joy in watching the godly fall.? John 8:32? “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”? ? Job 33:26-28? He shall pray unto God, and he will be favourable unto him: and he shall see his face with joy: for he will render unto man his righteousness.? (27)? He looketh upon men, and if any say, I have sinned, and perverted that which was right, and it profited me not;? (28)? He will deliver his soul from going into the pit, and his life shall see the light.? 4.? Verses 111-112.? The Word of God is faithful to guide:? a.? Verse 111.? The Word of God is faithful to guide our Heart and our ways.? Many believers have not had a godly heritage and have, after salvation, adapted to the ways of God's Word and people.? What a wonderful spiritual heritage we have in common.? The same Father, the same Bible, the same family.? Proverbs 23:19? Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.? 2 Peter 1:1-3? Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:? (2)? Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,? (3)? According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:? b.? Verse 112.? The Word of God is faithful to guide our Lives for the rest of our lives.? Philippians 4:9? Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.? Philippians 1:20-21? According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.? (21)? For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.? Conclusion:? We live in a “dark world.”? A world darkened by sin and wickedness.? A dark world where right has become the enemy and wrong the friend.? The Word of God will Faithfully Guide the believer from beginning to end.? The Word of God is our Friend!

? Temple Baptist Church - 3-31-2024Luke 24:1-12? Introduction:? ? A.? Resurrection Sunday.? A day set apart to celebrate our Risen Lord.? ? Matthew 28:6? He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.? B. Once again, we come to the Garden Tomb and find it, as always, still empty!? The “Stone” which the builders rejected became the “Chief Corner Stone” and, ultimately, the “Capstone of Christianity.”? ? C. There are many “Cardinal Doctrines” in the Bible:? Fundamental, Key, Basic, Central, Principal.? When I use the term “Cardinal Doctrine”, I want you to understand that all doctrine is of major importance, but without the doctrine of the Resurrection, all others would be in vain.? ? D. The resurrection of Jesus Christ was both the end and the beginning.? The finishing of the Gospel, a completed work.? The Beginning of a new life in Christ Jesus for the believer.? 1.? The resurrection was the finishing of the Gospel.? In our text for this morning, we find the Gospel.? ? a)? The death of Christ -? Luke 24:7? Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.? b)? The burial of Christ - Luke 24:1? Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.? c)? The resurrection of Christ - Luke 24:6? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,? d)? 1 Corinthians, chapter 15, speaks of the magnitude of the resurrection.? In 1 Corinthians, chapter 15:1-4, we find the Gospel is perfectly defined.? 1 Corinthians 15:1-4? Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;? (2)? By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.? (3)? For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;? (4)? And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:? 1)? Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures.? The Son of God died once for all.? Sin's payment was made in full.? The Father looked upon the travail of His Son and was satisfied.? John 19:30? When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.? Romans 5:8? But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.? 1 Timothy 2:4? Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.? 2)? Christ was buried.? Placed in a Garden Tomb for 3 days and 3 nights.? There is no Good Friday found in the Bible!? Christ died on Wednesday.? Matthew 12:40? For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.? 3)? Christ rose again the third day according to the scriptures.? The Father's Acceptance of the price paid.? Romans 1:4? And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:? Matthew 28:6? He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.? Mark 16:1-6? And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.? (2)? And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.? 4)? There is the presentation of the Blood of Christ.? ? John 20:17? Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.? Hebrews 9:11-12? But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;? (12)? Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.? 2.? The resurrection was the beginning of a new life in Christ.? ? a.? The Resurrection gives the believer hope in eternity.? I thank God that there's a better day coming!? ? 1)? Without the Resurrection of Christ, Calvary would have been in vain; we would still be in our sins; and there would be no hope of life after death!? 2) Without the Resurrection of Christ, there would be no finishing!? No finishing of the Cross.? I am glad this morning that it is finished for time and eternity. Sin paid for in full and redemption purchased.? Hallelujah, what a Saviour!? 3) Without the Resurrection of Christ, there would be no faithfulness to the Scriptures!? This Bible that I hold in my hands would be just another fiction book.? 1 Corinthians 15:19-22? If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.? (20)? But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.? (21)? For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.? (22)? For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.? 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18? But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.? (14)? For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.? (15)? For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.? (16)? For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:? (17)? Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.? (18)? Wherefore comfort one another with these words.? Titus 2:11-14? For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,? (12)? Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;? (13)? Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;? (14)? Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.? b.? The Resurrection gives the believer confidence in life.? Everything is going to be alright!? Philippians 1:20-24? According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.? (21)? For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.? (22)? But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.? (23)? For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:? (24)? Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.? c.? The Resurrection gives the believer peace in death.? Death is the “door” through which we enter into the eternal presence of the Lord!? Psalms 23:4? Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.? John 11:25? Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:? Revelation 14:13? And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.? d.? The Resurrection gives the believer boldness in witness.? The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth!? Romans 1:16? For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.? 2 Timothy 1:12? For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.? Conclusion:? The Gospel is now finished as Christ has died for the sins of the world, was buried, and rose again for our Justification.? ? Let's stand and sing together: “Because He Lives.”? “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow; because He lives, all fear is gone; because I know I know He holds my future; life is worth the living just because He lives!? And then one day, I'll cross that river; I'll fight life's final war with pain; and then as death gives place to victory; I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives.”

