Galatians – Mircheal Jones

Can you imagine what it would be like if the stock market, all banks, and all government agencies all closed at the same time- happened in Noah’s day at the time of the Flood!

But that was Noah’s day, what about today. Take this week- 2 Oral Surgeries and a replaced Heating and AC System ($7000)- weekly salary: $536. Rev. Jimmy Miller found had cancer and died within two months. Brad Thigpen died this week. Life comes at you fast and it changes very quickly. Will your religion hold you and help you when things get rough?

I. Personal Religion– In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes. (Judges 21:25). “Self leading self to God” “This is the way I believe it”

II. Preacher Religion– For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? (1 Corinthians 3:4 5) “Man leading man to God” Cults, family run churches, pleasing personalities.

III. Proper Religion– I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed (Galatians 1:6 8). “God coming to man so man could come to God”

1) God’s Spirit Calls and Convicts you.

2) God’s Word leads you

3) God’s People shape you

4) God’s Coming challenges you: 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. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure (1 John 3:2 3).

A) Coming is Certain

B) Coming is Soon- This is not the end but you can see it from here

C) Coming is Selective- Those who are ready and watching.

Gal 01:6-9 TIMELESS TRUTHS

Sometimes we tend to forget- Three sisters, Martha- Put toe in water and couldn’t remember if she was getting in or out. Mary- Called to help and when she was half way up the stairs couldn’t remember if she was going up or down. Wilma- Quarreled about sisters and when knocked on wood couldn’t remember if she was going to front or back door to answer knock.

1. Bible is Word of God

A) Inspired

B) Spiritual- Must to understand

C) Complete- “Hoosiers” movie; same team wins Every time- Read the end of the Script.

2. God is only True God

A) God is Holy

B) God is Love- Wants everyone saved.

C) God is Unwavering- Only Way to Heaven is via HIS Door (Jesus)

3. Jesus is God

A) Born of a Virgin

B) Died and Resurrected to pay our Sin Debt- Only Door

C) Is Coming Again

4. Holy Spirit is God

A) Calls and Convicts us

B) Converts and Changes us-

C) Empowers and Indwells us- Stacy King and Michael Jordan scored 70 points- MJ scored 69 and Stacy 1. Like a Mosquito on back of elephant walking across a bridge. We sure are making this think shake aren’t we!

5. Man

A) Has a Free Will

B) Must Live by Faith-Like a Trapeze artist. He turns loose one bar as he reaches for another. Life is full of turning loose and taking hold. Like flying a plane by instruments. Can’t see must trust the Book.

6. Satan is real and Powerful

7. Evidence of Salvation

Repentant Heart

Restitution (When Possible)

Confession

Faith

A Changed Life style

A new Attitude

The Holy Spirit

Are you coming or Going?

Gal 02: Galatians 2 Study

Key Verse: I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20).

Galatians is one of four books in the Bible based on the most important verse in the Bible: “The Just shall live by Faith”. Some Important thoughts from Chapter two of Galatians:

If you are the only person seeing your point of view then you might need to see if “your glasses need wiping”! Ga 2:1 Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. (2) And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. (Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war Prov 20:18).

What Principles in your life are your “Never Change” Principles? (3) But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised: (4) And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: (5) To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.

The recognition that different parts of the body have different tasks to perform is a major need in the church. Everyone is not a cook and everyone should not join the choir- (6) But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man’s person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me: (7) But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (8) (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) (9) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. (10) Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.

Even leaders sometimes need to be led because they have “painted themselves into a corner” and someone needs to show them how to escape the situation they are presently in an prevent it from happening again. (11) But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. (12) For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.

Sin within a person casts a long shadow without. (13) And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. (14) But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews? (15) We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, (16) Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. [Remember that our actions reflect on our Master as well as on us: when Peter “went a fishing” the other disciples followed him and Jesus had to ask Peter, “Do you Love me?”]

Putting on new clothes and then walking in the Hog Pen makes your clothes dirty and smells up your life. (17) But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. (18) For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. Sometimes you must put something off before you can correctly wear something new.

We can never happily live for Christ if we are living for the law (19) For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.

It is the giving up that determines the gaining in. It is the within that will determine the without. (20) I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Your good replacing God’s grace belittles God and damages you. (21) I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

Faith gives us freedom FROM sin; not freedom TO sin!

When the Holy Spirit leads us He produces His fruit in us. This is not something we groan and do but something we grow and produce. Faith produces fruit and a person can be judged by their fruit- Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. (Matthew 7:20).

Gal 02:20 IDENTIFYING WITH CHRIST

1) WE DIED WITH HIM– Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

2) WE ROSE TO WALK IN NEWNESS OF LIFE WITH HIM– Rom 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Rom 1-8 give us the DOCTRINE about God paying the PENALTY for Sin and about Giving us the POWER to live new lives as Christians. Rom 12-16 tells us how we should live as a result of knowing what God has done for us.

3) WE ASCENDED WITH HIM– Eph 2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

4) WE SHALL SHARE HIS GLORIOUS RETURN– Col 3:4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

In view of the fact that we are justified persons, righteous in our standing before God, we are under obligation to live a righteous life. In view of the fact that we are the objects of the Holy Spirit’s work of sanctification, we are to live those lives in the spiritual energy He supplies. In view of the fact that we are yet to be glorified, we are to look forward to our Lord’s coming and purify our lives.

Gal 04:4-5 THE MISSION OF CHRIST

Gal 4:4-5 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of (as) sons.

I. WHEN– The Fulness of the time was come

A) Political- Roman’s Rule and Roads, Greek Language.

B) Practical- Israel had been waiting for 400 years

C) Prophetical- The King had to present himself to the nation exactly when Jesus did or the Prophecy God gave Daniel would not have been true.

