GENESIS Sermons – Mircheal Jones

For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. (1 Cor 8:5-6)

If we are to “know that the LORD is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.” (Psalms 135:5) then there are three things we must be sure about- we must

1) Believe God’s Word is true

2) See God’s Wonders as authentic

3) Fear God’s Wrath is real.

We must be convinced that God 1) communicates to man, 2) demonstrates Himself in the world, and 3) obligates Himself to justice. Anything less is simply a “placebo god” designed by our minds to ease our pain, complain to about our problems, or offer us comfort when death, disease, or disaster comes our way.

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.

[THE GAP THEORY: It is held by many students that the original creation of the universe (1:1) was followed by the fall of Satan (Is 14:12) and the ruin of God’s handiwork. It is possible that there is a “gap” between verse 1 and 2 of Genesis 1 so that verse 2 may read, “And the earth BECAME without form and void…”. Isaiah 45:18 states that God did not create the earth “in vain” (Hebrew- “without form”). This means that the chaotic condition of the earth must have been caused by Judgment. We find Satan already at work in Gen. 3, so his fall must have taken place earlier. If this is correct, then the creative activities of Genesis chapter one are really a restoration of the ruined Universe. The word “Create” is not used until day 5 [Gen 1:21]. This does not mean that God did not create the things that came before. It means that at this time He was simply restoring them to a usable condition.]

I. THE BEGINNINGS Genesis 1‑11

II. THE PATRIARCHAL TIME Genesis 12‑50

III. ISRAEL BECOMES A NATION Exodus – Deuteronomy

IV. CONQUEST AND OCCUPATION Joshua, Judges, Ruth

V. THE UNITED KINGDOM I & II Samuel; I & II Chronicles (1‑9), I Kings 1‑11

VI. THE DIVIDED KINGDOM I Kings 12- II Kings 25 II Chronicles 10-36

VII. THE POST-EXILE ERA Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther.

THREE THINGS YOU NEED TO UNDERSTAND ABOUT CREATION:

Creation takes disorder and makes order. God does not make any junk- And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. (Genesis 1:31)
Creation takes things from darkness and brings them to the light. Life and Joy and Growth
Creation takes nothing and makes something – God did not take something and remodel it, He simply spoke the word and nothing became everything- Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. (Hebrews 11:3). By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. (Psalms 33:6). The disciples marveled that Jesus could say a word and calm the sea- no problem for the man who make the sea with a word.

Creation reflects the Power, the Wisdom, the Greatness, the Glory, and the Goodness of God. He wants to create a NEW HEART in you today. Do you believe His word? Come experience His wonders and escape His wrath

Gen 01:26-27 THE IMAGE OF GOD

(Gen 1:26-27) And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

1) GOD FORMED US- We are

A) FORMED in the Image of God- Body, Soul, Spirit

B) FASHIONED in the Image of God- Every person’s face- 3 noses high and 3 eyes wide

C) FRAGMENTAL (Incomplete) without a relationship with God. The heart is a restless hunter, seeking only God.

2) SIN DEFORMED US- Disobedience and turning away from God brought

A) MORAL Problems- They both were naked

B) RELIGIOUS Problems- They Hid from God

C) FAMILY Problems- Cain killed Abel

D) SOCIETY Problems- Build tower of Babel

3) CHRIST TRANSFORMS US:

A) Thru the CROSS- Salvation, Service (Col 3:9-10) Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; {10} And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

B) Thru CONTACT- (2 Cor 3:18) 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. Husband and wife begin to look alike. We become conformed to think alike and like the same things.

Gen 02 FOUR GARDENS

Today I get to tell you about a great and a wonderful God and show you how you can have a life changing relationship with Him. The History of mankind can be summarized with Four Gardens:

1) THE GARDEN OF FAILURE: Gen 2:8‑9 And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. 9 And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

Gen 2:15 And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.

Adam was given a definite Place to Work- the Garden

Adam was given a Definite Job to do- Guard and Grow

Adam was given Definite Guidelines- Eat all but one

Adam was given a Definite Punishment- Death

God knew that People do what we expect when they know we will inspect so He gave them personal goals and punishment guidelines. Seems simply enough doesn’t it? Everyone Knows What to Do and not to do, Where to do it, and How to Do it.

Why then do so many wander aimless thru life without purpose, plan, or peace? The sad truth is most people substitute the “Necessary” for the “Important” because they are called to account for the Necessary. One of the keys to being effective is in being held accountable-Which is a major problem in churches- Attendance at services and during Sunday School is “Optional”. Students are never asked to account for the amount they learn thru tests. Income is on a “Volunteer” system. And many people are unaware of what the Church is trying to accomplish and how it hopes to do so.

When we violate these guidelines it brings us shame (They knew they were naked), fear of exposure (They sewed figs leaves and hid themselves), and breach of fellowship with God (“Adam, where art thou?”). We then seek to blame others (Adam blamed Eve who blamed the snake), and make excuses for our failure (“the serpent beguiled me”). Breaking garden guidelines always ends up badly. Brow sweat work replaced walking in the cool evening breeze with God. Slavery to sin, war with Satan, and universal death became man’s lot

2) THE GARDEN OF SUBMISSION: John 18:1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples. Where He prayed, “Not my will but thine be done”. Are you trying to be a King or are you being Faithful? God’s plan is the only right way to go.

3) THE GARDEN OF POWER (Resurrection): John 19:41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid.

1 Cor 15:14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.

Living He loved me, Dying He saved us, raising He justified freely forever. Are you willing to die to self and believe God will raise you up at the proper time?

4) THE GARDEN OF ETERNITY: Rev 22:1‑3 And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. 2 In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3 And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:

Gen 02 THE SEVEN “GIANTS OF GENESIS”

(As chosen by the writer of Hebrews in the “hall of Fame of Faith” in chapter 11)

1. Abel- Spiritual Desire. Recognition of God’s Way. Realized Righteousness must come by Blood Sacrifice; not thru works. Cain is the man of the “earth” and Abel is the man of Spiritual Desire- I Cor 15:46 That is not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual

2. Enoch- Spiritual Choice. Walking with God. He walked in Spiritual Communion with God; He WANTED to spend time with God (Free Will to come or not). Amos 3:3 Can two walk together except they be agreed? It was not God going Enoch’s way but Enoch choosing to go God’s Way.

Enoch means “Dedicated” or “Trained Up”. {Did His parents dedicate him to God from the beginning and this accounts for his desire to walk with God??}. Heb 11:5-6 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Jude 14 And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousand of his saints, to execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.

3. Noah- Spiritual Renewal. Working for God. Leaving old world thru faith in God and coming to a new- REPENTANCE.

Type of Regeneration like Baptism is today- I Pet 3:20-21 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

It is also said of Noah that He Walked with God- Gen 6:9 These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.

Heb 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith

4. Abraham- Life of Faith. Living For God. Leaving Family, going where God says, living in His Promise.

5. Issac- Life of Sonship. Receiving From God. Issac received his Father’s Inheritance, the Bride of His Father’s Choice, and offspring to carry on the work. Dwelling in land with many joys and springs of water. He is the Son of the Promise whereas the son of the Flesh (Ismael) is cast out. Many claim to know God but only those who come by way of Faith actually gain inheritance- See Gal 4:21-31

6. Jacob- Life of Service. God’s Converting Power- Deceiver to Prince with God (Jacob to Israel). Always working and finally being touched by God.

7. Joseph- God’s Powerful Providence- Life of Suffering and Glory.

Gen 02:15‑17 BEING FAITHFUL

When God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden He gave him something to be accountable for:

Adam was given a definite Place to Work- the Garden

Adam was given a Definite Job to do- Guard and Grow

Adam was given Definite Guidelines- Eat all but one

Adam was given a Definite Punishment- Death

Seems simply enough doesn’t it? Everyone Knows What to Do, Where to do it, How to Do it, and what will result if they don’t do it. Why then do so many wander aimless thru life without purpose, plan, or peace? The sad truth is “People don’t do what we expect. They do what you Inspect”. Most people substitute the “Necessary” for the “Important” because they are called to account for the Necessary. One of the keys to being effective then is in being held accountable-Which is a major problem in churches; Attendance at services and during Sunday School is “Optional”, Students are never asked to account for the amount they learn thru tests, Income is on a “Volunteer” system, And many people are unaware of what the Church is trying to accomplish and how it hopes to do so. [The only two “measuring rods” presently used in most Churches are attendance and offering. A Church that increases these is said to be successful- or vice versa].

Why do we shy from accountability so much? Fear- We like to be held accountable, because we like to be recognized for what we do. Yet we are afraid to be held accountable for the same reason. Probably the two most common Reasons given for not being active in Church are:

1) Fear of Failure- “I don’t think I can do it”. [Tom Edison tried many many times before he invented the light bulb. Abraham Lincoln was defeated many times before he finally won- and became President)

(2) Fear of Fatigue- We don’t want to add another responsibility to an already overworked schedule (Priorities are VERY important here)

1. There are certain responsibilities for which we are accountable because of WHO we are-

A) Family [Parents are accountable for how they train their Children (Not what they become), Children must honor parents]

B) Society [Laws are necessary for the good of the many]

C) Personality [Some people accept or reject responsibility because of their nature] (I can live in a dirty office as long as it’s productive, my wife wants it clean before productive- we feel accountable for different things, thus we work differently)

2. There are certain responsibilities for which we are accountable because of WHAT WE BECOME-

A) Jobs [Employees must work, Employers have responsibilities]

B) Marriage: husbands [must love their wives]; wives [must respect their husbands]

C) Education: Pass it on to the next generation

3. There are certain responsibilities for which we are accountable because of WHY WE EXIST- Rom 14:12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. When we face God we must be able to give an account to Him about our:

A) Faith- Without Faith it is impossible to please Him

B) Finances- Did we steal God’s part? Misuse our part?

C) Faithfulness- Did we hid or bury our talents?

The Primary rule of Accountability is ACCOUNTABILITY ASSUMES AN ABILITY TO MEASURE. If we are to be accountable we must have GOALS in order to measure our progress and GUIDELINES to channel our Journey.

I. HOW SHALL WE ESTABLISH GOALS? (“Good Goals are my Goals and Bad Goals are your Goals!!”).

A) God’s Goals- Find out what God wants and then do that.

B) Group Goals- Goals set by the group to allow them to accomplish what Glorifies God and benefits the Group.

C) Individual Goals- How can a person accomplish what is right for him that will benefit the Group and bring Glory to God.

Those who will accomplish the goals must be allowed to help set the goals. There must be input as well as instruction.

II. HOW SHALL WE REACH THE GOALS? (Someone must be in Charge; with the knowledge, desire, determination, and authority to carry the project thru to its completion or abandonment [Some goals are changed by circumstances- help for a widow who remarries or dies…]. This leader must:

Know the Goal

Give Complete and Clear Instructions to those who will help

Anticipate Problems, and handle them when they appear

Recognize “Stacking” (One person’s performance is dependent upon another’s performance)

Seek to continue to get input? As you build you recognize the need for modifications or additions. -Accept responsibility to guide the program thru its difficulties and doldrums?

