2Cor Sermons – Mircheal Jones

Paul wrote II Cor 1:3 11 at a time when he “despaired of life” because of the troubles that had come upon him. He found, as every other Saint of God must find, that God has help available for us if we only look for it.

What are Some Helps in Time of Trouble??

1. GOD– Heb 13:6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

2. CHRIST– Heb 4:15 16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feelings of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

3. THE HOLY SPIRIT– Rom 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

4. ANGELS– Heb 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation? Matt 18:10 Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.

5. MATE– Gen 2:18 And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.

6. PASTOR– II Cor 1:24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy; for by faith we stand.

7. FELLOW CHRISTIANS– II Cor 1:11 Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

GOD HAS A HELP FOR YOU. GOD IS A HELP FOR YOU

YOU MAY BE THE HELP GOD HAS FOR SOMEONE ELSE!!!!

IICor 01:3 BLIND MAN BATTLEFIELD/ COMFORT

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; (2 Corinthians 1:3).

Sometimes life seems to come at you like you were a blind man walking through a battle field- Bombs drop on you from above, mines explode under you, bullets wiz by you, and tanks run over you! Like the blind man, you are in the dark about what life is bringing your way so it seems that you get clobbered from every side. Let=s look at something that will give you help and hope today.

In the “Jones devised version” everyone’s favorite verse is “Everybody needs a little bit of petting every now and then!”. I know ladies who want a copy to put on their refrigerator! It just goes to show how much people need to know that someone cares about them.

The Good News I bring today is that God really Loves you and He came to give light to blinded eyes and help to weary battle field pilgrims.

GOD’ LOVE IS A GREAT COMFORT TO CHRISTIANS–

A) Love Converts us- John 3:16

B) Love Controls us- 2Co 5:14 For the love of Christ constraineth (Motivates) us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

C) Love Cleans Christians- John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love

D) Love Chastens us- Heb 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

E) Love Comforts us- 1Jo 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

F) Love Controls Circumstances in a Christian’s life- (Romans 8:28) And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

It is Comforting in its Assurance- We KNOW

It is Comforting in its Scope- ALL things

It is Comforting in its Function- Work Together for GOOD

It is Comforting in its People- Them that LOVE God and who are CALLED according to His purpose.

God’s Love is also a great Comfort to Blind Men still walking through Battlefields- Ro 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Like a man on a battle field, you had better chose a side- or you will end up being shot by both sides!

IICor 01:8-9 HOW TO BEAR IT WHEN LIFE IS UNBEARABLE

For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life: But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: (2 Corinthians 1:8-9).

PROBLEMS NEED ANSWERS: Goat fell into well. He Escaped by climbing the dirt people threw in to bury him! / Most inventions come from lazy, angry, or desperate people.

Some seek Escape in Drink, drugs, TV, Porn,

Some Come to altar constantly seeking Peace without change. Prodigal had to come to himself before he would leave the hog pen – And in those times there was no peace to him that went out, nor to him that came in, but great vexations were upon all the inhabitants of the countries (2 Chronicles 15:5).

Even the Woman with the issue of blood had to get desperate enough – And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any (Luke 8:43).

THE ANSWER: learn to “not to trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead”.

[Main points adapted from a sermon by David Crowe on “Stir the Fire”]

How to have a fire instead of living in the cold and dark:

• Start the Fire

• Put fuel on the fire

• Keep the fire stirred so it can get “oxygen”- Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands (2 Timothy 1:6).

• Do not let the ashes build up and choke the fire. Jesus did not preach, “Love God and hope things get better”. Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand (Matthew 4:17).

Repentance means you:

reveal something wrong,

repent of something wrong

resolve to stop doing wrong

rest in God’s changing power

IICor 02:11 THE DEVIL’S DECEIT

During WWII the Germans dropped English speaking men dresses as Military Police behind the lines. These men miss-directed traffic and changed traffic signs to cause confusion and chaos. Satan is attempting that same strategy in his Battle with Christians today.

That’s why several times in Scripture Paul warns us that the Devil is out to “Beguile” us into doing wrong. I want to look at those places and see Satan’s strategy so we can defeat it- Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices (2 Cor 2:11)

BEGUILE: To use Treacherous cunning or skillful deceit.

I. BY WORDS–And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words (Col 2:4)

A) World- Plausible, Persuasive, and Attractive Speech (Amp) Ads, Songs, Talk Shows. Seeking to control your attitude and thoughts

B) Religion- Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and strengthened the hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked way, by promising him life (Ezek 13:22). Religious hucksters who make merchandise of people teaching that gain is godliness.

II. BY WORSHIP– Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind (Col 2:18)

A) Works Save so you’re as good as anyone else.

B) Supernatural talk/Miracles to convince us they’re from God.

III. BY WISDOM–

A) Human- And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat (Gen 3:13) Human wisdom versus God. THE RELIGION OF SELF ESTEEM. If you feel good about yourself then you will do good. The Bible says you are born a sinner and only God can change you. (In a Major Math test students for 6 nations not only took a math quiz but answered the question, “I feel I am good as Math”. The Koreans won hands down in spite of the fact that 75% said they were not good at Math. The American scored lowest on the test in spite of the fact that 68% of them felt they were good at math).

In 1940 11% of women and 20% of men agreed with the Statement, “I am an important person.” Today 66% of women and 62% of men agree with the Statement in spite of the decline in morals and values in America.

B) Reasonableness- But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ (2 Car 11:3) Reasonableness. God wants you to do wrong because it’s the only way that makes sense.

SATAN’S GOAL is to (1) Keep you away from God or (2) Defeat you as a Christian. Either way He is out to Destroy You. He promises you a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow but it always vanishes before you get there. Will you continue to follow this Pied Piper into Hell??

Dennis Prager in “The Belief that People are Basically Good” list 5 Consequences of the “I am Somebody” Doctrine.

1. The first such consequence is, quite logically, the attribution of all evil to causes outside of people. Since people are basically good, the bad that they do must be caused by some external force. Depending on who is doing the blaming, that outside force could be the social environment, economic circumstances, parents, schools, television violence, handguns, racism, the devil, government cutbacks, or even corrupt politicians (as expressed by this frequently heard foolishness: “How can we expect our children to be honest when the government isn’t?”).

People are therefore not responsible for the evil they commit. It’s not my fault that I mug old women, or that I cheat much of the time- something (chosen from the previous list) made me do it.

2. A second terrible consequence is the denial of evil. If good is natural, then bad must be unnatural, or “sick.” Moral categories have been replaced by psychological ones. There is no longer good and evil, only “normal” and “sick.”

3. Third, neither parents nor schools take the need to teach children goodness seriously–why teach what comes naturally? Only those who recognize that people are not basically good recognize the need to teach goodness.

4. Fourth, since much of society believes that evil comes from outside of people, it has ceased trying to change people’s values and concentrates instead on changing outside forces. When People commit crimes they say it is not values and character development that we need to be concerned with. Instead, we need to change the socioeconomic environment that “produces” rapists and murderers. If Irresponsible men impregnate irresponsible women it is not better values they need, but better sex education and better access to condoms and abortions.

5. Fifth, and most destructive of all, those who believe that people are basically good conclude that people do not need to feel accountable of their behavior to God and to a religion, only to themselves.

IICor 02:14 WHAT CAUSES IT?

I thank God He makes me win so people can see by my winning that our God is a Winner: “Thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place” (2 Corinthians 2:14)

I thank God He gives me things so I can Praise Him for the things He gives me: “Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God” (2 Corinthians 9:11).

Christians can rejoice just as much at God’s “No” as they do at God’s “Yes” because they completely trust God’s wisdom

Christians do not get “bend out of shape” when they are done wrong but stay on the straight and narrow because they depend on God’s justice- “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord”

Christians find it easy to give mercy because they have already received so much mercy.

God is invisible- You cannot see sound waves or electricity but it is obvious that both exist. In God we live and move and have our being. No matter how far back you go into evolution you will have to meet God!

He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth (Psalms 104:14).

God gives us basic human reasoning in order to AVOID SHAME:

He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame (Proverbs 10:5).

A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren (Proverbs 17:2).

He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his mother, is a son that causeth shame, and bringeth reproach. Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge (Proverbs 19:26-27).

