MOTHER’S DAY – Mircheal Jones

Almost as if it were by accident the biblical records reveal the fact that their names were Amram and Jochebed (They are not even named until Exodus 6:20). They were slaves. For a honeymoon they ground on with their dismal toil with welts on their backs from the lashes of their taskmasters. Their home was a slave’s cabin in the land of Egypt. When the years of cruel adversity had ground them through to the last ounce of their endurance they died and were thrown into unmarked graves. A short and simple life story copied a thousand times over during this period of time.

But there was something special about these two. They became the parents of three children: 1) Miriam, the eldest, became a sweet singer, a poetess, and, eventually, the fountain head of the poetry and song of Israel. 2) Aaron grew up to be a great orator, a persuader of men and a man of God, father of the Priesthood which was to lift Israel and the whole human race Godward. 3) Moses, though born into the world under the curse of the king, became the lawgiver, the liberator, and the first prophet of his people. This man Moses, even today, is honored by the 3 main religions in the world- Moslem, Jews, and Christians.

Today I want us to examine some of the characteristics of this great man’s mother and see if we can find some Principles and Practical applications that will enable us to be the parents that we should be in these difficult days.

1. Her Love was greater than the Law– Heb 11:23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment.

A) Moses’ Mother was willing to risk her own life because of her love for her son [Abortion was not only allowed by the law but demanded by the law- a recent study of teens shows that they are 4 times as likely to commit suicide if they have had an abortion! By the way, Studies have shown that 91% of teen girls who begin dating by the age of 12 have had sex by graduation compared to only 20% who wait until age 16 to begin dating].

B) Love cannot be demanded by the Law. It comes naturally but it also develops. A Mother loves her Children when they are born but that love grows as she holds them and cares for them.

Love is greater than the Law in Salvation- the Law said slay us but Love put Christ on the Cross that we might live.

2. Her Faith was greater than the circumstances– After 3 months Moses could no longer be hid so his mother made him a little boat and put him among the bulrushes to see what would happen. Many a child is born in a home or nation where their outlook is very dim- yet God can conquer the circumstances. A brilliant American student born to wealthy parents fell victim of infidelity to God; and turned his back on his early Christian training, One day he was so thoroughly dissatisfied with himself that he remarked to his mother, “I am tired of it all. I am going to leave and will not bother you anymore.”

She followed him to the door where she pled with him and wept over him. Then she gave him her final word, “My boy, when you come to the darkest hour of all, and everything seems lost, if you will honestly call on your mother’s God, He will not fail you.”

Out into the darkness he went, His sin, particularly his infidelity, was driving him swiftly to destruction. Down, down he went in his headlong, reckless course, until he felt he could endure it no longer. In a hotel in a certain town, 425 miles from home, he decided to commit suicide. Wearied with his sinful life, he got out of bed at an early hour and prepared to end his life. He said to himself, “I’ll bring an end to this farce called ‘human life.'”

Just then, there flashed across his memory the last words of his dear mother before he left home years before: “My boy, when you come to the darkest hour of all and everything seems lost, if you will honestly call on your mother’s God, He will not fail you.” A power gripped him, restraining him and bringing him to his knees to pray thus: “O God of my mother, if there is such a Being, I want light. And if Thou wilt give it, no matter how, I will follow it.” God shone into his darkened mind, broke down his stubborn will, and without hesitation he met the terms of the Gospel by faith and claimed Christ as His Savior.

His first thought was to return to his home and tell his mother, To his amazement he saw his mother walking down the garden path to meet him with smiling face and tears, and she exclaimed, “O my son, I know why you are back home. You have found the Lord, for He has told me.”

This young man became the well known evangelist R A Torrey, who was used of God to win many souls to Christ in many lands. He himself was won to Christ by His mother’s love. Many of you are faced with difficult circumstances but God is greater than your Problems- just don’t use God for a “Cop out” [Example of the man who asked God to knock him off the stump but the preacher did it for him!]. Prayer is important but so are Principles backed up with punishment.

3. Her Foundation was greater than Pharaoh’s Funds– Mothers write on the hearts of their children what the world’s rough hand cannot erase. Heb 11:24 26 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of pharaoh’s daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward.

She only had a few years to instill into this boy the values and teachings that would shape him for life- and she did so. Today’s parents must accept the fact that their children are going to face many trials and temptations in life and if they don’t get a solid base then they’ll be bowled over. That’s why we stress the importance of Salvation, Church attendance, and Christian training.

VARIOUS ABOUT MOTHERS

A Mother’s Example, A mother’s Encouragement,

A CONCERNED MOTHER-Moses’s Mom committed him to the River to save his life.

A COMMITTED MOTHER-Samuel’s Mom committed him to the Temple to save his nation

A COVETOUS MOTHER-Salome (Mother of James and John) wanted her son to have the main seats in the kingdom.

A CONVERTED MOTHER- Mary Magdalene Mk 16:9 Won by Her Love

MOTHER KNOWS

No one knows of the work it makes

To keep the home together;

Nobody knows the steps it takes,

Nobody knows but Mother.

Nobody knows the lessons taught

Of loving one another;

Nobody knows the patience sought,

Nobody knows but Mother.

Selected

A MOTHER CALLED TO PREACH: At the close of one of his evangelistic campaigns, D L Moody was approached by an enthusiastic woman who insisted that God had called her to preach the Gospel. Moody replied that he thought it was wonderful that she could discern God’s will. Then he asked her about her family at home. She replied that she had a husband and 11 children. Moody exclaimed, “Then thank the Lord, Madam, for He has not only called you to preach, but He has already given you a congregation!”

PORTRAIT OF A MOTHER

A mother can be almost any size or age, but she will not admit to anything over 30. She has soft hands and smells good. A mother likes new dresses, music, a clean house, her children’s kisses, an automatic washer, and Daddy.

A mother does not like her children being sick, muddy feet, temper tantrums, loud noises, or bad report cards. She can read a thermometer (much to the amazement of Daddy) and like magic, can kiss a hurt away. She can also bake cakes and pies, but likes to see her children eat vegetables.

A mother can stuff a fat baby into a snowsuit in seconds and can kiss little faces and make them smile. She is underpaid, has long hours, and gets very little rest. She worries too much about her children. And no matter how old they are, she still likes to think of them as her little babies.