Recognize when the Goal has been accomplished and reward those who helped in doing so.

Now let’s Practice what we’ve preached:

LIST YOUR GOAL(S) FOR OUR CHURCH FOR 1988:

1. IN SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT

2. IN PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

3. IN “PEOPLE” DEVELOPMENT

LIST YOUR GOAL(S) FOR YOUR WALK WITH GOD IN 1988:

1. IN SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT:

2. IN BIBLICAL LEARNING:

3. IN PRACTICAL LIVING:

ARE YOU FAITHFUL TO THE TASK GOD HAS CALLED YOU TO; OR FEARFUL OF FACING GOD BECAUSE YOU’RE FAILING IN YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES??

[Part of this message was adapted from the January 1988 edition of “Christian Leadership Letter”]

Gen 03: SATAN’S STRATEGY

Paul told the Corinthians that he wanted to inform them of Satan’s Strategies Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices (2 Cor 2:11). Sadly today, it seems that many people are ignorant of WHAT Satan is trying to accomplish (The destruction of everything and Everyone that is connected with God); as well as HOW he is trying to accomplish it.

I want to go back to the original example of the Devil’s Deception in Genesis 3:- and use some examples as recent as this week’s newspaper to show that this continues to be his strategy (Note that this was also his method with the Son of God nearly 4000 years after the Garden of Eden- Matt 4:1-11).

Let’s see how Satan works at destroying us and then let’s avoid his pitfalls, tune out his lies, and get as close to God as we can.

CONFUSION ABOUT GOD’S WORD– Gen 3:1-4. The first thing Satan did was to ask Eve, “Did God REALLY say that you shouldn’t eat of EVERY tree in the Garden?” The first worm of doubt Satan places in a person’s mind about the Bible involves having to defend God’s Word against normal logic (“Surely if it’s right to eat one fruit, it’s right to eat another”). Remember the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God (1 Cor 1:18). God doesn’t think the way man thinks and the natural man receives not the things of the Lord Jesus (I Cor 2:14).

Let’s look at the Friday, August 30 front page of the “Florence Morning News”- “Censorship in schools getting worse, First Amendment advocates claim”. In the article, “People for the American Way”, an anti-God group headed by Norman Lear claims censorship because some parents objected to their children reading books depicting incest and containing Anti-Christian material.

Censorship is the key word here. These people say that if religious people had their way then even books like “Huckleberry Finn” would be banned. They think its fine that schools are basically banned from using (and, in many cases, even reading!) the Bible but they don’t want anyone telling children they can’t pollute their minds with the trash of the world. And it begins by saying, “If you censor the really bad things then you’ll end up censoring the good things also”. Satan’s strategy is still at work!

After Confusion, Satan tries DOUBT- “You shall not SURELY die”. Another article on the front page of Friday’s “Florence Morning News”- “Sexual Preference Biological?” The tone of the story suggests that it’s a proven scientific fact now that men become Homosexual because of a difference in their brain; regardless of what the Bible says. What they fail to realize is the fact that the Bible backs up this theory!!- And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; (Rom 1:28).

Then on the section “B” front page the headline screams, “Researcher: Paddling more harmful than beneficial”. This article gives the impression that this “Expert” has found that God’s guidelines about corporal punishment are all wrong. The fact that he heads an organization opposed to corporal punishment is given no significance. He’s an “expert” and as such certainly knows more than God!!

More and more, Society is teaching you AND YOUR CHILDREN that man is god while God is old fashioned and out of date. What can you do to battle this strategy of Satan??

Read the Bible- Satan doesn’t mind you owning a Bible as long as you don’t read it! Make your Children read it. Have Family Devotions where the Bible is read and discussed.

Use the Bible- Give your children guidelines based on the Bible; and let them know that’s where they came from! Base your life on what the Bible says instead of what the “Experts” believe. Stress the fact that Sunday School, Prayer Meeting, and Church attendance are more important than any Public School activity.

CONCEPTION THAT YOU’RE MISSING SOMETHING– Gen 3:5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. Even among Church members the belief is common that you ENDURE Church things while you ENJOY things in the world. Every Church service is not “Great” and “Fabulous”; just as every meal in a home is not grilled steak or ice cream. Sometimes all you have is “Meat and potatoes”; but even “meat and potatoes” are good if you’re hungry!

Davey Allison is sitting on the pole for today’s Southern 500 (I imagine they have more in attendance than we do!) If he wins he will get over $294,000 ($80,000 for winning, $114,00 for winning from the pole, and $100,000 for winning part of the Winston Million). But more important to him is the praise and adulation of race fans and the TV audience.

Atlanta Braves fans are sore armed from “Tomahawking” right now while dreams (that may become nightmares!) of championships dance dizzily in their head.

People are continually looking for some new form of “rest and relaxation”. More and more of them take place during Church or require that you miss Church in order to attend. And more and more people act as if that ache in their heart can be healed at a race track or ball park instead of in a service devoted to worshiping God. Some how Satan has convinced people that the answer to worldliness is found in wallowing in the world instead of commitment to Christ.

CURIOUS ABOUT FORBIDDEN FRUIT– Gen 3:6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. Curiosity is a Natural and a Powerful part of Human Nature. We can’t ignore problems like Sex, Drugs, and Peer Pressure. We need to talk about how God is better than these problems openly and honestly (Don’t get too graphic, For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret (Eph 5:12); but let them know they can talk to you about these things).

Someone is going to satisfy the curiosity that people have. We can bury our head in the sand while TV shows and trashy newspapers tell the wrong side of these issues. Or we can show how the Bible is just as relevant for a Madonna video as it was for sin in the camp of Israel.

Satan is out to destroy you. Will you listen to his lies; or come to the one who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life- Christ.

Gen 03: SIN

Why is life filled with Troubles and Trials?? Why is there sickness, and sorrow, and death?? Why do are thousands of dollars and multitudes of hours spent in Churches talking about Revival, Witnessing, and living so as to be ready to Die?? The answer to all these questions is one little 3 letter-word; SIN. Surely something that effects us so drastically in this world and the next needs to be examined.

I. SIN’S RINGLEADER– Satan/Lucifer; the angel whose beauty was so great until he decided to challenge God for authority over the earth.

A) He appeared as an Angel of Light- The Hebrew for Snake is the “Shining One”. He was beautiful to behold.

B) He was more Subtle than any other (Gen 3:1)- He knew a “half-truth” was better than a Bold lie. Tennyson wrote, “A lie which is all a lie, may be met with, and fought with outright, But a lie which is part a truth, is a harder matter to fight”. The Method Satan used is still in practice today:

1. He questioned Eve’s understanding of God’s Word- “Hath God Said” James tell us that if we don’t have wisdom to ask God

2. He Denied God’s Word- “Ye shall not surely Die”

3. He Substituted his own word- “Ye shall be as gods”

[That Pattern has been repeated over and over through the ages. Men have said, “God’s word is right but only certain people can understand it”; then they say, “It doesn’t really mean what it says. A God of Love couldn’t mean that Hell is a reality”; until finally they say, “Every man should be able to do what he thinks is right. God will surely accept that!”].

II. SIN’S REASONS. Why did Eve listen to Satan??

A) Curiosity- “Ye shall not eat of EVERY tree of the garden”. Like the Prodigal son, Eve felt like something good was being denied her. As one writer put it, “The Grass is always greener over the septic Tank, but what will happen when the roof falls in!”. Curiosity killed the cat; and it won’t do you any good either! Satan implied that God was “keeping” something from Eve and by doing so called God’s love and care into question. [Multitudes of people today seem to think that the Church is trying to keep them from having a Good time while the world really loves and wants the best for them].

B) Rebellion against Authority- “Ye shall not surely die”- You can break the rules and get by with it. Prov 20:17 Bread of deceit is sweet to a man but afterward his mouth shall be filled with gravel. You will reap what you sow, with interest. You can’t “get by”

C) Self Gratification- “Ye shall be as gods”. Puts “ME” on the Throne where I can “do my own thing”. So many people spend so much time trying to “discover themselves” and find they’re rotten thru and thru.

D) Desire of the Flesh- “good for food, pleasant to the eye”. It doesn’t LOOK bad; in fact it looks like it might be nice. Sin has always worn the best clothes possible before it gets it iron grip in you.

E) Pride- “A tree to be desired to make one wise”. This is something that will make me special and it’s something I need to check out. Sin does teach you a lot of lessons, none of which end up being fun when final exams come up!!

III. RESULTS OF SIN–

A) In the Person’s Life:

1. Shame- “They knew that they were naked”. A Classic “morning after”. I’ve never seen anyone hide their face in shame over coming to Church but I’ve seen numerous “dodges” over Saturday night.

2. Self Effort to Cover Up- “Sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons”. Like all sinners they were DEALING WITH THE FRUIT AND NOT THE ROOT of the Problem. Their nakedness was not the problem; the Sin that had caused them to see the nakedness was!

3. Hiding from Help- “Hid themselves from the presence of the Lord”. Jesus said, “They will not come to me that they might have life”. People ought to bang down the Church doors instead of Christians having to beg them to come and find eternal life.

4. Break down in Communication- “Adam, Where art thou”. You turn in on self and let depression and despair take over. You think noone else has ever had the same problems or circumstance you have.

5. Fear- “I was afraid because I was naked”

a. Fear of facing the problem

b. Fear of Public condemnation

6. Blame Shifting-

a. The woman THOU gavest me- She made me do it but it was really YOUR fault for giving me such a wife.

b. The SERPENT beguiled me- I wasn’t as smart as I should have been (Which, of course, is God’s fault for not giving me enough wisdom). How smart do you have to be to obey??

B) In Their Relationship with God-

1. Cursed:

a. Serpent- crawl on belly, hated

b. Woman (Deceived)- Under man with pain of Childbearing

c. Man- Earn living by sweat of brow

2. Death:

a. Spiritual separation from God immediately and then forever

b. Physical death to come

IV. SIN’S RANSOM–

A) An Innocent’s Blood shed for a Covering-

B) Faith is God’s way of restoring the sinner- A messiah will come and you must live in Faith.

Will you allow Sin to ruin your life and send you to Hell?? Or will you come to God by Faith in Christ today?

Sin destroyed Paradise for Adam and Eve

It revealed their nakedness and made them hide from God

It caused them to start blaming others for their sinful actions

It impacted where they lived, what they did, and how they related to each other

It required God to suffer death so they could be released from sin’s debt

And it all came about because someone chose to listen to a lie about God instead of obey the Truth from God.

Gen 3:7 SPIRITUAL NAKEDNESS

I> SIN REVEALS NAKEDNESS: And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. (Genesis 3:7).

Disobeyed God – realized naked – a lot of people are going around naked (spiritually)

Tried to make covering and then hide from God- A lot of people try to use the covering of good works [Ye must be born again (excuses the sinner but not covers the sin- But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags(Isaiah 64:6)] or “religion”.

Sinners do not like their nakedness revealed so they try to hide from God or avoid going to places where God’s Word shines God’s light into their darkness.