The World is out to Cause Us Harm:

And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads (Revelation 13:16).

God CAUSES us to repent through the convicting power of the Holy Spirit and then COMMANDS us to repent. – And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent (Acts 17:30).

IICor 02:14 DEFEATING DEMONS

There are two errors that people fall into when dealing with the subject of Demons. One is to ignore (or disbelieve) their existence, the other is to develop an excessive or unhealthy interest in them.

The main things we are concerned with today is that (1) They are very real, (2) They have tremendous power, and (3) We have the Victory over them through our standing in Christ- Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. (2 Cor 2:14). But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor 15:57).

Defeating the Demons that attack us involves 4 areas of attack:

1. PRAYER OF AUTHORITY (Because it comes from a Faith that is based on the Word of God)- And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him. (Mark 1:27). And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out. (Luke 4:36)

You must be confident of God’s Power if you are to defeat Demonic Attacks.

2. PROTECTION OF SPIRITUAL ARMOR– Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (Eph 6:10-18)

Since these are not fleshly enemies, they cannot be defeated with only fleshly methods. The Christian must take God’s Armor for protection in the fight and use God’s weapons in order to defeat the enemy.

3. PURITY OF LIFE– Neither give place to the devil. (Eph 4:27)

Don’t allow Satan a foothold in your life. He will turn it into a stronghold. Satan will use sin in your life to Defeat you and to Denounce you (“You know you can’t witness because you aren’t perfect”).

4. PRACTICE OF RESISTANCE– Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7). Make Godliness a life style, not a Sunday Situation. Be aware of Satan’s work in your life and continually denounce it. A Neutral Christian makes God sick and allows Satan to work IN you as well as ON you.

Demons are very Real. They are also a Defeated Foe if we depend on God’s Power. Don’t look for Demons behind every bush; but don’t be blinded to their work in your life.

IICor 02:14 TRIUMPHANT IN CHRIST

Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place (IICor 02:14).

4 REASON WE DON’T HAVE THE VICTORY:

1. Self– Rom 7:24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? We pamper our Self or We Excuse our Self

2. Sin– I John 1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (The very act of saying we have no sin is a sin!!)

Sins of Omission- good we fail to do or Sins of Commission- Bad we do do

3. Slothfulness– Mark 4:18-19 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. The World, Wealth, and Wandering eyes take away fruit and fruitlessness and lead to failure

4. Satan– Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Disguise- He comes as an angel of light

Destruction- He comes as a roaring lion

Deceit- He is the father of Lies

But Paul told the Corinthians that there was a way to victory: Some people live lives of REPEATED REPENTANCE, REPEATED REGRETS, or REPEATED REMORSE when they could be WINNERS instead of WHINERS: Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place (IICor 02:14).

The Frequency of Triumph- Always

The Source of Triumph- God…causeth us

The Place of Triumph- In Christ

The Witness of Triumph- Makes manifest the sweet smell of His Knowledge BY US in every place.

You can be a COMPLAINER who makes everyone feel bad or you can be a CONQUEROR who makes God look good! You and God have got this today!

1. The Frequency of Triumph- Always (We won’t always get our way but we can know that all things work together for the good to them that love the Lord and are the called according to his purpose). It’s not so bad to fight when you always know you’re going to win!!!

2. The Place of Triumph- In Christ (Not “Physically” within but by faith accepting Christ as your Substitute and Sacrifice. Like Christ the Will of the Father and the Work of the Father are the most important things in your life).

3. The Source of Triumph- God…causeth (What a glorious privilege it is to not have to depend on your own strength and ability to handle difficulties. You simply take them to God in Prayer and believe His Promises. What a relief that is!!). Ps 92:4 For thou, Lord, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands. Ps 106:47 Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise. Are you Defeated or Triumphant??

IICor 2:14 BARRIERS THAT BLOCK THE ABUNDANT LIFE

Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. (2 Corinthians 2:14).

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10).

THE SECRET OF LIVING IS FRUIT BEARING; THE SECRET OF FRUIT BEARING IS ABIDING IN THE VINE; THE SECRET OF ABIDING IS OBEYING; THE SECRET OF OBEYING IS LOVING; THE SECRET OF LOVING IS KNOWING; THE SECRET OF KNOWING IS DOING (LIVING!!- IF YOU DO MY WILL YOU WILL KNOW!).

But sadly many Christians do not live the abundant life- they are discouraged, frustrated, and disappointed. Why is this so and what can be done about it.

I. BARRIERS WITHIN– Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us (Ephesians 3:20).

Many times things in our life block the flow of the power and blessings of God.

1. Pride– But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble (James 4:6).

A) Thinking too highly of self and our abilities

B) Fear of failure controls our actions and activities.

2. Unforgiving Spirit– But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. (Matthew 6:15). A root of bitterness will spring up and trouble you and many will be defiled (See Heb 12). You can’t really accept forgiveness until you are willing to give it and you can’t enjoy life with a cloud over you.

3. Lack of Devotional Life– We know God by spending time with Him. No devotion makes us uncomfortable with God because of Guilt and lack of relationship.

II. BARRIERS WITHOUT:

1) Conforming to the world– Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (1 John 2:15).

A. Pressure to be like the world

B. Desire to have the things of the world- The cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lust of other things enter in and choke the word.

2. The Snares of the Devil– And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (2 Timothy 2:26).

A) Temptations: David (restore unto me the joy of salvation)

B) Trials-Job (All things work together for the good)

C) Troubles- Paul I Cor 1:8-10 Drive us closer to God or away.

We can be Victorious- And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (2 Corinthians 9:8).

Confess and forsake any sins, Be on Guard against the world and Satan, Dwell in Christ.

IICor 3:18 MAKE A DIFFERENCE DISCIPLESHIP

One of the greatest inspirations a person can have is the knowledge that they have helped another person to grow and develop. It makes a tremendous amount of difference in our work when we believe what we are doing is helping someone. Even pain is endurable if we believe it has a purpose!

We have the Desire to help other people change their conduct but it is often frustrating to find what is needed to actually produce change in a person. Parents want children to do right and live right. Wives want their husbands to be the man they have dreamed about and the father their children need. Employers want employees who work hard and grumble little. What can YOU do to help people live up to their potential? Here are four guidelines that can help make a difference in the lives of people.

1) Be an Example for them– People mirror the people around them. They follow these examples in language, in prejudice, in actions toward others. Be a good Example and you will be surprised at the impact it will have on those who surround you.

Jesus used this principle- For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. (John 13:15)

Paul encouraged Timothy to use this principle- Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (1 Tim. 4:12)

2) Be an Instructor to them– Teach people what you want taught and they will learn what you want them to learn! Do not expect them to “magically” know what to do if they are not instructed what to do. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. (Proverbs 9:9)

3) Be an Encourager of them– Many life changing moments in my own life came when someone encouraged me to keep on going when I wanted to quit. Encouragement is a powerful tool to shape a person’s personality- But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see. (Deuteronomy 3:28)

4) Be a Witness about God to them– Realize that only God can truly change a person. The Heart of the matter is the matter of the Heart- People do what they do because they are what they are!

1) Short Term Change can be produced by Disease, Debt, Devotion, Discourse, and Desire. You would probably be amazed if you knew the conduct changes people promise Doctors, Preachers, Judges, and Spouses. But these short term “cycle changes” seldom produce long term results and often produce depression and despair. (Other people can change but something is wrong with me and I cannot change).

2) Long Term change in the Conduct of a person only occurs when the Character of that person is changed; and that is a “God thing”- Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17). This is the reason we need Bible Preaching and Bible Teaching. If human efforts or examples were all we needed to change people then we would not need the Church and the Bible. We have seen, however, that human education or human riches only change the way a person does wrong. It takes Divine Power to change the human heart into a new creature- A change so drastic until it is called being “Born Again”.

Show People Jesus and marvel at the Change worked by the Spirit of God- But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (2 Corinthians 3:18)

IICor 04:1, 16 HOW TO NOT LOSE HEART

WE FAINT NOT= We do not lose heart, We never give up, We don’t get discouraged, We Never Collapse. Amp Bible says “we do not get discouraged- spiritless and despondent with fear, or become faint with weariness and exhaustion”.