Today's category: LawyersYou Can't Take It With You? ? ? ? ? ? A dying man gathered his lawyer, doctor and clergyman at his bed side and handed each of them an envelope containing $25,000 in cash. He made them each promise that after his death and during his repose, they would place the three envelopes in his coffin. He told them that he wanted to have enough money to enjoy the next life.? ? ? ? ? ? A week later the man died. At the Wake, the Lawyer and Doctor and Clergyman, each concealed an envelope in the coffin and bid their old client and friend farewell. By chance, these three met several months later. Soon the Clergyman, feeling guilty, blurted out a confession saying that there was only $10,000 in the envelope he placed in the coffin. He felt, rather than waste all the money, he would send it to a Mission in South America. He asked for their forgiveness. The Doctor, moved by the gentle Clergymans sincerity, confessed that he too had kept some of the money for a worthy medical charity. The envelope, he admitted, had only $8000 in it. He said, he too could not bring himself to waste the money so frivolously when it could be used to benefit others.? ? ? ? ? ? By this time the Lawyer was seething with self-righteous outrage. He expressed his deep disappointment in the felonious behavior of two of his oldest and most trusted friends. "I am the only one who kept his promise to our dying friend. I want you both to know that the envelope I placed in the coffin contained the full amount. Indeed, my envelope contained my personal check for the entire $25,000."View hundreds more jokes online.Email this joke to a friend

How to Serve the Volunteer Teams You LeadJacob FlemingThu, 03/28/2024 - 00:05 Nothing compares to the privilege of serving in the house of the Lord! My heart echoes David's: “For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness” (Psalm 84:10).Along with that privilege comes responsibility; and when that responsibility includes leading others, it is imperative that we have a plan. My pastor, mentor, and friend, Dr. Paul Chappell, says, “Churches struggle when they establish goals without a strategy and ministry without structure.” Unfortunately, many times our volunteer teams never reach their full potential because of a lack of structure.? Following are five simple principles that can help you serve the volunteer team you lead and establish a culture that promotes the forward momentum of God's work.? Strategically Recruit? To lead a volunteer team, we must first have willing and able volunteers. Some volunteers will do just that—volunteer. Others, we need to recruit. And then, we must have the wisdom to place each volunteer where they will have the most impact on a weekly basis.? As leaders, we should have a personal goal to set each volunteer up for success. One of the most helpful ways to know where specific volunteers will be successful is to learn what their spiritual and natural gifts are and then involve them in areas where their gifts will be put to the best use. In addition to gifting, different areas of ministry require different levels of oversight and discernment. For instance, stocking guest tables or preparing refreshments for an event wouldn't involve the extensive background checks verifying childcare workers would require.? The fact is, God has created every person precious and unique, fitted to serve Him. As ministry leaders, we want to help our volunteer teams reach their potential by serving in their naturally gifted areas. Generally speaking, it is much easier to take a little time and effort to discern the right position for a volunteer than it is to make an adjustment when someone is already actively serving in the position that you have (mistakenly) placed them in.Think, for example, of a church member volunteering for “whatever you need me to do.” At the moment, you happen to need door greeters for the first impressions team. This volunteer, however, has an introverted personality. Should you place this volunteer in the door greeter position? Most likely, that wouldn't be the best fit. But this volunteer could shine in many other areas. Perhaps they could still be on the first impressions team, but doing the work of stocking supplies, treats, etc. On the other hand, there may be more extroverted people who would be happier to greet, knowing that the more tedious work of stocking supplies is cared for.? Equip with Resources? As ministry leaders, we are to equip “the saints for the work of the ministry” (Ephesians 4:12). One of the greatest ways you can encourage your volunteer team to reach their potential is to equip them with the training and resources they need to excel in that specific ministry. Here are four areas in which you can equip your volunteers:? Job descriptions: Write out a purpose statement for each ministry with key responsibilities for each volunteer position. (The book Order in the Church by Paul Chappell has some helpful sample descriptions.) If you have not provided clear communication to a volunteer, don't get frustrated when they don't serve exactly how you desire.? Clear expectations: Volunteers want to be told what is expected. A great way to frustrate your volunteer team is to leave your expectations open-ended or fuzzy.? Contact information: If a volunteer has questions or an emergency on the day that they are serving, who do they call? Give them your phone number and the phone numbers of any other people they should turn to for help.Periodic training: Strategically schedule ministry meetings throughout the year during which you can provide further training. For instance, you may train your first impressions team three weeks before Easter so everyone has a fresh reminder of the ways to serve first-time guests.? Reward Regularly? It is impossible to encourage the wrong person. Volunteers sacrifice time and often finances to actively participate in serving our Lord. It's a good thing to recognize their sacrifice and encourage them to keep up the great work. Regular recognition can put wind in the sails of your team members. Here are some suggestions:Yearly: Recognize a ministry team in a Sunday night service.Quarterly: Write a thank you note with a candy bar.Monthly: Have a bite-size treat, waiting at their serving station.? Weekly: Verbalize your gratitude with a heart-felt “thank you.”Value the Team's Response? Your volunteer has strategically been placed, equipped with resources and training, and is feeling encouraged by serving. By now, there's a great chance that they have gleaned knowledge in their ministry and have ideas that can make their specific ministry even better. To be effective leaders, we must take the time to listen to their input.It's easy to receive compliments. But leaders are willing to receive complaints too. Make sure the compliments don't go to your head, and make sure to handle the complaints prayerfully and responsively.? Empower Responsibly? The purpose of delegation is not for you to do less, but for you to get more done effectively. The leader should always be watching for a volunteer team member that potentially could step up and help co-lead a part of the ministry. Be willing to share the ministry and allow well-trained volunteers to be empowered to help make decisions.? The person who builds by himself won't accomplish nearly as much as if he had a team of leaders helping him build. Can you imagine Nehemiah building the walls by himself? He would have ended up in the place many of us have found, or nearly found, ourselves: blown up, burned out, or quitting in discouragement. Build your volunteer team, and build with your volunteer team.It is my prayer that these five principles will encourage you as you serve your volunteer teams.? Strategically Recruit? Equip with Resources? Reward Regularly? Value the Team's Response? Empower Responsibly? Category Pastoral Leadership Ministry Resources Order in the Church Order in the Church Dr. Paul Chappell Guided by Grace Guided by Grace Dr. Paul Chappell Tags Local Church Church Service Leadership

? Temple Baptist Church - 3-27-2024John 14:28-31? Introduction:? ? A.? In verse 30, we find the prophecy of coming of the “accuser” to find fault in Christ Jesus.? Satan will find none!? After the crowd took Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, He spoke very little to His disciples or in His defense.? This will be the fulfillment of? Isaiah 53:7, which reads:? “He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.”? 1.? The “prince of this world” led Israel to its demise.? 2.? The “prince of this world” leads all who reject and accuse Christ Jesus to their demise.? B.? In the word “prince” we find Description.? Satan is called “the prince of this world.”? ? 1.? ? In the word “prince” we see? Power -? Luke 22:53? When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.? 2.? In the word “prince” we see Position -? 2 Corinthians 4:4? In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.3.? In the word “prince” we see Prominence - Ephesians 2:2? Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:? 4.? In the word “prince” we see Pleasure -? Matthew 4:8-9? Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;? (9)? And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.? C.? In the word “prince” we find Delusion:? 1.? He is “god” but only by permission -? Matthew 4:9-10? And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.? (10)? Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.? 2.? He has control, and he is not in control - John 12:31? Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.? 3.? He is powerful and yet he is not omnipotent - Jude 9? Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.? 4.? He is wealthy and yet he owns nothing - Matthew 4:8-9? Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9? And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.? Psalms 24:1? The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.? D.? How did the arch enemy of both God and man become the “god of this world?”? 1.? ? Because He? Is Worshiped -? 2 Corinthians 11:14? And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.? (This prince is transformed into an angel of light; a thing of great beauty.)? Isaiah 14:12-14? How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!? 13? For thou hast said in thine heart,? I will ascend? into heaven,? I will exalt? my throne above the stars of God:? I will sit? also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: 14? ? I will ascend? above the heights of the clouds;? I will be? like the most High.? ? 2.? Because He Is Adored -? Matthew 4:9? And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.? (The world loves their prince because they love their sin.)? 2 Corinthians 11:14? And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.? ? 3.? Because He Is Emulated - Ephesians 2:2? Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:? (The world conforms to image of their god just as we are to conform to the image of our God.)? John 8:44? Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.? 4.? Because He Is In Control - John 8:43-44? Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. 44? Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.? (As a father controls his children, this prince controls his.)? Conclusion:? The world is deceived by the “prince of this world” but the redeemed are looking for to their “Prince” who is coming soon.? Revelation 1:5-8? And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,? (6)? And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.? (7)? Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.? (8)? I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

? Temple Baptist Church - 3-24-2024Romans 11:33-36Introduction:? A. A Biblical Interpretation before a Practical Application.? Chapters 9-11 of the Book of Romans make up what is called a Parenthetical. An insertion that acts as an explanation of additional information within the context.? 1. These chapters deal with the Nation of Israel instead of the individual.? Before these chapters, Paul has been dealing with the salvation of men or the lack there of, but chapters 9-11 deal with the Nation of Israel and their relationship to God.? 2. Chapters 9-11 all begin with the? Nation of Israel and end with the Nation of Israel. Chapter 9 shows Israel's Past; Chapter 10 shows Israel's Present; Chapter 11 shows Israel's Prophecy.? 3. Israel was and is God's chosen nation!? These chapters explain what Israel did in? chapter 9 (Rejection of their Messiah), what God is now doing with Israel in Chapter 10 (Salvation to the individual Jews who accept Christ Jesus), and Chapter 11 shows the future of the Nation? (Israel's Repentance and Return to their Messiah).? B. Paul ends this parenthetical trilogy of chapters, 9-11,? with a doxology. “Doxology,” in the Ancient Greek language is compound word:? from? δόξα,? doxa, "glory" and -λογία, -logia, "saying” or “word."? C. God is not done with Israel.? At the end of Jacob's Trouble, also called the Tribulation Period, Israel as a nation will look upon Him whom they have pierced and nationally return to their Messiah.? Zechariah 12:8-10? In that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David; and the house of David shall be as God, as the angel of the LORD before them. (9) And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. (10) And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.? Romans 11:25-27? For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. (26) And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: (27) For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.? D. That is the interpretation. Chapter 11:33-36 is Israel's guarantee.? God knows what He is doing! God loves Israel and He will restore the nation back to Himself.? E. I will give three types? of wisdom found in the Bible before I look at this doxology.? 1. Worldly Wisdom:? things that we learn over the years. We gain knowledge and then learn how to apply it rightly. This worldly wisdom can be learned or experiential.? a) Learned wisdom.? It is the wise individual who seeks counsel and advice. It is a wise individual who learns from those who have already learned. When you become “know it all,” you become a foolish individual.? b) Experiential wisdom.? Though learned wisdom is the simplest way to learn, often experience is the best teacher.? 2. Spiritual Wisdom:? spiritual knowledge rightly applied. Spiritual wisdom comes from God! It can be taught by the people of God, or it can be taught by the Word of God.? a. The First Mention of wisdom in the Bible:? Exodus 28:3? And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom? I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron's garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.? b. The “spirit of wisdom” comes from God. James 1:5? If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.? 3. God's Wisdom:? The wisdom of God is an all know or omniscient wisdom. God knows all things and there are some things that? only God knows and can only be gotten from Him.? The Bible declares? that God's wisdom in infinite:? Psalms 147:5? Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite.? F. Wisdom defined:? accumulated knowledge or enlightenment , the trait of utilizing knowledge and experience with common sense and insight, the quality of being prudent and sensible.? (By my definition, wisdom is the right application of or understanding of how to use knowledge.)? G. One of the attributes of God is that of omniscience.? This is means “omni” or “all” and “science” or “knowledge.” The state of having infinite knowledge. As Dr. B. R. Lakin so put it, “Has it ever occurred to you that nothing has ever occurred to God?” God knows everything about everything!? H. There is a difference between having knowledge and having wisdom.? Many men of our times have had great intellect, extensive education, and yet have died without Christ! That is the most foolish thing that I can think of. “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God!” Men like Confucius who have left behind a legacy of worldly wisdom have denied Christ, died lost, and are in hell today.? J. God not only has all knowledge, but He also has all wisdom!? God's knowledge and wisdom are far above that of the smartest and wisest of all men.? Isaiah 55:9? For? as? the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.? (Notice the analogy here: “as the heavens are higher than the earth.”)? K. Verse 36. Now for the application.? If God takes care of His elect nation that rejected Christ Jesus, how much the more will He take care of His children who have placed their trust in Him! I think it important that we? understand God's wisdom as we are taught biblically to trust Him in relationship to our circumstances and needs.? 1. Our Salvation is of Him -? John 6:35? And Jesus said unto them,? I am? the bread of life: he that? cometh to me? shall never hunger; and he that? believeth on me? shall never thirst. (Salvation is an act of God but it is also a choice of the individual!)? Matthew 11:28-30? Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden,? and I will give you rest.? (29) Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart:? and ye shall find rest unto your souls. (30) For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.? 2.? Our Circumstances are through Him - Proverbs 3:5-6? Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. ? (6)? In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.? (We are often confused, humanly speaking, by the things that happen in our lives that we cannot control. Yet, the Bible is clear that we are to trust completely when we do not understand.)? Job 23:10-12? But he? knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. (11) My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. (12) Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.? Matthew 6:31-34? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? ? (32)? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. ? (33)? But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. ? (34)? Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.? (In times of uncertainty, God wants our priority to be Him, not our temporal needs. He has assured us that He knows what we need and will supply them. God wants our unwavering faith to be inn Him as He controls our circumstances.)? 3. Our Future is to Him? -? 1 John 3:1-2? Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. (2) Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.? Conclusion:? No matter what comes, the wisdom of God is our guarantee that all will work together for good to those of us who love Him and, in the end all will be well.? 1. The Wisdom Of God Penned Down In The Bible.? 2. The Wisdom Of God Previewed In Creation.? 3. The Wisdom Of God Personified In Jesus Christ.? 4. The Wisdom Of God Performed In Salvation.? 5. The Wisdom Of God Personalized In Our Justification.? 6. The Wisdom Of God Perfected In Our Eternity.

? Temple Baptist Church - 3-24-2024Psalm 119:97-104? Introduction:? A. Psalm 119 contains 176 verses with 22 stanzas and 8 verses per stanza with each verse in a stanza beginning with the corresponding letter of the Hebrew alphabet. An acrostic.? B. Tonight, I want to look at the 13th? stanza, verses 97-104, and the Hebrew letter MEM.? 1. This letter MEM has two different forms – the regular letter? מ, which is open at the bottom? and the special final letter? ם, which is closed. I wanted to mention this without spending a lot of time on it. We are not here tonight to learn the Hebrew language. We are here to convey a simple truth.? 2. The regular MEM? מ, represents everything that we understand while the special letter MEM? ם, represents everything that we do not comprehend.? 3. In Genesis, chapter 1, we find both uses of MEM in one verse.? In the story of the Creation, the text mentions that God separated the waters above the firmament and below it. The first? MEM? represents the waters above the firmament, which we and the second? MEM? the waters below the firmament. Therefore, this letter is connected to the element of water.? Genesis 1:7 And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.? 4. God made a division between the waters above the firmament, which we can see, and the waters below the firmament which we can only see that which is above ground with the water underground not seen.? 5. There are parts of the Bible that we know and understand. There are spiritual truths found in the Bible that are later grasped through continuation of study of the Scriptures.? 6. The numerical value of MEM is 40, an important number in the Bible as it signifies ripeness and maturity.? a) The life of Moses was split into three segments of 40 years. Each segment of 40 was a stage of development in his life and ministry.? b) The rains of the Great Flood lasted for 40 days.? c) Moses stayed on Mount Sinai for 40 days to receive the Law.? d) Jonah the prophet told the people of Ninveh that they had 40 days to repent.? e) The Children of Israel wandered in the desert for 40 years.? f) The LORD Jesus fasted 40 days before the Mount of Temptation.? C. MEM represents water. In this portion of the 119th? Psalm, I want to look at the Word of God in relationship to our spiritual understanding. Many of God's people have only head knowledge of God's Word but, in life, the Word of God has little practical use. Putting the Word of God into practice, especially in decision making.? D. In your Bible, water represents the Word of God.? Ephesians 5:26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,? John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.? John 4:10-14 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. (11) The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? (12) Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? (13) Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: (14) But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.? E. The common thread in these 8 verses is learning.? Proverbs 4:5-7 Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. (6) Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. (7) Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.? 1. Verse 97. Knowledge. “O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.” The motivation for growing in God's Word is found in this verse. There are two aspects vital to our learning:? a. Love. “O how love I thy law! The words “O how” are exclamatory. This is a strong statement exemplifying the strength of “love I thy law!” Though punctuation is not a part of the actual text, the exclamation point at the end of the statement agrees with the wording. We will never gain knowledge of the Word of God unless we love the Word of God.? Job 23:11-12 My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. (12) Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.? ? b. Meditation. “It is my meditation all the day.” Another key to knowledge of Scripture is meditation. Emersed in the Bible! Controlled by the Bible. As we saturate our minds and hearts with the Word of God, the Spirit of God can bring the Word to our remembrance when needed.? Isaiah 55:8-11 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (10) For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: (11) So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.? c. So, what's the problem in our day? Two-fold:? 1) It is a Pew Problem.? Hosea 4:1 Hear the word of the LORD, ye children of Israel: for the LORD hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land.? Hebrews 5:11-12 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. (12) For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.? 2) It is a Pulpit Problem.? Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.? 2. Verse 98. Wisdom. “Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies.” Spiritual wisdom is greater than the wisdom of the world and will overcome the wicked.? a. The Master. “Thou … hast made me” is key to adding wisdom to knowledge. By my definition, wisdom is the right application of knowledge. When we love and meditate in God's Word, God the Holy Ghost will teach us how to use it in our daily lives and future days.? b. The Median. “through thy commandments”? Instead of the wisdom of the world which is good to some degree, the wisdom that comes through the application of the Word of God which is all good.? 3. Verse 99-102. Understanding. “Spiritual Engineering.” Knowledge is learning facts; wisdom it learning to put what you learn to work; Understanding is knowing why they work. What does understanding of God's commandment do?? a. Verse 98. They make you wiser than your enemies. You are not ignorant of Satan's devices.? b. Verse 99. They make you wise enough to be an example in both word and truth. You eventually become a teacher of teachers.? c. Verse 100. They make you wiser because you do not follow the wrong paths others before you have trodden.? d. Verse 101. They make you wise enough to know that sinfulness brings about a woeful end.? e. Verse 102. They make you wise enough to not think that you have “arrived” and are foolproof. Satan often attacks us in our strengths in stead of our weaknesses. Never get too wise to be smart!? 4. Verses 103-104. Never get to the place where you are no longer a learner. Often, teachers quit being students and become spiritually stale.? a. Keep the Word of God Sweet so as not to get Stale.? b. Keep the Word of God Faithfully to prevent going into the False Way.

? Temple Baptist Church - 3-20-2024John 14:23-27? Introduction:? A. In the context of our verses for this evening,? we find the Lord Jesus Christ, just before His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension, helping His disciples to adapt to what was going to transpire. Heretofore, Our Lord had been with His disciples day and night for 3 ½ years.? B. They knew His Person,? His presence, His provision, and His protection. Now, they would see Him no more. In verse 1, our Lord began this discourse with the words "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me."? 1. In these words, we find a Possible Condition: "your heart be troubled."? Troubled hearts are not the will of God for the lives of His children.? 2. In these words, we find a Personal Choice: "Let not your." Troubled hearts are something that we personally allow.? 3. In these words, we find a Path Clear: "Ye believe in God … believe also in me."? The Lord wants us to find our peace in Him, not our circumstances!? C. When we get down to the end of the chapter,? we find promised peace that comes from the Lord in His physical absence.? Verse 27 is an important one!? "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."? 1. A peace that is available:? "My peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you." The Lord is leaving them, but His peace is remaining with them. “I leave … I give” Since our Lord left us that peace, there was no space of time when it was not available!? 2. A peace that is accessible:? "I give unto you." That peace can only come from the Lord Jesus Christ.? 3. A peace that is assuring:? "not troubled … neither afraid."4. A peace that is personal:? :unto you … Let not” Again, let not should not be an option. We get troubled and fearful because of the frailty of the flesh. These are things that we must allow to take over our hearts and minds as we know that He holds tomorrow, and He holds us in His hand.? D. There is a difference between peace with God and the peace of God.? You can have one and not the other! Things That Will Bring Peace To Your Soul!? 1. Peace with God comes through assurance of Salvation. Colossians 1:20? And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.? 2. The Peace of God comes through? total? Surrender.? Isaiah 32:17? And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.? 3. Peace Comes Through Loving The Scripture - Psalms 119:165? Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.? 4. Peace Comes Through A Right Attitude About Oneself - Psalms 37:11? But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.? 5. Peace Comes Through Following The Righteous - Psalms 37:37? Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.? 6. Peace Comes Through Embracing The Knowledge of God - 2 Peter 1:2? Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,? 7. Peace Comes Through Meditating Upon The Lord - Isaiah 26:3? Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.? 8. Peace Comes Through Making Peace - James 3:18? And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.? 2 Corinthians 13:11? Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.? 1 Thessalonians 5:13? And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.? 9. Peace Comes Through Taking Your Burdens To The Lord And Leaving Them There - Philippians 4:6-7? Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Once the Holy Spirit came, just as Jesus had previously promised, everything concerning our Lord’s followers was different. I shall use Peter as the “example” for such a bold statement. Peter who often spoke rashly, after Pentecost, became rather eloquent! As if Someone (the Holy Spirit) outside himself had taken control of his once stammering […]

? Temple Baptist Church - 3-17-2024Psalm 119:89-96? Introduction:? A. Tonight, we start the last half of Psalm 119. This Psalm contains 176 verses, 22 stanzas, with 8 verses in each stanza. In the Hebrew, each of the 8 verses in a stanza begin with the same Hebrew letter. An acrostic.? B. LAMED? ל? – the 12th? letter is the tallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet. It is the only letter that is allowed to stand taller than the height of the regular script.? C. LAMED is made with a combination of two letters: KAF – which represents a King, and VAV – which represents a Hook (used to hold the Tabernacle together). LAMED is God's way of keeping everything together through the Bible. Without your Bible, all things fall apart.? D. LAMED, in the Hebrew also has the numeric value of 30. The price of betrayal by Judas and the price to purchase a Bride. Christ was sold for 30 pieces of silver, the price of a woman, because He was purchasing us, His Bride.? E. In the first verse of the stanza, verse 89, we find the importance of the immutability of God's Word. Immutability is an attribute of God and is applied in your Bible to the Word of God.? F. In this stanza, we find changelessness in a changing world and circumstances. The Reliability of God's Word to all generations.? 1. Verse 89. Immutability. In John, chapter 1, we find that the Eternal Word of God always was and in verse 89 of our text, we find that the Eternal Word of God always will be. “For ever … settled” Psalms 119:89 LAMED. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.? a. As God is Eternal and Immutable -? Malachi 3:6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.? b. God's Word is also Eternal and Immutable.? John 1:1-2 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (2) The same was in the beginning with God.? c.? God's Word is settled! The Word was before time in eternity past (though eternity has no time, I used the words “eternity past” so that we finite people can get a glimpse of an infinite Word), and it will remain after time is no more in eternity future. “settled” – We use the phrase “that settles it.” “Settled” leaves no room for either argument or change. Take the Word of God as it is the Word of God.? d. It's God's Word (O LORD) and it belongs to God! The Word is God, the Word is by God, and the Word is for us.? 2. Verses 90-91. Preservation. “faithfulness is unto all generations”? Psalms 119:90-91 Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. (91)? They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all? are? thy servants.? ? a. This Psalm is not about the earth though it is used for an example as all things continue through the faithfulness of God. Psalm 119 is about the Word of God and man's relationship to it. Verse 89 said it was an eternal Word and the Holy Ghost uses the earth to show the faithfulness of the abiding Word to God's people.? b. The Word of God is the Servant of God. Verse 91 says, ”THEY continue this day … for all ARE thy servants.”? 1) The Promise of the Immutability of God's Word -? Psalms 12:6-7 The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. (7) Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.? 2) The Necessity of the Immutability of the Word of God -? 1 Peter 1:23-25 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (24) For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: (25) But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.? 3. Verse 92. The Word of God stabilizes the believer. As he meditated in the Word of God, he finds the strength to keep him going in his affliction. I am amazed that when I have a special need, verses of Scripture will come back to me. Thank the Lord for the faithfulness of His wonderful Word. In the Word of God, we have an Anchor in the shifting sands of human theology that becomes our benchmark from which all things are measured.? Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.? 4. Verse 93. The Word of God keeps the believer alive spiritually. The Word of God that gave you spiritual life (Romans 10:17) and the Word of God will give you spiritual victory in this life. Without the Word of God, the believer would spiritually perish.? John 10:9-10 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. (10) The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.? 1 John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.? 2 Peter 1:1-4 Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: (2) Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, (3) According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: (4) Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.? 5. Verse 94. The Word of God gives the believer blessed assurance of who he is (a son of God) and what God can do for him. I am His and He is mine! A child of the King!? 1 John 5:10-13 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. (11) And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. (12) He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. (13) These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.? 6. Verse 95. The Word of God guarantees the protection of the believer. The Lord thinks upon the believer and also controls the circumstances of the believer. God can be trusted fully in every circumstance of life.? Psalms 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.? Psalms 12:5 For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him.? Proverbs 21:31 The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.? 7. Verse 96. The Word of God endures forever. There is an end to all human knowledge and wisdom. No matter how wonderful and excellent human knowledge has become, it has both limitation and an end. The Word of God has no bounds and is not bound as it is the mind of God, infinite and eternal.? 2 Timothy 2:9b “ … the word of God is not bound.? Conclusion: Divine? Inspiration has no value without Divine Preservation. These two acts, inspiration, and preservation are bound together through the faithfulness of God. The song writer wrote, “change and decay in all around I see” when speaking of the things of this world, but God's Word is forever settled, both in heaven and in earth according to LAMED.