II. SATISFACTION DISREGARDS NAKEDNESS: Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: (Revelation 3:17).

Little clothes is often as bad as no clothes at all. “Peek-a-Boo” Christian – one who wears see thru clothes (enough to say clothed but not to cover nakedness). Only reason they do not go naked is to keep “law” from arresting them. Some of this crowd are those you find at the beach or lake 3 out of 4 Sundays or who believe its right to do anything.

III. SALVATION COVERS NAKEDNESS: Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them (Genesis 3:21) (Without the shedding of blood is no remission of sins)

I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see (Revelation 3:18).

For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven (2 Corinthians 5:2).

Gen 03:7-23 THE COST OF SIN

The Cause of Sin: And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat (Genesis 3:6).

Eve was deceived by Duplicity (The Serpent was more subtle), Delight (Good for food), Deception (Pleasant to the eyes), Desire (Desired to make one wise), Decision (She took of the fruit), and Deliberate Complicity (Gave also unto her husband and he did eat. [See 1Tim 2:14]).

When Adam and Eve ate of the forbidden fruit:

They Lost Innocence- And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked (Genesis 3:7).
They Lost Fellowship with God- And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden (Genesis 3:8).
Eve Lost Equality with Adam and Gained Pain in Child Birth – Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee (Genesis 3:16).
They Lost the Joy of tending fruit trees and gained Sweat of the Face work for food- In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return (Genesis 3:19).
They Lost Life and gained death- Gen 3:19
They lost Paradise- Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken (Genesis 3:23).

Gen 03: SIN (Revised)

MENU [Revised Copy 5-21-00]

Why is life filled with Troubles and Trials?? Why is there sickness, and sorrow, and death?? The answer one little 3 letter-word; SIN. Surely something that affects us so drastically in this world and the next needs to be examined.

I. SIN’S REASONS. Why did Eve listen to Satan??

A) Rebellion against Authority “Ye shall not eat of EVERY tree of the garden”. Like the Prodigal son, Eve felt like something good was being denied her. As one writer put it, “The Grass is always greener over the septic Tank, but what will happen when the roof falls in!”. Curiosity killed the cat; and it won’t do you any good either! Satan implied that God was “keeping” something from Eve and by doing so called God’s love and care into question. [Multitudes of people today seem to think that the Church is trying to keep them from having a Good time while the world really loves and wants the best for them].

B) Belief that you can beat the system- “Ye shall not surely die”- You can break the rules and get by with it. Prov 20:17 Bread of deceit is sweet to a man but afterward his mouth shall be filled with gravel. You will reap what you sow, with interest. You can’t “get by”

C) Self Gratification- “Ye shall be as gods”. Puts “ME” on the Throne where I can “do my own thing”. So many people spend so much time trying to “discover themself” and find they’re rotten thru and thru.

E) Curiosity- “A tree to be desired to make one wise”. This is something that will make me special and it’s something I need to check out. Sin does teach you a lot of lessons, none of which end up being fun when final exams come up!!

III. RESULTS OF SIN–

A) In the Person’s Life:

4. Break down in Communication- “Adam, Where art thou”. You turn in on self and let depression and despair take over. You think no one else has ever had the same problems or circumstance you have.

5. Fear- “I was afraid because I was naked”

a. Fear of facing the problem

b. Fear of Public condemnation

6. Blame Shifting-

a. The woman THOU gavest me- She made me do it but it was really YOUR fault for giving me such a wife.

b. The SERPENT beguiled me- I wasn’t as smart as I should have been (Which, of course, is God’s fault for not giving me enough wisdom). How smart do you have to be to obey??

B) In Their Relationship with God-

1. Cursed:

a. Serpent- crawl on belly, hated

b. Woman (Deceived)- Under man with pain of Childbearing

c. Man- Earn living by sweat of brow

2. Death:

a. Spiritual separation from God immediately and then forever

b. Physical death to come

IV. SIN’S RANSOM–

A) An Innocent’s Blood shed for a Covering-

B) Faith is God’s way of restoring the sinner- A messiah will come and you must live in Faith.

Gen 03:1-4 SNAKE SERMON

Review last Week- Definition of a Prayer Warrior-(Col 4:12) Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

Some Snakes I have known:

1) Under foot at Rabbit Pen- Satan tries to get you at Play (Sometimes you need to Flee from Him- (1 Tim 6:11) But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

2) Between Feet in Corn Field- Satan Tries to get you when your mind is else where- Put Gun in Mouth, Christ defeated Satan with Word

3) Snake in Hall in Parsonage in Florida- Satan tries to get you at Home- Finally found hole in Closet, Don’t invite Snakes into your home- TV, MUSIC, VIDEOS, BOOKS, etc

4) By Light in Office- Satan tries to get you at work (Woman Dress during Sermon). (Eph 5:11) And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Keep the Light Shining

5) On Floor of Fellowship Building- Satan tries to get you during Fellowship- Watch your Words and your Attitude. Satan will try to defeat you with “busy”.

6) On Diving board ladder- Satan tries to get you unsuspected. In Creek while playing Catch (WD)- (2 Cor 11:14) And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

7) On bushes while Fishing- Too Close for Comfortable Fishing- (1 Pet 5:8) Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour

Here are some other Snakes you might consider:

Snake of Temptation- Eve in Garden (See II Cor 11:3)

Snake of Trash Talk- Children of Israel in Dessert- Numbers 21:4-9, John 3:15 (See II Kings 18:4). Bite and devour one another take heed that be not consumed one of another.

Snake of Trouble- Paul gathering wood on Island

The Children of Israel murmured and God sent Snakes among them but Jesus said as that Snake was lifted up, so He would be lifted up and change Snakes into Salvation.

1) Discouraged because of Life’s challenges vs 4

2) Murmured against God and His man vs 5 (In spite of the fact that God had provided “Traveling Water” (1Cor 10:4) and “angle food” (Manna).

3) God sent serpents among them to punish.

God’s cure was the Brazen Serpent; representing the cross. We are God’s Peculiar People (Surrounded by His care). What have you done to let the snakes in?

Our Ultimate Triumph over the Snake- And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years (Revelation 20:2).

Gen 3:3 BEWARE OF TREES

MENU Rev. Mike Jones

I have always had this thing about trees. Maybe it is because I was raised in the country and always had them near or maybe it’s because I know what it is to be at sea for a long time and then see and smell the beauty of a forest. But for some reason I have always liked them; that is, until I began to study the Bible and realize that maybe we should put up big signs say, “Beware of Trees”.

It all begins way back in Genesis chapter 3 when Eve is deceived into eating the fruit of the tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, and Adam partaking with her, sin is brought on the entire human race (Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: Romans 5:12).Then Adam and Eve are cast from the Garden of Eden lest they take of the TREE of Life and live forever in sin (And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever: Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life. Genesis 3:22-24). It begins to make you wonder about Trees doesn’t it?

But there is more! Take the case of the prophet of God in I Kings 13. He was told to deliver a message of judgment to King Jeroboam and then to return without eating or drinking at Bethel. He got along pretty good at first. He delivered the message fearlessly and refused the offer of refreshment from the kings. But when he started back home he happened to see a nice shady oak tree (vs 14)! By stopping there he became disobedient to God (vs 21) and paid with his life (vs 24). I wonder how many preachers have started well and then decided to rest under some “tree” before the job was finished and God has had to cast them off.

There is another preacher who could give good advice on being aware of trees. He is none other than Elijah in I Kings 19. He was not disobedient like the first preacher but he knew what it was to despair under a Juniper Tree. Some preachers rest under an oak proud of a job well done (That is really only half baked!) while others panic and cower under junipers; but God is looking people who will daily take up the Tree (cross) and follow Him (Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me Mark 10:21).

Other men have found out about Trees also. Absalom found out that long hair and trees do not mix (And Absalom met the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon a mule, and the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and the mule that was under him went away 2 Samuel 18:9). I could have told him that! Have you ever noticed that you have very little trouble convincing cross bearing disciples that long hair on a man is a shame?

Then there was Zacchaeus who when up a sycamore Tree to be curious and came down to be a convert (Luke 19:1-10). And, of course, there was Jesus who was made a curse on a tree (Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree Galatians 3:13) in order for mankind’s sin debt to be paid. (John 3;16).

These all learned the lesson to “Beware of Trees”. They bring change, pain, or death; and in the life of a Christian they bring all three. When a man takes up the cross and is crucified with Christ he figuratively is make a tree (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 Psalms 1:3) whose fruit is used to judge him either true or false (Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them Matthew 7:15-20)

Remember also, that fruitlessness is grounds for God’s curse (And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry: And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet. And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter forever. And his disciples heard it. Mark 11:12-14). A Christian is to bear the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-24) and to remember that sometimes God can use a Tree to cure bitter waters (Ex. 15:23-25).

Trees can have a good or bad purpose. They can either fall on you and crush you or be used by you to build an ark to escape God’s coming judgment. Which leads to this question, “Are you under the tree disobeying or doubting God or are you on the Tree living the crucified Life for God?”

Trees are figurative of:

Righteousness: 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 (Psalms 1:3).

Believer’s Life: The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise (Proverbs 11:30).

Wisdom: Wisdom is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her (Proverbs 3:18).

Basic Character: Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire (Matthew 7:17-19).

Continued Prosperity: They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands (Isaiah 65:22).

Judgment: For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry? (Luke 23:31).

Eternal Life: Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city (Revelation 22:14).

Covenant with God: For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree? (Romans 11:24).

Gen 03:9 QUESTIONS GOD ASKED MEN

1. Where are You Adam- Gen 3:9 Hiding from God instead of Working for God

2. Where is your Brother, Cain- Gen 4:9 Responsibility, Relationship

3. What ails thee, Hagar- Gen 21:17 Name your trouble, Reason for Trouble.

4. What are you doing here, Elijah II Kings 19:9 Where do you belong?

5. Is it hard for thee to kick against the pricks (deny your conscience), Paul Acts 9:5

6. Where were you when I formed the world, Job-

Three things you can do when God questions You:

1. Explain Actions-

2. Excuse Actions-

3. Obey God-

QUESTIONS GOD ASKED MEN

1. Why are you hiding, Adam- And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? (Genesis 3:9 )

2. Where is your Brother, Cain- And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper? (Genesis 4:9 )

3. What’s wrong with you, Hagar- And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is (Genesis 21:17 )

4. What are you doing here, Elijah?-And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah? (1 Kings 19:9 )

5. Is it hard for thee to kick against the authority of your conscience? – And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks (Acts 9:5 )

Gen 04: 2-12 ABEL

His Occupation- Keeper of Sheep

His Offering- the firstlings of his flock and the Fat thereof.

His Death- At the hand of his brother while they were “quarreling”

Abel was guided by his Spiritual Desire. Realized Righteousness must come by Blood Sacrifice; not thru works. Cain is the man of the “earth” and Abel is the man of Spiritual Desire- I Cor 15:46 That is not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual.

Cain means “possession”. Abel means “exaltation” (Vapor). {Eventually the Hebrew word came to means “Vain”!! Evidently because like the vapor it was something that could be seen and yet couldn’t be “Grasp”. What an apt description of the Spiritual Side of a man- It can be seen but when you try to get it with physical means it “slips thru your fingers”.}

Abel consistently did right: Heb 11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh (Note the “S” again on Gifts. This was not a single incidence).