If ever a man had the right to become discouraged and quit it was Paul. It is very difficult to read II Cor 11:23 33–it would seem almost impossible to live it!!! Yet Paul says that something kept him from giving up during these times. It’s something we need to learn and practice Today. (Prov 24:10 If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.)

1. He was entrusted with a Responsibility which gave him a responsibility- 4:1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry. Luke 18:1 Men ought always to pray and not to faint.

2. He had received mercy; therefore he gave it to others- “as we have received mercy,”

3. He wanted to bring Glory to God in EVERY area of his life- vs 15 16 “might…redound to the glory of God”. And sometimes that means a cross before the crown. Heb 12:3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

4. He was constantly renewed with the Holy Spirit’s Help and the Gospel’s Hope: “the inward man is renewed day by day” He refused to allow the “outward man’s” failings to bring down the “Real” Paul. A daily strength for each day’s task- bread for today and trust for tomorrow!! Ps 27: 13 14 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. Is 40:31 They that wait on the Lord shall renew strength…walk and not faint.

5. He expected that preparing the land, sowing the seed, and cultivating the crop would produce a Harvest: Gal 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. We know that the WORD will not return void- Ps 126:5 6.

II Cor 5:5 6 Because of the indwelling Holy Spirit we are “always full of confident courage”. God cannot fail and we are part of God.

IICor 04:3-4 LIGHT

Paul told the Corinthians about 3 types of people they had to consider in their ministry-The Natural (Lost) man, the Carnal (Babe) Christian, and the Spiritual (Mature Christian. Within each type there are varying degrees of growth but these are the 3 basic classes of people you will have to deal with and it’s good to keep them in mind. They are described in other parts of the Bible in their relationship to the Light- and that’s how we want to look at them.

I. SOME ARE IN DARKNESS II Cor 4:3-4 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

A) They may try to lead others but they are actually (Matt 23:-) “blind guides” (Rom 2:19)

Matt 23:16-22 They promote Gold instead of God (Prosperity)
Matt 23:23-24 They strain at Gnats and swallow camels (Dot “i’s” and cross “t’s” and never realize that the words are misspelled!!)
Matt 23:25-26 They make sure the outside is clean while neglecting the inside (Hypocrites)
Matt 15:14- They lead into the ditch!!

B) They don’t realize their condition-“having eyes to see they see not”. They think everyone else is in the same condition they are in.

The Gospel light is turned on them and they flee from it instead of coming to it- Jn 3:19-21 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather that light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

II. SOME WALK IN THE LIGHT

A) Saying you are walking in the light without walking with “The Light” does not give you sight: I Jn 1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth.

B) Walking in the light results in 2 things: I Jn 1:7

We have fellowship one with another. (By this shall all men know you are my disciples, if you have love one for another.) (See I Cor 3:1-4 Where this fellowship was broken for “Babes” by division and strife over leaders- sometimes when you walk in a leader’s shadow your eyes become blinded!!)
The blood of Jesus Christ his Son Cleanseth us from all sin. This means we are in the Light of a Salvation-which frees us from the darkness of Sin’s penalty and enables us to see sin’s darkness problems before we stumble over them.

As we walk in the light we should Grow in the ability to distinguish what’s helpful and what’s harmful to our Christian life. Heb 5:14 But strong mean belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

If you fail to grow in Christian graces you will become “near sighted” and forget what a joy it is to have sight-II Pet 1:9.

III. SOME BECOME LIGHTS Matt 5:14 Ye are the light of the world.

A) You shine that others may see the way (Life testimony) vs 14 A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid

B) You must be careful not to hide your light vs 15

1. 2 Ways to hide it:

a. Put it under a bushel {Fear, fatigue from trying to “be” God instead of serve God, or formalism of religion replacing relationship}

b. Put it under a bed=Faith but no works.

2. We are to put it on a candlestick that it may give light to all that are in the house (and the world!)

C) Make sure the light of your good works bring Glory to your Father in Heaven instead of “Putting a spotlight” on your sacrifice and service.

As a light you are to Glow for God. Dirt will “dim the window” and cut down on your light (Avoid Sin). The glow is not from your “Burning up yourself” but from the oil of the Holy Spirit within. If the Holy Spirit is within, and the window is clean, you won’t have to try to glow-you can’t help it!!!

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The Light we follow is a LIFE: John 1: 4 In him (Christ) was life; and the life was the light of men.

We GAIN this light from the Word: Ps 119-130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.
We are then GUIDED by this Light: Ps 119:105 Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
We GROW by the Light as we dedicate ourselves to God’s Will and Work and learn to avoid things that would lead us back into darkness: Luke 11:34 The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness.
This means we will GLOW so others can see the Light: Phil 2:15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, and the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and Perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

IICor 04:8-18 PROVIDENTIAL PROVISION

Last week we talked about how the sin and suffering in this world cause us to have “Deep Depression”. Today I want us to look at the other side of the coin. I want us to see why we should have thankful hearts even as we live in the last days of a sin cursed world. We can only do that if we KNOW there is a:

I. PROVIDENTIAL PROGRAM– God’s program often involves troubles and trials. In the midst of these fiery trials it’s important to remember that God PERMITS Trials, God CONTROLS Trials, and God USES Trials. This is part of God’s program to turn us into pure gold. Hudson Taylor- “All God’s giants have been weak men who did great things for God because they reckoned on God being with them.” Note the Example of Joseph- Gen 39:3 And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand. Gen 50:20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.

II. PROVIDENTIAL PROMISES– Like getting a Credit card in God’s Store!! Prov 8:21 That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. A Life build on the Plan and Promises of God’s Word will Prosper: Josh 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

2 Chr 26:5 And he sought God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God: and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him to prosper. Psa 1:3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

It is important to know that God likes it when His children prosper in WEALTH (Psa 35:27 Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant) and in WARFARE ( Isa 54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD).

III. PROVIDENTIAL PROVISION

1. THE PLAN OF PROVISION:

A) Manna- Work for each day, Until they could grow own in promised land (Conditional Limit)

We must learn to live life a day at a time as we pray for daily bread- Yard by yard, life is hard! Inch by inch, life’s a cinch!!

B) Clothes and Shoes that didn’t wear out (No Stores or Resources for clothing) But built Tabernacle with Material at hand- Women’s mirrors, Badger skins. 2 Cor 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

C) Widow’s Oil- Bottomless Pot (Dedicated to God). We have God’s Treasures in earthen vessels. It is not our Abilities God wants but our Availabilities- as Clean vessels, as full vessels (so when something hits us it will cause glory to spill out!).

D) Raven’s Brought Bread (In God’s Place at God’s Time). Ministry that costs nothing, accomplishes nothing. Deu 8:18 But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.

Commit to God’s Plan– Then Trust God’s Provision-

2. THE PEOPLE OF PROVISION

A) RELATED TO GOD: The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. (Psa 23:1) Part of God’s Flock-God’s Grass is for HIS sheep.

B) AVAILABLE TO GOD: Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, (Eph 3:20)

C) TRUSTING IN GOD: But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:19)

God has a plan to make us more than conqueror through Christ Jesus. If we are constantly connected to the source of supply then God will ensure us of His Provision. But, remember, the children of Israel had to follow God into the desert before they got daily manna. Are you following God’s plan for your life today?? That’s the place of provision.

IICor 04:10 Manifesting the Life of Christ

Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body (2 Corinthians 4:10).

When I was a young boy my brothers were cutting wood in the forest and I walked away from them and became lost. I still remember the fear and anxiety I felt that day as I wandered around. And I still remember the joy I felt when I finally hear their call and was reunited with them.

That “lost feeling” is the way many Christians feel about the success of their Christian walk. They feel like they are “wandering in the wilderness” instead of Manifesting the Life of Christ. Here are some things to get us on track.

1. Make sure about the direction of your walk- There is a broad way and a narrow way. Which one are you on?

2. Check the Attitude of your heart- And I will send an angel before thee; and I will drive out the Canaanite, the Amorite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite: Unto a land flowing with milk and honey: for I will not go up in the midst of thee; for thou art a stiffnecked people: lest I consume thee in the way (Exodus 33:2-3).