Discipleship: Helping New Christians Grow in the FaithJacob BundyThu, 03/14/2024 - 10:00 One of the great joys of the Christian life is helping to nurture the faith of young Christians. There's just nothing like leading someone to Christ and then encouraging them as they take steps of faith and grow in the Lord.? In its pure definition, New Testament discipleship means to be a fully-committed follower of Christ. This commitment should be the very DNA of our Christian walk.? Furthermore, as church leaders, developing disciples is our? mission—given to us by Christ Himself. Shortly before Jesus ascended into Heaven, He commanded His disciples to go, baptize, and teach (Matthew 28:19–20). Thus, both evangelism and discipleship have been at the heart of God's purpose for the church since its earliest days.So how do we engage in this essential process of discipleship? And what are its results?? ? Discipleship helps believers grow up spiritually.“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock” (Matthew 7:24).Spiritual growth takes place as believers build their lives on the rock-solid foundation of the Word of God. This is one reason biblical preaching is so important. Every Sunday, when a pastor preaches, he may not realize it, but he is discipling his people in the Word of God. By the way he handles it, he teaches them how to handle it. By the way he is moved by it, he teaches them to be moved by it. By the way he obeys it, he teaches them to obey it.But it's not just the pastor who models how to use God's Word. When new Christians have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with a “discipler” as they work through a discipleship program, they gain invaluable knowledge from God's Word. In this setting, a new Christian has the opportunity to ask questions, develop basic, systematic doctrine, learn Baptist distinctives, and be personally encouraged in early steps of Christian growth. (In our church, we use Continue by Paul Chappell for our formal discipleship program.)? Discipleship helps believers give back generously.“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many” (Matthew? 20:27–28).One of the challenges of parenting young children is rooting out their innate self-centeredness and teaching them to think first and foremost of others. This task for parents is not always easy, but it is vital if their children are going to grow into maturity.? The same can be said of new Christians. It's important that they learn that the church isn't just a place where others serve them; it's also a place where they serve others. It's important that they learn that it is more blessed to give than receive. It's important that they learn to give back to the Lord and to others.? Part of discipleship, then, is inviting growing believers to give and serve. I love sharing with newer Christians specifically how God has blessed my family's giving in the past, and I love encouraging them to take steps of faith in this area of their lives. I also love sharing with them the various spiritual gifts that God gives members within a church body and encouraging them to use their gifts to serve others.? ? Discipleship helps believers go forth passionately.“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8).Evangelism is a calling God places on the life of every Christian, and new believers are not exempt from that calling. In fact, new Christians are typically the people in the church that have the most connections to lost people. What an incredible opportunity that is for those young Christians to see the multiplying effect of evangelism first hand.? As a pastor, I work diligently to engage new Christians in our church outreach. Pairing a new believer with an experienced soulwinner helps the new believer learn how to invite others to church, how to share their testimony, and how to take a lost person through the plan of salvation.? When we, as church leaders, give consistent emphasis to the process of discipleship, God blesses those efforts, and new Christians become mature in the Lord. Category Outreach & Discipleship Ministry Resources Continue Continue Dr. Paul Chappell Tags Discipleship Local Church Church

Temple Baptist Church - 3-13-2024John 14:7-15? Introduction:? A.? I used the title “Passing The Torch” because of an example that many of us older folks possibly remember.? When the Summer Olympics was ready to start some years ago, I remember that the torch that was to light the Olympic Torch at the beginning of the games was carried by individual runners who passed a lite torch from one runner to another until the job was done.? B.? John, chapter 14 shows the same thing spiritually.? The hearts of the disciples are troubled about the absence of the Lord but now Jesus lets them know that the work is theirs to maintain.? C.? Lets look at the introductory verse of this chapter.? ? John 14:1? Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.? 1.? “Ye believe in God” speaks of God their belief in the Father.? God the Father did what He needed to do to redeem and restore mankind.? John 3:16-17? For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.? (17)? For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.? a.? The Father sent His Son, heaven's Glory, Jesus Christ who never knew sin to become sin for us.? The Way, the Truth, and the Life.? The Creator of all that is.? The almighty Jehovah God of the Old Testament.? ? b.? The Father place His divine approval upon Christ Jesus when He spoke these words: “And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Mark 1:11)? And again in Matthew 17:5, “While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.”? 2.? “Believe also in me” speaks of Jesus Christ, Israel's Messiah.? Jesus Christ went to the Jew first through the Gospel.? He never set foot outside of Israel!? The Father sent Jesus Christ to pay the price of sin in full.? Paid In Full is a term that we all know and revel in.? The “burning of the note!”? a.? Jesus Christ suffered everything that we suffer as He got hungry, tired, spit upon, scourged, shame, and would be nailed on the cross like the two thieves He died with.? b.? Jesus Christ, the sinless Son of God would become SIN for us that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.? Philippians 2:6-8? Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:? (7)? But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:? (8)? And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.? Hebrews 12:2? Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.? D.? Then, it was the disciples turn to “put their hand to the plough!”? ? John 14:12? Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do? shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.? 1.? God the Father loved the World and gave His Son.? 2.? Jesus Christ died for the sin of the World.? 3.? Now, the message of salvation needs to be spread to the World through the believers.? Matthew 28:16-20? Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.? (17)? And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.? (18)? And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.? (19)? Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:? (20)? Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.? These men turned the World upside down.? Acts 17:6? And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;? E.? Now, it is OUR turn.? 2 Corinthians 5:17-19? Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.? (18)? And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;? (19)? To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.? 1.? Our turn to show and present the Gospel.? a) As salt and light through our good works which they shall behold and glorify our Father which is in heaven.? b)? to plant and water the seed of the Gospel to everyone that we come into contact with.? Matthew 5:13-16? Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.? (14)? Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.? (15)? Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.? (16)? Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.? ? 2.? Our turn to send men of God to the world through raising, and commissioning those whom God calls.? (Acts 13)? ? The Lord's Prayer Request.? Matthew 9:35-38? And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.? (36)? But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.? (37)? Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;? (38)? ? Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.? 3.? Our turn to support through prayer and giving those who surrender to God's call and go.? 2 Corinthians 8:1-5? Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;? (2)? How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.? (3)? For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;? (4)? Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.? (5)? And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.? Philippians 4:14-19? Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.? (15)? Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.? (16)? For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.? (17)? Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.? (18)? But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.? (19)? But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

? Temple Baptist Church - 3-10-2024Psalm 119:81-88? Introduction:? A. Tonight, we come to the 11th? stanza of Psalm 119? along with the accompanying 11th? Letter of the Hebrew Alphabet. These 22 stanzas of the Psalm show the relationship of the believer to the Word of God.? B. The 11th? letter of the Hebrew alphabet is CAPH? כַּ.? Once again, each of the 8 verses in this 11th? stanza, when written in Hebrew, begin with the letter? CAPH. With that being said, we need to have a proper definition or meaning for the letter.? C.? CAPH? כַּ? –? A hollow place such as the palm of a hand, a bowl, or a basin. A container. In type a place where the believer seems to be trapped and cannot get out of or a point which he cannot pass.? D. In this portion of Psalm 119, we find that the Psalmist is in an extreme situation? from which he can neither resolve nor can he escape it. There is a Latin phrase,? in extremis,? meaning “at the point of death" or “in the farthest reaches.” His situation is grave.? E.? Verses 88-89 are the two middle verses of Psalm 119 as verse 88 ends the first half? and 89 begins the second half.? Our stanza, the 11th? (verses 81-88) out of 22 stanzas, this forms the octave which has been called? “the midnight of the psalm.”? The Psalmist's? enemies have brought him to the lowest condition of anguish and depression; yet he is faithful to keep the Word of God (testimony) while remaining trustful in his God.? F. At some time in life, most of us find ourselves is such a strait.? A place that seems like we will never escape or get victory over in our own strength. Thus, the importance of the Word of God to the needy.? G. Let's look at three of our verses? as they make up the introduction and meaning of the stanza.? Psalms 119:84-86 How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me? (85) The proud? have digged pits? for me,? which are not after thy law.? (86) All thy commandments are faithful:? they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.? 1. The promise of persecution.? “persecute”? is used twice in these three verses.? 2 Timothy 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.? a) This world hated Christ before it hated us. We to him “without the camp” as bear His reproach. The “god of this world” has reproduced from himself “God” haters! John 15:18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.? b) This world hates ALL who try to live godly lives as that kind of life exposes the world's ungodliness.? Hebrews 11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.? 2. The individuality of persecution.? “me”? There is and, from the days of Cain and Abel, always has been individual hatred. Why? Because Abel's sacrifice was godly, and Cain's was not! They persecuted Christ, and they will persecute us!? 3. The trap of persecution.? “have digged pits”? Pits means a “pit fall” or a “chasm.” These were normally traps for large animals, dug deep and camouflaged by covering with wood and sod. A place of no escape such as Joseph's brothers placed him into.? Psalms 119:85 The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law.? 4. The injustice of persecution. “not after thy law … persecute me wrongfully”? These persecutors use the law unlawfully. We see much of that today as the justice system is weaponized against an enemy or opponent. Psalms 94:20 Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee, which frameth mischief by a law?? H. It is such a condition that we find the Palmist. It is not a place of his making. It is a place of containment from which there is seemingly no human way of escape. A place of impending death.? 1. Verse 81. The darkness of the hour. “My soul fainteth for thy salvation:? but? I hope in thy word!”? a. This is not fainting for a few minutes they then regathering of self allows one to get over it. I try to drive home to our people the importance of these supposedly “archaic” words so described by the liberal theologians.? b. “fainteth!” The result of open-ended waiting. The “eth” ending of faint means that it is in the continuing present tense. He has been here for a long time and sees no change coming in the immediate future.? c. The Psalmist knows that the only deliverance that will negate the persecution must come from the Lord.? d. “for thy salvation” Though fainting, the Psalmist is “hanging in there!”? Isaiah 40:29-31 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. (30) Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: (31) But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.? e. His faith is rightly placed. “I hope in thy Word.” The relationship of the Word of God and our hope!? 2. Verses 82-83. The dimness of the eye. “Mine eyes fail … I am become like a bottle in the smoke!”? a. Smoke, like the morning fog, obscures from seeing properly. I remember driving across Florida when the wildfires were out of control and smoke was so thick on the highways that they shut some of them down. No one could see well enough to drive.? b. Thus, it is with ongoing troubles in life. They begin to shroud life in general as they completely occupy our thinking and lives while dimming our spiritual eyes. When you cannot track God, you then learn to trust Him.? c. One of my favorite verses:? Psalms 77:19 Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.? d. The Psalmist's comfort will be found in the seen promises of an unseen work. “When wilt thou comfort me? … yet do I not forget thy statutes.”.3. Verse 84. The dilemma of the saint. Will justice come in my lifetime?? Psalms 119:84 How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me?? a. The Psalmist did not know the length of his life. There are times when God answers prayers or brings about justice after the death of the one seeking it. God's time is not on our time, His thoughts are not our thoughts nor His ways our ways.? Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.? b. The Psalmist asks that oft asked request. When not if? One day, we know that God will bring to light the things of darkness and His justice will be swift, sure, and full.? 4. Verse 87. Relying on the promises of God. The Lord maketh no mistake in His operations. The Psalmist may not know how long, but he knows that God is faithful to both His Word and His people.? 5. Verse 88. Resting in the love of God. The Psalmist rests on the knowledge that the Lord will not forsake His own but will raise them up to sit on high. There is life before the trial and there will be life during the trial and there will be life after the trial.? Conclusion:? Hebrews 10:35-39 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. (36) For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (37) For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. (38) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. (39) But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

? Temple Baptist Church - 3-6-2024John 14:1-6? Introduction:? A.? Disclaimer time.? Don't you just love having to give a disclaimer because of the lack of biblical knowledge of most people?? So many people who never read the Bible get their “theology” from people who never read the Bible!? Oh, they read but they have no spiritual understanding.? B.? Some years back, the “Left Behind” series hit the bookstores and people everywhere what to know what was coming and where they stood with God.? This series was heretical.? Its vdery premise flew in the face of God as it contradicted what the Bible teaches about Eschatology.? I am not here tonight to either discuss or fix that.? ? C.? We teach these verses to show the unsaved how to be saved!? Jesus Christ alone!? His death, burial, and resurrection called the gospel is where salvation is found.? I have no problem at all with the application of the verses but that is not the interpretation within the context.? D.? The context is to saved men who feared being left behind, supposedly alone, and told that they would be with the Lord later not understanding where He was going or how to get there.? Both Peter and Thomas along with the other disciples (they allowed these two men to be the spokesmen), were afraid and confused.? E.? The questions asked:? 1.? Peter's problem was two-fold:? ? John 13:36-37? ? ? Simon Peter said unto him,? (1)? Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards.? (37)? Peter said unto him,? (2)? Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake.? 2.? Thomas' problem was two-fold:? ? John 14:5? Thomas saith unto him, Lord,? (1)? we know not whither thou goest; and? (2)? how can we know the way?? 3.? Now, I want to give these disciples a break!? Don't you just hate it when someone will not even give you the benefit of a doubt?? They had no Bible!? When the Lord spoke of resurrection, they had no examples other than Lazarus and it was the Lord who visibly and publicly raised him from the dead.? F.? Verse 6 does not settle a salvation problem though it does settle Who salvation is found in.? Christ!? These disciples did not need to be saved and the understood that salvation was through Jesus Christ. They were both saved!? Peter called Jesus Lord twice and Thomas called Jesus Lord once in the context.? G.? The context of verse 6 is both directional and correctional.? ? 1. Their questions were not caused by a lack of salvation but of insecurity in the impending absence of the Lord.? Lord, you are leaving, and we cannot go with you, but you said we will follow you to where you are.? ? 2.? ? Jesus' answer? was correctional.? How do we know where that is, and how do we get there?? ? a)? Religions and denominations here and around the world believe that the way to heaven either before salvation or after salvation is a “path” of their own making.? If you try to live right, treat your neighbor right, keep all the rules and regulations, you just might make it to heaven.? ? b)? Jesus Christ is the only Way of salvation, and He is the only Way to get to heaven!? 3.? Jesus' answer was directional.? ? a)? How do we get from this life and place to our eternal life and place?? ? b)? The answer is the same!? Jesus Christ!? He said that it is My Father's house (heaven) and I, Jesus, will take you there!? H.? Though we are saved, and have the truth, there are times when we are fretful and insecure.? 1.? “I am the Way!”? Not just the way of salvation but because Christ is coming back for them.? The way to somewhere has a starting point, a traveling point, and a finishing point.? ? a.? Jesus did not say that He was the end of the trip because He would be in His Father's house.? He simply said that He was the Way!? That is from the start of the trip throughout the trip until we end up where He is in the Father's house.? b.? As the Lord stood on the right hand of the Father as Stephen was dying, He will be with us from start to finish when we go through the Valley of the Shadow of Death.? c.? They, as well as we, will not have to cross Jordan alone.? ? d.? If we live until the rapture of the Church, it is the Lord Himself who will descend from heaven with a shout and the voice of the archangel.? If we die first, we will fear no evil because He will walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death with us.? Psalm 23.? e.? Jesus is the Way home!? He said that He would come and get them!? John 14:3? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.? 2.? “I am the Truth!”? The Lord's promises for both the present and the future are secure.? ? John 14:2? In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.? a.? Our Lord told His disciples that He must go while they must abide.? Yet, the Truth would remain with them.? b.? The disciples did not know at this time about the revelations that our Lord would later give to them and neither did they know about the fullness of the Holy Ghost Who would descend upon them.? He simply said, “Trust Me!”? c.? The Lord will say in a later chapter of John that it was expedient that He go away, otherwise the Comforter would not come.? Instead of dwelling with God, God would be dwelling within them.? d.? Grace and strength for every mile of the trip.? Their needs constantly being met by their Lord.? Sometimes, in our lives during hard times, God's promises happen a thrill per minute as He is always on time to meet our needs.? e.? The Truth that they would one day be “where I am.”? God's promises sure and secure!? 3.? “I Am the Life!”? The lives of the apostles are getting ready for a drastic change. It is in Christ that we live, move, and have our being.? ? Colossians 3:1-4? If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.? (2)? Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.? (3)? For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.? ? a.? Christ? is? their spiritual life.? Acts 4:12? Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.? b.? Christ is their temporal life.? ? It is in Christ that we live, move, and have our being.? ? Colossians 3:1-3? If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.? (2)? Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.? (3)? For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.? ? c.? Christ is their eternal life.? Matthew 28:20? “and, lo, I am with you alway,? even? unto the end of the world.”? Colossians 3:4? When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.? 4.? “No man cometh unto the Father, but by me.? Simply said, you have nothing at all to worry about it.? As salvation is all of Christ, the rest of the trip at that point is all of Christ.? We will all end up at “where I am!”? Conclusion:? Their hearts were troubled because their future seemed to be insecure.? Often our hearts become troubled and insecure.? The answer to troubled hearts is the same for both the disciples and us today.? The Lord Jesus used these verses to reassure them that they would shortly be “where I Am!”