Abel had to live by Faith: Heb 12:24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. Abel’s Gift only looked forward to Christ. The New Testament of the Shed Blood of Christ is the SATISFACTORY SACRIFICE that is all we need to replace the wrath of God over Sin with the Wealth of Christ we obtain as Born Again Sons of God.

Gen 4:25-26 MY THREE SONS

Adam lay with his wife again, and she gave birth to a son and named him Seth, saying, “God has granted me another child in place of Abel, since Cain killed him.” Seth also had a son, and he named him Enosh. At that time men began to call on the name of the LORD (Gen 4:25-26)

The sons of Noah who came out of the ark were Shem, Ham and Japheth. (Ham was the father of Canaan.) These were the three sons of Noah, and from them came the people who were scattered over the earth (Gen 9:18-19). {NIV}

As we begin our year long journey thru the Word of God, it is important to remember that we are on a “sight seeing Pilgrimage”; not a home building in one place project. We will pass over hundreds of years of history in a week’s time and we can’t stop at every interesting event along the way (That is why we do Character studies and Book Studies). So “Buckle your seat belt” and let’s try to get the high lights of this amazing journey.

We began Reading the Bible New Year’s Eve with a look at the creation of the earth and the destruction of Sin. Today we are going to see how mankind was dispersed over the face of the earth and how God deals with a serious sin problem.

In the midst of that, we are going to see WHY God uses certain people. We are also going to see the long range effects of decisions we make; both on us and those we love.

The way we’ll do that is to look at the 3 sons of 2 men. Each of these sons is a unique individual; and each plays a key point in the progress of civilization– as well as Salvation.

IV. THE THREE SONS OF ADAM

A. Cain (“acquisition” or “Given”)- A type of the natural man, depending on his own abilities and wisdom for righteousness. “but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast.” — Gen 4:5

1. The CHARACTER of Cain-Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother’s were righteous (1 John 3:12)

2. The WAY of Cain- Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion (Jude 1:11)

3. The SONS of Cain- (Great Achievements but away from God)

Enoch, the son and the City: God told Cain to be a Wanderer but he built a city and named it for his son (Determination to make and continue his name) – Cain lay with his wife, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Enoch. Cain was then building a city, and he named it after his son Enoch (Gen 4:17)

Lamech, the beginning of Polygamy (2 wives)(Against Marriage)
Jabel, Nomad herdsmen
Jubal, Musicians
Jubal-cain, Metal tool maker

The most awful thing that can be said about Cain was that Cain went out from the Lord’s presence and lived in the land of Nod, east of Eden (Gen 4:16)

B. Abel- A type of the spiritual man who accepted God’s word and way and came to God by Faith. By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead (Heb 11:4)

C. Seth- Little is known of him except his continuation of the Godly line and the face that his time “began prayer time”(During his day, men began to call on the name of the Lord).

V. THE THREE SONS OF NOAH

A. Shem- The Godly line of Israel

B. Ham (Canaan)- The corrupt line

C. Japheth- The line of Gentiles

The curse of Noah- Noah did not cause Ham, or his child Canaan, to become corrupt. A “Curse” by someone else cannot control your behavior, UNLESS YOU ALLOW IT TO. You are still a free moral agent and have the ability to make choices.

Noah simply saw a corrupt tendency in the line of Ham that would eventually lead to nations so corrupt that God would have them completely destroyed by Israel as it entered the promised land.

1. Same Parents, different characters

2. While every person has to answer for themselves, the sins of the fathers affect the character of the children.

Gen 04:- THE CONSEQUENCES OF CONFLICT WITH GOD

As we look forward to beginning our REVIVAL, it is good for us to know the Reasons we are having this special time. All of us have busy schedules; we don’t need more meetings added to that schedule just because someone decided to schedule them. That is why we need to know the purpose of Revival.

There are MANY definitions of Revival; and many different goals for Revival. After years of Pastoring, and having been in numerous Revivals, I have come to the realization that Revival is simply A TIME TO RESOLVE OUR CONFLICT WITH GOD. This Conflict involves Christians as well as Sinners.

First of all, Revival is a time to bring Christians back into the Peace of unbroken Fellowship with God as they repent of their sinful ways, their lukewarm living, and their failure to function as they should in the work of God. Revival is a time to resolve these conflicts with God so we can renew the Fire of Enthusiasm and return to our First Love Dedication to God.

Revival is also meant to be a time that we reach the Lost so they will stop fighting against God and come to the Peace and Forgiveness God offers through Christ. It is a time to show them that they are in conflict with God because God does not respect the best you can do; He only accepts the shed blood of Christ for the full payment for sin.

Today I want us to look at the Reasons we are in Conflict with God, the Results of Conflict with God, and the Wrath that Results from this Conflict with God so that we will come to Peace with God.

I. THE REASONS FOR THE CONFLICT– Walking in our Wisdom instead of following God’s Word. Cain came into conflict with God because he Disregarded God’s Instructions. He brought His best Produce instead of the Blood Sacrifice God required. Today, Men come to God with their own reasoning and their own abilities and wonder why they don’t have the Abundant Life Preachers talk about.

We will always be in conflict with God as long as we think He must look at things the way we do. We don’t bend God to our rules; we must accept and follow God’s way. Oh, how we hate to deny ourselves that way. Someway we just think that if we do the best we can do that God will have to change His plans and accept our way. Won’t happen!!

[In verse 7 God warns Cain that Sin is lying right outside his door waiting to pounce on him and control him. If he does not deal with Sin in the way God says then Sin will come into, and conquer, his life. Instead of living an Abundant Life of Liberty with God He will become a SLAVE to his Passions, His Position, His Projects, or His Possessions. Which is exactly the captivity Cain came to].

II. THE RESULTS OF THE CONFLICT. Looking at this story we see 10 Consequences of conflict with God.

1) An Angry Heart- vs 5 Angry that God did not accept Cain’s best. How much we see this anger manifested in people’s attitudes and actions today. And they never seem to realize that their conflict is with God instead of the people they express their anger toward.

2) A Fallen Countenance- vs 5 God did not respect his offering. Oh, how this hurts our feelings. What a horrible thing to realize that our way does not please God. But that is the only way we will realize we must come God’s way.

3) A Broken Fellowship- vs 6 God’s walk with us turns to God’s wrath toward us.

4) Serious Family Problems- vs 8 Killing your brother is a serious family problem! And most family problems today can be traced back to men trying to do things their way instead of following the directions given by God.

5) Lying Lips- vs 9 Cain said he didn’t know where Abel was. Now he is trying to fool God. Surely you know it won’t work— but people do it each and every Sunday

6) Lack of Concern for Others- vs 9 Am I my Brother’s Keeper? As soon as you turn from God you will begin to make Self your king. Your needs and your wants will become paramount.

7) A Hard Life- vs 11-12 The very thing that gave Cain his pride (his ability to produce good things from the earth) was turned against him. How many people have I seen who destroyed their life and their family because they were turned from wisdom to foolishness by sin.

8) A Weary Wandering- vs 12 Never a place to rest and enjoy life. Cain, like all people in conflict with God, was a fugitive and a vagabond in the earth.

9) Ungodly Influence on Family- vs 16- Cain led his family away from God and eventually ALL of them were destroyed in the flood.

10) Success measured by Human Achievements instead of a Godly Relationship- vs 16-24 Conflict with God causes us to turn from God’s standard and begin looking at what we think is best. That is the only way men today justify homosexuality, abortion, loose living, etc.

III. THE WRATH THAT CAME AS A RESULT OF THE CONFLICT.

A) Cain was driven from the Place of Worship. No longer did Cain come to offer sacrifice to God. How many today are away from the Church and God’s work because they chose their own ways over God.

B) God’s Face was hidden from Cain- vs 14 What a horrible, horrible thing. Rather die than have the face of God hidden from me. No conflict is worth that horrible consequence.

C) Cain’s Entire Line was destroyed in the Flood. You need to be aware that when you get in a fight with God; GOD ALWAYS WINS. You can fight against God if you want but I can tell you the results of that battle right now. If I were you I would make peace with God by coming to Him on HIS terms.

Revival is meant to resolve our conflict with God. It is meant to renew the Fire of Enthusiasm and the First Love that we had when we came to Christ. It is meant to reach the Lost in order to show them that God does not respect the Best you can do. Its purpose is to show them that the ONLY WAY to peace with God is Faith in the shed Blood of Christ. And it is only when our sins are dealt with that we come to peace with God and receive the Peace of God. And that is the only place we don’t have to worry about the Consequences of Conflict with God.

Gen 06: REMEMBER HIS WRATH

Everyone is very conscious today of God’s Mercy (Hallelujah, it is greatly to be praised!). They even talk about His Love for sin and sinners (But every parent knows how actions and attitudes can cause love to dim some times). Something that is seldom mentioned, however, is His wrath. Yet the Bible devotes much more time and space to descriptions of His wrath than it does to Mercy and Love (Compare the length of First John to Revelation).

Today I want to look at three specific incidents of His Wrath. In doing so, I want to Motivate Christians to Evangelism, help Christians with Encouragement, and scare Sinners with Enlightenment about the coming Wrath they will face.

The Three Specific Incidents we want to look at are

1- Noah and the Flood (Gen 6:1-8; 7:6-11)

2- Lot and Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen 19:1-26)

3- The Church and the Tribulation (Jer 30:7 II Thess 4:15-17; I Cor 15:50-52; Rev 14:9-11)

In each of these Incidents Three Facts stand out:

I. MORALS EXTINGUISHED–

Gen 6:5 Sons of God married daughters of men (Changing God’s Plan)

Gen 13:13 Men with men working that that is unseemly (Changing God’s Purpose for Sex- Pleasure instead of Replenish the earth)

Rev 13:15 Man tries to replace God (Changing God)

It is interesting to note how Jesus referred to what was going on in Noah’s day- (Mat 24:37‑39) But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

The same thing is happening today:

Common life goes on- Eating and drinking, marrying-giving in marriage

Moral Anchor slips- Sins lose their shame and become “normal”

Majority leads down the wrong path- Only Noah stood for right. Morals Matter to God. Do they matter to YOU???

II. MERCY EXTENDED– Noah-120 Years of Warning, a Week of Waiting

Lot- Abraham Prayed, Lot Warned by angels

Rev- Preaching, Witnessing, Warning by church until it is raptured away. Today is the Day of Salvation!

III. WRATH MANIFESTED– EVERYTHING not in Ark Destroyed

ONLY Lot and 2 Daughters spared

Over 1 Billion people will die in the very first part of the Tribulation.

God’s Wrath is coming- It will bring either Death or Tribulation. You can wait and experience the Wrath or you can come during His mercy. No one can make that decision expect YOU. And your time is fast running out. Get in the ark; I can almost hear the sound of rain drops beginning to fall!!

Gen 6:1‑8 And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, 2 That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose. 3 And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years. 4 There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown. 5 And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 6 And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. 7 And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them. 8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.