Christians tend to begin to believe that because it is their habit then that makes it holy. (The “Order of Worship” in Church becomes the rigid Order of Worship and Woe unto the person who tries to change it! [Try putting the Sermon before the Singing in a service sometime and see the reaction!]).

3. The Seed of your sowing: The sower soweth the word (Mark 4:14). Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow: And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up. And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred (Mark 4:3-8).

A) The Place of Sowing-Wayside, Stony Ground, Among thorns, good ground

B) The Problems of Sowing-Birds that devoured, hard ground, choking thorns

C) The Product of Sowing-30, 60, 100

4) The end of your journey- Every person is traveling a dead end road: And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment (Hebrews 9:27). Where will you end up if you continue to travel the road you are on? Will it be about making a living or about manifesting Christ?

IICor 04:16 18 PROFIT FROM PAIN

2 Cor 4:16 18 (P1553) Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

We have all heard the saying “No Pain, No Gain”. There is a tremendous amount of truth wrapped up in that little saying. Today I want us to see how 2 Cor 4:17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory) works in real life. For I, like you, seem to think that it’s a “Light Affliction” when it belongs to someone else but it’s a major problem when it involves me.

So, as we approach this Christmas season, Let’s see the Profit in Pain and try to understand why even though Christ were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered (Heb 5:8) Then maybe the pains and problems we suffer can work for us instead of against us.

I. KINDS OF PAIN:

A) Physical- Something or someone hurts your body

B) Emotional- Something or Someone hurts your feelings

C) Physiological- Loss of Control, Hope, Love

D) Mental- Worry, Anger, Bitterness bring anguish to you

II. REASONS FOR PAIN:

A) Pain of Punishment- You are Hurt because of some wrong you do

B) Pain of Pleasure- Masochism: Sexual Pleasure derived from inflicting Pain or being inflicted by pain. As Morals decline, this form of perversion will increase (Madonna, MTV, Sexual Titillation in Slasher Movies).

C) Pain of Power- Sadistic: Pleasure derived from Hurting someone (or watching someone being hurt)- More and more, at sporting events, People want to see Blood and Pain. Reminds you of the Roman Empire when people went to watch Christians fight lions!. This is seen in Random Violence (mobs), Rape (A crime of Power), etc

D) Pain of Profit- This is the one we want to look at today.

1> Society Discipline- Laws and Regulations to promote the Health and welfare of the Citizens of a Country. Some of these Rules are Aggravating (Like having to drive 35mph thru Coward!). Some are Fearful (Like getting a letter from the IRS). But, by in large, these rules are necessary to regulate society and preserve order.

When these Rules are Broken, Punishment is supposed to be inflicted. The Purpose of this Punishment is to Prevent the repeat of the crime (Either by locking the person up to prevent their ability to commit crimes or by putting such fear into them that they will cease wrong behavior).

2> Sovereign Discipline-

a} “Light Afflictions”- Note what this “Light Affliction” was- 2 Cor 4:8 9 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. God used Problems, Perplexity, and Persecution to bring Paul to a continuous realization of keeping his eyes on Eternity instead of today. That Perspective is greatly needed in our day!

b} “Thorn in the Flesh”- 2 Cor 12:7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. God used this Physical Problem to temper Paul’s Pride. In the same way, He uses physical limitations today to keep us on the Path that is best for US and for the KINGDOM OF GOD (Fanny Crosby’s Blindness, Joni Erickson’s Disability).

c} Chastisement-Heb 12:5-6 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. This is the same as Parental Discipline. Its purpose is not just to change the Conduct of the Child; it is also to change the Character of the Child. It is used to mold the temperament of the child as well as change the actions of the Child. It is guided by a loving desire to Develop the Child; not an anger desire to destroy the Child (That’s abuse).

3> Self Discipline- This is Denying Self (A Principle Jesus said was a MUST for every Christian- Matt 16:24-25). There are many areas of Self Denial. One area that GREATLY PROFITS us is Denying Self in FASTING. Fasting can be the (1) denial of Food in order to spend time with God; (2) The denial of Sexual Relation-ships in order to give all you love to God (1 Cor 7:1-5); (3) Denial of a “Right” now for a Closer relationship with God (Abraham chose the hills over the well watered valleys of Sodom and enjoyed fellowship with God. Lot lost his family and fortune in Sodom); (4) Sacrificially giving to God now with the knowledge that you are laying up treasures in Heaven.

III. REACTION TO PAIN: (The “head” Knowledge we have talked about is good but how does our Heart handle the Pain that comes our Way!)

1) God is Still on the Throne- Let His Plan work. It will come out right in the end. DON’T LET THE PAIN BLIND YOU! Look for a Reason for your Pain:

Is there something you need to repent of or change?

Is there a need to recommit yourself to God’s Plan and Purpose for your life; WHATEVER that involves.

Are you seeing only the Pain; instead of the Profit? Don’t let the Pain drive you From God. Let it bring you to the comfort and care of His loving arms. The Pain can be for your Profit. Don’t let it destroy you. 2) The Holy Spirit is available to Comfort you. Don’t Quench His Work in and For you. DON’T LET THE PAIN CONTROL YOU!

3) Christians Love you. As part of the Body of Christ, when one member hurts, all members hurt. You don’t face this situation alone. DON’T LET PAIN ISOLATE YOU!

What Pain are you going thru today??????

IICor 05:6 ALWAYS CONFIDENT

2Co 5:6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord

[Beware of “Contrived Confidence” based on your wisdom instead of God’s Word- Pr 14:16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident].

God is looking for us to be CONFIDENT in life and in our sharing of His Life.

1) In Circumstances Ps 27:3 Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.

A) Relocation-

B) Tragedies- Paula / Books

C) Finances- Fish story to Tax Income

2) Calling– God has a plan- Find it and then do it Ro 2:19 And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness. 2Co 9:4 Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting

Your confident example will inspire others: Php 1:14 And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

3) Salvation– II Tim 1:10 I Know whom I have believed. Php 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: {perform: finish}

4) Heavenly Home– 2Co 5:8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

IICor 05:9 14 REVIVAL ACCOUNTABILITY

We are entering a Revival that we hope will be a turning point in the life of many people- and in our Church.

REVIVAL is an interesting word. The dictionary gives it several meanings: 1) To return to activity again. 2) To restore to life or consciousness. 3) To reanimate or renew the spirit, the mind, or the heart. REVIVAL, therefore, deals with RESTORATION instead of Evangelism (Although Evangelism will follow as a natural result of Christians being restored to their Love for God and men).

When REVIVAL comes to the CHURCH the Holy Spirit (As the “Breath of God”) 1) Eliminates all foreign matter that blocks it’s work and restores to normal function the body of Christ (The Church) [Getting people to stop Grieving or quenching the Spirit]. 2) Awakens the sleeping Christian by whatsoever means necessary in order to get him back into the work of the Lord. [Renewing First love, setting our hearts to prayer, etc] [See Rom 13:11 14]. 3) Returns JOY to the Church, the Christian, and the Community- Ps 85:6 Wilt thou not revive us again; that thy people may rejoice in thee?

There are several Advantages to have a REVIVAL MEETING:

1) Repeated and consecutive preaching of the word of God [One man described Revival as “ReBIBLE”. That’s one thing it ought to do; get us back into the WORD consistently].

2) Serious and Continued Prayer for Self and Sinners.

3) The minds of the Lukewarm and the Lost are pointed toward their relationship with God.

4) An Excellent opportunity is available to invite the community, the family, co-workers, etc to come to Special Church Services.

What do we want the REVIVAL TO ACCOMPLISH? 1) Christians to Confess and forsake Sin. 2) Relationships between Christians to be corrected. 3) Workers for God and the Church to become dedicated and determined to fulfil God’s plan for their life. 4) Lost Men and women, boy and girls to be brought to Christ and born again.

All of these things are covered in today’s scripture.