II. WHO– God Sent forth His Son

III. HOW– Made of a woman- Human

Made under the Law- To satisfy its demands

IV. WHY– To redeem them that were under the law. A drowning man doesn’t need a lecture on why he shouldn’t be in the water; he needs a life preserver.

V. WHAT– That we might receive the adoption as sons. You can’t be adopted into God’s family, you must be born in! The word adopt here refers to our rights as a full grown son.

God had made available to us

A) the riches of His Grace (Eph 1:7; 2:7);

B) the riches of His glory (Phil 4:19),

C) the riches of His goodness (Rom 2:4),

D) the riches of His wisdom (Rom 11:33).

In fact, all of the riches of God are found in Christ (Col 1:19, 2:3). Isn’t it time you accepted God’s Gift??

Gal 05:1 LIVING IN LIBERTY2

Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

“Proclaim Liberty throughout the Land”- What a marvelous Proclamation; what a marvelous reality!! Freedom is such a precious commodity. It needs to be cherished –and celebrated; No wonder Fireworks are associated with the 4th of July celebration.

We not only need to celebrate the Liberty of our Country, we also need to rejoice in the Liberty we have in Christ. Isn’t it great that Christ has set us free from the bondage of sin and made us sons of God (Glory!)? But Liberty is more than something to talk about, it’s something to live. That what we want to look at today.

Jesus did more than talk to us about the Principles of Liberty, He brought it down to Practical Problems in a person’s life- Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to

(1) preach the gospel to the poor;

(2) he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted,

(3) to preach deliverance to the captives, and

(4) recovering of sight to the blind,

(5) to set at liberty them that are bruised.

Jesus preached that Salvation sets us free from the bondage to:

(1) Wealth: We know we have a loving Father who cares for us

(2) Heartbreak: We know that all things work together for good

(3) Habits: Drugs, or Drink, or anger, or bitterness (Strongholds)

(4) Blindness: He opens our eyes to see He has a plan for us.

(5) “Bruising Situations” [Things in life that continually keep us “sore and irritated”]:

A) Personality Flaws- I’m too slow. I’m not outgoing [God Made you and He can use you as you are or give you the ability to change]

B) Problems in your life-

Fear of Failure (In your job, your marriage, your family, etc),
Fear of Success (Will I be able to handle it? Do I really want the extra responsibilities?)
Fear of Fear (Unexpected things: “What if…”,
Unknown things: “How can I start when I don’t know everything yet?”)
Hopeless situations: Abraham against hope believed in hope
Helpless situations: I can do ALL things through Christ

The importance of this Liberty we have in Christ cannot be over emphasized. It is Liberty FROM:

A) The Dominion and Demands of SIN-

When a person accepts Christ by Faith as Savior he is liberated from Sin’s Penalty (Death) and Power; and given the ability to live liberated from Self control and Satan Control—

1- FAITH in Christ frees us from Sin [Rom 6:23)

2- Daily taking up the Cross frees us from Self [Mark 8:34 Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me]

3- the power of the Word of God frees us from Satan [Jesus used the “Sword of the Spirit” to defeat Satan and so must we].

B) The Dominion and Demands of LAW- Amp Bible- 5:1 In [this] freedom Christ has made us free-completely liberated us; stand fast then, and do not be hampered and held ensnared and submit again to a yoke of slavery- which you have once put off.

If we begin to add requirements and physical accomplishments to Grace the Consequences will be serious:

vs 2- Christ shall profit you nothing

vs 3- a debtor to do the whole law

vs 4- Christ is become of no effect to you.

Some of these “Liberty Laws” are- Church Membership, Baptism, sign gifts, etc. They all allow us to add our skill, ability, and emotions to Salvation; and they all are worthless in saving us!! What can wash away our sins, nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Liberty FOR:

1- the Plan of God for our lives

2- the Proclamation of God’s message to a lost and dying world

3- the Personal Relationship we can now develop with God.

LIBERTY LIMITS: The thing you must understand about Liberty is that Liberty simply means FREEDOM TO CHOOSE YOUR MASTER. Every man serves either God or Satan. Sin binds us to Satan and his destruction of our lives and soul. Salvation allows us to willingly and lovingly become a bond slave to Christ with abundant Life here and Eternal life to come.

It is not possible to choose NEITHER God nor Satan- That would make you a “God” since you would be answerable to no one but yourself; and it would be impossible for the universe to exist with so many “Gods”. That means you must make a CHOICE TODAY: The Liberty of Love in Christ or the Bondage of Sin in Satan.

Following this Liberty Life will result in God’s Blessings-James 1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

God is calling you to the life of Liberty today. Will you chose His Plan of Salvation and His Plan for your life or will you continue to follow Self and Satan into Hell. No one can make that choice but YOU.

Gal 05:1-9 WHO DID HINDER YOU?

Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? (Galatians 5:7). [From a Revival Sermon by Rev. Ronnie Jones preached at Grace FWBC in 1976]

Revival is about renewing or beginning a relationship with God. What hinders you from that relationship?

1) Inconsistencies of Professing Christians.

2) Possibility of Persecution

3) Present trials or sorrows that you think cannot be overcome

4) The pull of worldly pleasure and friends

5) Fear of changes in your life when you begin to follow God

6) Willful Disobedience to God’s Call

As they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God (Acts 8:36-37).

Gal 5:6-7 WHO HINDERED YOU?

Gal 5:6-7 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by Love. Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

The Christian Life is not only a Blessing; it’s also a Battle! We’re in a warfare and Satan is trying every way he can to get us to either not accept Christ as Saviour or else live a defeated life. It’s simply amazing to me to see how many people think that when they’re saved all they need do is just “exist” until they die and go to Heaven. If this is all God wants then why doesn’t He kill a person as soon as they accept Christ as Savior??

The truth is that God looks for Fruit (Mk 11:12-14) and Every branch in me that bearth not fruit he taketh away; (Jn 15:2). This makes it of utmost importance that we not only be IN the vine but that we also bear fruit. It’s not an optional thing that we can decide to do or not do! As James says (2:26) For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

You know, of course, that this does not mean a person is saved by their works. The Bible is abundantly clear on the fact that by Grace are ye saved through Faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest may man should boast (Ep 2:8-98). But a Faith which does not produce works is a faulty Faith. Look at the great Faith Chapter of the Bible, Hebrews 11; vs 4 “By Faith Abel Offered”, vs 7 By Faith Noah prepared, vs 8 By Faith Abraham went out, etc. It remains ever true, Show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show you my faith by my works (James 2:18).

One of the sad things about a person who claims faith and doesn’t work is that he is easily led into sin and eventually into disbelief. The writer of Hebrews had this in mind when he wrote, Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin (Heb 3:12-13). It happened several times to Paul’s followers (II Tim 4:10) and may have been the reason he exhorted the Corinthians, let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall (I Cor 10:12).

Not only does this Fruitless Believer go astray himself but he also leads others astray. How many die without the Gospel because the men with the message simply don’t do what they’re supposed to do? Others may have listened to the message but are “put off” by the unholy and barren lives of these professed believers. The old saying that “your life speaks so loud I can’t hear what you’re saying” is especially applicable here.

The motivating Force behind our work must be Love- Faith which worketh by Love (Gal 5:6b). Jesus said, If ye love me keep my commandments (Jn 14:15). It was love that brought Christ from Heaven to the Cross to die for sins (Jn 3:16) and it must be Love that compels us to work for God- not to be saved but because we are saved.

What a difference it is when we work from love instead of duty. Burdens become Blessings, Jobs become Joy, and life becomes Abundant. This is what it’s supposed to be! Salvation by Grace thru Faith so that we can willingly and lovingly serve God as Saved Saints instead of Burdened Bondsmen. That’s why Satan puts up some of his greatest battles at this point to defeat the Child of God.

This is what Paul had in mind when he asked the question in our text, Who did hinder you? WHO DID HINDER YOU??? Why did you leave your first Love (Rev 2:4)? Why do you have to be begged and bullied to do God’s work? Why do we find so many who love in word and tongue but not in deed and truth (I Jn 3:18)? The answers, I believe, are found in finding out what the Bible says hinders us.

The first one I notice is found in I Thess 2:18 Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us. Again I say, we’re in a Warfare and Satan is out to destroy or defeat Christians. I really don’t know all the methods Satan uses to hinder people but one that comes to mind immediately is when Satan hindered the answer to Daniel’s Prayer (Dan 10:12-13). I wonder how many Christians have failed to know the joy of prayerful fellowship with God because one of their first prayers was not immediately answered (In Daniel’s case it took 3 weeks to get an answer). If Satan has hindered you here then you need to find a place NOW and tell God of your sin of impatience and unbelief and then determine to Wait on the Lord. Remember the words of Habakkuk (2:3) though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

One of the ways Satan hinders Prayer is thru dissension in the family. Peter addressed this problem in I Peter 3:7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. The man is the priest of his household and when he refuses to take his place as leader, or abuses that position, then his prayers are hindered. Who’s hindering YOUR prayers, Satan or Self???

Another thing that hinders people is Family Ties. Genesis 24 tells the story of Abraham sending out his servant to seek a Bride for his son Isaac. The Servant is directed by God to the Bride and then makes preparation to return with her. The Bride’s family seek to get him to stay for awhile but he answers, Hinder me not, seeing the Lord hath prospered my way (Gen 24:56). I would venture to guess that family ties keep more people out of Church or away from active serve than any other single thing. Even Jesus’ family tried to take Him away from His work (Mk 3:31) and you need to realize that one of your greatest “enemies” will be your own family (Matt 10:36).

There are numerous ways that family ties hinder a person. It may be thru DIVISION- some in the family are saved and some are not so naturally they’ll be at odds. It may be thru DIVERSION- Some want to go to Church while some want to go to the Lake, etc. Some want to attend one church while others want to attend another. It can also be thru DIVORCE- a Divorced man is automatically disqualified from being a Deacon or Pastor (I Tim 3:2,12). Or it may be thru DEDICATION- How many people never do a great work for God because they’re unwilling to leave home and , like Abraham, go out, not knowing where they’re going (Heb 11:8)? Jesus settled the Family question when he said, If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple (Lu 14:26). Your family will either help you or hinder you but regardless of what it does you must put God first.

Another hindrance is Public Opinion. Paul found that even though he had rights he had to forgo them that the Gospel be not hindered (I Cor 9:12). Public Opinion is a strong Force and must be reckoned with lest our liberty become a stumbling block to others (I Cor 10:24-33) but, too often, a man’s service is determined by Public Opinion instead of God’s Word. It’s hard to “buck the tide” and be counted a “fool for Christ’s sake” (I Cor 4:10) but Christ demands that we deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. Think for a moment, what does it matter to a man on the cross that the dogs howl beneath it? His eyes are on another world! And so should we be.

These are a few of the things that hinder men in their service for God. Perhaps you’ve seen something that has kept you from whole hearted service to God. If so, ask God to give you the victory over it and find the joy of Loving Service for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

I close with one other time the question of hindrances comes to mind. In Acts 8:36-40 Philip is asked by the Ethiopian Eunuch, What doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If you believe with all your heart, you may. You can never do the Work of God until you’re in the Will of God- and it’s not the will of God that any perish but that all come to the knowledge of the truth (I Tim 2:4). What hinders you from being saved today? Is it really worth going to Hell over??

Why don’t you accept Christ as Savior today: Admit YOU are a sinner and you cannot save yourself / Believe that Jesus Christ died as a payment for your sins. / Confess Christ as your Savior publicly / Determine to live for Christ by serving Him in a local Bible Believing Church. What Hinders YOU???

Gal 05:6-7 HURTLING YOUR HINDRANCES

There are numerous ways we can be hindered in our progress-

1) Someone can grab us from behind and hold us.

2) Something can Block our way.

3) We lack the necessary equipment to do our job.

4) We don’t have the strength or motivation to accomplish what needs to be done.

These same type hindrances face us in our Christian life.

1) Who grabs us from behind and holds us? SATAN- I Thess 2:18 Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.

2) What can block our way?

A) PRESSURES OF DUTY– Rom 15:22 For which cause [maintaining my ministry in Asia Minor] also I have been much hindered from coming to you. A Christian is not OF the world but he must live IN the world and sometimes the “daily duties” keep him from showing concern and compassion as he should. But isn’t it strange how men will wait in a doctor’s office for hours because of some physical problem and yet expect someone to beg and bribe them to come for help with their spiritual problem?

B) PEOPLE’S OPINION– I Cor 9:12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ. Many times a servant of God must sacrifice even things he needs in order to maintain his testimony. He may be able to win that woman to the Lord if it were not for the fact that he can’t be alone in her home. We must continually walk that “narrow line” between not caring what they say about us and caring tremendously about what they say about our Lord.

3) What keeps us from having the necessary Equipment to work for God?

A) MISAPPLICATION OF DOCTRINE (They were being taught that they had to be circumcised as well as believe the Gospel to be saved)- Gal 5:7 Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? The Bible has given us EVERYTHING we need to do the work of God but it can destroy life instead of save lives if wrongly used. People are also hindered because they don’t STUDY the Scriptures so they can know what is right. They don’t APPLY Scriptural Principals and so become hearers and not doers.

B) FAMILY PROBLEMS– I Peter 3:7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. Our Home life is wrong so our prayer life is wrong so we don’t have the power we need to accomplish God’s will and work.

4) What can steal our strength and motivation?

A) JEALOUS NEIGHBORS– Neh 4:7-8 But it came to pass, that when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the walls of Jerusalem were made up, and that the breaches began to be stopped, then they were very wroth, And conspired all of them together to come and fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder it. We become so busy fighting the world until we don’t have time to save it!!

B) FAILURES AND FIGHTING AMONG CHRISTIANS– We sow the seed and give our all to see it begin to take root; and then weeds come along and kill it, or some careless Christian steps on it!! And we get tired and discouraged.

How can we Hurtle these Hindrances? Job 9:12 Behold, he taketh away, who can hinder him (GOD)? who will say unto him, What doest thou? Let God guide and control our lives. He not only knows the way but HE IS THE WAY!!.

What’s Hindering YOU from coming to or Continuing with Christ?? It’s time to remove the Hindrance and take up the Cross.

Gal 5:6 BEING FAITHFUL TO YOUR FAITH

For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love (Galatians 5:6).

Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God. It is the REAL TRUTH about things that cannot be touched or seen yet (Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1).

1) Faith COMES by PROCLAMATION: So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10:17).

2) Faith is SHOWN by ILLUSTRATION: Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works (James 2:18).

3) Faith LEADS to CELEBRATION: For by it the elders obtained a good report (Testimony). (Hebrews 11:2).

4) Faith can be LOSS by EVAPORATION: For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him (Hebrews 10:36, 38).

5) Faith’s MOTIVATION is Love: For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love (Galatians 5:6). Faith WORKS by LOVE: The energizing force in Faith is Love. When I try to educate the mind of people who struggle with Faith I am dealing with the wrong need. It is not that they can’t understand just as well as anyone else; the problem stems from a hindrance or blockage in their love relationship with God.

People struggle with Faith because they Believe but are afraid to Commit. Sometimes a person is abandoned or abused by their parents, a close friend, or a mate. Many times these people find it difficult to have the right kind of faith because they have been “burned” before by someone they trusted. Their mind will say they trust God but their heart is afraid to make that leap of trust which is the very basis of faith.

Faith comes by education (Rom 10:17) but its motivating force is love. The hindrance to Faith is fear; fear of total commitment, fear of lack of ability, or fear of giving control to someone else. The answer to this fear is to understand fully the love of God for There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: (I John 4:18).

Gal 05:13-14 LIBERTY’S LIMITS

Gal 5:13-14 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. 14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

Gal 5:13-14 (Amp) For you, brethren, were [indeed] called to freedom; only [do not let your] freedom be an incentive to your flesh and an opportunity or excuse [for selfishness], but through love you should serve one another. For the whole Law [concerning human relationships] is complied with in the one precept, You shall love your neighbor as your self.

The GUIDELINE for our Liberty is “Love Your Neighbor as Yourself”:

James 2:8 If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:

Lev 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.

Mark 12:31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

Rom 13:9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

The LIMITS of our Liberty therefore are set by how what we do relates to others: (Can’t yell “Fire” in a crowded Theater is the way it works in Public Law)

A) Concern for Weaker Christians: 1 Cor 8:9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.

B) Concern for Testimony and Truthfulness: 1 Pet 2:16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.

Gal 05:17 OPPOSITES

For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary (Greek- Opposite) the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would (Galatians 5:17).

My nephew likes to climb a ladder and then look down at me and say, “Now we are opposites!”

Here are some “Opposite” things we need to consider:

1) God’s Passion: Most people believe that Most People will be Saved [Opposite is True: Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (Matthew 7:13-14)].

They believe this because they think God deals with everyone the Same. The Opposite is True: God chooses to chose those whom He knows will choose to choose Him: For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth (Romans 9:15, 18). 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 (John 3:16). I have loved you, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, Wherein hast thou loved us? Was not Esau Jacob’s brother? saith the LORD: yet I loved Jacob, And I hated Esau, and laid his mountains and his heritage waste for the dragons of the wilderness (Malachi 1:2-3).

2) Christian’s Pleasure Pursuits: Christians must learn to follow the Spirit and do Opposite of their Desires: For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would (Galatians 5:17).

3) Preacher’s Pronouncements: We must be careful of words and ideas that guide us if they are opposite to that which God declares: Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! (Isaiah 5:20).

4) People’s Performance: And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? (Luke 6:46).

5) Punishment of People: God’s gives Opposite Treatment to HIS People compared to those who have chosen not to be His People: Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; (2 Thessalonians 1:6-9).

6) Heaven is Permanent: Opposite is true; “Heaven” is not permanent; Heaven and Earth will come to an end: Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. (Mark 13:31). And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. (Revelation 21:1).

God is not a “Grandfather” you can manipulate; He is a Heavenly Father who cares for His children enough to correct them (… I will not make a full end of thee, but correct thee in measure; yet will I not leave thee wholly unpunished Jeremiah 46:28), chasten them (For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth (Hebrews 12:6), and call them to be converted by Faith in HIS Provision to become New Creatures in Christ. Never accept the opposite of this.

Gal 05:16-26 GOD’S PROVISION

We have been looking at how Satan tries to control our Mind (Propaganda), Body (Lust), and Spirit (Spiritual Strongholds).It has revealed to us that we face a Powerful Foe; so powerful in fact that multitudes will follow his leadership into the torments of a burning Hell!! The Situation seems very bad, but the good news of the Gospel is that God has not left us without Help or Hope. God has provided a way to not only defeat Satan but also to enjoy an Abundant Life!

The “Road” to this Abundant Life is entered when we see sin as God does (Deadly) and then turn from Sin (Repentance) and accept Jesus Christ as our Savior by Faith. This takes us out of Satan’s “Flock” and puts us into the Flock of the Good Shepherd (Christ). This is the MOST DANGEROUS POINT IN YOUR LIFE!!! It is at this point, in your “infancy” as a child of God, that Satan besieges you with Doubts and Discouragement in order to win you back to his fold- II Peter 2:20-21 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.

Satan tries to keep you away from Church, the Bible, and Prayer so you won’t find out what you have in Christ- A man once ate cheese and crackers on an ocean voyage because he didn’t realize meals were included in the price of the ticket!! I want us today to see what Satan tries to hide from us and then to claim what God Provides.

I. THE FALSEHOODS WE ACCEPT IF YOU BELIEVE LIVING WRONG IS NOT WRONG!

A) We continue to allow the WORKS of the flesh to dominate our activities. In vs 17-21 Paul lists these activities: [Note how these sins control our Minds, Body, and Habits].

1. PASSION SINS: Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness (No restraint).

2. RELIGIOUS SINS: idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance (Discord) emulations (Rivalry), wrath, strife, seditions (Divisions),heresies 3. SOCIAL SINS: Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like.

THEY THAT DO SUCH THINGS SHALL NOT INHERIT THE KINGDOM OF GOD.

B) We accept the need of the Spirit in Salvation but then think we must live our lives in the power of the flesh– Gal 3:2-3 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now make perfect by the flesh. vs 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Walk means a “way of life”; Something you do everyday. We struggle trying to change our circumstances, thinking that’s the problem, but fail to realize the Spirit is changing our heart so circumstances won’t matter. IT’S NOT OUR STRUGGLE THAT PRODUCES CHANGE; IT’S OUR YIELDING TO THE SPIRIT!

II. THE FRUIT GOD PRODUCES. Gal 5:22-23 {He is the Vine, we are the Branches. As we are properly unite to Him the Holy Spirit (WITHIN) will supply the things we need in our life to be Fruitful. (This will work with God the Father as “Farmer” who will make sure we get the things WITHOUT that we need- sunshine, rain, pruning, etc.)}

1. Love- An attitude that moves us to put God and others ahead of ourselves. A spirit that impels us to give, to serve, and to forgive.

2. Joy- A spirit of gladness rooted in our faith, expressed thru song, and accompanied by an optimistic spirit.

3. Peace- Inner serenity derived form God and based on the reality of our peace with God through Christ’s sacrifice.

4. Longsuffering (Even tempered, forbearing)- patience in the midst of difficult circumstances and in our relationships with difficult people.

5. Gentleness- a tenderness of spirit that enables us to discipline others properly, to endure persecution graciously, and to witness to others sensitively.

6. Goodness- open, honest, pure, and generous behavior.

7. Faith (The word here really means “Faithfulness”)- We can be trusted and depended on in all our relationships.

8. Meekness (Humility)- practicing the golden rule of treating others as we expect them to treat us.

9. Temperance (Self-control)- the quality that gives us control over our desires, especially those that relate to the body.

III. GOD ALSO GIVES FUNCTION IN THE BODY AS WELL AS FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT: Note the GIFTS for use in the Body of Christ. I Cor 12:7-11.

So God not only changes our Character; he also gives us an area of service so that Character can be Deployed and Developed.

God has Provided everything you need:

1. The Shed Blood of CHRIST to pay Sin’s Penalty

2. The Name Of Jesus to Defeat Sin’s Power

3. The Holy Spirit to Undo Sin’s Patterns.

Now YOU must make a choice. Will you follow Satan into Hell or come to the Abundant Life found in Christ. Will You pray this prayer with me, “Father, I am a sinner and I cannot save myself. I believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God and He died for my sins. I accept Him as my Saviour today.” Now make that public.

Gal 05:16-26 The Holy Spirit and Us

YOU can have this Spirit Filled life today. Here’s how:

1. Conversion– You must be born again by repenting of sin and receiving Christ as Savior by faith. The Holy Spirit then Baptizes you into the body of Christ, seals you for God, and indwells you.

2. Commitment– You yield yourself to God for His use and glory.

I. WHAT YOU DO TO RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST? Gal 3:2 This only would I learn of you, received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith.

A) The Holy Spirit convicts, regenerates, and baptizes into the Body of Christ.

B) You have the Spirit (or you’re not saved), but does the Spirit have you??? Are you filled, controlled by the Spirit. Your body is His temple.

II. HOW TO BE RIGHTLY RELATED TO THE SPIRIT Gal 5:16-26

A) vs 16 Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. This walk is a manner of life- vs 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

B) vs 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.

1. Not under the law- don’t walk around as zombies but in loving liberty

2. The Spirit never leads you to break God’s Law (You may break Man’s Interpretation of it! as Jesus did)

C) vs 22 Produce Fruit by the Spirit- 6:8 He that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

Gal 05:16-26 The Spirit Filled Life

I believe there are a lot of “hungry hearts” today who want to live the Abundant Life (That God intended for us to live). Let’s see what keeps people from enjoying the Spirit Filled life today.

I. IGNORANCE OF THE SPIRIT’S AVAILIBILITY. (Example of the man who ate cheese and crackers on his ocean voyage because he didn’t know meals were included in the price of the ticket!!)

A) We accept the need of the Spirit in Salvation but then think we must live our lives using fleshly means–Gal 3:2-3 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now make perfect by the flesh. Paul said to WALK IN THE SPIRIT, and we would not fulfil the lust of the flesh (5:16). Walk here means a “way of life”. Something you do everyday. If the Spirit directs you, you won’t follow the flesh into sin.

B) We allow the WORKS of the flesh to dominate our activities. In vs 17-21 Paul lists these activities:

1. SEX SINS: Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness (No restraint). Attack our Passions

2. RELIGIOUS SINS: idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance (Discord) emulations (Rivalry), wrath, strife, seditions (Divisions),heresies

3. SOCIAL SINS: Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like.

THEY THAT DO SUCH THINGS SHALL NOT INHERIT THE KINGDOM OF GOD.

C) We fail to realize our POSITION in Christ so we don’t claim our POSSESSIONS. vs 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Ep 2:6 (God) hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: 2:19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 2:22 ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

II. IGNORANCE OF THE SPIRIT’S ACTIVITIES. (Note that in each case it is the Spirit that does the work. We simply manifest what HE has done in us.)

A) He produces FRUIT in our life Gal 5:22-23

1. Love- An attitude that moves us to put God and others ahead of ourselves. A love that impels us to give, to serve, and to forgive.

2. Joy- A spirit of gladness rooted in our faith, expressed thru song, and accompanied by an optimistic spirit.

3. Peace- Inner serenity derived from God and based on the reality of our peace with God through Christ’s sacrifice.

4. Longsuffering (Even tempered, forbearing)- patience in the midst of difficult circumstances and in our relationships with difficult people.

5. Gentleness- a tenderness of spirit that enables us to discipline others properly, to endure persecution graciously, and to witness to others sensitively.

6. Goodness- open, honest, pure, and generous behavior.

7. Faith (The word here really means “Faithfulness”)- We can be trusted and depended on in all our relationships.

8. Meekness (Humility)- practicing the golden rule of treating others as we expect them to treat us.

9. Temperance (Self-control)- the quality that gives us control over our desires, especially those that relate to the body.

B) He gives us a GIFT for the use in the Body of Christ. I Cor 12:7-11

YOU can have this Spirit Filled life today. Here’s how:

1. Conversion- You must be born again by repenting of sin and receiving Christ as Savior by faith. The Holy Spirit then Baptizes you into the body of Christ, seals you for God, and indwells you.

2. Commitment- You yield yourself to God for His use and glory.

Gal 06:1-10 WHEN CHRISTIANS SIN

It is a horrible and awful thing when a Christian falls. It breaks Fellowship with other believers, breaks the heart of God, and causes tremendous harm to the confidence of unbelievers.

Christians are to be the Salt of society and the Light of the World. When they “lose their savor or their shine” then they are fit for nothing and the world continually seeks “something” to fill its hunger and stumbles in darkness. God has given us a tremendous responsibility and we are accountable to Him with how we handle what He has entrusted us with.

I determined when I returned here several years ago that our Church would do more than occupy a dead end street in Lake City. I believe we have reached more people in the past 2 years than we did in the previous 25 years combined. Yet we’re just beginning to see what God can and will do for us. The future depends on whether the Christians here in our Church are willing to live holy and helpful lives. We cannot continue to live Slack Lukewarm lives and expect God to Bless our Work. Let’s find out What can go wrong and how God would have us correct it.

I. It is possible for a Christian to sin– vs 1 [1John 1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 1:10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 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:

But notice that Paul says he is “overtaken in a fault”. It is not a Pattern of life- Amp Bible I Jn 3:6 “No one who abides in Him deliberately and knowingly practices sin. No one who habitually sins has either seen or known him.”

There are THREE TYPES OF SIN and James says Whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.

1. Action– Things we do- (1) Have another God in our life, (2) Make an Idol (a Physical thing to replace God who is Spirit), (3) Taking God’s name is Vain, (4) Rejecting the Sabbath, (5) Dishonoring Parents, (6) Murder, (7) Adultery, (8) Steal, (9) Lie, (10) Covet.

2. Attitude– Remember, “If Satan cannot mash the brake he will mash the gas”. If he cannot make you a “Pharisee” (opposing everything until you really believe nothing) he will try to make you a “Personal god” (controlled by what YOU think feels good or “seems” right).

It also involves Emotional Control (Be ye angry and sin not, let not the sun go down on your wrath) and Imagination Corruption (He that looketh on a woman to lust on her hath committed adultery already).

3. Apathy– To him that knoweth to do good and doeth it not to him it is sin. You are out of your place of Duty (David was idle on a roof instead of in the Battle when “Kings go forth to war”) or you Decide to stop trying because things are so bad (Because iniquity shall abound the love of many shall wax cold).

II. RESULTS OF SIN:

1. In the World (Flesh): [We are not to Love the world’s:

A) Popularity- We are people of the Cross. “Dead in Christ”

B) Pleasures- We are to deny self. The Pleasures of this world look good but they lead us away from Christ and His service.

C) Profits- Love of money is the root of all evil which while some have coveted after they have pierced themselves thru with many sorrows]

The Consequences of allowing “Worldly Sins” to control us are:

A) Physically- Gen 3:18 Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;

B) Morally- John 8:34 Jesus answered them, verily, verily, I say unto you, whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.

C) Spiritually- Rom 6:23 For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

2. For the Christian: Sin in the life of a Christian

A) Breaks:

1> Fellowship with other Believers

2> Fellowship with the Holy Spirit (He must go from working THRU you to working ON you. He is Grieved).

3> The Heart of God and causes Him to bring Chastening upon you.

4> Confidence of the world in You and other Christians

B) Brings Fruits of sin into your life–

1> God’s Chastening- Heb 12:5-10

2> Fleshly Control- Rom 6:12-13 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

3> Loss of Influence- Gal 2:11-18 Peter was to be “blamed” because he led others to follow his wrong actions. This led Paul to say (vs 17) But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.

WHAT TO DO WITH SIN

A) Ignore it- and face the consequences. Rom 6:1-2 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?

B) Repent of it and receive God’s Forgiveness- I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

We need to return to Bethel (Our meeting Place with God)- When Jacob first met with the Lord- it affected his wallet (Many times people will “make a bargain” with God as Jacob did. They are willing to sacrifice part of their Possession but not themselves). The Second time it affected his walk (And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved. And as he passed over Penuel the sun rose upon him, and he halted upon his thigh Genesis 32:30-31). God is looking for people who will meet with Him and walk different as a result. Finally, God met with him and changed his name (How he was identified) to make it obvious to everyone about their meeting (God said unto him, Thy name is Jacob: thy name shall not be called any more Jacob, but Israel shall be thy name: and he called his name Israel Genesis 35:10).

If there is a sin in your life blocking the flow of God’s Blessings Confess it and cleanse it from your life. Then become active in service for the Lord. Find a way to work for Him- Teach a class, visit a shut-in, help a family in need, paint a class, write an article, trim hedges around the Church, distribute some tapes, sing a special, etc.

Gal 06:6-10 Blessing Sharer

Blessing Sharers share with the One who Blessed Them:-vs 6 (Amp Bible) Let him who receives instruction in the Word of God Share all good things with his teacher- contributing to his support. Paul is here trying to get the people to realize their obligation to those who have received the Word of God. (He was trying to get the people to beware of supporting those teachers who were teaching wrong Doctrine. Most people are more careful about where they open their pocketbook than where they open their mind!!)

3 basis rules of Sharing are given:

1. CAUTION vs 7-8 The seed you sow will determine the crop you gather. Where do you invest your Time, your Talents, your Tithes?

2. CONTINUANCE- vs 9 Don’t expect an instant Crop.

The seed with no root came up the quickest- Mk 4:14-20

Be careful of jumping on the band wagon of instant success. Jesus was 30 years old before he began his ministry, Paul was saved 13 years before he began his ministry, Moses had to spend 40 years in the desert before he could begin God’s work for him.

3. CARE- vs 10 Sow as much seed as possible.

Remember that a cup of cold water will not lose its reward (Matt 10:40-42) and you may entertain an angel unawares (Heb 13:2). Be aware also that to help the wicked is to be partaker of their evil deeds- II Jn 9-11

Gal 06:1-10 A Fitting Harvest

Paul always uses the formula- “Tell them the doctrine and then tell them the duty that should come from applying that doctrine” (What you believe determines what you do). We are in the “duty” part of our study of Galatians.

Being part of a Christian Community means you:

1. Bearing Burdens– vs 1-5- Christian community is an important part of Christian living: We are part of the body of Christ working together to build the Kingdom of God.

A) vs 1-2 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4:12). What is the greatest Burden you carry? How can your fellow believers help you with that Burden?

B) vs 3-4 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). The greatest time you need help is when you think you do not need any help.

C) vs 5 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. (Romans 14:12). The failures of others are not an excuse for my failures.

2. Helping in the Harvest vs 6-10

A) vs 6 People pay more for what they value more. Do you partner with God in supporting those He has called to sacrifice and serve Him in a full time capacity?

B) It is foolish to believe that Faith without works will produce a harvest. It is folly to plant tomatoes and expect to harvest corn.

C) Laws: You reap what you sow. You reap later than you sow. You reap more than you sow.

Gal 06:7-10 PATIENTLY PLANTING

It is spring time- Time to plant gardens, flowers, and plants. I have seen some of your gardens and they look good. Hopefully, you will reap a rich harvest of fresh vegetables for meals and freezer this year. Others of you have done wonders with shrubs and flowers for your yard. They require a lot of work but your yards look lovely.

It’s good to see the results of all the work and preparation you have been doing. You started out with a vision, and with faith enough in that vision, to put time and money into seeing it produce fruit.

That same faith, work, and zeal are needed in the work of God. We have a greater opportunity to plant seed for God that we have ever had. Multitudes can, and should, be reached. God help us not to fail in this great task.

I want us today to look at the Danger of taking God’s work lightly, the Certainty of results, the Temptation to quit, and the Obligation that come with this opportunity. Then I want us to determine to reach Every one we can, Every time we can, in every way we can.

1. THE DANGER OF MOCKING GOD–Be not deceived; God is not mocked

The word Mock here means to “Treat with disregard or disrespect”. It is not the “Mocking” the soldiers did to Jesus before they lead him away to be crucified (That was making fun of). This mocking is the word used in Prov 14:9 Fools make a mock at sin. It is used in these cases to show someone disrespecting God and His Rules. How does that apply to us today in our concern with Patiently Planting the Seed God has given us?

A) Disregarding God’s Instructions has repercussions in the future- Prov 1:24-26 Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh;

B) Sin can be forgiven but it still has consequences! The seed you plant today continues to bear fruit even in the future.

C) Christians who treat God and His work lightly are asking for trouble! The preacher can’t require you to do your duty to God and Church but payday is coming some day.

2. THE CERTAINTY OF SOWING AND REAPING– For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

Sow a thought, reap a deed

Sow a deed, reap a Habit

Sow a Habit, reap a character

Sow a Character, reap a destiny

Sow Faith, reap Faith

Sow Teaching, reap Learning

Sow Stingy, reap stingy (Freely you have received, freely give)

3. THE TEMPTATION TO GIVE UP– And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not

Some factors that tend to weary us:

1. The Vastness of the task

2. The Unconcern of the Lost

3. The Unfaithfulness of the Saved

4. The Slowness of visible results

Some Factors to encourage

1. Probably accomplishing more than you realize

2. Every servant stands or falls to his own Lord

3. A sovereign God sits on the throne and right will prevail.

4. THE OBLIGATION OF OPPORTUNITY– As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Use every opportunity, especially toward believers. Harvest time is coming!

A) Will you reap a large crop because of your effort or will you be ashamed when people finally see the little you have done??

B) Will the fruit from your crop glory God or condemn you?

Gal 06:9 Be not Weary II Thess 3:13

Some factors that tend to weary us:

1. The Vastness of the task

2. The Unconcern of the Lost

3. The Unfaithfulness of the Saved

4. The Slowness of visible results

Some Factors to encourage

1. Probably accomplishing more than you realize

2. Every servant stands or falls to his own Lord

3. A sovereign God sits on the throne and right will prevail.

SOWING, REAPING, AND DISCOURAGEMENT Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. / 2 Thessalonians 3:13 But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. / 1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

One of the greatest obstacles a Christian worker has to face is the discouragement that comes with walking by Faith. If you are ever going to accomplish anything for the Lord then you must overcome THIS TEMPTATION TO GIVE UP. Here are some things to help overcome Discouragement and Defeat:

I. CONFIDENCE IN GOD’S PLAN: If you are in God’s Will, doing God’s Work, then you should never quit until God gives you new or additional orders- Make sure you’re in the right place and then stand until you die! There are only 2 times a Christian can quit their job- Done or Die.

If God gave you your orders then Public Opinion or Criticism cannot cancel those orders. Remember, God does not look at “success”, He looks for OBEDIENCE.

This is why it is so important that young Christians determine to determine and do God’s will. Just remember that God develops us for the job He wants us to do.

II. AWARENESS OF THE FACTORS THAT TEND TO WEARY US:

1. The Vastness of the task- A storm had blown thousands of starfish up on the sand. Slowly, the sun and wind were drying them out. As I looked down the beach I saw a man picking up star fish and putting them back into the water. As he approached where I was, I remarked, “All these Starfish are dying.” “Not the ones I’m rescuing,” he said.

2. The Unconcern of the Lost- We don’t answer for their concern, we answer for our use of opportunities.

3. The Unfaithfulness of the Saved- Every man stands or falls to his own master. Some will Fail, some will commit Follies, some will attack you. You’re not answerable for them; you’re answerable for YOUR faithful service.

4. The Slowness of visible results- Sometimes it’s a long time between sowing and reaping. Just remember that the plant that sprang up quickly had no roots and failed when the going got rough. My job is to do God’s will the way God tells me to do it and expect results in “due time”.

III. SOME FACTORS TO ENCOURAGE US:

1. Probably accomplishing more than you realize- Many will be amazed at the judgment to see what they have really accomplished for God

2. Every servant stands or falls to his own Lord- God didn’t’ call me to be Billy Graham; He called me to do the job He had for Mike Jones

3. A sovereign God sits on the throne and right will prevail- Regardless of how things look now, I can assure you that I have read the end of the Book and GOD WINS. Don’t join Satan because he seems to be winning a battle. There is a whole war being fought.

Gal 06:17 BRANDED

GAL 6:17 From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. The word “Marks” here is from the Greek word “Stigmata” from which we get our English word “Stigma” and could as easily be translated “I bear in my body the BRANDS of the Lord Jesus”.

5 Classes of people were branded:

1. Slave- Ownership: A Slave was branded to show ownership- Ex 21:5-6.

2. Soldier- Allegiance: Many times a Soldier wore a Tattoo to identify his Group. (When I was in service we wore a shoulder patch that named our ship on one arm and an insignia that identified my occupation on the other).

3. Religious Devotee– Consecration: People committed to a certain religion would accept markings to show that fact (God told the Children of Israel not to put a baldness between their eyes or cut themselves because of the dead because that was what the Heathens did- Deut 14:1).

4. Criminal- Exposure: Criminals were often marked to show the public who they were- Remember the “Mark of Cain” (Gen 4:15)

5. Abhorred- Reproach: Certain classes of people were marked to separate them from the rest of society- The Jewish “star” during WWII.

Were These “Brands” real or symbolic? II Cor 11:23-28 Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.

Do you do any real Suffering for Christ today? Acts 5:41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. See II Cor 6:4-10

Public Persecution- Even to the Place of Physical Suffering. I Cor 4:10 We are fools for Christ’s sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honorable, but we are despised.

Private Dedication- Fasting, Sacrificial Giving, Family misunderstandings about who’s first in your life. Do you wear any “Marks for the Master?” Wore a “Used Suit” instead of purchasing a new one in order to give to cause of Christ. Modest apparel to identity as Christian.