Gen 7:6‑11 And Noah was six hundred years old when the flood of waters was upon the earth. 7 And Noah went in, and his sons, and his wife, and his sons’ wives with him, into the ark, because of the waters of the flood. 8 Of clean beasts, and of beasts that are not clean, and of fowls, and of every thing that creepeth upon the earth, 9 There went in two and two unto Noah into the ark, the male and the female, as God had commanded Noah. 10 And it came to pass after seven days, that the waters of the flood were upon the earth. 11 In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened.

Jer 30:7 Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob’s trouble; but he shall be saved out of it.

1 Cor 15:50‑52 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

1 Th 4:15‑17 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

Rev 14:9‑11 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: 11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.

Gen 13:13 But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly.

Gen 06:1‑8 WHEN TIME RUNS OUT

There comes a time when even a Good and Merciful God declares, “Enough is enough” and times runs out for people. When will that time come for us?

I. The JOINING that caused it: sons of God married daughters of men. Luke 17:26‑27 And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the says of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all.

Family- “they took them wives of all which they chose” Marriage became a form instead of a foundation.

Flesh- “For that he also is flesh” Man became so involved in SELF and its desires until he lost everything. You must learn to say NO to self and YES to the Spirit.

Famous- vs 4 “There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown.

II. The JUDGMENT that came from it: vs 3 My spirit shall not always strive with man,

Reason- “God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually”

Repentance- GOD not man!!! It grieved God that He had made man.

Removal- “God said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.” There comes a time when God finally says He will not put up with sin anymore- iniquity of Amorites was full and everyone was to be destroyed. Israel would not listen and so faced death and captivity.

II Pet 2:5 And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;

III. The JOB we have to prepare for it: Heb 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

D L Moody said “I look upon this world as a wrecked vessel. Its ruin is getting nearer and nearer. God said to me, “Moody, here is a lifeboat. Go out and rescue as many as you can before the vessel sinks”.”. In the same way today we are called to Prepare for His coming, Preach to the World, and Pluck sinners from the wrath to come.

Need a :

Consistent Effort. Worked and preached for 120 years.

A Combined Effort All Noah’s family worked Bring them in 2 X 2. Can’t save all but save what can. I cannot Promise you “Success”. Noah won no one; but I can promise you the Peace OF God here and Peace WITH God hereafter.

A Caring Effort- Noah was the LAST MAN ON EARTH TO DO THE JOB. This time it was water, the next time it will be fire. Are you in the ark???

Gen 06:13-18 COME IN OUT OF THE RAIN

The Ark is a type of the church:

1. One kind of Wood- “Make thee an ark of gopher wood”. The church is made of one kind of material- Born again, Blood washed believers.

2. One Door- Jesus. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture (John 10:9). God closed the door.

3. One Window- the Church has a window to let in air- The Word of God

4. Three Stories- Representing the God head

5. The Ark was pitched within and without representing the work of Christ within and without a person.

6. There was a Raven in the ark representing sin. The Raven was released and did not come back. The Church must learn to let sin depart.

7. There was a dove in the ark- A type of the Holy Spirit. The dove stayed until flood time was over!

8. The Ark rode the waves when all else was lost.

9. Noah’s Family was in the Ark. All of those who died in the flood had the opportunity to come into the ark. Noah had preached for 120 years.

Gen 13:5-7 COMMITMENT CONFLICTS

And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents. And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together. And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram’s cattle and the herdmen of Lot’s cattle: and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land (Genesis 13:5-7).

Abraham had returned from his backsliding in Egypt to the altar at Bethel (You find God where you left Him). While in Egypt Abraham gained Gold (That divided his family) and a Girl (Hagar – that still causes trouble today!!). He lost Time, Testimony, and, eventually, his nephew Lot (He took Lot out of Egypt but could never get Egypt out of Lot).

Soon after returning to the altar at Bethel conflict breaks out. Any time you rebuild the Altar you can expect opposition.

I. The People of the Conflict:

A) Not between enemies but between brethren (Christ is a diver of families: For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household Matthew 10:35-36).

Lot was guided by the flesh (well-watered valleys) ; Abraham by the Spirit (For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would Galatians 5:17).

Carnal Christians as opposed to Spiritual Christian (For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 1 Corinthians 3:3).

B) God’s Weeding Process: The Reason for the weeding:

To separate Chaff from Wheat. May are called but few chosen. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven (Matthew 7:21). Whosoever will may come but God will not lower His standards to suit you; YOU bow to God, not God to You.

To give God Glory: Gideon’s army went from 32,000 to 10,000, to 300 so the victory would bring God Glory. God can do His work with few as well as with many.

The way God Weeds:

A) Hard Talk: Jesus weeded out His large crowds with talk of the cross (From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him John 6:66).

B) Hard Decisions: Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions (Matthew 19:21-22).

Jesus said it worked this way as He listed 4 kinds of Hearers (Mark 4):

1) Hardly hearers: Word snatched away as soon as they heard.

2) No Root hearers: Endure til trial because of no root

3) Choked hearers: The Word is choked out by the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lust for other things

4) Fruitful hearers: Some bring forth 30 fold, some 60 fold, and some 100 fold.

II. The Commitment Renewed (14-18)

A) After the separation from Lot. God has to get us away from away from people that hinder our fellowship with Him (Note how many times in the Bible God’s men go into the desert to get close to God).

B) Abraham was told to lift up his eyes in faith. Lot chose what HIS eyes could see. Abraham chose what GOD’S eyes would see. We live by faith

C) Abraham built another altar and he maintained his trust in God. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth (Hebrews 11:13).

God calls for a life changing choice. You can chose to be a so-so Christian or you can be a completely committed and dedicated Christian who willing to dedicate all to the Great God we serve.

Gen 13:5‑18 A LIFE CHANGING CHOICE

The chapter begins with Abraham coming up from his backsliding in Egypt to return to the altar (Find God where you left Him). While in Egypt Abraham gained Gold (That divided his family) and a Girl (Hagar – that still causes trouble today!!). He lost Time, Testimony, and, eventually, his nephew Lot (Took Lot out of Egypt but could never get Egypt out of Lot). Young married couples need to be aware of this. Upon returning to Canaan they found that their riches were causing them problems and a choice had to be made. This choice affected the rest of their lives. Let’s look at choices and see how important they are and how we should make them.

I. THE IMPORTANCE OF CHOICE

A. Adam chose to disobey God and all of makind suffered – Rom 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.

B. Noah chose to believe God and built an ark to the saving of his house – and saved mankind.

C. The rich young ruler chose riches over Christ and as far as we know today rolls in the torments of Hell – affected eternal destiny.

The 3 most important decisions in a person’s life are generally made by the age of 25:

1. Mate: Ahab chose Jezebel and Israel went into captivity, Solomon chose wives and left God (Unequal yoke)

2. Job: Determines place you live, standard of living, etc.

3. Salvation: The older you get the harder your heart becomes and the more difficult the choosing.

II. HOW CHOICES ARE DETERMINED

A. Others: Taxes, cost of products (Which determines your ability to buy)

B. Conviction: Moses chose to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season Daniel chose not to defile himself with the king’s meat and changed the course of nations.

C. Circumstances: Location of job determines you must have a car, Ability means you must sing or sew!

This is the reason for the choice facing Lot and Abraham – Circumstances brought about conflict and a choice had to be made. The Choice was clear: hey had to choose between being guided by the flesh or by Faith.

WHY GOD REQUIRES CHOICE:

A. To separate Chaff from Wheat – Many are called but few are chosen. Not everyone that saith unto me Lord, Lord shall enter into Heaven but he that doeth the will of God. God wants to see the genuineness of your Faith – Faith without works is dead being alone.

B. To bring God Glory – Many people think they’re “self-made”: (Like rich fool) and God must bring them to the place that they recognize that God is God and we are the servants. Gideon’s Army – 32,000 to 10,000 to 300

David had to choose stones over shields to walk by faith, (Otherwise just another battle).

Lot chose the way that SEEMED right but was all wrong.

THE REASONS FOR LOT AND ABRAHAM’S CHOICE:

1. Lot –

A. Based on Sight: lifted up eyes and saw NOW instead of the future (Well watered valleys would soon be destroyed by fire!) [So So Church members who want to have just enough religion to get to heaven but not enough to inconvenience them).

B. Based on convenience: Like the land of Egypt. Lot wanted a ready made life instead of an earned one. He was more interested in land than the Lord and the easy life became his “god”.

C. Accomplished by “Easy stages” – Lot journeyed east a step at a time. (Away from Abraham’s restrictions, rules, and righteousness) Multitudes of people make the same mistake – They choose to live for the here and now and sell their souls for a bowl of soup (Esau).

2. Abraham – Faith in God’s word that following God would be rewarded in any place. This is the way God’s people have always chosen:

A) Moses chose to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.

B) Daniel chose not to defile himself with the king’s meat and changed the course of a nation

C) Joshua chose to believe God could conquer a land of giants and ended up conquering those giants and that land.

THE RESULTS OF THE CHOICES:

1. Lot – Lost of Family (He chose to Play in sin, They chose to Plunge into sin!) Lost of Fortune

2. Abraham – Fellowship with God around the altar. Riches of God – Lot claimed all HIS eyes could see. Abraham claimed all GOD’S eyes could see.

YOU TOO NEED TO MAKE SOME CHOICES THAT WILL HAVE LONG RANGE EFFECTS:

1. To accept the Lord as Savior – Deut 50:19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life, and death; blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.

2. To accept the Lord as Lord of your life regardless of what others do. Josh 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose ye this day whom ye will serve but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

100 years from now what choice would you have wanted to make??

3 men hung on crosses: Jesus died for sin – By choice! One choice was to mock – today in hell – thinking only of self and now. One choice was to repent – today in Heaven

Gen 14 CHRIST IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

As you get older you worry about Debt, Disease, Depression, and Disregard. God still has a job for you and this lesson shows how the “faith of an old man” brings the Victory.

[Name 3 people who did not have a Mother or Father in the Bible: Adam, Eve, Melchizedek.

Information about Giants in vs 4- See PDF on Giants]

Melchizedek in Hebrew- Priest “The Justifier of those who dwell in him;”

King “king of righteousness”. Jesus is not only to be believed but also to be Served.

The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth. The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek (Psalms 110:1-4).

For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils (Hebrews 7:1-4).

Consequences of a Bad Choice by Lot- Captivity

Faith of Abraham and His TRAINED Servants (318) to conquer the Enemy- Along with help from Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre

Character of Abraham:

Tithes to God’s Representative.

Desire to Honor God by allowing God to meet his needs

Concern for those who helped him.

Christ can help family members who are in captivity
Preparation before Problems is necessary (Trained Servants)
Friendships make a difference during Troubles
Reputation is what people think you are; Character is what you are in a Crisis.

But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them (Hebrews 7:24-25)

Gen. 17:1 HOW TO BE PERFECT

Are you Perfect? Do you want to be Perfect? The problem is that most people think that being perfect means being sinless. Being perfect in the Bible means being Spiritually Mature (Completeness of Growth).

I. THE NEED OF BEING PERFECT– God commands it:

Gen. 17:1 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God: walk before me, and be thou perfect.