I. What does it matter what My Relationship to the Lord is? THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST II Cor 5:10 THE JUDGE:

1. Jesus– John 5:22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:(Your judge will not be a Comparison to others but Christ). John 9:39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world,

2. Saints will Judge the “world” and Angels- I Cor 6:2 3 Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world?… Know ye not that we shall judge angels? (This is the place that Paul tells the Corinthians that they must be properly related to one another)

THE JUDGMENT:

A) You’ll be judged according to RESPONSIBILITY James 3:1, Lu 12:48 But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

B) According to TALENT Parable of Talents

C) According to LIFE Rom 14:12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

D) According to WORDS Matt 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.

II. What does it matter what other people’s relationship with God is? THE TERROR OF THE LORD II Cor 5:11. I believe that He that believeth not is condemned already and that It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. I believe that Hell is real- and the lost are going there!!!

The Terror of the Lord Sends us after the Lost. Jude 23- And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. I fear to fail in my responsibility and I fear the Results of people neglecting to come to Christ.

III. What will motivate me to get right and live right? LOVE OF CHRIST II Cor 5:14

The “Love of Christ” is the Love shown BY Christ. It is also the Love we have FOR Christ. We see His example and we feel His Heart. This “Love of Christ” Constraineth us- It Will not let us go. It motivates us to reach everyone we can with the Gospel.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN THE ENTIRE WORLD IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. You can “Play” at it or you can live for the Lord. But one day you will have to face Him- how will it be with YOU???

IICor 05:9 WELL PLEASING TO GOD

(2 Cor 5:9) Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.

The word translated “accepted” (“well-pleasing”) is used in several other places in the New Testament, and each of these references helps us better understand what it is that pleases the Lord.

It is well-pleasing to Him when we present our bodies to Him as living sacrifices (Rom 12:1) I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

It is well pleasing to God when we seek God=s Will instead of the World=s Standards-(Rom 12:2) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

It is well pleasing to God when we live so as to help others and avoid causing them to stumble (Rom 14:18) For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.

God is well-pleased when His children separate themselves from the evil around them (Eph 5:10) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.

When we give to God’s work from a loving heart- (Phil 4:18) But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

When children obey their parents- (Col 3:20) Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.

When saints live in accordance with God=s plan for their life- (Heb 13:21) Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

IICor 5:10 JUDGMENT DAY ACCOUNTS

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad (2 Cor 5:10).

Most of us spend a great deal of time judging people, politics, and places to eat! We seldom consider, however, what it will be like when we are judged by the One who Died on the Cross so we could have eternal life. His Shed Blood paid the Sin Debt we owed but He bought us so we could serve and honor Him. Here are some things the Kings of kings will use to judge His Servants.

1) What we Say: Our WORDS: Mt 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. Here are some lies we use in our life:

Exaggerate lies- We want to be or have more than we have so we “enlarge” our “truths”.
Excuse Lies- We make up something to make up for something we should have done
Legal Lies- Insurance, IRS, Job Applications, etc.
Kindness lies- “You look great” (If I close my eyes!)
Self Defense Lies- Not me, I did not do it or say it (Please do not have a video!)
Lazy Lies- I was on my way to do it (I just got stopped by watching this video for 2 hours)

Jesus is the Way, the TRUTH, and the Life.

2) What we Do: Our WORKS: Ecc 12:14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Different Jobs but everyone has one. No Unemployed!

3) What we Accomplished: Our WEALTH: Not HOW MUCH we have but HOW WE USED what we have- Remember the Widows Mite. There are around 500 verses in the Bible on Prayer, Less that 500 verses on Faith, and 2350 verses on Wealth or managing Finances!

Why is it important that we properly manage the resources God has given us?

A) Esau sold His birth right for a moment of pleasure (Pulse in India)

B) Lot lost His family for the Prestige and wealth of Sodom

C) Gehazi (The servant of Elisha) lost his health; and his ability to serve God when he began to covet wealth after the cure of Naaman.

4) What we did not Say: Our WITNESS: Ezek 33:6 But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman’s hand. (Viet Nam Sentry)

All of this is tied to one key Factor- The WARMTH of our HEART: Rev 3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. If your relationship with Christ is what it should be your Talk, Your Walk, the use of your resources, and your desire to share Christ will all be right.

My greatest compliment- When I was teaching the Teens at Church from the story of Rahab I asked them what they would think if they saw me walk into the house of a harlot. With no hesitation, one of them replied, I would think you were going to witness to her! Every day your life is being judged by people around you. One day it will be exposed before God. What will be the result?

IICor 05:10-11 PERSUADING MEN

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences. (2 Corinthians 5:10-11)

1) Motive to Persuade Men

2) Message to Persuade Men- Churches that are a monument to the anger of men instead of the gospel of Christ.

3) Method to Persuade Men- Separation but not isolation

4 Reasons to Persuade Men:

1) The Change that takes place

2) The Holy Spirit’s urging in us and in them-

3) The Judgment Seat of Christ

4) The Terror of the Lord

Confidence is not

– Feelings

– Foolish wishing

Confidence is

– Knowing what to do and how to do it

– Firm Reliance on God’s Word

– Trust based on Knowledge

IICor 05:17-21 NEW CREATURES

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. (2 Cor 5:17-21)

One of the things that first attracted me to Christianity was the message of THE POSSIBILITY OF CHANGE. Even as a 14 year old boy I knew that I needed help with my life. I was undergoing changes in my own life, Society was going through major changes (this was the beginning of the “Kennedy Era”), and I had just begun to realize the despair that can set in when you are “locked in” a bad situation (My dad had been a mechanic for 15 years and was still being paid the same base pay with little hope of advancement). The greatness of the message of Christianity to me was that God COULD Save me (He was able to do what I couldn’t), God WOULD Save me (Because He LOVED ME), and Salvation would produce a Change in me.

Many other people are looking for that same thing today- To Know someone loves them and that they can change their life. The sad thing is that some have stopped looking and have given in to the “demons” of despair or drugs and now live lives of quit desperation hoping someone somehow can reach and help them. For these and others, let’s look at how God makes us NEW CREATURES.

I. THE OLD THINGS THAT PASSED AWAY. God always begins by “cleaning up the New ground”; removing the hindrances so the help can work. Remember That!! Far too many people seek to stack righteousness on top of rottenness and find themselves with a faulty foundation!

You must have a:

A) DESIRE TO LEAVE THE OLD- As long as you are content living in sin then you’ll never change. We call this CONVICTION

B) DEFINITE DECISION to turn from Sin to God. This is not a vague “someday I hope to do better” thing; it’s a conscious decision that God can and will help you and you’re willing to follow His direction.

We call this REPENTANCE. When you do this there are 3 things that change in your life:

1) Sin’s Bondage- You used to serve your master the Devil but now you have changed “Bosses”. Satan may still issue some orders sometimes (and you may still find yourself obeying them!) but his power over you has been broken and you now can learn to live in liberty.

2) Sin’s Burdens- The bondage of sin stacks many burdens on your back: No Peace, inability to maintain relationships (divorce and family problems), destruction of your body, and wasted time and energy.

3) Sin’s Punishment- You were under God’s Wrath with Hell only a Heartbeat away but now you are a Citizen of Heaven with a mansion prepared and waiting for you!! If that doesn’t change a man’s outlook then I don’t know what will!!

II. THE THINGS THAT BECOME NEW. But when you accept Christ as Savior you don’t just give up something; you BECOME something new- a New Creature (Creation); with a new desire and a new destination. We call this being BORN AGAIN.

A) The Source of the Transformation- “All Things” are of God. It is not a New Leaf but a New Life; not your Ability but God’s Spirit. It is not like a diet where your will power determines the alterations but like a doctor prescribing medicine; your part is to accept the help and the medicine does the work. A “Born Again” Person is indwelt by the Holy Spirit (Rom 8:9) and his body becomes the Temple of the Holy Spirit (I Cor 6:19-20). The Spirit Baptizes the person into the Body of Christ where they are given a function to perform (a spiritual gift to enable them to do their part in the Body of Christ- I Cor 12:-). As they yield themselves to Him, they can also be Filled with the Spirit in order to faithfully fulfill their place in their family and Society (Eph 5:18-6:9)

B) The Serenity of the Transformation- Reconciled to God by Jesus Christ. We were enemies of God but a “peace treaty” was signed at calvary and we now have Peace WITH God as well as the Peace OF God. We still must fight Satan but we do so with the armor of God about us and the knowledge that the outcome is already determined!!

C) The Service of the Transformation- given us the ministry of reconciliation= sharing the Gospel of Christ with a lost world.

Our Mission is: Well Defined-

Show men Christ

Satisfying- Eternal Value

Rewarding- Pleases God and Man

So there you have it. God is able to Take away the old things that were defeating us and bringing about death and replace them with a new birth that gives us POWER to change, PEACE in the Change, and a PLACE of service that is glorious and Good. Isn’t it sad that some people are rejecting His offer and remaining in sin. How awful Hell will be to remember what you could have had and instead suffer pain and punishment in outer darkness while you see the Saints of God enjoying Eternity with Him.

ARE YOU SAVED????

IICor 05:17CHANGE

II Corinthians 5:17 says that if any man is in Christ he is a “New Creature”. This New Creature begins at the moment of New Birth and is enabled by the Power of God, but it is not simply a moment of Decision; it is a process of Growth. Growth involves CHANGE and it is this Change that is so difficult.

Change involves WORK (It’s easier to stay like you are), WORRY (I’m scared to try something new), and WOES (You can’t try new things without failing sometimes). I want us to examine some of the Areas God Changes us in and then become Motivated enough to desire this change even with the Pain and Problems that accompany it.

I. SOME AREAS GOD CHANGES (These are not listed in any particular order because it depends on WHAT God wants changed and WHEN He wants it changed).

A) Our Personality-

(1) Submission to the Holy Spirit changes us from the works of the Flesh to the Fruits of the Spirit- Gal 5:16-26.

(2) A New Mind makes us a New Man as we learn to replace the bad in our lives with an active good- Eph 4:22-29. Far too many Christians are difficult to live with because they are willing to submit their souls to God but they won’t give Him their personality.

B) Our Location-

(1) Promises- to Abraham and to the children of Israel make them leave one place and go to another. Today we might call this a “vision” for a new work.

(2) Persecutions- Made the Apostles move when they weren’t quick enough to go where God wanted- Acts 8:1-4; but it also put Moses in the Wilderness for 40 years when he tried to do God’s work ahead of God’s timetable- Ex 2:11-15

C) Our Activities- God takes fishermen and turns them into “fishers of men”, persecutors and turns them into Preachers, and even chooses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise! (I Cor 1:27-29)

II. THE METHODS GOD USES TO CHANGE US

A) Education- And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: (Col 3:10) Many times God uses Preaching to Educate us- The Word Points out our Faults and Produces Faith. Many people aren’t changed because they keep the sermons they hear to a minimum and even when they are “exposed” to one they try to keep their mind on other things so it won’t do too much “damage”. God does not “feed us the whole cow” at one time, He uses the principle that precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little (Is 28:10) as He gradually builds us into the person He has planned.

B) The Indwelling Spirit- But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord (2 Cor 3:18) The Spirit tries to conform us to the image of Christ but we either Quench the Spirit (Won’t do what He asks us to do) or Grieve the Spirit (Allow wrong to defeat our purity and power). If we would but yield ourselves to the Spirit’s directions we would find a Peace and Purpose that passes understanding.

C) Challenge- Jesus was continually challenging people to make a stand for Him; and while this process “weeded out” some that thought riches were more important than righteousness (Mark 10:17-22) and a home on earth was more important than a home in Heaven (Luke 9:57-62, it brought those who remained to a decision to “take up their cross” and follow Christ.

Can you identify any changes in your life as a result of your becoming a Christian? What areas need to be changed??

IICor 05:17 CHRISTIAN CHANGES

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). If we believe what we claim, and behave as we should, others will see the worth of God in our life and find all they need in Him.

Here are some questions to diagnose Problems you may have:

What is the most annoying thing your Husband /Wife; Son/Daughter does? (Reveals your character, your ability to have relationships with others, and the state of your family life)
If you could live anywhere in the world except SC where would it be? (Reveals your stability and your “escape plan process”)
Who is the first boy/girl you ever kissed on date? (You will be surprised at the amount of Intimacy issues I can discover in discussing this answer)
What is your favorite book of the Bible? (Reveals you spiritual maturity as we talk about why this books is your favorite)
What do you like the MOST about yourself? (Getting to the heart of your problem)
What do you like the LEAST about yourself? (Root of your problem that is producing the fruit that you have come to talk about!)
What are you doing to CHANGE? (Finally, we can begin to move forward as we get you to see that only God has the power to produce permanent change in your personality).

The underdeveloped countries suffer from one set of diseases: tuberculosis, malnutrition, pneumonia, parasites, typhoid, cholera, typhus, etc. Affluent America suffers from a different set of problems: venereal disease, drug addiction, alcoholism, broken homes, suicide, murder.

DESIRE TO CHANGE– You can never become what you want to be by remaining what you are.

PASSION TO CHANGE– If we do not live for God with a passion we make God “look like a religious side interest that may be useful for escaping hell in the end, but does not make a difference in how we live and what we love here” “(John Pipper). Jesus said it this way: the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. (Matt 13:44)

FAITH TO BELIEVE GOD CAN CHANGE YOU– Many know the hopeless feeling of failed change- Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil. (Jeremiah 13:23).

God of

Chaos
Creation
Covenant
Cross
Comfort
Coming

You can let the world change you or you can ask God to Change you. God calls us to a New life with new Goals, New Joys, and a New Home awaiting. It begins by being “In Christ”.

IICor 05:17-18 WHO WE ARE IN CHRIST

Typing in “pre-computer notes” from the 70s I came across this outline of a message Brother Carlisle Hanna preached at Grace FWBC.

We go into the world to represent Christ as Christians. What should we have to make us effective in this ministry?

1. Definite Conversion that gives you assurance and that you can share (Saul of Tarsus).

2. Deliberate Consecration which demonstrates the change in your life

3. Driving Compassion which motivates your ministry- For the love of Christ constrains us vs 14

4) Divine Commission that keeps you focused and functioning even in difficult and dangerous times.

IICor 05:20 AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:20).

Ambassador: The meaning of AMBASSADOR is an official envoy; especially : a diplomatic agent of the highest rank accredited to a foreign government or sovereign as the resident representative of his or her own government or sovereign or appointed for a special and often temporary diplomatic assignment.

1) Ambassadors are CHOSEN by the King

2) Ambassadors are PROTECTED by Diplomatic Immunity

3) Ambassadors are MESSENGERS for the King and not for themselves

4) Ambassadors are CALLED HOME before war is declared.

The Message of a Christian Ambassador is Plain and Straight forward: For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him (2 Corinthians 5:21).

IICor 06:1 19 Paul’s Exhortation

1) The Appeal (1 3) We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: (2 Corinthians 6:1-3)

Don’t receive grace in vain: A Faith Life is a Fruitful Life {Faith without Works is Dead being alone}. Possibility of Apostasy- Failure to grow results not only in fruitlessness, but if left unchecked, may end in departure from the faith.

Do not allow your conduct to give anyone a reason for putting down the Lord’s Salvation Work in your life.

2) The Application (4 10) – In all things approve as ministers of God:

In MUCH Patience- Willing to wait for God’s time

Afflictions- pressures of various kinds

Necessities- compelling responsibilities

Distresses- tight places, situations that put you in a squeeze Stripes- Beating (above measure 11:23)

Imprisonments- Jail

Tumults- disorders and chaotic uprisings

Labours- Exhausting toil

Watchings- Without sleep while awaiting an “attack”

Fastings- no food because of time or lack of money

Pureness- His motive and conduct

Knowledge- Study to show self approved

Longsuffering- ability to endure hardship and maintain joy

Kindness- concern for others

Holy Ghost- By His Power and Presence

Love unfeigned- Not pretend love but real love

Word of truth- word of God hid in heart

Power of God- God’s ability to work thru you

Armor of righteousness on right hand and left- ready to battle

Honour and dishonour- some will appreciate; some will oppose

Evil report and good report- lied about and loved

Deceivers and yet true- Misunderstood (natural man doesn’t understand the things of God) but Steady

Unknown, and yet well known- Not a “Celebrity” but still Respected

Dying, and behold, we live- preach life while willing to die

Chastened, and not killed- Spanked but not slain

Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing- sorrow over sin and it’s impact but rejoice in Salvation changes

Poor, yet making many rich- Earthly poor, heavenly wealth

Having nothing, yet possessing all things.- nothing to show but Faith; which is enough!

3) The Affection 11 13 We are not telling you this in order to make life more difficult for you but in order for you to see that we have an “Enlarged heart” filled with desire for you to become the best you can be for God” “be ye also enlarged”.

4) The Apartness 14 19

A) Don’t Be Yoked- Marriage, Worship, Business (Lot in Sodom, Saul and the Witch, Solomon’s Wives). We are the temple of God- don’t defile it with wrong company

B) Do be Yielded- so God can Bless you and you can work for God.

IICor 06:11-13 THE ENLARGED HEART

INTRO: Paul was an apostle of suffering

-Whipped 5 times

-Beaten with rods 3 times

-Stoned once (Acts 14:19) at Lystra

* He knew what it was to suffer physically

* But he was also a compassionate man as were Knox, Brainerd, and he possessed a spiritually enlarged heart. Listen to him Romans 9:1-3.

I. He had REALTY in his heart

A. Acts 3:5 The man expected to receive something and this world is looking for reality.

B. ILL.: Frank Gonzalez

C. ILL.: Rescue the Pershing

II. He had a RESPECTFUL heart

A. He loved ALL men

B. II Cor. 5:14 “For the love of Christ constraineth us…”

C. I Cor. 10:33, “Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit but the profit of many that they might be saved.”

III. He had a RESPONSIBLE heart

A. Cor. 9:16, “…Woe is unto me if I preach not the gospel”

B. I Kings 20:46, “thy servant was busy here and there.”

IICor 06:14-18 LIVING HOLY IN AN UNHOLY WORLD

(ESCAPING THE BONDAGE OF SINFUL PRACTICES)

(2 Cor 6:14-18) Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? {15} And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? {16} And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. {17} Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, {18} And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

(2 Cor 7:1) Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

It is NECESSARY for the boat to be in the water in order to function; but it is harmful (and even deadly) for the water to be in the boat. We live in a world that is increasingly losing it’s Moral Standards and Modest Decorum. Sin is all around us and more and more we are being urged to become like the world instead of calling the world to follow our example of purity.

What can we do to live Holy in this Unholy world? More than that, how can we break free (patch the holes in the boat!!) from the sins that are already controlling our lives and conquering our victory?

1) AVOID WRONG TIES– You can’t (and shouldn’t) avoid the world but you MUST avoid becoming entangled in their web of sin and deceit.

Name some examples of wrong ties (WATCH)

How can we avoid or break these ties? Love for God-

A) (John 14:15) If ye love me, keep my commandments. (John 14:21) He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

B) Do you Love me MORE than these. Don’t deny the appeal of sinful practices or associates. Just Love God more.

2) REALIZE YOUR BODY IS THE TEMPLE OF GOD. It is not a matter of you “Holding Out” against Satan’s Attacks. If God fills His Holy Temple then Satan will not have room to operate (Remember the story of the house swept and left empty- worst demons came in- Matt 12:43-45)

A) Cleanse yourself from all filthiness of the FLESH and SPIRIT (2 Edged Sword)

B) Perfect Holiness (Mature your Dedication to God)

1> Chose the Truth over Satan’s Lie

2> Live a Righteous life (YOUR Choice)

3> Put on the whole Armor of God.

IICor 7:1 TWO TO DO TO DO RIGHT

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (2 Cor 7:1)

I Believe that “Perfecting Holiness in the Fear of God” should be the goal of EVERY Christian ALL the Time. This verse gives us Three Sets of “Two” that show us how we are to work toward this.

TWO KINDS OF SIN

1) “Filthiness of the Flesh” (Outward sins we sin-Think Prodigal Son)

2) “Filthiness of the Spirit” (Inward sins we accept- Think Elder Brother)

TWO AREAS OF PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

1) Cleanse Ourselves (Weed out the Weeds)

2) Perfect Holiness- (Plant Fruit Trees)

TO MOTIVATIONS TO ACCOMPLISH THIS

1) The Promises of God (Hope and Help to Build our Behavior)

2) The Fear of God (Respect and Reverence to Limit our Living)

You can BE what God wants you to be if you will DO what God wants you to do.

IICor 10:3-4 WINNING WEAPONS

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds) (2 Corinthians 10:3-4).

My Goal (He who aims at nothing normally accomplishes nothing) is for ALL Christians to be Winners in Life. This means we must realize we are in a war and then find what it takes to Win that war.

I. THE ENEMY For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12). This is a Spiritual Battle; don’t spend your time fighting People or a problem failing to realize they are just a manifestation of the real enemy- they’re just a shadow and we can’t win shadow boxing!! Sometimes the Devil is a Roaring Lion and sometimes he’s an angel of light [Music puts the devil in a “blue dress or with blue eyes and blue jeans”]. We must learn to resist him no matter what disguise he wears. Paul says we wrestle (wage war) against:

Principalities (Demonic Domains), Powers (Satanic Strongholds), Rulers of the darkness of this world (Government Powers controlled by Fleshly thinking and desires), and Spiritual wickedness in high places (“High Places” here means the “heavenlies”. Remember that Satan is the constant “accuser of the brethren” [Rev 12:10] and one day will be evicted from heaven via a war “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels” Rev 12:7).

Satan and his demons have a spiritual kingdom and they do everything in their power to defile and destroy lives, families, churches, and governments.

II. THE WEAPONS

1. Personal/ Defensive: Feet shod with preparation of Peace, Helmet of Salvation, Breastplate of Righteousness, Loins girt about with truth, Shield of Faith, Sword of Spirit.

2. Offensive (Tired of defending the Fort. Want to attack). Things to remember: Enemy is always Bigger than we are and better equipped IF WE BATTLE IN THE FLESH! So if you go in your own strength you will be defeated. WHAT ARE SOME WEAPONS WE CAN USE?

A) Trumpets and Torches Gideon (32,000; 10,000; 300 against Midianites as grasshoppers) – Word and Witness. We are the light of the world: we expose Sin in darkness and it flees

We proclaim the Word: Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. (Souls saved, lives changed)

B) Slingshot and Song David

1. Slingshot- Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. (1 Samuel 17:45) (Better than a Bomb I). Jesus is the Rock, we are the building stones of the Church. Thus we can be used to destroy the enemy by Teaching, writing, Praying.

2. Song- God used Music to calm Saul when enraged. Mothers often use soothing music to comfort troubled hearts. A Spirit filled person speaks to themselves in Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. It was someone singing a song (Amazing Grace) that convicted my heart for God.

C) Pain and Persecution Job

1. Pain- To show that Job would love God in spite of everything. We defeat Satan by not doubting in the dark what God has said in the light.

2. Persecution- 3 “friends” who said Sin caused sickness made Job examine his life and draw closer to God.

D) Faith and Folly Joshua

1. Faith- to cross Jordan River to destroy Jericho. The Just shall live by Faith. Are you willing to believe God for the impossible??

2. Folly- Expecting God to destroy Jericho by simply walking around it. Are you ready to be a Fool for Christ?

E) Faithfulness and Fire Daniel and Hebrew Children

1. Faithfulness- Daniel and his friends refused to eat the Kings meat to be obedient to God’s Word. Daniel prayed as He’d always prayed even when he was told not to pray.

2. Fire- Jesus was with them in the midst of the fire. The way you manifest Jesus in your problems will determine your testimony.

It is Great to be on the Winning Side in our Spiritual Warfare: Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:37-39).

IICor 10:5 IMAGINATION

2Co 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

IMAGINATION: The Image forming power of the Mind; the creative faculty; a mental conception; an irrational notion. In the Hebrew- “A Form” In the Greek- “A Contrivance”

The Lord said we were not to make graven images (Ex 20:4). That is, we were not to make a physical concept of God. But Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount said to look with lust was adultery and John said to Hate was to murder (I John 3:15). This is why it is so important to realize the power and problems of imagination- for imagination can control the heart and “Out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:” Matt 15:19.

This is what the Bible says about Imagination:

1. Evil Imagination brings God’s wrath Gen 6:5

2. Man’s Imagination is evil from his youth Gen 8:21

3. Wicked Imagination is a form of rebellion against God Dt 29:19-20

4. God knows our Imagination Deut 31;21 I Chron 28:9

5. Desire to Serve God should be kept in the Imagination(1 Chr 29:18) O LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, our fathers, keep this for ever in the imagination of the thoughts of the heart of thy people, and prepare their heart unto thee:

6. One of the 7 things the Lord hates is a heart that deviseth wicked imagination. Prov 6:16-19

7. There will come a time when men will not follow there wicked Imagination (Jer 3:17) At that time they shall call Jerusalem the throne of the LORD; and all the nations shall be gathered unto it, to the name of the LORD, to Jerusalem: neither shall they walk any more after the imagination of their evil heart.

8. Imagination produces stubbornness of heart (Jer 7:24) But they hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward, and not forward.

9. Imagination produces conduct (Jer 9:14) But have walked after the imagination of their own heart, and after Baalim, which their fathers taught them:

10. Imagination draws us away from the Law of God Jer 11:8

11. People who are led by evil imagination are good for nothing (Jer 13:10) This evil people, which refuse to hear my words, which walk in the imagination of their heart, and walk after other gods, to serve them, and to worship them, shall even be as this girdle, which is good for nothing.

12. Evil Imagination makes us worst and worst Jer 16:12 (see Rom 1)

13. Evil Imagination comes from lack of hope in God (Jer 18:12) And they said, There is no hope: but we will walk after our own devices, and we will every one do the imagination of his evil heart.

14. False Prophets say evil imagination won’t bring punishment Jer 23:17

15. Imagination brings trouble between people Lam 3:60-61 (There are more “hard feelings” over “misunderstandings” than anything else)

16. Some people imagine themselves strong when they are weak Lu 1:51

The only thing we are told to do about imaginations are to cast them down (II Corinth 10:5) for they seek to lift themselves above the Knowledge of God. This Knowledge of God is the basis of the Christian Fellowship with God and is worth giving up anything to gain (Phil 3:8). Our Faith in God is based on our knowledge of God gained thru His Word (Rom 10:17) and is not subject to reasonings (Another meaning of Imagination). All too often the things of God don’t make “sense” so we begin to IMAGINE we know more than God and fall flat on our faces. That’s why the Christian life is walked by FAITH and not by Sight. (Isaiah 55:8-9 My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts)

IICor 11:3 SATAN AND YOUR MIND

YOU NEED TO “MIND YOUR MIND” BECAUSE OF ITS IMPACT:

I. YOU ARE WHAT YOU THINK Prov 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he. Success or Failure ON THE FLESHLY LEVEL depends most times on your mental attitude. I finally turned a somersault off a diving board when I could see it in my mind! That is why Satan tries so hard to control or corrupt your thinking.

II. SIN BEGINS IN THE MIND II Cor 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. “The Thought is the mother of the deed”. Satan had to Change Eve’s mind about eating the fruit before he could get her to actually disobey God and eat.

III. DEMON POSSESSION EFFECTS THE MIND Mark 5:15 And they come to Jesus and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, clothed, and in his right mind; and they were afraid.

IV. THE WAR IS FOR YOUR MIND (Propaganda, TV, “music”, worry, etc) II Cor 10:4-5 The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds, casting down imaginations, and every high things that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. (Ever wonder why your mind “wanders” when you try to read the Bible or pray??)

a. Satan sees the Understanding Matt 13:19 When someone hears the Gospel of the kingdom and understands it not, then comes the wicked one and catches away that which was sown in his heart.

b. Satan can take away the truth Matt 13:19

c. Satan can introduce his own ideas Acts 5:3 Why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost?

V. BACKSLIDING BEGINS IN THE MIND Heb 12:3 Consider him that endureth such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your mind. (Pressure, Doubt, Depression)

VI. OUR GOAL AS CHRISTIANS:

1. Renewed Mind Ep 4:23 And be renewed in the Spirit of your mind

2. Serving Mind Phil 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ…who took upon himself the form of a servant

3. Resting Mind Phil 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be make known unto God. And the Peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds, through Christ Jesus.

GUARD WHAT GOES INTO YOUR MIND- Don’t clutter it with trash

GUARD WHAT STAYS IN YOUR MIND- You can’t keep the bird from flying over but you can keep him from building a nest in your hair!!!

IICor 11:3 BEGUILED BELIEF

2 Cor 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. (Beguile- to deceive by allurement)

I. In Society today people believe that:

Sincere belief will get you to Heaven:
1. Homosexual believe their “Love” will cause God to ignore His Word- If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them. (Leviticus 20:13)
2. Multitudes believe that all sincere faith is accepted by God not realizing that even the devils have “faith” – Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? (James 2:19‑20) and Jesus declared “No Man comes to the father but by me” (John 14:6)
3. I have a right to make my own choices- What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1 Corinthians 6:19‑20). Spring Break

II. Among Christians: Sins that are seldom called Sins

Demeaning and Dividing Gods family (Gossip, Power Plays)
Robbing God’s work of Resources- Tithes and Offerings
Worshiping God’s Man or Gods House instead of God
Avoiding God’s Work, Hiding our talents: Sins of Lack of Commitment- Num 32. 2 and a half tribes were told that it was a sin to sit here and it was a sin that cast a shadow- But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out. (Num 32:23)
Putting God Second- Greatest sin because breaks first commandment

Leads to Discouragement, Defeat, Division, Defections.

III. With Sinners: Five most Common Errors of Sinners:

Focusing on Saints slips
Fearing what others will say about your decision
Unwillingness to Repent and change something in your life.
Failure to come to God via Faith. Think you have to get good enough or be able to do great church works.
Feeling you can delay- Today is day of Salvation

IICor 12:10 Ps 119:62 WHY SUFFERING

The strongest argument of the atheist has to do with the problem of human suffering. Epicurus, who lived 342-270BC, presented three concepts about God and human suffering:

1> If God wishes to prevent evil and cannot, He is not all powerful

2> If God can prevent evil and will not; He is not good.

3> If God has the power and will to eliminate evil, why is there evil in the world?

The fallacy is his belief that no good can be served by God’s allowing evil or suffering-

If we succeed without suffering, it is because others have suffered before us, if we suffer without success, it is that others may succeed after us.

If God plows, it is because he wants a crop!!

Problems are only opportunities in work clothes

Sin is not harmful because it is forbidden but it is forbidden because it is harmful.

We place our contribution in the collection plate, we are not giving to the Lord so much as just taking our hands off what already belongs to Him.

Suffering for my stand for Christ is part of God’s plan for Christians. I am BLESSED when men speak evil of me and say all manner of wrong about me for his sake!

Ps 107:9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.

Matt 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled.

The great need today among Christians is “Hungry hearts”. God longs to supply the needed refreshment but people are so busy eating the “husk” of the world until they don’t even realize that they’re starving! How do you produce Hunger? Activity, Aroma

Jn 6:35 Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.

IICor 12:1-10 WEAK BUT STRONG

It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities. For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me. And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong (2 Corinthians 12:1-10).

The strongest argument of the atheist has to do with the problem of human suffering. Epicurus, who lived 342-270BC, presented three concepts about God and human suffering:

1> If God wishes to prevent evil and cannot, He is not all powerful

2> If God can prevent evil and will not; He is not good.

3> If God has the power and will to eliminate evil, why is there evil in the world?

The fallacy is his belief that no good can be served by God’s allowing evil or suffering- If we succeed without suffering, it is because others have suffered before us, if we suffer without success, it is that others may succeed after us.

If God plows, it is because he wants a crop!! Problems are only opportunities in work clothes

Sin is not harmful because it is forbidden but it is forbidden because it is harmful.

We place our contribution in the collection plate, we are not giving to the Lord so much as just taking our hands off what already belongs to Him.

Satan will have access to the throne of God to accuse the brethern as long as the church is on the earth so I have no basis to ask God to make Satan leave me alone for good. Enduring him is part of God’s Plan. Suffering for my stand for Christ is part of God’s plan for Christians. I am BLESSED when men speak evil of me and say all manner of wrong about me for his sake!

Ps 107:9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.

Matt 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled.

How do you produce Hunger? Activity, Aroma. Jn 6:35 Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.