A mother is the guardian angel of the family, the queen, the tender hand of love. She is the best friend anyone ever had.

Mother’s Day is a difficult day for wives who have not known the joy of motherhood. Please remember that you are loved by God and normally, like my precious wife, “adopted” by multitudes. May you feel God’s love and comfort in a special way on this special day- Sing, O barren, thou that didst not bear; break forth into singing, and cry aloud, thou that didst not travail with child: for more are the children of the desolate than the children of the married wife, saith the LORD (Isaiah 54:1)

SOME ADVICE FOR A MOTHER II John

This advice is from a man who must have been pretty competent: (1) Jesus left Mary in his care as he died on the cross. (2) He was the “Elder” pastor of many of the Asia Minor Churches ( A man who could pastor 7 churches at one time knows what a mother goes thru!!). (3) He was nearly 100 and had been in on the growth of the Church from its infancy.

The “Mother” he was writing to was a well known, well respected lady- Nothing wrong with a woman seeking and attaining the goals God has set for her–Esther was a queen; Lydia, a seller of Purple; and the Virtuous woman was a woman of industry.

I. KNOW THE TRUTH 1 3 Be Saved yourself. Jesus said, “I am the way, the Truth, and the Life”. In this day of confusion and compromise Mom’s need to know Jesus. Repent of Sin, Believe in your heart that Christ died for you, Confess it publicly, live for God.

II. WALK IN THE TRUTH 4 “Practice” Truth

A) Be aware of YOUR Example:

1. II Chron 22:3 Ahaziah’s Mother was his counselor to do wickedly.

2. II Tim 1:5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that is in thee also.

The hand that rocks the cradle controls the world- Moses mother only had him a few years but she instilled life long values.

B) Pray for and work toward getting your child saved so they will not “Break your heart”- Prov 17:25 A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bear him. Good Christians are good Children!

III. LOVE ONE ANOTHER 5 6 Show Love in your Life. Most children don’t remember a lot of things but they never forget Mom’s hugs and kisses- her special treats just for them; her shoulder to cry on. God made men to handle circumstances but He gave mothers that special something needed to raise Children.

IV WATCH OUT FOR FALSE TEACHERS 7 11

A) Be on Guard- vs 8 Look to yourselves that ye lose not… Keep up with how Satan is trying to trick your children. Pay Attention.

B) Know right from wrong. Consul with your Husband, Study the Bible about issues.

C) Don’t Support the wrong (Emotions overrule right) don’t let Pride or Pressure let your Child go wrong.

V. KEEP PERSONAL CONTACT Face to Face 12 13

Take time for your family. When’s the last time you packed a picnic lunch and took a day to be with your Family. If you’re too busy for your family; you’re too busy!! (Andrew calls me “Mike Jones busy” because every time he asks for something I say, “I’m busy”! What a tremendous criticism that is).

Are You Saved? Are you living for the Lord? Do you Show Love? Are you watching for your Child’s spiritual welfare?

WIVES, MOTHERS, AND OTHER JEWELS

Prov 31:10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies (Amp Bible- “She is more precious than Jewels”).

Man was told to dress the garden of Eden but with all his work God saw that it was not good for a man to be alone so He created a woman to help him. In this woman he placed the feelings of tenderness and beauty and gentleness that man fails to show. None are as good as a woman- Kind, gentle, sympatric.

None are as bad as a woman- A man punches you in the nose and goes on about his business; a woman carries it in her heart and looks for ways to “even the score”.

A STRING OF JEWELS (Some good, some not so good)

Eve- Woman of Curiosity who led to sin

Miriam- Ambitious Woman who had to see the price of sin (Leprosy)

Deborah- Patriotic Woman who had to lead a man to do right

Ruth- Faithful Woman who found a “redeemer”

Hannah- An Ideal Mother who gave her child to the Lord.

The Shunamite Woman- Hospitable Woman

Esther- Self Sacrificing Woman who saved her nation

Mary Magdalene- Transformed woman

Bad Woman (Leading others astray)

A) Delilah- Jud 6:6 And Delilah said to Samson, Tell me I pray thee, wherein thy great strength lieth, and wherewith thou mightest be bound to afflict thee. (For MONEY)

B) Jezebel- I Kings 21:25 But there was none like unto Ahab, which did sell himself to work wickedness in the sight of the Lord, whom Jezebel his wife stirred up (PRIDE, POSITION) Associated with improper dress- immodest leads to perversion

MOTHERS Prov 31:10-27

I see at least two things in this proverb that haven’t changed in modern times;

I. In the time of Solomon, Mothers wanted the best wife for their sons ( v.1 The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him… text – describes the type of woman she wanted him to have.)

II. Even then, virtuous women (we will discuss what makes a virtuous woman later in the message) were hard to find (who can find a virtuous woman?)

I. Why Mothers care so.

There is a little circle that a woman is such a vital part of that it can never be what it should be without her. It is not a circle of friends, or a circle of office workers, or a circle of social contacts, but a little circle called a family.

Whether it was good or bad, I have never met a woman who did not wish some part in the choice of her son’s wife; this mother was no exception. She knew the kind of woman that would make her son happy, and she tried to instill that knowledge into his heart and mind. (By the way Mothers, it is a fact that you should never forget, sons are naturally disposed to love and revere their mothers.)

Nothing so dampens the joy of a man or his children as an uncaring woman at the head of the household; nothing gives greater strength than a woman who first loves her God, and then next her husband and children (even though it may sometimes seem that she loves the children more).

II. The virtuous woman.

Not every woman is a virtuous woman. This is a description a woman gives of the right kind, or virtuous woman.

A virtuous woman is one who is characterized by a number of positive virtues and excellences, and chiefly by her love for God. Our text ascribes these characteristics to her: she is * faithful * can be trusted * industrious * wise spender * cares for those less fortunate * concerned about her families’ appearance * her appearance * wise * kind.

Look at her worth, far above rubies. Husbands and children, what is it worth to have someone in the home who is not only a live in maid, nurse, bookkeeper, cook, counselor, teacher, but who is also a friend, confidant and one who loves you, no matter what?

Husbands, what is it worth to have a woman that you know will be true to you (the heart of her husband doth safely trust in her)?

Parents, what is it worth to see your daughter living happily with the man God has chosen; and raising the best grandchildren in the world?

Brothers and Sisters, what is it worth to see your sister happy and successful as a wife and mother?

What is the value of such an example to society? to the young women who are contemplating marriage? to the church? to the Pastor?

Women today try to gain “women’s rights.” The Bible has already bestowed that right; it teaches us to honor women – if a man degrades women, he degrades himself, if he honors women, he brings honor upon himself.

The true reward of the true woman, Her husband praiseth her, (A London statesman used to say, “Every step in my life to honor and success I owe to my good and faithful wife.” – Lincoln said on receiving a presentation, “I will hand this to the lady who, by her counsel and help, has made it possible in anywise for me to serve my country.” – When Jonathan Edwards was discharged from his appointment he came home in despair. But his wife smiled bravely and said, “My dear, you have often longed for leisure to write your book, and now it has come. I have lighted a fire in your room, and set the table with pens and paper.” He was so cheered that he set to work at once, and wrote the book that made him famous.

A man who treats his wife like she is just a slave or an inferior being is a sorry man who does not like himself and who will never know the thrill of having his wife look up to him as the “best husband in the world.”

Her children call her blessed. (General Garfield said that he had a model mother. When he was a young man he obtained work on a canal boat against his mother’s wishes. One dark night, when he was alone on the boat, he fell overboard. It was in a lock, where the water was deepest. He could not swim, and was sinking when his hand touched a rope hanging over the side, apparently by accident. He climbed on deck and found that the rope was only held by the slightest twist around a block. He felt it was God’s hand which had saved him, and resolved to start for home at once. He found his mother and described his miraculous escape. “What hour was it?” she asked. He told her, and she said, “At that very moment I was praying for you, my son, that God would protect and bless you.” Later Garfield used to say, “I owe everything to my mother.”

2 MEMORIALS TO WOMEN

We live in a difficult time to preach about “Mothers”. Everyone wants to be sentimental and mushy on Mother’s Day and talk about how marvelous Moms are but in the back of our mind it’s like watching a re-run of “Life with Father” instead of one of today’s TV Shows. Mothers no longer slave over a hot stove baking bread and cakes for us; they throw Frozen dinners in the Microwave and dare us to use real plates instead of Styrofoam ones! Children go to Pre-school, kindergarten, and then regular school. When they aren’t there they’re at a daycare center, an afterschool center, or a little league Ball game!

Addictive Babies, Abandoned Children, and Latchkey kids have become a part of today’s language. Divorce, homosexual/lesbian partnership, and live together couples are a common part of today’s society. And the modern “Model Mom” is one that divides the household responsibilities with the husband before she launches forth into the vulgar, cut-throat world of modern business. She’s indeed “come a long way, Baby”.

I think it’s time we took a long hard look at where today’s woman is going; and what the results will be when she gets there. In order to do that I want us to look at 2 Women in the Bible whose actions became perpetual Memorials- One of Shame, the other of Glory.

1) Mary; sister of Martha and Lazarus- Matt 26:6-13 vs 13 Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.

2) Lot’s Wife- Luke 17:32 Remember Lot’s wife

I. LOT’S WIFE-

A) A “Righteous” Husband- II Pet 2:7-8

B) A Praying Uncle- Abraham prayed for Sodom to be spared and many believe he stopped praying at 10 souls because he thought Lot’s family would be that ten souls. What a difference it could have been had this woman won her family to the Lord.

C) A Visit from Heavenly Messengers- The Angels came to stay with her and even urged her to flee God’s Wrath. She chose the World for her children; and watched them perish. She chose Wrath for herself and ended up a perpetual memorial of turning back on God.

II. MARY-

A) Sat at the feet of Jesus while Martha was cumbered about with much serving. Today’s mother has never been more active; or more miserable!

B) Sacrificed her life’s savings to anoint Jesus for the burial. Willing to give up Money for the Master.

C) Accepted criticism from the Lord’s own disciples- but the Lord commended her.

A MOTHER’S PRAYERS

Did you know that the idea for Mother’s Day was born in a small Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia? It was 1876 and the nation still mourned the Civil War dead. While teaching a Memorial Day lesson, Mrs. Anna Reeves Jarvis thought of mothers who had lost their sons. She prayed that one day there could be a “Memorial Day” for mothers. The prayer made a deep impression on one of Mrs. Jarvis’s eleven children. Young Anna had seen her mother’s efforts to hold the war-split community and church together. As she grew into adulthood, the younger woman kept Mrs. Jarvis’s dream in her heart. On the day of her mother’s death, Anna was determined to establish Mother’s Day in her honor.

On May 12, 1907, a local observance was held which later spread to Philadelphia. By 1910, Mother’s Day was celebrated in forty-five states, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Canada, and Mexico. Elated, Miss Jarvis told a friend, “Where it will end must be left for the future to tell. That it will circle the globe now seems certain.”

On May 8, 1914, President Wilson designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day “for displaying the American flag and for the public expression of love and reverence for the mothers of the country.”

We have spend the day so far allowing Mothers to tell us what they expected of us and allowing Children to tell of the Blessings they have received from their mothers. Now I want us to close the day with a look at One of the responsibilities of a Mother. I think everyone would admit that Mothers have a tremendous amount of responsibilities; ranging from caring for the sick to cleaning up after Husband and Children.

The Responsibility I want to highlight today, however, is the tremendously important task of a Mother’s Prayers. I fear we have entered the day in which the Modern Mom is too busy caring for the Physical and Social needs of her family to spend the time needed to care for their Spiritual Needs. Yet, 100 years from now, the Spiritual part of her family will be all that matters.

Susannah Wesley, for example, spent one hour each day praying for her 17 children (She did not have a “Prayer Closet”. Instead she would simply pull her apron up over her head and the Children knew not to bother her because she was having her Prayer Time). In addition, she took each child aside for a full hour every week to discuss spiritual matters. No wonder two of her sons, Charles and John, were used of God to bring blessing to all of England and much of America.

Here are a few rules she followed in training her children: (1) Subdue self-will in a child and thus work together with God to save his soul. (2) Teach him to pray as soon as he can speak. (3) Give him nothing he cries for and only what is good for him if he asks for it politely. (4) To prevent lying, punish no fault which is freely confessed, but never allow a rebellious, sinful act to go unnoticed. (5) Commend and reward good behavior. (6) Strictly observe all promises you have made to your child.

I. THE REASON TO PRAY

A) We’re at War with Satan for your Children

B) Your Children are Lost in this Wicked World and the Devil is a Roaring Lion seeking to devour them

II. THE RESULTS OF PRAYER

Example of General Garfield who was saved from drowning at a time his mother was praying.

Conviction- Singing Amazing Grace in Bar brought men to conviction of behavior

Character- Example OF Mother; Pray for Wisdom FOR Mother

Prov 31:10-31 MOM’S GREATEST GIFT

I have learned of many unusual or well remembered gifts for Mother’s recently. My dad gave my mom a La-z-boy recliner HE wanted for her Mother’s day present. Probably the one present I have given her that she kept for a long time as a pot holder I made while I was confined to the hospital in my youth.

Other Moms have told me about Concrete Rabbits, Hand Made Hearts, A wheel barrow with hoe, rack, and pitch fork, an aquarium, a bird bath with an angel, a mixer instead of the watch she really wanted, and, get ready for this one, Lew Gowdy (His birthday was Friday! He was a Mother’s Day “Present”).

As you can see, Mother’s get a large assortment of gifts. Most of the time, the Mother learns to look at the love behind the gift instead of the actual gift. What could be the greatest Gift you could give a Mother, however?? Diamonds, Vacations, flowers…. Let’s look at some things about Mothers. I think that will help us determine the greatest Gift she could ever get.

THE PURPOSE OF MOTHERS:

1) COMPANIONSHIP FOR MAN- (Gen 2:20-22) And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him. And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. God provided a woman for man and established the boundaries of that relationship to be marriage.

For Purity: This makes homosexual “relationship”, Adulterous affairs, and pre-marital sex wrong.

For Partnership: Companionship in marriage is more that living in the same house and sleeping in the same bed. It involves sharing your life with one another- Communicating, Caring, Consideration.

2) CONCEPTION OF CHILDREN- (Gen 1:28) And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. God’s Plan to repopulate the earth involves Parents having Children. In this FAMILY UNIT (The disaster of today is Unwed Mothers, Divorce, and live in lovers {Hollywood is indeed another name for Hell!}) God established ways of promoting Authority and Education. Children are placed in a home so the world can develop its potential as people develop their potential. Our job is to rebuild the earth as we build people. It seems today that we are destroying both!!

3) COOPERATION IN GOD’S PLAN- Ps 127:3-5 Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

Mothers do not exist, however, solely to satisfy maternal instincts and to have children they can nurse and fondle. Their real purpose is bringing into the world eternal souls (Male and Female) which are to live on in eternity. Such a Privilege, Such a Responsibility!

That bundle of joy in their arms is a gift from God to be taught the ways of God and directed to the acceptance of God’s Salvation. When Moms (and Dads) stand before God and answer to God for their Children, they will want above everything for that Child to be Saved and following God’s Plan for his or her life.

With joy we bring them, Lord

Devoting them to Thee,

Imploring, that, as we are Thine,

Thine may our offspring be.

That’s why I can say that the greatest present you can give your mom is the Acceptance of Jesus Christ as your Savior and the Dedication of your life to serving the Lord. In all of years of Pasturing, I have never seen a single Mom or Dad who was sorry their Child was saved and serving the Lord. I have, however, met multitudes of parents who were extremely sorry their Children were living in Sin, controlled by the devil, and bound for Hell.

WHAT CAN BE DONE to give Mother This Greatest Gift??

1. The Parent’s Example:

Saved Yourself

Faithful to the Church and to Family Devotions

Consistently Trusting God and letting your Family know that

2. The Children Exhortation:

Has God been dealing with you lately??

Down in your heart, would you love to be right with God??

To Give this Gift, you must first accept it from God. Will You?

THE WATCHER- MOTHER (By Margaret Widdemer)

She always leaned to watch for us,

Anxious if we were late,

In Winter by the window,

In summer by the gate.

And though we mocked her tenderly,

Who had such foolish care,

The long way home would seem more safe

Because she waited there.

Her thoughts were all so full of us-

She never could forget!

And so I think that where she is

She must be watching yet.

Waiting till we come home to her,

Anxious if we are late-

Watching from heaven’s window,

Leaning from heaven’s gate.

WOMEN’S WEAKNESS

The Bible ascribes certain “weaknesses” to women. These weaknesses convey certain responsibilities to Men and Women alike as they seek to develop the relationship God intended.

I. Weakness leads to HONOR-1 Pet 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.

This is NOT a Position of Inferiority. The weakness is not in Salvation relationship or mental ability. NOTE that they are “Weaker vessels” but “Heirs together of the grace of Life” (Physically weaker but Spiritually Equal)- Gal 3:26-28 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

The Knowledge of Physical Limitations but Spiritual Equality is stressed because the purpose of Peter’s admonition was so that “Your Prayers be not Hindered”.

TWO COMMANDS ARE GIVEN TO THE MAN:

1. Dwell with them according to Knowledge

2. Giving Honor unto the Wife (Because)

a. She is the weaker Vessel (Help her screw the lid off that jar!)

b. You are Heirs together of the grace of life (Worship and Pray together as Family)

THE CONSEQUENCES OF BROKEN COMMANDS- Your prayers are hindered.

II. RESPECT- 1 Tim 2:12-14 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.

It is a FACT that most Women are better Educated, better readers, and possess more Intellect (See how I avoided saying, “Smarter”) than men. So Teaching Men is not based on her Intellect or Ability. Paul Points out TWO PROBLEMS that Prevent women from being put in the positions of Leadership.

1. She would “Usurp” (Only time word is used in the Bible) Authority. The word means “Grasping for”; “Stealing from”. The idea is that the women would lose her privileged position of protection as she sought to gain control of the Church.

2. She was Deceived- The NATURAL nature of women gives them a trusting, loving nature. The “down side” of this nature is that sometimes appeals to their emotions will often overrule their logic. (Men use “Sweet nothings” instead of logically arguments to seduce) Sadly, this emotional side of many women has been warped by society today until they go against the very nature God has given them.

THE CONSEQUENCES OF KNOWING BETTER BUT “DESIRING” WRONG THINGS- Eve Transgressed, Adam sinned, and Jesus had to die. What a horrible price to pay.

Story of THE DRESS: “Do you like my dress?” she asked of a passing stranger. “My mommy made it just for me.” She said with a tear in her eye.

“Well, I think it’s very pretty, so tell me little one, why are you crying?” With a quiver in her voice the little girl answered. “After Mommy made me this dress, she had to go away.”

“Well, now,” said the lady, “with a little girl like you waiting for her, I’m sure she’ll be right back.” “No ma’am, you don’t understand,” said the child through her tears, “my Daddy said that she’s up in heaven now with Grandfather.” Finally the woman realized what the child meant, and why she was crying. Kneeling down she gently cradled the child in her arms and together they cried for the mommy that was gone.

Then suddenly the little girl did something that the woman thought was a bit strange. She stopped crying, stepped back from the woman and began to sing. She sang so softly that it was almost a whisper. It was the sweetest sound the woman had ever heard, almost like the song of a very small bird.

After the child stopped singing she explained to the lady, “My mommy used to sing that song to me before she went away, and she made me promise to sing it whenever I started crying and it would make me stop.” “See,” she exclaimed, “it did, and now my eyes are dry!”

As the woman turned to go, the little girl grabbed her sleeve, “Lady, can you stay just a minute? I want to show you something.” “Of course,” she answered, “what do you want me to see?”

Pointing to a spot on her dress, she said, “Right here is where my Mommy kissed my dress, and here,” pointing to another spot, “and here is another kiss, and here, and here,” “Mommy said that she put all those kisses on my dress so that I would have her kisses for every boo-boo that made me cry.”

Then the lady realized that she wasn’t just looking at a dress, no, she was looking at a Mother who knew that she was going away and would not be there to kiss away the hurts that she knew her daughter would get. So she took all the love she had for her beautiful little girl and put them into this dress that her child now so proudly wore.

She no longer saw a little girl in a simple dress, she saw a child wrapped in her Mother’s love.

GREATER THAN MOTHER Luke 11:27-28

Even while Jesus is defending Himself against the statement that He is an ally of Satan, a woman speaks up and calls His mother blessed. Having been insulted by the insinuation that the Devil was His father, this lady thought to be kind by praising His mother. Instead of rejoicing in her praise, Jesus used this time to teach a lesson about something even greater than mothers.

Jesus was speaking to a society that put extremely high value on family ties. A man’s value came from his being able to trace his genealogy back to Abraham. The Mother value was directly related to the sons she produced to bring about the long awaited Messiah.

Jesus told this woman (and the crowd) that Obedience to God was more important than these family ties. That is a radical statement; even in today’s society. Jesus in not down playing the importance of families; He is showing the overwhelming importance of complete commitment to God. Something our lukewarm society today needs to re-establish.

I. WHAT DO YOU SEEK FROM GOD (CHURCH)? There are 4 basic reasons people attend church or do something “religious”:

1) Relieve a Guilty Conscience

2) Seek something from God- Good feelings, Blessing, Healing

3) Committed to the Organization; not the Lord. Gives a sense of family and society to attend the old family Church

4) Academic interest in things of God- Ever learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

II. WHAT GOD SEEKS FROM YOU- 2 Main requirements in Obeying God:

1) OBEDIENCE DEMANDS EXTREME DEVOTION- (Mat 10:35 37) For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. {36} And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household. {37} He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

2) OBEDIENCE MUST GO BEYOND SURFACE HEARING- (Mat 7:21 27) Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. {22} Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? {23} And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. {24} 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: {25} And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. {26} And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: {27} And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. Some people hear and act; others only hear. The difference is a matter of eternal consequences (vs 24)

If your life does not reveal Growth in Grace, righteousness, and holiness; you need to examine the reality of your faith- even if you believe you have done great things in the name of Christ.

Without Faith it is impossible to Please God. Without Holiness no man shall see the Lord. Stalled or slipping lives need to be examined.

NON MAYBERRY MOTHERS Gen 21:9-20

Mayberry Mothers sound great but most of you had to go to Hardees or Bojangles if you wanted a biscuit for breakfast last week. Most homes I visit the man is the main cook. Most people get their clothes out of the dryers instead of ironed in the closet. The world is changing and so is the home. Hagar is an example of this “non- Mayberry Mother”

1) Mothers struggle in Family Relationships- vs 9-11 Normally, over 60% of the people in a congregation either have been divorced or have someone in their immediate family who has been divorced.

2) Single Mothers struggle financially- vs 12-15 Hagar received very little when she left one of the richest men in the area.

3) Single Mothers struggle to Focus- vs 14 “she departed and wandered in the wilderness of Beer-sheba”. She was from Egypt and did not know where to go or what to do.

4) Single Mothers struggle with Children- 16. Hagar abandoned her child and entered into deep depression.

5) Single Mothers need to realize that God wants to help if they will only listen to God=s voice and follow God’s directions. – vs 17-21

HAGAR HELP FOR STRUGGLING MOTHERS

And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, mocking. Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac. And the thing was very grievous in Abraham’s sight because of his son. And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called. And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed. And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba. And the water was spent in the bottle, and she cast the child under one of the shrubs. And she went, and sat her down over against him a good way off, as it were a bowshot: for she said, Let me not see the death of the child. And she sat over against him, and lift up her voice, and wept. And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is. Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him in thine hand; for I will make him a great nation. And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink. And God was with the lad; and he grew, and dwelt in the wilderness, and became an archer (Genesis 21:9-20).

The easy thing to do today would be to tell you that Mothers are the best thing since peanut butter and let everyone leave with a rosy glow. If everyone was an ideal Mother then that is what I would do but, sadly, many Mothers in this church today struggle with the same problems that plagued Hagar:

NON-MAYBERRY MOTHERS

1) Mothers struggle in Family Relationships- vs 9-11 Normally, over 60% of the people in a congregation either have been divorced or have someone in their immediate family who has been divorced- His, Her, Ours.

2) Mothers struggle financially- vs 12-15 Hagar received very little when she left one of the richest men in the area.

3) Mothers struggle to Focus- vs 14 she departed and wandered in the wilderness of Beer-sheba. She was from Egypt and did not know where to go or what to do.

4) Mothers struggle with how to care for Children- 16. Hagar abandoned her child

5) Mothers struggle with deep depression and a feeling of hopelessness- And she sat over against him, and lift up her voice, and wept.

Here is how God helped Hagar:

• “What Aileth Thee?”- identify Your need (Conviction)

• “Fear Not, for God has heard”- Faith to believe God is aware of your situation and wants to help

• “Arise, lift up the lad”- Put feet to your faith by putting yourself into God’s hands

• “Saw a well of water”- Learn to live at the Living Waters

• “God was with the lad”- Put God in control of your life plans and decisions.

A WOMAN WITH TWO NAMES

(Acts 9:36 42) Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and alms deeds which she did. {37} And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. {38} And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. {39} Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. {40} But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. {41} And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. {42} And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.

Dorcas- The first Greek name of a female in the NT. It means “A Female Roebuck”. Her Hebrew name was Tabitha a “Gazelle” (An emblem of beauty). Dorcas is the woman who with her needle embroidered her name into charity work for all time. As such, she is a great example of the ideal woman- (Prov 31:19 20) She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. {20} She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

We don’t know anything about the family of Dorcas but there are several important things we do know:

1) SHE WAS A CHRISTIAN- She is called “a certain Disciple”. Her good works came from a good heart. Faith came before works

2) SHE WAS A WORKER- “This woman was full of good works and alms deeds which she did”.

Her faith on the inside came out in works- “Full of good works”

Her love for Christ brought a concern for others- “alms deeds”

Her desires led to diligent duty- “Which she did”

Her good works were to provide coats and garments for the widows and needy in the Church and community. In this we see the heart of Christ- (Mat 25:35 40) For I was… {36} Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. {37} Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? {38} When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? {39} Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? {40} And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

3) SHE WAS MOURNED AND MISSED. No mention is made of the family of this fine woman but all those she had helped now showed her the love and affection of an “extended” family.

4) SHE WAS RAISED FROM THE DEAD- Knowing Peter was in the area, the people send for him to help them cope with their grief. Instead, Peter felt divinely led to restore this woman to her place of usefulness in the community. What a moving scene that must have been! What joy must have prevailed among her fellow saints and the widows, now that their much loved Dorcas was alive again.

5) SHE WAS THE CAUSE OF A REVIVAL- it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. Her return to life brought Comfort to her friends and Church but it brought Conviction to the people in the town. A woman who sought only to provide for the physical needs of people was used of the Lord to lead many into a spiritual relationship with Christ. How true it is that we find our life when we lose it!

SOME ADVICE FOR A MOTHER II John

5 “one chapter” books: Obadiah, Philemon, 2, 3 John, Jude

I realize today that I am totally unqualified to give advice to the lovely ladies and wonderful mothers present today. So instead, I want to give you some “motherly advice” from Apostle John.

The “Mother” he was writing to was a well-known, well respected lady- Nothing wrong with a woman seeking and attaining the goals God has set for her–Esther was a queen; Lydia, a seller of Purple; and the Virtuous woman of Proverbs 31 was a woman of industry.

I. KNOW THE TRUTH 1 3. Which means you need to know Jesus who is “the way, the Truth, and the Life”. In this day of confusion and compromise Mom’s need to know the source of truth (Jesus) and the stability of Truth. Repent of Sin, Believe that Christ died for you, Confess it publicly, live for God.

II. WALK IN THE TRUTH 4. Give them a good example: II Tim 1:5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that is in thee also.

The hand that rocks the cradle controls the world- Moses mother only had him a few years but instilled lifelong values.

III. KEEP LOVE AS YOUR GUIDING LIGHT 5 6. Show Love in your Life. Most children don’t remember a lot of things but they never forget Mom’s hugs and kisses- her special treats just for them; her shoulder to cry on. Remember Love means chastising as well as caring: “Whom the Lord loves He chastens”.

IV GUARD AGAINST THOSE WHO LOVE WRONG 7 11

A) Guard against Deceivers who try to destroy your family. Watch what your family watches and does.

B) Guard your own life – vs 8-9 Look to yourselves that ye lose not… yourself or your family. Know right from wrong (Emotions can deceive). Ask your Husband, Study the Bible about issues.

C) Guard against compromise: vs 10-11. Don’t let Pride or Pressure overwhelm the truth.

V. KEEP PERSONAL CONTACT Face to Face 12 13

A) Make time to spend time together

B) Have a no electronic device time where people talk instead of text

Are You Saved? Are you living for the Lord? Do you Show Love? Are you guarding your Child’s spiritual welfare?

Dads and Children, Are you saved? Prov 17:25 A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bear him. Good Christians are good Children!

IITim 01:4-5 FAITH OF OUR MOTHERS

2 Tim 1:4‑5 Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; 5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

I. THE FELLOWSHIP “Greatly desiring to see thee”

Paul is trying to help his “son” in the ministry as he faces the problems of life. Like a “Mother” Paul showed that a Child needs:

A) Compassion (Desiring to see thee). Longing to be with you.

B) Concern‑ (Mindful of thy tears) There is no love like a Mother’s love (Dad’s Hush Mom’s Hold). Mom, When is the last time you told your children you Loved them?? Children‑ When is the last time you thanked your mother for her concern??

C) Co-sharers (That I may be). I feel what happens to you as if it happened to me.

D) Challenge‑ (That I may be filled with Joy) Competition vs Challenge Self vs Service

II. THE FAITH‑ The leaning of your entire personality on God in Christ in absolute trust and confidence in his power, wisdom, and goodness. -Faith in God to save, supply, and satisfy

A) The Character of the Faith‑ unfeigned sincere (Without Wax) Non‑hypocritical. What are you at home?? Would Jesus want you for a Mom? Child?

B) The Place of Faith “in thee”

1. A Personal Faith‑ Not just talked but lived from inside out

2. A Permanent Faith‑ Not the faith of a minute but of a lifetime -2 Tim 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.

C) The Duration of Faith‑Tried and Passed on thru the ages

1. Grandmother- Lois Prov 23:22 Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.

2. Mother‑ Eunice (married a Greek Acts 16:1) Indications are that Timothy’s father was an unbeliever. Eunice had to raise Timothy under bad conditions but she had instilled in him the faith her mother had given her

Faith of our mother, hold it true

As morning star in Heaven’s blue

As peerless pearl from ocean’s bed

As guiding light seen far ahead

Faith of our Mothers, blessed faith,

It shall be ours to hold til death

III. THE PRACTICE OF FAITH. Mother:

Do you give your children goals to strive for?? Teaching them “Winning” is not always Victory

Do your children realize how parents rejoice in their rewards?? “Filled with Joy”

Most importantly, what kind of Faith are you giving your Child?? All you have to do to be a Mom is to Bear Children. But to be a Good Mom you must have Faith in Christ and pass that on to your children. (If you give your kids a clean home and clean clothes but feed them poison, what kind of Mom are you?? If you give your Children this world’s goods but don’t prepare them to face the judgment of God- are you a good mother??

Mother’s Day Sermons from Dale Yarborough Outlines

ARE YOU A GOOD MOTHER? Proverbs 14:1

1. A GOOD MOTHER IS A CHRISTIAN MOTHER.

1. She has been mindful of God’s mercy; Psa. 103:17.

2. She has received Ghrist as her Saviour; Rom. 10:9,10.

3. She has a Christian life worthy of her calling; Eph. 4:1.

II. A GOOD MOTHER IS DEVOTED TO HER HUSBAND

1. This devotion is seen by her subjection to him; I Peter 3:1

2. This devotion is seen by her reverence to him; Eph 5:33

3. This devotion is seen by her faithfulness to him: I Cor 7:10

III. A GOOD MOTHER LOVES HOME LIFE.

1. She likes to work with her hands; Prov, 31:13

2. She prepares the provisions for her household Prov 31:15

3. She wants her home Iife to count for the Lord Joshua 24:15

IV. A GOOD MOTHER LOVES HER Children.

1. She loves them because they are obedient to her: Col 3:20

2. She Loves them because they Honor Her Exodus 20:12

3. She Loves them because they are a heritage of the Lord Psa 127:3

V. A GOOD MOTHER DRESSES ACCORDING TO CHRISTIAN STANDARDS

1. She does not dress to catch the eye of men; I Peter 3:3

2 She dresses in modest apparel: I Tim 2:9

3. She has an ornament of a meek and quiet spirit; I Pet 3:4,5

IV. A GOOD MOTHER HAS PRAISE FOR THE LORD.

1. She praise the Lord with Thanksgving; Psa. 147:7.

2. She praises the Lord from the depths of her heart; Psa. 9.

3. She praises the Lord regularly; Psa. 35:28.

V. A GOOD MOTHER IS AN HONOR TO HER FAMILY

1. She is a crown to her husband; Proverb 12:4.

2. She is praised by her husband; Proverbs 31:28b.

3. She is called bIessed by her Children; Proverbs 31:28a.

THE WOMAN WHO LIVES IN SIN I TlMOTHY 5:6

1. SHE IS DISOBEDIENT TO HER PARENTS.

1, She does not honor her parents: Ex, 20:12.

2. She has not been obedient to her parents; Col. 3:20,

3. She does not have a name which pleases her parents; Prov 22:1

11. SHE IS THE SERVANT OF SIN.

1. As a servant of sin, she is filled with unrighteousness; Rom 1:29

2. As a servant of sin, she yields to lust; Jude 18.

3. As a servant of sin, she practices sin; 1 John 3:8.

111. SHE IS TRAVELING THE BROAD WAY TO DESTRUCTION

1. She is traveling the broad way to the chamber of death; Prov 7:27

2. She is traveling the broad way to the lake of fire; Rev 20:15

3. She is traveling the broad way to damnation; Prov 11:19

IV. SHE ENTICES OTHERS TO LIVE IN SIN.

1. She entices them with her beauty; Prov. 6:25a.

2. She entices them with the wink of her eye; Prov. 6:25

3. She entices them with her flattery tongue; Prov. 6:24

V, SHE WILL REAP THE HARVEST OF HER SIN.

1 If Iniquity is sown. vanity must be reaped; Prov, 22:8

2 If the wind is sown, the whirlwind will be reaped; Hosea 8:7

3 If sin is sown to the Flesh. the flesh will reap corruption Gal 6:8

VI SHE SHOULD RECOGNIZE THAT CHRIST IS INTERESTED IN HER SALVATION

1 Christ came to seek the lost; Luke 19:10.

2 Christ came to provide a way of salvation for mankind

3, Christ came to reconcile man to God; ROM-5:10¬

VII. SHE SH0ULD LISTEN AS CHRIST CALLS HER TO SALVATION

1. Christ’s call is to condemned sinners; John 8:18,

2. Christ’s call is to convicted sinners; Acts 16:30.

3. Christ’s call is to convert sinners; II Cor. 5:17.

UNSAVED MOTHERS, COME TO JESUS Matthew 11:28-30

I. COME TO JESUS TO LEARN THE WAY OF SALVATION.

1. The way of salvation is based on Christ’s death; I Cor. 15:14

2. The way of salvation is revealed by the Gospel; John 5:24

3. The way of salvation is plainly revealed; John 3:16

II. COME TO JESUS FOR THE FORGIVENESS OF SIN.

1. The forgiveness of sin is through Christ’s blood; Eph. 1:7.

2. The forgiveness of sin is through receiving Christ; Rom. 10:9,10.

3. The forgiveness of sin through Christ is complete; Col. 2:13.

III. COME TO JESUS FOR REST FROM A BURDENED SOUL.

1. Our Lord gives rest from the enslavement of sin; John 8:34.

2. Our Lord gives rest from the condemnation of sin; Rom. 6:23.

3. Our Lord gives rest from the remembrance of past sin; Psa. 103:10-12.

IV. COME TO JESUS FOR SHELTER FROM THE COMING WRATH OF GOD.

1. God’s wrath is certain for all unbelievers; II Thess. 1:7-9.

2. God’s wrath has been reserved for all unbelievers; John 3:36.

3. God’s wrath is eternal for all unbelievers; Rev. 14:10,11.

V. COME TO JESUS FOR A GREAT FEAST THAT HAS BEEN PREPARED.

1. The feast is prepared by the King to honor His Son; Matt. 22:2.

2. The feast is completely prepared; Luke 14:17.

3. The feast is sufficient for all; Luke 14:22,23.

VI. COME TO JESUS FOR AN ABUNDANT CHRISTIAN LIFE.

1. The followers of Jesus shall never hunger; John 6:35.

2. The followers of Jesus shall never thirst; John 4:14.

3. The followers of Jesus will never perish; JOhn 10:28.

VII. COME TO JESUS ON THE INVITATION OF THE TRINITY.

1. God the Father invites; Isa. 55:1,3.

2. God the Son invites; John 6:37.

3. God the Holy Spirit invites; Rev. 22:17.

THE KIND OF FAITH MOTHERS SHOULD HAVE Luke 17:5

1. MOTHERS SHOULD HAVE A FAITH THAT IS PERSONAL

1. A personal faith in Christ is needed; Heb. 11:6.

2. A personal faith in Christ is to be desired; Acts 16:30.

3. A personal faith in Christ brings everlasting life; John 6

II. MOTHERS SHOULD HAVE A FAITH THAT WORKS

2. Faith that works helps the brethren; III John 5

3. Faith that works produces peace; Rom. 15:13.

1. Faith without works is dead; James 2:17.

III. MOTHERS SHOULD HAVE A FAITH THAT CONQUERS

1. A conquering faith gives us a fighting spirit; II Tim. 4:7

2. A conquering faith will resist the devil; James 4:7

3. A conquering faith will overcome the world; I John 5:4.

IV. MOTHERS SHOULD HAVE FAITH IN THE BIBLE.

1. Mothers should have faith that the Bible is God’s Word II. Tim.

2. Mothers should have faith that God’s Word will abide I Peter

3. Mothers should have faith in what God’s Word can do

V. MOTHERS SHOULD HAVE FAITH IN THE LORD’S PROMISES

1. The Lord’s promises are made only with Christians; Gal.

2. The Lord’s promises are manifested through Christ; II Cor.

3. The Lord’s promises are our only hope for the future; II Tim.

VI. MOTHERS SHOULD HAVE FAITH IN CHRIST’S INTERCESSORY WORK

1. Christ’s intercessory work is performed in Heaven; Heb. 9

2. Christ’s intercessory work is performed at God’s right hand Acts

3. Christ’s intercessory work makes it possible for us to pray Heb. 4

VII. MOTHERS SHOULD HAVE FAITH IN THE SALVATION GOD HAS PROVIDED.

1. God’s salvation means more than anything in the world; Mark 8:

2. God’s salvation delivers from condemnation to eternal life John

3. God’s salvation through Christ is eternal; Heb. 10:10.

CHRISTIAN MOTHERS, YOU HAVE A DUTY TO YOUR CHURCH II Cor 11:28

I. YOUR DUTY IS TO ATTEND YOUR CHURCH.

1. Attending the Church is commanded; Heb. 10:25.

2. Attending Church helps believers grow in grace; II

3. Attending Church brings gladness; Psa. 122:1.

II. YOUR DUTY IS TO LOVE THE PEOPLE OF YO

1. Christians should be kind and affectionate one to another R

2. Christians should never be weary of helping one another II Tim

2. Christians should love one another with a pure heart; I

III. YOUR DUTY IS TO GIVE FINANCIAL SUPPORT T

1. Giving is requested by the Lord; Mal. 3:10a.

2. Giving is to be with simplicity; Rom. 12:8.

3. Giving will bring a reward; Phil. 4:15-17

IV. YOUR DUTY IS TO REVERENCE CHRIST THE H YOUR C

1. The Lord Jesus is the Master of the Church; John 13:

2. The Church is subject to the Lord Jesus; Eph 5:24.

3. The Lord Jesus is worthy of reverence; Rev. 4:11.

V. YOUR DUTY IS TO RECOMMEND YOUR CHURCH.

1. The Church should be recommended for its faith; Rom.

2. The Church should be recommended for its message; Rom.

3. The Church should be recommended for the fellow extends; A

VI. YOUR DUTY IS TO DEFEND YOUR CHURCH.

1. The Church should be defended against false teachers. II Tim

2. The Church should be defended against those who cause Rom

3. The Church should be defended against worldiness; I John

VII. YOUR DUTY IS TO PRAY FOR THE MINISTRY OF CHURCH

1. Prayer should be made for the ministry of the Church

2. Prayer for the Church’s ministry should be made from the

3. Prayer for the Church’s ministry should be in the Holy Eph.

WOMAN AND HER IMPORTANCE IN THE SCRIPTURES Pro 11:16

I. A WOMAN WAS THE FIRST TO BE DECEIVED BY SATAN.

1. The woman, Eve, was tempted by Satan; Gen. 3:1.

2. The woman, Eve;, was lied to by Satan; Gen. 3:4,5

3. The woman, Eve;, listened to Satan and disobeyed God; Gen. 3:6,7

II. A WOMAN WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR SAVING THE JEWISH NATION.

1. The plot was made to destroy the Jewish people; Esth. 3:8,9, 13.

2. The plea was made by Esther for the Jewish people; Esth. 7:3,4

3. The plan was accomplished for the preservation of the Jews Esth. 8:11,16,17.

III. A WOMAN GAVE BIRTH TO THE SAVIOR.

1. The promise of the Redeemer was by a woman’s seed; Gen. 3:15.

2. The Virgin Mary was chosen to be the Savior’s Mother; Luke 1:26-31.

3. The Virgin Mary gave birth to the Lord Jesus; Matt. 1:25;Luke 2:7

IV. A WOMAN WAS THE FIRST CONVERT IN SAMARIA.

1. The Samaritan woman learned the way of salvation; John 4:14.

2. The Samaritan woman had her sins revealed; John 4:16-18.

3. The Samaritan woman became a follower of Christ; John 4:28-30

V. A WOMAN ANOINTED THE SAVIOR FOR HIS BURIAL.

1. The anointing was done by Mary of Bethany; John 12:3.

2. The anointing brought criticism by Judas; John 12:4-6

3. The Lord Jesus revealed the purpose of the anointing; John 12:7

VI. A WOMAN WAS THE FIRST AT THE EMPTY TOMB.

1. Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early in the morning; John 20:1

2. Mary Magdalene told Peter and John the tomb was empty; John 20:2

3. Mary Magdalene had the resurrected Christ revealed to her; John 20:14-17.

VII. A WOMAN WAS THE FIRST CONVERT IN EUROPE.

1. The Apostle Paul visited Philippi during his second missionary journey; Acts 16:10.

2. The Apostle Paul spoke to a prayer meeting group; Acts 16:13.

3. The Apostle Paul’s message led Lydia to salvation; Acts 16:14.