Deut. 18:13 Thou shalt be perfect with the Lord thy God

Matt. 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your father which is in Heaven is perfect.

II. THE MEANS OF BEING PERFECT

A) Commitment to Christ above all Matt. 19:21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me (He was a good moral man but he could not become Spiritually Mature until he realized the true value of “things” in this life). He had to learn that The Law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by which we drew nigh unto God (Heb 7:19).

B) Growth in the things of God Heb. 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection.

1. We grow with the help of Spiritual Leaders – Ep 4:11‑13 And he gave some Apostles, … for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ til we all come unto… a perfect man.

2. We grow thru the guidance of the Word – II Tim. 3:16‑17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God…that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

C) Suffering- Heb. 2:10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto Glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect though sufferings. Heb. 5:8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which be suffered. James 1:3‑4 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. (There is no growth without “growing pains”)

D) The Binding together of Christian Virtues with Love- Col. 3:12‑14 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on Charity which is the bond of perfectness (It’s Legalism without Love!).

III. THE RESULTS OF BEING PERFECT

A) We become like Christ Luke 6:40 The disciple is not above his master: but everyone that is perfect shall be as his master.

Col 1:27‑28 Christ in you…whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. (A Spiritually Mature person becomes like Christ!)

B) We control the Tongue Jam. 3:2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able to bridle the whole body.

Being perfect is a Goal – Not a moments decision, but a life! After many years in the Faith Paul said, Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Phil 3:12

Gen 17:1-2 MEASURING SUCCESS

And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly. (Genesis 17:1-2) [First use of the name “El Shadday” as God reveals

Isaiah 44 tells the story of a man who planted a tree, watched God bless it with sun and rain as it grew tall and straight, and then cut this tree to use in the creation of a “god” to worship. With part of the tree he made a “god” and with part of the tree he heated his home and cooked his meal; and he could not see the difference!

How do you measure a “god”? How do you measure a miracle? How do you measure a ministry?

I heard a statement recently that struck a chord with me- “Winners need to know what a win looks like”. We live in a changing society. Job security is a thing of the past. People in faraway places control how much I pay for gas. Morals in America continue to sink lower and lower. Why is the devil winning if God is all powerful and God’s church has more resources today than it has ever had? If this is winning, what does losing look like?

3 Ways to Measure Success (adapted from a message by Warren Wiersbe)

Am I where God wants me to be? God measures success by what I do where I am with what I have. Not in competition or comparison with others. God is looking for faithfulness.
Is God glorified by my life and ministry? God looks at motive more than actions.
Can God commend my work at the Judgment? False results come when we manipulate people and manufacture success.

God used several methods to measure the success of a church in Revelation 2-3:

Is your Love Right? (Rev 2:4) Ephesus
Is your Doctrine Right? (Rev 2:14) Pergamos
Is your Work Right? (Rev 3:1-3) Sardis
Is your Wealth Right? (Rev 3:14-19) Laodicea

In our scripture today, God gives just two requirements for success- Walk with God and Be Perfect. Let’s look at what these mean.

1) WALKING WITH GOD: (Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more 1 Thessalonians 4:1).

Daily Walk- Enoch: And Enoch lived sixty and five years, and begat Methuselah: And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters: And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him (Genesis 5:21-24).
Watchful Walk- See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil (Ephesians 5:15-16). The Devil is a roaring lion seeking to devour you- Watch.
Agreeing Walk- Can two walk together, except they be agreed? (Amos 3:3).Do you agree with God about:

Marriage- Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. (Hebrews 13:4).

Wealth- Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the LORD of hosts (Malachi 3:8-12).

Language: Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain (Exodus 20:7). [Women are not prostitutes so do not call them the “B” word. Unless you are talking about a donkey be careful how you use a certain word. Asking God to Dam a person is a very serious request.]

2) BEING PERFECT FOR GOD:

Be thou perfect- We are quick to say that no one is perfect and easily “blow this command away”. But it is still a requirement given by God to Abraham. Perfect here really means “Spiritually Mature”. It means looking at life and situations from a God view instead of a world view. It means you do not built your life – or your worship – simply on emotional moments and those things that feel good to the flesh at the moment.
This Perfect “Spiritually Mature” disciple was also sought by Jesus- Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. (Matthew 5:48) The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master. (Luke 6:40).
Paul said that the Spirit gives gifts to workers in the church in order that we all (can) come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: (Ephesians 4:13).

Gen 17:1 ENLISTED FOR THE EXTRAORDINARY

And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect (Genesis 17:1). [First use of the name “El Shadday” as God reveals Himself more and more]

Devotional Walk- Adam: And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden. (Genesis 3:8).

Daily Walk- Enoch: And Enoch lived sixty and five years, and begat Methuselah: And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters: And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him. (Genesis 5:21-24).

Watchful Walk- See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:15-16).. Snake in Row

Agreeing Walk- Can two walk together, except they be agreed? (Amos 3:3).

Do you agree with God about:

– Marriage- Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge (Hebrews 13:4).

– Wealth- Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the LORD of hosts (Malachi 3:8-12).

– Language: Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain (Exodus 20:7). [Mothers are not normally prostitutes so do not call women those kind of names. Unless you are talking about a donkey be careful how you use a certain word. Asking God to Dam a person is a very serious request.

Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more (1 Thessalonians 4:1).

Gen 17:1 AN EXTRAORDINARY WALK

Three encouragements I give all churches: 1) Find your purpose (Why do you exist?). 2) Follow God’s Plan (This is God’s Church- do it the way He says do it). 3) Feel God’s Power (Trying to do the work of God without the power of God is like trying to empty the ocean with a pitchfork).

Today I want to help you move from ordinary to extraordinary; from coming to church to being the church; from surviving to thriving.

And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. (Genesis 17:1). [First use of the name “El Shadday” as God reveals]. God is calling Abraham to father a nation and change the world!

In the same way God calls us to an extraordinary walk with Him:

A Revealing Walk- Adam: And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden (Genesis 3:8). God cannot do extraordinary things with people who are hiding their sins from Him. Can two walk together, except they be agreed? (Amos 3:3).Repent and renew your relationship with God.

A Responsible Walk- See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil (Ephesians 5:15-16). A) Walk Alert (Circumspectly “looking around” Snake in Row). B) Walk Wisely- “redeeming the time” means using opportunities God gives you. Find out what God is doing and join Him at His work.

India village with a Muslim feast- Do not step on anything or touch anything. Riot waiting to happen.

First time into Nepal- King and family had just been killed. Move slowly and avoid angering guards. Looking for excuse to kill you.

A Rapturous Walk- Enoch: And Enoch lived sixty and five years, and begat Methuselah: And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters: And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him (Genesis 5:21-24). Do you walk every day so you are ready to meet God every day?

Called to extraordinary walk. In both of these situations I preached that day the places now have a thriving FWB Church sharing the gospel in India.

You can use God as an emergency spare tire or a once a week meeting engagement or you can WALK DAILY WITH GOD AND LIVE AN EXTRAORDINARY ABUNDANT LIFE.

Gen 17:5 NAMED BY GOD

God did not bother to name people at first. Adam is simply called “Man” until Eve is created and then the Bible begins to call him Adam ((Hebrew for “man”) (Gen 2:19) because he and Eve were to be fruitful and multiply so a distinctive designation was needed.

God called Eve “woman”. It was Adam who named her Eve after the fall in the Garden- And Adam called his wife’s name Eve; because she was the mother of all living. (Genesis 3:20). [Eve means first one and is probably from God’s designation of the Evening and the Morning as the time of a day].

Sometimes God RENAMED people according to His Plans for their life:

1. Abraham‑ Gen 17:5 neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee. Abram simply means “exalted father” while Abraham= “Father of a great multitude”

2. Sarah‑ Gen 17:15 and God said unto Abraham, as for Sarai thy wife, thou shalt not call her name Sarai (Dominative) but Sarah (Princess) shall her name be.

3. Israel‑ Gen 32:28 and he said, thy name shall be called no more Jacob (Deceiver), but Israel (Prince of God): for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.

4. Peter‑ John 1:42 and he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, thou are Simon the son of Jona: thou shall be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, a stone (Peter).

God will give His Children a NEW NAME in Heaven: He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. (Revelation 2:17).

Sometimes God named people BEFORE THEY WERE BORN:

1. Isaac‑ Gen 17:19 and god said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac:… (Laughter)

2. John the Baptist‑ Luk 1:13 and the angel said unto him, fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John

3. Jesus: And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21).

We are SAVED by Faith in that Name:- Rom 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Realizing there is NO OTHER NAME to save us: Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12).

We are to PRAY in the AUTHORITY of that Name‑ Jn 14:13 and whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the son. Access to the “Bank of Heaven” with the Son’s Signature!!

We are to realize the responsibility of being CALLED by that Name: Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity (2 Timothy 2:19).

In the final judgment what is important is that your name is in God’s Book: And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:15).

Gen 18:17-19 A FATHER’S RESPONSIBILITY

Gen 18:17-19 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

Have you ever noticed that on Mother’s day we tell Mothers how great they are and on Father’s day we tell Father’s what they need to do to be great Fathers-it’s almost as if a Mother “automatically” becomes great while a Father must continually work at it!!

There are a number of “description” given of a Father:

A father is:

-a person who growls when he feels good and laughs very loud when he’s scared.

-a person who gives his daughter to a man who isn’t nearly good enough so he can have grandchildren that are better than anyone else’s!

A Dad is a fellow who has replaced the currency in his wallet with snapshots of his family.

Someone has said (and I believe it is true) that “A Boy loves his mother, but he follows his father.” That places a tremendous responsibility on Fathers. Let’s look at a few of them:

His POSITION OF LEADERSHIP-Leave his parents, Learn his children, lead his home. His Love for his wife: As Christ loved the Church, As his own body

THE PROVIDER- The Father is charged with providing for the family. Paul says that if a man will not provide for his own he has denied the faith and is worst than an Infidel. He told the Thessalonians that if a man would not work neither should he eat. It is the responsibility of the Father to provide food and shelter for his family.

The entrance of sin into life meant that man had to earn his living by the sweat of his brow. This turned work into a JOB instead of a JOY. But then God gave us a “Two edged sword” to allow us to turn our labor into Joy again.

A) The Privilege of Providing for a Family- This meets some deep inner need of man and makes him feel complete.

B) The New Birth- It is the presence of Christ in a man’s heart that changes work from wearisome into wonderful. Matt 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

THE PROTECTOR- Families need an Authority Figure. The lack of such a Figure can be seen in today’s society: Suicide, drug abuse, alcoholism, and sexual promiscuity are epidemic among teenagers. An estimated 20 teens attempt to end their lives every 30 minutes. Approximately 685 teens become drug users ever 30 minutes. Some 23 teenage girls have abortions every 30 minutes. More than 3 million American teenagers have been treated for alcoholism since 1980. About 9,000 teenagers are killed each year while driving drunk.

A) Father’s have to be worthy of and accept that responsibility. A man inherits some respect but most of it has to be earned by consistent living.

B) Wives are commanded by God to give this respect to the husband- Eph 5:22, 33 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. the wife see that she reverence her husband.

THE PUNISHER- Prov 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son; but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes. Never punish your child when YOU’RE angry- you’re not punishing them to satisfy your Pride but for their good . Compliment and criticize your child’s behavior–not the child. (EXAMPLE- A Minister’s son had played hokey from school for 3 days. When he was caught his father told him that he was going to punish him equal to the crime so he banished him to the attic of the parsonage for 3 days where all he had was a bed and 3 meals. After supper when the minister tried to lay down all he could think of was his son all alone in the attic so he climbed the stairs and found his son wide awake. They hugged and then lay down together to spend the night. The next two nights were the same. Just like God this father shared the punishment with the “sinner”.

THE PATTERN- A man was crossing a field to a tavern one day when he looked behind him and saw his son. “Look dad”, the boy exclaimed. “I’m following in your footsteps”. The dad immediately turned around and went back home. One congregation found that where both parents are faithful to the Lord 93% of the kids remain faithful. If one parent was faithful the figure dropped to 73%. When both parents were only moderately faithful then only 53% of the young people remained faithful and when both parents were only occasional attenders the figure dropped to 6%. These statistics speak a loud and clear message. Your children will follow you leading.

THE PRIEST- DEU 6:4-9 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

Fathers, Your responsibilities are awesome. You need help. The Heavenly Father wants to enable you to be the Father you should be. Commit yourself to him today.

Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD (Jer 9:23-24).

O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps (Jer 10:23).

Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go (Isa 48:17).

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 (Isa 54:17).

In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old (Isa 63:9).

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 (2 Chr 26:5).

But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold (Job 23:10).

And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence (Exo 33:15).

For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle, that he might destroy them utterly, and that they might have no favour, but that he might destroy them, as the LORD commanded Moses (Josh 11:20).

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars (2 Chr 16:9).

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 39:3).

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).

And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me (Dan 10:19).

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children (Hosea 4:6).

The vine is dried up, and the fig tree languisheth; the pomegranate tree, the palm tree also, and the apple tree, even all the trees of the field, are withered: because joy is withered away from the sons of men (Joel 1:12).

He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? (Micah 6:8).

I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved. And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it (Hab 2:1-2).

For thus saith the LORD of hosts; After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye (Zec 2:8).

Gen 18:19 PRACTICAL WAYS TO TEACH VALUES

Gen 18:19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

Mark 3:27 No man can enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he will first bind the strong man; and then he will spoil his house.

The Philosophy of many is Magnify the good, and tolerate the evil.

Principles you want to teach your child:

1) Salvation is most important and only through Christ

2) Sanctification is vital- Morals, standards, and pure living.

3 rules I learned as a boy:

1) Work hard- Pick up roots

2) Don’t Quit- don’t stop your car for a barking dog

3) Drive Fords- Dad was a Ford mechanic for 18 years.

Home is the place of: (A pastor said the best prayer he ever heard was: “Lord, please make me the kind of person my dog thinks I am!”)

A) Example- Learn what you live- Character is much better caught than taught

B) Education- Customs, School, Spiritual Training

C) Environment- Love, Trust, Faith

A Christian home must provide the balance of both correction and praise to help a child develop strong moral character. This will produce his own convictions instead of second hand or borrowed parental values.

1) Take Time for your children- If you want to be part of your child’s future memories then you must be part of their present life. Elisha raised the dead child when he stretched himself on top of the dead child- Personal involvement.

2) Personal Contact is vital

3) Plan of Action is needed

4) True Christian Living is your only hope

Ideally, parents should want their children to excel beyond their own attainments- May they go far far beyond me. Challenge each child to do their best. Comfort each child- To be ignored is among the most hurtful experiences a person of any age can endure.

Home is where learning takes place- The Church and the School ideally reinforce the good values and character lessons learned in the home. Sex education should be taught in the home by example, questions, and conversation

Teaching children is a partnership with God that involves Decision, Doctrine, Duty, and Family Devotions.

Children who take part in family mealtime conversations score higher on verbal skills tests and become better readers than children that don’t.

The single most important factor in the survivors of the Nazi death camps was a sense of vision for the future. Research indicates that children, teams, and organizations with a strong sense of mission out perform those without a sense of vision. Vision means you begin with the end in mind. Your mission will be your motivating force.

Gen 19 LOTS LIFE

Lot’s Wife

Lot’s Children

Lot’s Grandchildren

Lots First Cousin

Lots Uncle

Lots Life: SODOM SAINTS / LOT LIVERS

1) Value Worldly Prosperity above Spiritual Gain

2) Are guided by human sight instead of Heavenly Vision.

Results of Lot’s Life:

1) 10 righteous people could not be found in Sodom to prevent God’s Judgement.- Lot’s Testimony carried no weight with his friends, servants, or business partners.

2) None of his family feared God.

A) His sons-in-law laughed at his call for them to leave.

B) His wife craved Sodom so badly until she turned back and became a perpetual monument of salt. The same woman who was on the most intimate terms with him, who saw his daily life and knew his relationship with the Lord, saw nothing in him or in his faith to turn her from Sodom’s pull.

C) His daughters saw no problem with incest and planning their own way apart from God.

Gen 19:24 FIRE

FIRST MENTION: Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven Gen 19:24.

CALLED MOSES: And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed (Exo 3:2).

GUIDANCE: And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night: (Exo 13:21).

COMPLETE OFFERING Command Aaron and his sons, saying, This is the law of the burnt offering: It is the burnt offering, because of the burning upon the altar all night unto the morning, and the fire of the altar shall be burning in it (Lev 6:9). And he shall take a censer full of burning coals of fire from off the altar before the LORD, and his hands full of sweet incense beaten small, and bring it within the veil: And he shall put the incense upon the fire before the LORD, that the cloud of the incense may cover the mercy seat that is upon the testimony, that he die not: (Lev 16:12-13).

SYMBOL OF GOD’S POWER: For the LORD thy God is a consuming fire, even a jealous God (Deu) 4:24. And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken (1 Ki 18:24).

PICTURE OF TEMPTATION: Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? (Prov) 6:27

CHARACTERISTIC OF GOD’S WORD: Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces? (Jer 23:29)

DESTRUCTIVE IN DIALOGUE: And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell (James 3:6)

SAFETY FROM FIRE’S DANGER IS FOUND IN WALKING WITH GOD: When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee (Isa 43:2).

Gen 21:17 WHAT AILS THEE?

Gen 21:17 And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of Heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is.

I Sam 11:5 And, behold, Saul came after the herd out of the field; and Saul said, What aileth the people that they weep? And they told him the tidings of the men of Jabesh.

One of the worst mistakes you can make with many people is asking them, “How do you feel”? Cause they’ll tell you, and tell you!!! But a Doctor has to ask that in order to determine where to begin treating you so you can become well again. I want to look at some common “sicknesses” today and get us back into spiritual health.

1. HARD OF HEARING- “Ears to hear but hear not”. Remember the story of the morning when it stormed and only one man came to Church. The Preacher preached anyway and the man said as he left, “Boy, Preacher, if they would have been here, you sure would have told them!” Many people are like this; they have hearing without application.

2. DIMMED VISION– “Eyes to see but see not”. Christians have no Vision so they have no Burden. Sinners have no Vision so they have no Concern.

Jesus did not give sight in the same way- 0,1,2 touch healing of blind.

James said we “beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord are changed into the same image from Glory to Glory”. The more we see Christ the more like him we become.

Ep 1:18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

3. “NERVES”– Controlled by emotions and circumstances, they become ROLLER COASTER Christians- Up one minute and down the next. Never accomplishing anything because they’re always worrying about their own problem. “He that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed”.

4. “TIRED BLOOD”– Busy but not blessed. Always too tired or too frail to function for the Lord. Ever learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me for I am meek and lowly in heart and ye shall find rest unto your soul”.

Gen 21:9-20 WHAT AILS HAGAR?

What do you do when it seems the whole world has turned against you and even God is quarreling with you! This is what Hagar must have felt as she faced one of the most difficult times in her life after feeling she “had it made” and then hearing the angel of the Lord say to her, “What ails thee, Hagar?”

Here are some of Hagar’s struggles:

1) She struggled in a Family Relationship 9-11. God was not consulted in the relationship. Friction developed over children of different parents. Finally, a separation was required.

2) She struggled Financially 12-15. Hagar received very little help when she left one of the richest men in the area. Here are some Money Principles you need to be aware of:

A) More is NEVER enough: He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity. When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes? (Ecclesiastes 5:10-11). I can tell you what the average person in a congregation makes: $25 less than you spend in a month!

B) More REQUIRES MORE: Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven (Proverbs 23:5).. The MORE you have requires MORE to take care of the MORE you have to take care of: Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit (Ecclesiastes 4:6).

C) More CAPTURES and CHANGES People: The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender (Proverbs 22:7). Debt discourages you, defeats you, and can defile you (do things you know you should not do because you need money).

D) More can Defeat your RELATIONSHIP with God: He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful (Matthew 13:22). And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24).

3) She struggled to Focus– and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba (Gen 21:14). She did not have a Plan or Purpose for her life. Just wandering until she was out of water.

4) She struggled with Hopelessness and Depression– And she went, and sat her down over against him a good way off, as it were a bowshot: for she said, Let me not see the death of the child. And she sat over against him, and lift up her voice, and wept (Genesis 21:16). Gave up on Life and Love.

GOD’S HELP FOR HAGAR: And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is. Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him in thine hand; for I will make him a great nation. And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink (Genesis 21:17-19).

1) Fear Not: God is still listening to you!

2) Focus on God’s Plan: Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him in thine hand; for I will make him a great nation.

3) Find where God is at work and then join Him in His work: And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink.

NO PROBLEM YOU FACE IS BIGGER THAN THE GOD YOU TRUST!

Gen 30:25-27 THREE THINGS THAT KEEP US FROM EXPERIENCING GOD

Gen 30:25-27- Laban learned by experience that God blessed him as a result of Jacob’s partnership with him. When you experience God it is always a time of blessing and growth (Even though sometimes this blessing will be a time of persecution and problems). Tonight I want us to look at 3 things that keep us from experiencing God and find ways to correct these problems.

First, an example- Brother Mac has been our Pastor for almost exactly a year. Here are some things you should know as a result of “experiencing” him for a year:

1) Would he be early or late?

2) What is his favorite football team?

3) What is his favorite candy?

4) What is the color of his eyes?

5) What size coat does he wear?

In the same way that many of you did not know the answers to all these questions even though you spent a year with Pastor Mac so there are many things about God we do not know even though we should have spent a great deal of time with Him during this year. What are some things that keep us from experiencing God?

3 things that help us Experience God:

1) Listening to God’s word and applying it to our life under the direction of the Holy Spirit.

2) Looking for God’s Character and Nature as God’s Word and His Works reveal them. We recognize and rejoice in the love He has shown us in bringing us into unbroken fellowship with Him.

3) Accepting God’s invitation to do the things He calls us to do.

1) We have LITTLE TIME for God- How many people here watch as much as 1 hour of TV per day? How many people here spend as much as 1 hour a day in Prayer and Bible Study? There is no substitute for Time in getting to know someone. Meditation is the activity of calling to mind, and thinking over, and dwelling on, and applying to oneself, the various things that we learn about the works, ways, and promises of God.

2) We have LITTLE DESIRE for God- When you desire to spend time with someone then you arrange, if at all possible, to spend time with that person.

3) We have LITTLE LOVE for God- How do we get to Love Him? See His Love for us: We love him, because he first loved us (1 John 4:19).

How do we find God? For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:11-13).

Close with Isaiah 58:-

Gen 35:1 5 REVIVAL AT BETHEL

Revival is to make us:

1. Separate- instead of like the world. Come out from among them and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean things; and I will receive you saith the Lord.

2. Humble- instead of being filled with Pride.

3. Willing to Suffer- Instead of luxury and ease (Satisfied)

4. Obedient- instead of seeking own will over God’s

5. Pray”er”s- instead of Players

6. Willing Worshippers- instead of absent from Church and God.

7. People of Faith- instead of doubting God’s ability and willingness to work.

Revival makes us search our heart and turn from sin.

Revival makes us confess our sins and brings sweet Peace

Revival makes us keenly aware of God’s presence

Revival makes old songs new.

Revival brings God’s people together in love.

Revival brings the Church back to its purpose- Soul Winning

If you know what it takes to have Revival and don’t you are guilty. One Person can be the Key to Revival

There are several Advantages to having 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.

Jacob returning to Bethel in Gen 35:1 5 is a good example of this: He had Bought the Birthright, Stole the Blessing, and then was forced to Flee from His Brother. He stopped for the night on a mountain (Probably Mt Moriah, future site of the Temple). During the night he saw a stairway to Heaven and heard God promise him the covenant of Abraham. He called the Place – BETHEL, House of God and promised to give God 10% of all he made (His first meeting with God affected His wallet. His second-wrestling all night with God- affected his Walk. That’s a pretty good “fruit” test, how you give and how you live).

After getting his wife and deciding to return to his home country he met God at the Brook and his Brother in fear. Then he settled in the wrong place where his daughter was defiled, his sons committed murder, and he lost his testimony in the land.

That’s when God called him back to Bethel

Gen 37:13-28 DIFFERENCE OF DOTHAN (and II Kings 6:8-17)

In these two scriptures we have 2 men who met destiny at Dothan and yet each of them is different- In Genesis, Joseph is captured by his brethren, and sold into slavery. In II Kings, Elisha is surrounded at Dothan but God sends Chariots of fire and delivers him. WHY?? Why is one delivered and the other sold into slavery?

There are 4 basis principles we can learn from the Differences at Dothan:

1. We cannot pattern our lives after others. Dothan may be our captivity or it might be our deliverance- what works for one man does not work for another. Ezra could not request an army to protect him when he journeyed to Jerusalem but Nehemiah could (Ezra 8:21 and Neh 2:9). George Muller fed over 2000 orphans and never asked for a penny- yet many others have tried and failed (They tried to imitate Muller instead of obey God).

2. We cannot insist that others pattern their lives after ours: Elisha could have said that Dothan was a place of Capture if he had followed the example of Joseph. Peter was told that he would die for the Lord and he tried to get John committed to the same thing but Christ rebuked him and said HIS plan for John was the best (John 21:22), (God does not even deal with us the same way always. Satan could not get thru the hedge around Job but God allowed him thru. David slew a giant but was driven from Jerusalem by his son. Daniel could spend the night in the Lion’s den without hurt but he had to die in Babylon and not Jerusalem. Paul was delivered from the

shipwreck but he was beheaded in Rome).

3. We cannot judge God’s love for us by outward circumstances: Because Elisha was delivered and Joseph was not does not mean that God loved Elisha more. Take the example of Peter and James- Acts 12:1‑3 Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. James is killed, Peter is delivered- God loved them the same. William Carey was one of the great missionaries in the history of the world as he carried the Gospel to India. He lived a normal life and died at his duty. David Brainard was one of the greatest praying men in the world- he died at 29 at the peak of his work.

4. We must look beyond the “Dothan” in our lives- Elisha delivered an army- Joseph was used of God to save a nation (AFTER he was faithful in Temptation and thru Trials)!!

There is a tide in the affairs of men, Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune, Omitted, all the voyage of their life, Is bound in shallows and in miseries

Your “Dothan” may be different but God is the same. Allow Him to use YOU in the way that is best for YOU.

Gen 39:2-6 HOW THE RIGHTEOUS CAN BE RICH

MENU Rev. Mike Jones (as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. 2Cor 6:10)

And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field. And he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured (Genesis 39:2-6).

Follow God in your daily life– And Joseph’s master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand
Faithfully do the job God gives you (Even if you do not like the circumstances- Remember, Joseph was here because he was sold into slavery by his brothers)- And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand.
Find where God is at work and become part of it– And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field.
Formulate a reputation for trustworthiness– And he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat.

RIGHTEOUS RICH REFLECTIONS: – And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold (Genesis 13:2).

Understand that “time and chance” happen to all men- I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all (Ecclesiastes 9:11).
Believe that God is in charge of your wealth; not your wisdom or your work- The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up (1 Samuel 2:7). Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom (Proverbs 23:4). Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: (Jeremiah 9:23).
Know the difference between riches and money- There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches (Proverbs 13:7).
Consider the time limits of Riches- Be not thou afraid when one is made rich, when the glory of his house is increased; For when he dieth he shall carry nothing away: his glory shall not descend after him (Psalms 49:16-17).
Recognize the Responsibilities of being rich- The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep. (Ecclesiastes 5:12). More you have the more you must care for.
Be aware of the spiritual struggles /temptations that come with being rich– It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. (Mark 10:25). He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich (Proverbs 21:17).
If you need to choose between righteousness and riches then choose right- Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich (Proverbs 28:6).

Gen 39: 7-10 TACKLING TEMPTATION (Luke 4:1-13)

This temptation of Joseph is one of the most classic examples of temptation in the Bible. It is also tremendously contemporary because it describes the pressures that are sometimes put on people; not only from the pleasures of the flesh, but also from the power of the person attempting to cause you to do wrong.

Several guidelines will help us tackle our own temptation and, hopefully, come out with our virtue and testimony intact.

I. REALIZE THE HURT IT WOULD DO:(Gen 39:9) There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

It would hurt the People who Trusted You

It would dishonor God

It would hurt the person you succumb to Temptation with.

It would hurt you.

II. RECOGNIZE THE HABIT IT COULD BECOME: If Joseph would have given in “Just this one time”, it would have put him in greater chains than any that Potiphar could have put on him. Giving in to sin will-

A) Control your thoughts (Pornography) Sow a thought, reap a habit; Sow a Habit, reap a character; Sow a Character, reap a destiny.

B) Control your Body (Drugs)

C) Control your Actions (Greed)

III. RESIST THE LURE IT OFFERS: Joseph and Jesus both found that Temptation is a VERY POWERFUL force that seeks to capture us by the use of some very attractive bait.

A) It would Satisfy a REAL Need- Hunger. Joseph was a young man in his prime. Jesus had done without food for 40 days.

B) Substitute an Artificial High for a lasting Contentment- Joseph could have gone to bed with his master’s wife but he would never then have become second in line to Pharaoh. Jesus could have jumped from the temple and won men’s praise but he would have lost their souls. Always remember that behind the bait is the HOOK.

C) Submit to a wrong Standard- Joseph was away from family and friends and “everyone was doing it”. Jesus could have taken the easy way to win the world by worshiping Satan instead of dying on the cross. But both would have found that if you go through the wrong door you end up at the wrong place.

When you are faced with Temptation, do what Jesus did- Use the Word of God to overcome the temptation and defeat Satan:

1) Memorize the Word-(Psa 119:11) Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

2) Apply the Word (Psa 119:9) Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

3) Trust the Word- Cling to the Word in spite of feelings, public opinion, or the desire to do it the easy way. God provides a way pass temptation (I Cor 10:13). Don’t let it knock you down and defeat you.

Gen 40:15, 41:14 DEFEATING DUNGEON DAYS

The question many people want to ask is, Where is God when it hurts?. Pain and problems overtake us and we wonder why God does not change our circumstances or cure our pain. If you are going through a time like that then let me share the wonderful story of how God worked in the life of a young man named Joseph to defeat his dungeon days and turn him into the number 2 Ruler in Egypt.

I. The CAUSE of Trouble:

A) People-

-Family had despised him and sold him

– Employer had lied about him and put in prison

– Friends had forgotten him and let him to rot (Gen 40:23)

B) Poverty-

– He went from a loved son to a slave

– He was in charge of great wealth but none of it was his

C) Pressure-

– Society wanted him to conform (different language, culture)

– Schedule at work was great and demanding

– Sexual temptation was pressed on him daily.

D) Pain-

– Rejection by family, employer, friends

– Embarrassment of false accusation and jail

Normal Results of Trouble:

A) Bondage- Drugs, Pornography, Drink, TV

B) Bitterness- Acid that eats at our soul and destroys us instead of the one we are bitter at.

C) Backsliding- If God is going to allow these troubles (Family, slaves, jail, forsaken) in my life then I will not serve Him.

Josephs response was different:

1) He allowed God to use him in every circumstance life brought his way. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. (Genesis 39:4)

– And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph’s hand all the prisoners that were in the prison; and whatsoever they did there, he was the doer of it. (Genesis 39:22)

2) He Maintained His integrity- But he refused, and said unto his master’s wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand; There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? (Gen 39:8‑9)

3) He kept in communication with God- Gen 39:2 And the Lord was with Joseph,

– And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I have dreamed a dream, and there is none that can interpret it: and I have heard say of thee, that thou canst understand a dream to interpret it. And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace. (Genesis 41:15‑16)

Matt 14 – A time that Jesus left his disciples alone in a storm. They struggled all night until Jesus came to them walking on the water. Peter asked the Lord to let him walk on water also and as long as Peter had faith he walked on water. Jesus is calling you today to step out of the storms of life and walk with Him. Dont stay in the dungeon- walk above the storms with Christ.

Gen 49:22 WALLS

Ge 49:22 Joseph is a fruitful bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; whose branches run over the wall:

Some walls are overcome by:

1) Faith- Jericho

2) Friends- Those who let Paul down Ac 9:24-25 But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.

3) Flying Over- Ps 18:29 For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall. Example of Germany in WWII as they simply flew over and around the French Defensive wall.

4) Joseph had to overcome his wall by growing enough to Flow over the Wall. What were some walls Joseph faced?

A) Rejected by his family- Rejected his dreams, rejected his privileges, started to kill him but sold him into slavery.

B) Lied about by Potiphar’s wife. Falsely accused

C) Forgotten by Butler until it was just another Dungeon Day

All of these circumstances grew Joseph until the boy became a “king” . He learned to

A) Discern the voice and direction of God

B) Lead people with wisdom and foresight

C) Forgive those who had harmed him.

Walls you need to deal with today:

-[Walls built by other people] Bitterness, Anger, Unforgiveness

-[Walls built by Self] addictions to lust, TV, drugs, success

-[Walls built by Sin] Eph 2:14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition ;