JOHN SERMONS – Mircheal Jones

NICODEMUS- Member of Sanhedrin (Religious “Supreme Court”) See Jn 7:50-51 and 19:39
Andrew the Bringer:
1. Brought his Brother Peter- Jn 1:41
2. Brought boy with bread and fish- Jn 6:9
3. Brought Greeks- Jn 12:22
How can ducks, sheep, hogs, and cows eat the same grass and it becomes feathers, and wool, and bristles, and hair?? So you can’t understand all about the New Birth.
Born of water and Spirit:
1. Baptism required for salvation
2. The act of repentance which John the Baptist’s baptism signified
3. Natural birth
4. A symbol for the word of God Jn 15:3
5. A synonym for the Holy Spirit “by water, even the Spirit”
The 7 peak events in the life of Christ:
1. Incarnation- Birth
2. Baptism
3. Temptation
4. Transfiguration
5. Crucifixion
6. Resurrection
7. Ascension
The Witness OF JOHN (Check on all the other Witnesses). Build series on the Witnesses and the Wonders of John (8).
1. He witnessed in Sermon
2. He witnessed in Service 15-18
3. He witnessed to Priests 19-28
4. He witnessed of the Son 29-34
5. He witnessed to Seekers 35-37

Chapter 1 Witnessing:
1: Christ as Son of God 1-14
2. John as Messenger of God 15-34
3. Christ as Savior of Men 35-51
John deals mainly with the Private Judean Ministry of Jesus compared to the other Gospels that deal with His Public Galilean ministry. (Lion, Ox, Man and now Eagle). The Synoptic Gospel deal mainly with facts. John deals with Doctrine. No account of the Birth, no mention of His temptation, or of His transfiguration, or of his ascension.
All four Gospels make His Baptism the beginning of His ministry- the difference is that John has John the Baptist talking about it in the PAST Tense: I KNEW him not, I SAW…,This is why when John the Baptist makes his proclamation of Christ as the “Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world” John and Andrew follow him THAT day and abide with him. Something that could not have happened if Jesus was just baptized because he went into the wilderness for 40 days following His temptation
(Explore the Book “John” p 278 Insert between Matt 4:11 and 12 The first five chapters of John all fit here. (Mark 1:13&14, Luke 4:13&14). Most of Galilee ministry fits between John 6 and 7).

John 01:1-18 Prologue

1. The Public ministry of Jesus to the Jews 1:19-12
2. The Private Ministry of Jesus to “His own” 13-17
3. The Paschal climax of tragedy and triumph 18-22
Epilogue 21

The Eight Miracles
1. Turning of water into wine 2
2. Healing of nobleman’s son 4
3. Curing of Bethesda Paralytic
4. Feeding of 5000 6
5. Walking over the sea of Galilee 6
6. Sight to blind man 9
7. Raising of Lazarus from dead 11
8. Miraculous catch of fish 21
The key thought in each of these is TRANSFORMATION-sadness to gladness; disease to health; paralysis to energy; hunger to fullness; agitation to tranquility; darkness to light; death to life; failure to success.

The 8 Interviews
1) Peter, Nathaniel 1:35-51
2) Nicodemus 3
3) Woman of Sychar 4
4) Man born blind 9
5) Martha and Mary 11
6) Eleven Apostles 13-16
7) Mary Magdalene 20
8) Apostle Peter 21
The Seven Great “I AM’s [23 times “I AM” 4:26, 6:20,35,41,48,51, 8:12,18,24,28,58;
10:7,9,11,14; 1125; 13:19; 14:6; 15:1,5; 18:5, 6 8 ]
1) The Bread of Life 6:35,41,48,51
2) The Light of the World 8:12
3) The Door of the Sheep 10:7,9
4) The Good Shepherd 10:11,14
5) The Resurrection and the Life 11:25
6) The Way, the Truth, and the Life 14:6
7) The True Vine 15:1,5
The Lord’s Message was HIMSELF- I AM…
JESUS EQUAL WITH GOD:
1. In Works 5:19 What things soever He (The Father) doeth, these also the son doeth likewise.
2. In Knowing 5:20 For the Father loveth the son, and showeth Him all things that He himself doeth.
3. In Resurrecting 5:21,28.29 For as the Father raiseth up the dead, so the Son quickeneth whom He will.
4. In Judging 5:22,27 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committeth all judgment unto the Son.
5. In Honor 5:23 That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father.
6. In Regenerating 5:24,25 He that heareth my Word and believeth on Him that sent me…is passed from death unto life,
7. In Self-Existence 5:26 For as the Father hath life in Himself, so hath He given to the Son to have life in Himself.
What does Christ call us to do?? Jn 21:15-22
1. Lovest thou me? A deep love for Him
2. Feed my lambs, tend my sheep- An awareness of His commission to us.
3. Follow me- A devoted following of Him; without comparing ourselves with Others!!!!!

The Good News John Proclaimed

There are two types of people in the world– Saved and Lost.
1) Among the Saved there are two types- carnal and spiritual.
2) Among the Spiritual there are two objectives- Winning people to Christ and developing them as Christians. 3) There are two ideas about how we are to do this- One is to drain the “Lake of sin” and develop a new “subdivision”; the other is to get in the boat and save those that are drowning right now!! And then put warning signs up to prevent others from making the same mistake.
I belong to the last group. I believe this world is not our home. I don’t believe we are to spend all our time and money developing a ” Christian Community” while the world dies and goes to a devil’s Hell. There are some things Christians need to build, and some things Christians need to do in this world, but I don’t want people getting too comfortable here- or using all their resources to make themselves Happy instead of Holy.
Jesus did not spend His time fighting Politicians and Newspapers- He ministered to peoples needs and pointed them to Salvation. Let us do likewise.
John is about Signs (8 miracles to show that Christ is the Son of God), Sermons (8 Interviews with people, 7 great declarations about His Mission- I AM), and Soul winning. All the way thru the Book Jesus is concerned about Men’s eternal destiny and their relationship to the Father.
The word Believe occurs in its various forms 98 times in John; the words life and live 55 times.
Just a glance thru some of the main declarations of Christ will show us what this means:
1:4 In Him was life and the life was the light of men. The Source of the Life- in the Son. The first action of this life- to give light to the soul. This is NEW BIRTH
3:14-16 Life imparted to us through faith in the Calvary work of Christ. The BASIS of the New Birth is FAITH.
3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life, and he that believeth not the son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him. Life is a PRESENT POSSESSION
4:14 Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall become in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. INWARD SATISFACTION, ETERNAL SATISFACTION.
5:24 Verily, I say unto you; He that heareth my Word, and believeth on Him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.- EXEMPTION FROM JUDGMENT.
6:40 And this is the will of Him that sent Me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day. IMMORTALITY FOR THE BODY.
10:28 I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. (Not Eternal Security- but Eternally Secure. No man can pull me out of God’s Grasp! Only I have that ability) ETERNAL PRESERVATION
17:24 That they may behold my glory… ETERNAL GLORIFICATION

COMMUNICATION

Anxiously the men paced back and forth along the white cliffs of Dover. The fate of their nation hung in the balance as Wellington fought Napoleon in the battle of Waterloo. Suddenly from across the channel the signal light began to flash, “W-E-L-L-I-N-G-T-O-N D-E-F-E-A-T-E-D…” and then the Fog rolled in and covered the signal light!!! Quickly the news was carried back to London and the people began to panic as they realized the implications of this defeat for their nation.
Several hours passed amidst the gloom and despair of defeat until the fog finally lifted and the signal light again flashed; this time it’s completed message- “WELLINGTON DEFEATED NAPOLEON!”. What a difference there was now in London. Tragedy had become Triumph and groaning became glee. The difference was in Complete Communication. This problem of incomplete Communication is still around today. It causes the “Generation Gap” to exist as young people say Parents simply can’t understand what they’re saying and Parents say young people can’t say what they’re understanding! It is one of the leading causes of the rising tide of Divorce as men and women forget that they speak a different “language” and communication creates conflict that brings silence which produces separation. The inability to communicate affects the business world, social life, and has even led nations to go to war! It’s important for us then to “get out of the fog” and really begin to communicate.
Nowhere is this ability to communicate more important than in our Relationship with God. We can never know the real meaning of life until we are able to communicate with the source of life. Let’s see what hinders this communication and then learn to understand what God is saying to us.
I. THE HINDRANCE TO HEARING– When God created man He placed him in the Garden of Eden. There He gave him a job to do and rules to live by. Man sinned and suddenly found himself hiding from God instead of hearing Him (Gen 3:8-10). This “earplug” of sin has kept man in darkness and death through the years. It causes him to ignore God’s call to repentance and renewal and instead listen to the “siren call” of sin. (Jesus called it “dullness of hearing” (Matt 13:15) and said they had ears to hear but did not hear with them.). The way to correct this “hearing problem” is to listen to the Word of God and allow it to produce Faith in your life for “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God” (Rom 10:17). This Faith produces a New Birth which gives you a “New Heart” as well as “new ears”.
I once attended a service where the sound system was very bad. It was one of the worst services I have ever attended because I could understand very little of what was said. Another minister who attended and was able to sit close to the front where he could hear everything said it was one of the best services He had ever been at!! That’s why Lost people hate to come to Church and get little out of it- they don’t understand what’s being said. (I Cor 1:18 The Preaching of the Cross is foolishness to them that perish but the power of God to those that believe.).
ARE YOU DULL OF HEARING??? DO WE SEEM TO BE SPEAKING A DIFFERENT LANGUAGE??? ARE YOU WILLING TO ALLOW JESUS TO GIVE YOU “HEARING EARS”???
II. THE CAPABILITY TO COMMUNICATE. Communicate: “To correctly impart information or ideas to another”. There are many methods used to impart this information.
A) Verbal- Speech. There must be a common reference point to begin from and a common language so what is said can be understood. In God’s communication to us He used His Son Jesus who as “the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us,…” (Jn 1:14). This gave Him the same reference point we have (Heb 4:15) and enabled Him to communicate by what He WAS as well as what He SAID.
B) Vision- Sight. Ps 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go; I will guide thee with mine eye. Ps 123:2 As the eyes of the servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until that he have mercy upon us. “Eye contact” is one of the best ways to determine the real meaning of what someone says (I’m not much of a “telephone Person”. I want to SEE people I talk to). Many times we communicate more with our “body language” than with our words. God didn’t just talk about His Love; He sent Jesus to show us that Love.
C) Touch- Many times my wife and I will be riding down the road and one of us will simply reach out and squeeze the other’s hand. Nothing is said–yet volumes are said. The touch of the Spirit of God (or the lack of that touch!!) can speak more to my heart than many sermons.
D) Experience- If any man do His will He will know. Sometimes the only way to understand something is to get “hands on” experience. You can explain and explain and explain but when you get to actually do it the “light bulbs” go off. Thank God for the “voice of experience”.
During the war in Viet Nam we were firing ground support for a groups of soldiers. Their spotter gave us the coordinates to fire our first shell and we waited for his confirmation to fire the remaining shells. After a length of time the spotter told us to go ahead and fire. We told him we’d already done so!!! Soon he came back on with different coordinates and we were able to complete our mission. We never found out where, or on WHO, that first shell landed. That’s the way many people go through life- listening to the wrong directions and “accidently” harming many people. Why don’t you listen to God today and allow Him to guide you right.
God is calling YOU today. “Behold,I stand at the door, and knock; If any man hear by voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Rev 3:20.

INTRO TO JOHN

The Gospel of John has been called the most important book in the Bible (Thus making it the most important book in the world!). It has brought comfort to more grieving families (In my Father’s House are many mansions), Salvation to more lost souls (Jn 3), and dedication to more Christians (Abide in the Vine and be fruitful) than probably any other book in the Bible.
I> THE AUTHOR– John
John was born in Galilee, the son of Zebedee and Salome. He had a brother named James. His family was engaged in the fishing business on the Sea of Galilee. They were probably people of some means because they had servants (Mk 1:20). Some scholars believe that John attended the Rabbinical schools in Jerusalem because John was acquainted with the officials and notable leaders of the city. (As shown by his access to the palace of the high priest on the night of Jesus’ arrest-Jn 18:15-16. It was he who was able to get Peter into the courtyard where he failed to stand for Christ.). So John was raised with good Family, Social, and Financial standing–yet, like a lot of people with “everything”, he realized something was missing from his life.
One day John heard of another John- John the Baptist. His preaching caused such a stir that John got his friend Andrew to go with him to hear him. What an impressive sight John the Baptist must have been; clothed in rough Camel skin robes, his skin darkened by the desert sun, he looked nothing like the people John associated with. And his Preaching, such preaching as John had never heard before. He had heard the Doctors of the Law argue over the fine points of the law, he had heard the local elders of his town mumble thru the scriptures, but he had never heard a man thunder against sin like this man. He called the multitude a “generation of vipers” and warned them of the wrath to come; and then he told them it didn’t matter that Abraham was their Father if their tree was fruitless!! (Who had ever preached this before? John had always heard he was right with God simply because he was a Jew). Then he told the tax collectors to only collect what was right (When everyone knew you became a tax collector to legally “rob” the people!) and he told the soldiers to quite brawling, lying, and quarreling about their pay!! (Luke 3:1-18). Either this man was Mad or Magnificent; and John found his heart stirred as never before.
They evidently stayed several days, listening and wondering, until one day John heard John the Baptist make a marvelous proclamation- “Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world”. Immediately John’s attention was changed to this new person and he and Andrew followed him the rest of that day. What marvelous truths they must have heard that day, how excited John must have been.
Soon, however, his duty to family called and he had to return to the fishing business. When he arrived back at work all he could talk of was the wonderful teachings of John the Baptist and this new man Jesus. One day as they were finishing up the day’s fishing there suddenly fell a shadow across the boat and Jesus stood there! He looked at John with eyes that saw into the very depths of his soul and simply said, “Come, follow me”. John knew that his course in life had been determined. All of his riches and comfort could not replace the ache in his heart- yet this man Jesus could speak a word and it felt as if someone had given his thirsty soul a cup of cold water. He found himself leaving his family and fortune to follow Christ- and when he looked around he saw his brother James following right behind him!
What a faithful pair of disciples these brothers were. They became part of the “Inner circle” of disciples (Along with Peter) that went everywhere with Christ (Remember that it was John that was intrusted with caring for Mary when Jesus died on the Cross.). They were very energetic for the Lord- He nicknamed them “The Sons of Thunder”-and sealed their dedication to the Lord with their lives- James was the first of the apostles to die and John was the last (But not before he was imprisoned on the isle of Patmos and allowed to see and record God’s complete plan for this world.).
John is called “The Disciple whom Jesus Loved” (Jn 21:20) but he might well be called “The Disciple who loved Jesus” because he dedicated his whole life to telling people that Jesus Christ was the Son of God and they could have life thru Him. It was John that wrote the most quoted, most loved verse in the Bible- For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (Jn 3:16). It is John that reaches beyond Jesus’ teachings and doctrines and shows us Jesus as the Light in a Sin darkened world; Jesus as the Bread of Life to a world gorging itself on the “husks” of sin and dying of hunger; Jesus as the Water of Life to a world thirsting for meaning amongst the madness; Jesus as the Door to Life, as the Good Shepherd of His Sheep, and as the Way to the Father, the Truth about the Father, and the Life the Father wants us to live. Thank God He used John to tell us about Jesus!!
II. ITS PURPOSE: It is important because of its purpose- These were written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. (Jn 20:31).
1) It is Christ who quickens us- Jn 5:21 The son quickeneth whom he will
2) It is Christ who washes away our sins- Rev 1:5 He loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.
3) It is Christ who gives us Peace- Jn 4:27 Peace I leave you, My peace I give unto you
4) It is Christ who gives us Eternal life- Jn 10:28 I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish. It is Christ who grants us repentance– Acts 5:31 Him hath God exalted to be a prince and a Saviour to give repentance.
5) It is Christ who enables us to become God’s Children- Jn 1:12 To as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God
6) It is Christ who shows us God the Father- Jn 14:7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also. 7) It is Christ who contains all the fullness of god- Col 1:19 It pleased the Father that in Christ should all fullness dwell.
8) It is Christ who is the author and finisher of our faith- Heb 12:2
It is Christ that John proclaimed, and it must be Christ whom we proclaim. He is the answer to all of the world’s problems. Let’s lift Him up today, that all men may be drawn to Him.
A young Pastor one day found a message on the pulpit-“We would see Jesus”. It angered him at first but later it convicted him of his Preaching. He began to major on Jesus and one day as he came to the pulpit he found this message- “Then were the disciples glad when they had seen the Lord” Does the World see Jesus in you??

The Gospel of JOHN: Signs, Sermons, and Soul Winning (Preached 4/20/86am Grace
IN THE BEGINNING. Jn 1:1-14 God begins the Bible by telling us how and why He created the world. The rest of the Old Testament deals with how man disregarded and disobeyed God and how God kept pointing out the proper way for man to go. Finally (almost in Exasperation) the Lord says, “Let me show you what I mean” and God became a man to show us how to live and have life!
Someone wrote this poem about the material in John and I find it more and more true.
My pail I’ve often dropped
Deep into this well,
It’s never touched the bottom,
However deep it fell;
And though I keep on dipping
By study, faith and prayer,
I have yet to measure
The living waters there.
Most especially is it true when you consider the first 14 verses of John. The other Gospel writers sort of eased into the life and ministry of Jesus. John “jerks” you up and sends you into the heavens right off the bat.
We live in a sin tossed world- Libya (Is this the beginning of the end??), Terrorism, drugs, disease, death,… Teens commit suicide now more than ever, Adults look for more and better “Toys”, and homes are “exploding” like firecrackers on the Fourth of July. What does the Church have to offer in these troubled times? Why should we study the Life of Christ when we need to know how to pay our bills, resist temptation, etc.. The answer is found in John’s opening message. It is one of the most profound messages in the world as it describes Who Jesus is, What He did, and How he helps us today.
I. Christ is Eternal: 1-2
1) He was Pre-existent- In the beginning was the Word. As long as God is; He was (No after thought). When God spoke the world into existent Christ was there. There was never a time that Christ was not.
This gives us Stability: He is the same yesterday, today, & forever. There will never anything “come up” that we are not prepared for in Christ.
2) He had Fellowship With God- In Him we too can have fellowship with God- and that is what our heart craves.
3) He was Divine- “He was God”. How can God be 3 in 1. (Fire-Heat-Light; Ice-Water-steam.) I don’t know all the “hows” but I do know that it’s true. The God of the universe became a Man and lived and died on earth for MY sins. (As a Man He suffered being tempted like us- tempted to satisfy His body, His Pride, and His desires-yet without sin). Can I ever doubt God’s love after what He’s done for me??
54) He is God’s Communication- “The Word”. How can a God who is not bound by ANYTHING communicate with man who is bound by time, space, and distance?? Only by becoming a man and showing us what God would do in our place
II> Christ is Creator– (Col- By Him all things consist- are held together) All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made. If he can create a new world out of “nothing”; can’t he create a new creature out of you?? Without Him everything you attempt to make will fall like houses build on the sand!! He wants to give you a new purpose to life. Will you allow Him today to create a new heart in you??
III> Christ is the Source–
A) Of Life:
1. Physical life- There are no “accidents” of birth. God has a purpose and plan for everyone. (Jer. John)
2. Spiritual life. None other name under heaven given among men whereby ye must be saved.
He give us new life thru Faith- Jn 3:16
He IS Eternal life- Jn 17:3 And this is life eternal that they know thee the only true God and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent. He that hath the son hath life
B) Of Light for all men- “The whole world was lost in the darkness of sin, the light of the world is Jesus”. In the blackness and despair of a sin-cursed world where man had struggled to find life in the dark suddenly a light shone from God to direct men to Him. No longer must we stumble trying to find the way- Christ is the Way (direction), the Truth (Trustworthy), and the Life (Peace and Purpose). I know in my own life, the night I was saved the stars in the sky seemed to be different- a light had broken in on my soul that keeps getting brighter and brighter!!
But what of those who continue to stumble on in darkness? The light continues to shine. The darkness cannot overpower it, put it out, or absorb it.– It can only be unreceptive to it. You can refuse to open you eyes when the light shines on you. You’re still exposed but you try to fool yourself into believing that no one sees you.
Or you can refuse to appropriate it- Knowing the light is available you continue on in the darkness of sin. This is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.(Jn 3:19) I don’t know all your questions today- but I know all your answers- As many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:.
Will you stumble on in sin until you fall into the pits of Hell. Or will you come to the light today???

John 01:1-4 GOD BECOMES MAN

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men (John 1:1-4).
Christmas is about God becoming a man. It is about the Son of God coming to earth to live among men; and eventually die for men. That makes Christmas more important than family togetherness, fabulous trees, or fictitious tales of fat men and flying reindeer.
The story is told about a great Viking king who decided to build a boat so big and so strong until he would rule the world. He ordered the best craftsmen to build it from the strongest materials and equip it with the most weapons ever on a boat. The entire countryside came to see this marvel on the day it was to be launched. Swiftly it slid down the ramp into the sea and just as swiftly slid beneath the waters! The king had given the boat everything except the ability to float! Christmas is about God realizing our need and giving us the ability to walk on water!
Christmas means the eternal God who has no beginning or end- who is from everlasting to everlasting was Born –
TO A VIRGIN: He who came to earth seeking a pure clean bride was born to her who was found with child before she was married. 4 ways to be born:
Without man or woman- Adam
With man, without woman- Eve
With man and woman- everyone
Without man, with woman- Jesus
AS A BABY: He who was all powerful yielded himself into the total helplessness of a baby. He who arranges for all food to exist became a baby totally dependent on others to feed him. How God must Love you and I.

Christmas means God became a Man:
He who is light was announced at night to lowly shepherds as they watched their flocks.
He who is now building mansions in Heaven to provide a place for His followers was born in a town that did not have a single room for him.
He who created worlds with only His words was born as a baby who could only cry in hunger or defilement. Oh, how He loved you and I!!

Christmas means God not only CARES BUT HE CONVERTS:
Christmas means the Son of God became a man in order for man to become a son of God (As many as received him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name John 1:12).
Christmas is about God becoming a man and revealing the way to God, the truth about God, and the life God wants us to live (John 14:6-7).
To show the Glory of God- And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth (John 1:14).
To manifest the invisible God- No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him (John 1:18).

CHRISTMAS MEANS:
He descended that we might ascend (John 6:38, 14:3)
He became poor that we might become rich (II Cor 8:9, Jam 2:5)
He was born that we might be born again (Jn 1:14, 3:2, 7)
He became a servant that we might become sons (Phil 2:7; Gal 4:6 7)
He left His home in order for us to have a home in heaven
A little Girl was drawing on the beach when a man came by. “What are you drawing?” he asked. “A picture of God.” she replied. “But no one knows what God looks like.” the man said. The Girl replied, “Wait 5 more minutes and you will!”. Our “Five Minute” wait is over. Christ is born; and we can be born again! God has a marvelous gift for you this Christmas day; will you accept it???

John 01:12 WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A SON OF GOD?

The most important decision a person will ever make is the decision to accept Christ as Savior. What does that mean to a person?
1. SAVED– Jn 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of men, but of God. Gal 3:26 For ye are all the Children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (Born Again by Faith in Christ. Repented of Sin, Received Christ as Saviour.)
2. SPIRIT-LED– Rom 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the Sons of God. (The Leadership of the Spirit: He Glories the Son. Leads by the Word.)
3. SEPARATED– II Cor 6:17-18 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean things; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. (We are Holy because He is Holy. They took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus.
4. SPANKED– Heb 12:6 Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
(When we do wrong God will forgive us- but He will also Spank us so that we will know not to do it again.)
5. Have SON-RIGHTS– Gal 4:6-7 Because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a Son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (Answered Prayer, Future Promises.)
6. SHINERS– Phil 2:14-15 Do all things without murmuring and disputings; that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world. (The Light of the World. We show the world the way out of darkness.)
ARE YOU A CHILD OF GOD? DO YOU LIVE LIKE ONE?? DOES THE WORLD KNOW WHOSE CHILD YOU ARE??

John 01:14 THE RESULT OF HIS COMING

Already I have noticed the Christmas decorations in the stores. School had just begun and people are already beginning to do their Christmas shopping and decorating. In just a few weeks I will probably begin hearing people talk about how tired they are of the pressure and confusion of Christmas (And this will be two months before Thanksgiving!!).
I think it would be good for me to give you a little reminder right now about the Results of the fact that Christ came. After all, that may be the only way we can keep our perspective as Christians during the rush and stress of this season(Some of us feel like the little girl who had felt the wrath of a time pressured mother who was overwhelmed with things to do at Christmas. When she knelt by her bed for her prayers she began to pray, “Lord, forgive us our Christmases as we forgive those who Christmas against us!”).
We must remember that after the presents are unwrapped, after everyone has eaten just a little too much, and after it’s time to take down the Christmas decorations that our celebration of Christ does not come to an end. We realize that Bethlehem was just a beginning. The Rejoicing of Christmas must now give way to living with the Results of His coming. And that is what we want to talk about today.
1. Jesus came TO SHOW US GOD: John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
1 Tim 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (Seen me, seen the Father). John 17:6 I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.
God is no longer a Principle we study, or a religion we practice. He is a Person we Know and Love. He knows the pain and problems we live with and He is able to help. What a tremendous Christmas Present that is!! God is no longer hidden in a cloud on a far away mountain. He has taken Flesh and pitched His tent among men so we can see His glory.
2. Jesus came TO SAVE SINNERS: 1 Tim 1:15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 1 John 3:5 And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.
The most important decision a person will ever make is their decision about accepting Christ as Savior. Jesus didn’t come to show us how to be better; He came so that we could be forgiven of sins and accepted by the Father. And He came to pay the price for our sins so we can accept God’s Grace by simple Faith. No wonder Christmas is a time of singing.
3. Jesus came TO DESTROY THE WORKS OF THE DEVIL: 1 John 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
In the first sermon Jesus preached He said He had come to set the Prisoners free. No longer must men be enslaved to the hard and harsh taskmaster, Satan. Christmas means that all who were in bondage can be set free.
A) Many were in Bondage to Good- Gal 4:4-5 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, 5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. Keeping rules and regulations does not give us liberty; it made us slaves. Jesus came to set us free to enjoy a truly abundant life.
B) Many were in Bondage to Sin- Sin and Satan held us captive and we continually found ourselves doing those things which we did not want to do. Our intentions were good but we did not have the power to change. Christ came so we could experience the transforming power of the Holy Spirit and become new creatures.
C) Many were in Bondage to Despair- We were “without Hope in this world”. Christmas means that in spite of centuries and circumstances God still keeps His word. We have gone from despair to looking to meet Him in the Air!!
4. Jesus came TO ABOLISH DEATH: 2 Tim 1:10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:
Because Christ came to live a pure life and die a sacrificial death then I am no longer bound by death’s weary chains. Those of my family and friends who have gone on to be with the Lord are not a source of grief but a source of longing as I look forward to fellowshipping with them again around the throne of God.
Death cannot dominate me. It is no longer the darkness of despair; it is simply a door through which I must pass on my way to see Him face to face whom so long I have known heart to heart.
You can let Society pressure you into hating the Christmas season or you can look past the presents and the pressures to see what it really means. And if you will have that attitude it may make some of those around you stop and ask you how you can be so calm. Which will make a perfect opportunity to share the real story of Christmas with them.

John 1:15-28 JOHN’S WITNESS

John now describes the ministry of John the Baptist- a ministry similar to the one you and I should have.
John’s Witness:
I> Of Christ 15-18
A) His Priority (15)- He takes rank above me because he existed before me. He is my Chief. Do YOU Put Christ Number 1??
B) His Fullness (16)- Amp Bible “For out of His fullness (abundance) we all received- all had a share and we were all supplied with- one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing, and even favor upon favor and gift heaped upon gift.” We are complete in Him. He has everything we need.
C) His Gift (17)- The Law by Moses but Grace and Truth by Jesus Christ. Moses showed us how Life must be restricted- Christ shows us how Life can be lived!!
D) His Revelation (18)- He declared (interpreted) God for us so we could understand Him. How sad it is that we become Thomas’ and miss seeing God even though we see Christ.
II> Of Himself 19-24 “Who art Thou?”
A) Not Christ
B) Not Elias or a Prophet (Although He would have been had the Jews received Jesus)
C) A Herald of the coming King telling everyone to prepare for His coming- the same Job you and I have today. Do you Know who you are?? Do you function in the body?
III> Of His Baptism 25-28
A) His Task-I do what I can- baptize with water
B) His Authority- There is one among you whom you know not (Someone had to tell them that the sun was shining!!) who is my authority-
C) His Attitude- I am not worthy to do the most menial job for Him (untie His shoes!) yet He allows me to announce Him. Are we willing to do anything God calls us to do – no matter how small the task???
Do you realize that the ministry of this Church is to “Herald” the coming King?? The reason we use Radio, Newsletters, tapes, and any opportunity available to talk about Christ is due to this. We’re not the biggest (Yet)- but we have a job to do and we want to be faithful in doing it.

John 1:29-34 JOHN PRESENTS JESUS

Having laid the “ground-work”, John now gets to the Heart of his message- Jesus.
1. Proclamation 29 “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.”. John was aware of the fact that Jesus had come to die as a Sin Sacrifice for mankind. He did not come to make a “better” world; He came to pay man’s sin debt and deliver him from Satan’s Prison. Men today try to make Jesus into some great Social reformer while refusing to accept Him as Saviour. Our Message must continually be, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.”
2. Exaltation 30 “After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me.” What an humble man John was! Crowds of people flocked to hear him, Religious leaders came to question Him, and Governors feared him; yet he continually pointed to Christ who was to come after him. He did not want people to think of Christ as a “Johnny come lately” that was reaping what John had planted. He wanted them to know that everything he did was done with Christ in mind
3. Expectation 31 “I knew him not; but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water”. Seldom do we hear men preach of the Faith of John the Baptist, but he must have been a man of extraordinary Faith. He did not know WHO the Messiah was, WHEN He would come, or WHAT would result but he steadfastly preached and worked and baptized in eager expectation of His arrival. (I wonder if he really realized the full significance of the Baptism- Death, Burial, and Resurrection??).
Do we have that same spirit of expectation today? Do we work with the same Faith??
4. Realization 32-34 “I saw the Spirit descending, and remaining on him,…and bare record that this is the Son of God. John had been given a sign to look for so he would know for sure when Messiah had come- someone that the Spirit descended on and remained on. (John knew about the ministry of the Holy Spirit because he had been filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother’s womb!! Luke 1:15). What “Sign” do WE look for today? How can we tell the false from the true??
When John saw the Spirit descend upon Jesus in the shape of a dove and heard the Father’s cry, “This is my beloved Son; in whom I am well pleased” (Luke 3:21-22), how his heart must have leaped for joy. Finally He had come!! Expectation had become Realization!!
Are we eagerly telling the world about a coming Christ today?? Do we humbly seek to exalt Him as we expectantly await His return??

John 01:34 SEVEN WITNESSES THAT CHRIST IS THE SON OF GOD

The Goal of the Gospel is to show that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died for sins, and that people who put their faith in Him and His sacrifice will be given eternal abundant life. A decision this important needs irrefutable evidence not based on “hear say” but on trustworthy witnesses. Here are seven witnesses:
1) John the Baptist (A great preacher and a cousin of the man called Christ). And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God. (John 1:34). And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! (John 1:36).
2) The Works of Christ: But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me (John 5:36).. Always Good, not bad works and supernatural, not natural works- Calming storms, feeding crowds with a lunch, healing the sick, and raising the dead.
3) God the Father: And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape (John 5:37). At the Baptism of Christ (And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased Matthew 3:17). On the Mount of Transfiguration (And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him Mark 9:7).
4) The Scriptures: Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me (John 5:39). The Scriptures point to Him, prophesy of Him, prepare for Him.
5) Jesus Christ Himself: Jesus answered and said unto them, Though I bear record of myself, yet my record is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go; but ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go (John 8:14). He was either a liar or the Lord.
6) The Holy Spirit: But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: (John 15:26). In Preaching and in the inspired writings of Paul, Peter, James, and John.
7) Believers: And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning (John 15:27). Millions thru the ages have testified by the change in their life and by the words of their lips that Christ dwells in their heart and has forgiven their sins. [Even a Non-believing Roman Soldier proclaimed at the Cross, “Truly this was the Son of God”! Mt 27:54]
The witnesses have spoken; the decision is yours- He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God (John 3:18).

John 1:35-51 FIVE WHO FOLLOWED

Life is sometimes like a Juggling act; Constant motion and any sort of “bump” causes a great deal of trouble!! How can we learn to live and keep all the “oranges” in orbit?? That’s what Christ came to show us.
There is a Scandinavian saying, “The North Wind made the Vikings”. Simply put it says that “Circumstances developed Character”. That is true to some degree. We are partly creatures of our environment- Southern drawl, certain foods, etc.; as well as of our circumstances- Parental care or lack thereof, Fatness and Fatigue often come from laziness, “hot house flowers” seldom survive the cold of winter, and “Time and chance happen to all men”. But, Thank God, regardless of our circumstances there is hope for change.
One of the things John tries to get us to understand in his Gospel is that Christ did not come simply to save us FROM something but also to save us FOR something- New Life in Christ. Following Christ can and does make a difference in you. Thank God for that!!
Today I want to look at the first examples of Soul winning John gives. These are 5 men who make the decision to follow Christ. Each of them was different, and God used different methods to reach them, but each of them was changed (and in turn changed things around them!) because they became followers of Christ.
(Notice 3 things in each of these cases when people meet Jesus:
1. There is a desire for Fellowship With God. vs 39
2. There is concern for Others (Soul-winning) 40-41
3. There is new purpose to life (Simon to Peter) 42)
1. The two disciples of John the Baptist: John and Andrew 35-39. The Method of Conversion: Preaching of John the Baptist. First day He preached and received no response. The next day he preached the same message and got 2 converts. (Sometimes we must proclaim the same message over and over and over until the person finally hears it and responses to it.)
Their Actions-
A) They followed Jesus. (True Conversion!)
B) They desired to be with Jesus. You want to be with someone you love. (Try keeping Teens apart!!). True followers of Christ will WANT to be with Him.
These were “Religious” men who were seeking something. They listened to John the Baptist’s Preaching and became his “disciples”. (John was ideal Preacher- the better he preached the smaller grew his congregation!! They left him to follow Christ that he pointed to.). Christ can change “Good” people into Saved people that live good!!
2. Andrew wins Peter 40-42
The Method: Personal Witness of Brother (Family Member)
The Action taken:
A) Came to Christ
B) Had his name changed- Simon to Peter. This signified he had new Character. Christ is able to change people when they become committed to Him. What a joy it is to approach the future expectantly, knowing you have the capability to change it and to become a different person. The new Birth does not just change our Destination- it changes our Determination. (Peter became a “rock” for God.).
3. Philip 43-44
The Method: Sought by Jesus. The Good Shepherd seeks Sheep
The Action: Influenced by Peter and Andrew (The Bible is careful to say he was from the same town as Peter and Andrew. Was he brought to Christ’s attention by Andrew or Peter??). This represents prayer in Soul winning. It can also represent “Letting our light shine” for Jesus in our community.
4. Nathanael 45-51 A man who Prayed but did not have Salvation
The Method: Philip finds and witnesses to but does not win. Christ preaches to and wins
The Action: Confession of Faith. You must come by Faith. (Christ promised greater things if he continued to follow. The beginning of the Christian life is just the Beginning of seeing God do great work!!)
Have you noticed yet that each of these were “Good” people who had never committed themselves to follow Christ??? Are you GOOD or are you SAVED????
Whatever your personality or problem Christ can help you:
Peter needed help with his character (Unstable). That’s what Jesus Promised him. (Power to Become- “Thou art, Thou Shalt be”)
Nathanael needed help with his prejudice- “Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?”. Jesus showed him that He saw everything about him (Even where he prayed) and then promised him that he would see greater things in the future- and Nathanael learned not to “Judge a book by it’s cover”. (You too may think that Christianity is too “simple” to solve your problems. God sees your innermost being and has help and hope for you.)
John and Andrew needed assurance that they were making the right decision in switching “Allegiance” from John the Baptist to Christ. (Don’t get “hung up” on the Preacher. Look at the message he proclaims and cling to Christ.). You hear so many different “Doctrines” today from a multitude of “Preachers”. How can you know that I’m pointing you right?? “Spend the day with Christ” and you’ll never be the same again.
Philip simply needed Dedication. He needed someone to confront him with his need- and then tell him where to find Help. (Later he used this idea to reach others- Nathanael; the Greeks (See Jn 12;21)).
Whatever YOUR need is today. Christ is your answer. You can continue your juggling act- and walk on squashed oranges!! Or you can come to Christ, take up your Cross, and Follow Him. What Will you do???

John 01:38 WHAT SEEK YOU?

(John 1:38) Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou?
If Jesus asked YOU why you came to church today, what answer would you give Him? What are YOU looking for? Pardon from Sins, Peace in Problems, Prosperity for needs, …
Parable of the Dog Food Brownies- Kids wanted to watch movie with “only a few curse words and bad scenes”. Dad said no; then later that day Dad brought them brownies that had a can of dog food added- everything else was the best. The kids didn’t want the brownies – and got the point.
Seeking God is not just a matter of gaining the wonders of Heaven; it is the joy of missing the torments of Hell! (Use Match). Some people act as if they are such an asset to God and the world until it should be GOD SEEKING THEM instead of them seeking God
I. WHY should you seek Christ?
The Claims of Christ:
1) To Forgive Sins- Who can forgive sins but God only?
2) To bestow life- I am the bread of life, the life, the resurrection and the life
3) To authoritatively teach the truth-
4) To judge the world- At his return, under his direction
II. HOW should we seek God?
If you came today concerned about your sins and your situation then let me tell you how you should seek God
A) Humbly- (Mat 11:25) At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Man comes to know God, not through his own wisdom but through God’s word.
B) Honestly- The Gospel is not an invitation to do something; it is a declaration of what God has done for us through Christ that invites a response. Faith to come to Christ- leap between two chairs. Impossible unless a “Man” helps.
C) Diligently- “Man is as lazy as he dares to be” (Emerson) God desires to be found, but only by those who seek Him- (Jer 29:13) And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. God throws rope to you- not as a lasso that captures you but as a line that you must grab.
D) Obediently- Seeking God will change our life. We do not find because we do not seek. We do not seek because we do not want to find, and we know that the way to be certain of not finding is not to seek.

John 02: FAITH’S CONTACT

When Jesus turned the water into wine it took faith by his mother, action by the servants, and willingness by Christ to perform an “unnecessary” miracle (Is this the only miracle in the Bible to avoid embarrassment??). Moses turned water into blood to show God’s Judgment; Jesus turned water into wine to continue the festivities (Isn’t that just like the one who came to give us Abundant Life!).
This miracle shows the three ingredients that are vital to our work for God today:
1> Faith that God can do something.
2> Action based on this faith BEFORE we can see results
3> Willingness by God to honor our Faith.
This Faith comes from
A) Confidence in God- Faith comes by Hearing and Hearing by the word of God. You learn what God wants from His Word and have peace about asking for it.
B) Companionship with God- You are around God so much until you learn the things He likes to do.
Once you have Faith then you MUST add Action:
1- Before Jesus fed the multitude, the boy had to give his lunch- If we are going to reach a Million People a Month someone is going to have to sacrifice by sharing (Time, Talent, Money).
2- Before the sick woman was healed, she touched the hem of Christ’s garment. Faith must be Specific. We must find specific ways to show God we trust His ability- Prayer Closets, Active Witnessing, etc
3- Before the lame man was healed, four men had to bring him to Christ (The four men who brought the lame man to Jesus show us how easy it would be to fill empty pews if cars did not come to church with empty seats).
4-Before the blind man could be healed he had to obey Christ’s command to go wash in the pool. If we would see the way God wants us to go we must be willing to follow his directions blindly!
5-Before Christ raised Lazarus from the dead, someone had to roll the stone away from his grave. We must be willing to do unusual “foolish” things based simply on the word of God.
6-The lame man had to reach out his hand to Peter in order to be healed. This man wanted money to help him remain lame. God wanted him healed to bear testimony for God. We must realize that many times God will reward our Faith in unexpected ways. Ways that are far better than anything we could imagine.
Real Faith is not believing that God CAN do something with your life. It is COMMITTING yourself to God to do something in your life. Obeying must go with Trusting.
God WANTS to do something for you. God is WILLING to do something for you. All that remains is your believing enough to commit yourself complete and unreservedly to God.
Sadly, some people won’t make that commitment. They are controlled by FEAR instead of FAITH:
1. Fear of what other people would thing.
2. Fear of the disciplines of the Christian life (The Cross).
3. They fear they might not be able to live up to their Christian decision.
These are real problems but God is a real solution! Put your Faith in Christ today. That way you won’t have to fear anything life has to offer; or death has to bring.

John 2:1-11 Saving the Best until Last

In the beginning God created the Heavens and the earth and put man on the earth. Then God realized that something was wrong and He created woman for man- (If Adam would have simply needed someone to amuse or entertain him God could have left him with the animals; If he simply needed someone to talk to and work with God could have made another man; If he would have needed someone to worship God was available–But man had a heart need and a physical need and only a woman was able to meet these needs.
Remember that man was created from the dust while woman was created from man. This makes them different Physically, emotionally, and mentally–and if you don’t believe it ask any husband!!!. He also had a job to do- replenish the earth. This took the cooperation of both–and God made women so that they could become MOTHERS, which makes them very special.
In this case the Lord saved the Best until Last (Adam had looked over and named all the creatures before God make Woman). Today I want to look at another case where the best was saved until last and see how God is able to change the common into the uncommon, disaster into blessing, and even change “Meddling” into Miracles. (I started to entitle this- “Meddling Mothers”; But feared for my safety!!!)
I. The Mother 1-5 The importance of Family- Jesus went to and performed first miracle at a Wedding. He loved and respected His mother.
A) Her Pushing- For 30 years now Mary had borne the “stigma” of everyone thinking she was making excuses for her “mistake” when she told them about the miraculous birth of her son, Jesus. Now He had announced himself and she wanted everyone to know she was right. There have been many people who were successful in life because their Mother’s “Pushed” them into doing what they might not have done otherwise—and there have been many people who were ruined for life by a Mother’s Pushing!!!
There comes a time when you must “cut the apron strings” and let them live their lives with the training you have given them; mistakes and all. Jesus lightly “rebuked” his mother here (vs 4) and performed the only miracle we know of that was mainly for the “entertainment” of others (Although we know that the main reason He did it was to build Faith in His disciples.).
B) Her Presumption- What ever He tells you to do, do it. (Good advice for any mother to give her child!!). She just naturally assumed that He would obey her- so Jesus must have been a very good child; something every Christian child needs to remember.
II The Miracle 6-10 (Be AWARE of the fact that this “wine” was not like modern liquor. It was more like Pepsi without the fizz! I Cor 6:9 says that drunkards will not go to Heaven and Prov 23:29-35 shows the “Bite” of the poison of alcohol. It harms you mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually and Jesus would not condone or encourage its use.)
A) The empty vessels for the Master to use- 6 water pots used to store water for washing guest’s feet. Each was about 9 gallons. Are you a vessel for the master to use- or are you filled with Sin or Self. No matter how “Common” you are God can fill you with His Spirit (Be not drunk with wine wherein is excess but be ye filled with the Spirit) instead of Self if you’ll become available.
B) The “Human” ability- fill with water (What you have). Fill to brim. God wants to save you and use you but you must be willing to give Him what you have (Give God everything. Don’t keep any for self). God can make something out of you if you will let Him.
C) The Faith- Take to the governor of the feast. Trust God to accept what you give and change it into something of value.
D) The wrong assumption- That the groom had saved the best for last. Man gets credit for many things that God does!! Do YOU think you have been blessed thru your own ability?? Do you give “Mother” the credit God deserves?? Do you recognize your need of, and dependence on, God.
III The Meaning vs 11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.
Underneath the pretty clothes and smiling face of many people is a “Hurting Human”. God wants to change you into the BEST today also. If He is to change us, we too, must believe in Him and acknowledge that He has saved the “best for last” for us also. Come to Him by Faith today and let Him make a New Creation out of you.

John 02:5 SUCCESSFUL SERVICE

These are the best of times; these are the worst of times. These are the times that try men’s souls. The Children’s Home is SC has no children and is considering closing. Women’s Aux, Master’s Men, and CTS are on life support. Our Youth Camp ministry is struggling to survive. IM is unable to send Missionaries to the field. It has taken nearly 20 years to bring our Home Mission project (Aiken) to self-supporting status.
We have 120 churches that are members of our State Association and 20 of these are one or two deaths away from closing. The “Law of 10” is catching up with our churches- Every Church loses 10% of their congregation each year to death, desertion, defeat, division, or dissatisfaction. Very few young men are answering the call into the ministry and the “law of 10” states that a pastor attracts people within 10 years of his age (We are losing young people because our Pastors are graying).
Yet there is good news- I set up a financial plan at the last two churches that would encourage them to grow toward a goal of giving at least 25% of their income to outside causes. Last year one gave 23% and the other gave 19% leading them to become the number 2 and number 3 giving churches in our state- and both had major building projects last year. Remember the difference between ordinary and extra ordinary is the extra you put in it!
The Church I am presently attending won 74 people last year, increasing their annual attendance by an average of 60. In January of this year they have already won 7 toward their goal of 100. Last year in India we won over 650 souls to Christ in the midst of intense persecution.
We work because we believe there is ONE TRUE GOD and He is the Judge of all the Earth- 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 Corinthians 8:5-6). Ministers have the most high and holy calling of any men on earth. We serve because we care and we dare not fail- Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; (2 Corinthians 5:11).
Here are Four Principles to guide you to successful service:
Obey Completely. The Last recorded words of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, were Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it (John 2:5). Surrendering is not about being willing to give up one thing. It is about being willing to do anything at any time as requested by God. We SERVE GOD- Learn His voice and follow His instructions.

Abide Continuously– I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. (John 15:1-4).

1. Work for God but do not try to be God- I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. (1 Corinthians 3:6).
2. Recognize the benefits of Abiding:
  1. Prayer is effective- If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:7).
  2. Joy is Complete- These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. (John 15:11).
  3. Fruit will Last- Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. (John 15:16). Fruit fails in dry weather but now when you have living water!

Learn Constantly – If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct. (Ecclesiastes 10:10).
{Do not get careless and lose your axe head-2 Kings 6:1-7.}
Finish Triumphantly – And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it. (Colossians 4:17).
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: (2 Timothy 4:7).

You can be satisfied with mediocre. You can survive in maintenance mode. Or you can do something Great for God. When I see God, I want to see a smile on His face.

John 2:13-17Selling Christianity

One of the saddest indictments of Christianity today is that when men think of the Church the first things they think of is someone wanting money from them! Everything in the world is offered now “for a free will offering” of “X” amount of money. Let’s see what Jesus’ attitude was toward this type of thing.
I> The Arrangements. The feast of Passover was one of the most important symbols God had given His people. It remembered His delivering His people from the bondage of Egypt by applying the Blood. Each year the children of Israel were to remember this event by ceremony and sacrifice. (The same way we are to observe Communion today). But it was not long until the symbols became more important than what they represented and problems began to develop.
1. The Distance that some men traveled was so long until they could not bring a sacrifice with them. Therefore a means needed to be devised to allow them to purchase an acceptable sacrifice when they arrived to worship.
2. The Law required that the sacrifice be “a lamb without blemish, a male of the first year” kept separate from the rest of the flock for 3 days (Ex 12:5-6). The Priest were the official “inspectors” and they found many sacrifices that were not acceptable.
3. The money of the land was Roman coins but they could not be used in the temple because they were engraved with a picture of the Roman emperor and that was considered an idol to the Priest.
Like many things that seem a great idea when they are conceived the solution to this problem some became a monster of a problem itself. Someone suggested that the Priest begin to stock animals fit to be sacrificed so that those that needed them could purchase them when they arrived in Jerusalem. And since the Roman coins could not be used to buy Temple products then someone had to be given the “Money changers concession”. I imagine it worked pretty well the first few times. Then the Priest began to see that they were left “holding the bag” with the number of lambs they had purchased so they became a little more “zealous” in finding faults on the ones the people brought. And the Money changers couldn’t be expected to pay their rent to the Temple if they couldn’t increase their profit!! Soon the Temple budget counted on this “profit” each year and no one knew how they would exist without it.
Now instead of coming to the Temple to Pray men came to Pay and Worship became a Burden instead of a Blessing. The Priest strained at gnats and swallowed camels while the common people tried to find ways to meet their ever increasing demands for more money
II> The Anger. This is the situation Jesus found that day in the Temple. Instead of the Reverence of Worship He found the chaos of business; instead of the men seeking to Pray He found them seeking a Profit.
This caused Him to take Action- He took a whip to them and drove them from the Temple (Note the common sense He used- He drove the sheep and oxen from the temple (The owners could recapture them), He poured out the money changer’s money (The owners could reclaim it), and he told the sellers of doves to leave the Temple (He didn’t release them because they could not be captured again like the sheep and oxen)).
III> The Assertion– God’s House is not a house of merchandise but a house of Prayer. God’s Plan is Trusting and Tithing. He did not call us to sell trinkets and bar-b-que plates to finance His work. If men spent as much time Praying and Soul winning as they do preparing dinners they wouldn’t need to prepare the dinners!! We need to get back to God’s method of financing His work (Tithing) and do so with a zeal that outshines that of the “Salesman”!!. (But which do you think we would have the biggest turn out for- a bar-b-que dinner this Saturday??? or a half day Prayer Meeting/Visitation???????).
Sometimes the project looks so needful and man’s methods seem to make so much sense but… Let’s continue to Trust God’s way and depend on Him to meet the need.

John 2:23-25 NO SECRETS FROM GOD!!

Jn 2:23-25 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, and needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.
Ever since Adam in the Garden tried to hide from God, man has tried to think that God does not know about his sins or his circumstances. Through out His ministry Jesus let people know that He knew them and that THEY HAD NO SECRETS FROM GOD.
I. He knows about Your Sins– Told the woman at the Well of her past. Jer 17:10 I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.
II. He knows about Your Sickness– Healed the nobleman’s son a day’s journey away. Heb 4:15-16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (He knows whether it’s Cancer or a Cold!! He can cure either.)
III. He knows about Your Sorrow– Knew when Lazarus died, 50 miles away, in Bethany. (Not even a bird falls to the earth without His knowledge.)
IV. He knows about Your Situation– Told 2 of His disciples where they would find a colt tied and what the men around it would say. Physically-I Sam 16:7 But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart. (One man plunges a knife into you to Kill you; another to cure you. God sees what we do AND WHY WE DO IT!)
Financially- Knew that the widow had put in ALL she had.
Circumstantially- He Knows just where to “fish” to catch a net full even if you’ve tried all night and failed.
What does He use to Reveal your thoughts today? Word of God- Heb 4:12 The Word of God is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. That’s why men avoid the Bible and Church–they don’t want the “searchlight” of God turned on in their soul!!
Christ does not need to commit Himself to you- but You need to commit yourself to HIM. When He rolls back the screen and allows all men to see you as you really are, will it be black as sin or white as snow because the blood is applied??
Do you think He’s forgotten you?? He still knows how many hairs there are on your head!! He Knows YOU. Do you know HIM???

John 03:1-21 THE NEW BIRTH

The MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION you can ever receive is now to have a right relationship with God. The purpose of Church Services, Sunday School, Newsletter, tapes, and Radio outreach is to impart to you knowledge about God so that you might become properly related to Him.
We are today faced with a multitude of different beliefs and Doctrines about most of the issues of life. The most important of these issues is being BORN AGAIN. We need to be absolutely sure that we know what it means ourselves- and that we know how to tell it to others.
I. The Seeker- Nicodemus 1-2
A) His Character- Nicodemus was a member of the strict religious sect called the Pharisees. He was so distinguished in his character and conduct until he was also a member of the Sanhedrin (Jewish Religious “Supreme Court”).
B) His Coming- At night. Wanting something but not willing to let others know of his need. Nicodemus came to Jesus with the belief that Jesus had something special (We know that thou art a teacher sent from God; for no man can do the works thou doest except God be with him. Jesus “produced the Proofs”.). He came to find out what this was and add it to his life. DID YOU COME TODAY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT GOD AND ALLOW HIM TO MEET THE NEEDS OF YOUR HEART?? God can only fill the hungry heart. Do you realize your need of Christ today??
II. The Seriousness- Necessary 3-5
A) New Birth necessary to SEE (Recognize) the Kingdom of God(vs 3). God must open your blinded eyes before you can see the Kingdom of God. The reason for this is because of what the Kingdom of God is? (Rom 14:17) “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” (Those are the three things men crave above all- right standing with God, Peace with God and Self, and Joy.).
B) New Birth necessary to ENTER the Kingdom of God (vs 5)-
There are many Kingdoms: Mineral- stones and jewels. Vegetable- trees, plants, and flowers. Animal- all living creatures, including man. Physical- certain countries as America and Russia
The greatest of all is the Kingdom of God- the “passport” needed to enter there is being “Born Again”.
Suppose you took a fish out of water, put him on a golden plate, surrounded him with sweetest flowers, sprinkled him with costly perfume and filled the air with music- would the fish be happy?? No, he would be out of his environment and die. So a lost man would not be happy in Heaven. God has to change him.
III. The Salvation- New Birth 6-21
A) The Marvel of it- vs 7 That men don’t realize the need of it! Yet they have tried every way possible to reform and change their lives (with each failing more miserably than the last.).
(Look at Solomon in Ecc. He tried Wealth, the World, Women, and Wisdom and found nothing filled the empty spot in his heart except God.)
The Problem is that man simply refuses to admit that he can’t save himself- he refuses to bow to God and accept God’s terms. vs 19 This is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men love darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
B) The Mystery of it- It cannot be explained in Human terms 8-12. The natural man is unable to understand the things of the Spirit of God. Just as the wind blow without our seeing where it came from or where it’s going so we have to simply accept God’s word on what He has done for us. It is a supernatural event that goes beyond man’s reasonings or reason.
Why would God WANT to save us?? HE could create others.
Why would God demand a sacrifice that only He can give? LOVE
If man can explain everything about the new birth then it is simply a human invention- no bigger than the men who invented it. But if it is a supernatural work of God it is beyond man’s understanding and must be accepted by FAITH. A Religion without doubts is a doubtful religion!!
C) The Method of it
Things it’s not: Jn 1:12-13 But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name, which were born not of Blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
1. Not Human Worth- vs 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Not because you’re an American, or Church Member, or have good parents. Every wife is a woman but every woman is not a wife. There must be an act of turning from other men and deciding on one to commit yourself to.
2. Not Human Will- vs 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth; so is everyone that is born of the Spirit. The Spirit must draw you to God. You hide from God and must be coaxed to His house to learn of Him.
3. Not Human Wisdom- vs 9 How can these things be? The wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. Never have we had more education; never has the world been so dangerous.
4. Not Human Works- vs 13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of Man which is in heaven. Tit 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us; by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost.
Can a fig tree bear olive berries?? You can call it an Olive, put it in the middle of an olive orchard, give it food for an olive tree– but it’s still a fig tree!!!
How then can you be Saved? vs 14-15 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. Men were saved by a simple act of Faith in God’s Word- They did not rub ointment upon their sores, they did not fight the serpents, they did not send an offering to the serpent on the pole, they did not pray to the serpent or to Moses. They simply looked in Faith according to God’s word and were saved. Today this is the simplicity for us:
1. Repentance- (Realize you’re “Snake Bit”!). Not simply ceasing to do wrong or beginning to do right but a JUDGMENT ON SELF as unable to please God and desiring to do so. (Godly sorrow worketh repentance). This will manifest itself in turning from sin to Christ but it must be a genuine sorrow that you can’t please God in Self.
2. Receiving- Christ as Saviour. Believing the Gospel, that Christ died for your sins, was buried, arose the third day from the grave, and is coming again. (The Word BELIEVE means “To Swallow”. Men used to fear being poisoned so they would taste the wine but then spit it out. It they swallowed it they were said to “Believe” in their hosts. God asks you to trust in and rely on Him today.
3. Renewal- Brought to life through the ministry of the Holy Ghost by the means of the Word of God. The Holy Spirit convicts us, The Word shows us Christ, and by Faith the change is wrought. (The example of Ezekiel’s valley of dry bones- Spirit gave life.)
4. Resurrection- You are a new creature in Christ. Power for Life, and Hope at Death.
The new Birth is not Reforming the Old Life; It is beginning a New Life in Christ. II Cor 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new.
The Christian life then become the outliving of the in living Christ. Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Have YOU been Born Again?????

John 03:7 THINGS THAT MUST BE DONE

The Problem with Living is that it sometimes sucks the Life out of you! Pressures, stresses, and daily duties all combine to defeat our joy and burden our soul. The last thing anyone wants then their soul is overwhelmed with sorrow and stress is for a preacher to load more weight onto their already overloaded wagon.
Sometimes, however, the only way to ease your load is to point out some of your inescapable responsibilities so you can get your priorities back in order- You don’t want to be so busy dusting your shelves until you don’t realize your house is burning down!
The Bible contains many things that MUST be done:
—You must be Born Again– (John 3:7) Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
—The Bible must be fulfilled: (Luke 22:37) For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end. (Mat 5:18) For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
—Grief must come– (Jer 10:19) Woe is me for my hurt! my wound is grievous: but I said, Truly this is a grief, and I must bear it.
—The Gospel must be preached to all nations in order for Christ to come– (Mark 13:10) And the gospel must first be published among all nations.
—Present teaching must be built upon past teaching– (Isa 28:10) For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: (Interestingly enough, the Bible says there must be false doctrine in order to make sure the right doctrine is approved- (1 Cor 11:19) For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.)
—Society’s law and regulations must be obeyed: (Rom 13:5) Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. Family Members must take responsibility
—You must be A Friend in order to have a Friend– (Prov 18:24) A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. Are you lonely? You don’t find or make many friends sitting in front of a TV or Saga game.
—New Spirit must be put into new “Bottles”- (Mark 2:22) And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles. God does not require gold vessels or silver vessels but He must have clean vessels. Think of life as a Canoe; you can drift with the current into the driftwood and scum or you can make the effort to paddle up to the clean country.
—You must have faith (Not just earnest efforts) in order to please God– (Heb 11:6) 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. A blind man satisfied to be blind will never see.
—You must do more than show up at Church to worship God-(John 4:24) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
—You must Die-(2 Sam 14:14) For we must needs die, and are as water spilled on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him. You must accept that Age and Death or coming your way–1100 people each DAY turn 50. In 20 years over 25% of the American Population will be over 65.
Today, those over 80 are the fastest growing segment of the US Population.
—You must appear before God as Judge– (2 Cor 5:10) For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

John 03:16 GOD LOVES

The Word of God shows us 3 things that God loves:
1) A lost World- For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
2) A Believing Saint- For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God (John 16:27).
3) A Cheerful Giver- Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).
God’s Love:
1) Converts us: John 3:16
2) Constrains us: For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: (2 Corinthians 5:14).
3) Chastens us: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? (Hebrews 12:6-7).
Our Love for God:
1) Obeys Him: If ye love me, keep my commandments. (John 14:15). He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him (John 14:21).
2) Trusts Him: And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).
3) Desires Him: Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent (Revelation 2:4-5).

John 03:16 THE GIFT GOD GAVE

With all the gifts given and received during the Christmas season it is almost too easy to overlook the tremendous Gift God gave on that First Christmas. That is tragic since God gave the greatest gift Heaven had to offer (See Rev 5:-) and we hear about it in this most familiar verse: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
I. THE PASSION: “For God so Loved the world”
A) The One who loved: “God”, the divine creator, ruler, and ultimate Judge
B) The Ones who were loved: “The World” Whosoever will may come
C) The demonstration of that Love: “He Gave” A gift is not earned, it is given: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).
II. THE PERSON “His only begotten Son”
A) The Unique One: The word “begotten” means unique (God has many “sons” thru Christ: But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name John 1:12).
Christ is Unique because of His Birth [4 ways men were born in the Bible- Adam: without man or woman. Eve: with man but without woman. Everyone else: Man and woman. Christ: woman without man].
Christ was conceived of the Holy Ghost making Him the Unique:
1) The Son of God- Emmanuel “God with us” (Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us Matthew 1:23). God became flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His Glory! He was truly absolutely God.
2) The Son of Man- He was truly Man: touched with the feelings of our infirmities, tempted as we are tempted; yet without sin. He knew pain, weariness, and the heartbreak of friends and family turning their backs on Him. God became man in order to bring man to God!
B) The Unusual Way: Not a system of belief, a book of practices, or a new “religion”. He was a PERSON who showed us God! (In him was life; and the life was the light of men John 1:4).
III. THE PROVISION “Believeth in Him” A gift is no good unless you can receive it!
A) Available to ALL “Whosoever will may come”
B) Accessible to ALL by faith (Believeth in Him). Not our efforts, or our kin, or our money, or our goodness but our Faith in what God becoming Flesh, dying for our sin debt, and raising from the grave.
IV. THE PROMISE “Should not perish but have everlasting life” (The “Warranty” with the gift).
A) A Saving Gift “Should not perish” For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:23). (For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved John 3:17).
B) A Lasting Gift “Have everlasting Life”
C) A Transforming Gift “Everlasting Life”
1) Changed in this Life into new creatures in Christ
2) Promised an Eternal Life of Fellowship with God (And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent John 17:3).
Would YOU like to have God’s Gift today? For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).

John 03:16 GIFTS

Give according to your ability, not according to your bank account- (Acts 3:6) Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.
Give realizing THE GIVER gets the Greatest Blessing- (Acts 20:35) remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
THE POWER OF A GIFT:
A) To Blind Judgement- (Exo 23:8) And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous.
B) To Corrupt Character- (Prov 15:27) He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live. (Eccl 7:7) Surely oppression maketh a wise man mad; and a gift destroyeth the heart.
C) To Establish Relationships- (Prov 17:8) A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth. (Prov 21:14) A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.
THE PRECIOUSNESS OF GIFTS– (Mark 9:41) For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
THE PROBLEM WITH GIFTS– (Mat 15:5-6) But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.
(Mat 5:23-24) Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
THE PURPOSE OF GIFTS Show Love- (Mat 2:11) And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
(2 Cor 9:7) Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
THE PROCURING OF GIFTS:
A) Ask- (Mat 7:11) If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
B) According to the will of the giver- Holy Spirit gifts- (1 Cor 12:8) For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
What should you do with Gifts?
A) Don’t Treat them lightly- (1 Tim 4:14) Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
B) Make an effort to put them to use- (2 Tim 1:6) Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. Fear God (7, 9), Keep from lying (13), Turn from Sin, do good, and seek peace (14), Have Humble Hearts (18), Serve God (22),
Is this gift really needed? Is this really good for me? Is this the best time for me to have this gift?

John 03:16 Gifts From God

GOD WANTS TO GIVE YOU GOOD GIFTS THAT ARE PERFECT FOR YOU: Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning (James 1:17). Here are some of those Gifts:
1. The Holy Spirit’s Power to perform: (It is one thing to labor in God’s vineyard (Church) but another to go forth into the “wilderness” (World) and prepare a place to plant seed for a new vineyard.
a. To those that desire it. Luke 11:11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?
b. To those that are saved: I Cor 12:4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. Ep 4:8 He gave gifts unto the Church.
2. He wants to give you worry free sleep- Ps 127:2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so he giveth his beloved sleep.
3. He gives us the things we need to ENJOY LIFE: I Tim 6:17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy.
4. He gives Rain and fruitful seasons- Lev 26:3-12 (Disobedience makes us earn wages to put into a bag with holes…) God even feeds the birds and clothes the flowers: Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? (Matthew 6:25-26).
5. He give us Breath and Life- Is 42:5 Thus saith God the Lord, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth; and that which cometh out to it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein (God Holds our Breath in His Hand- Dan 5)
6. He wants to give us Wisdom- Jam 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be give him.
7. He wants to give the REST your Soul Craves: Matt 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
BUT THE GREATEST GIFTS OF ALL ARE THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS:
A) His SON- Jn 3:16 begotten, unique. God became flesh and dwelt among men. Rev 5: only one found worthy.
B) Salvation- Ep 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works lest any man should boast.
C) Living Water- Jn 4:10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water (Satisfaction).
D) Eternal Life- Rom 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Jn 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
WHEN YOU GIVE A GIFT TO GOD He looks at your relationship with others as well as your gift–
A) Your relationship in the Church: Matt 5:23-24 If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
B) Your relationship to your family: Matt 15:5 But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.
Other Gift Notes:
Beware of Human Gifts. Ecc 7:7 Surely oppression maketh a wise man mad; and a gift destroyeth the heart.
a. Affects our Judgment- Ex 23:8 Thou shalt take no gift (bribe); for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous. Prov 21:14 A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.
b. Affects our Home- Prov 15:27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
c. Affects our outlook- Prov 17:8 A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.
God’s Gifts:
1) God’s Gift (Christ) affects HIS judgment of Us- It Pacifies His anger about our sins.
2) Accepting God’s Gift of Salvation affects our Home- It gives us foundation and guidance.
3) Accepting God’s Gift affects our Outlook- Every way you look at it its Great- Holy Spirit to guide in this life and Heaven with Christ in the next!!
God wants to give you some Gifts today—What are you willing to Give Him? I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Romans 12:1-2).

John 03:16 MOST FAMILIAR VERSE

(John 3:16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Three things are needed to have a good Revival:
1) Sinners need to Get Saved
2) Christians need to live like they are Saved
3) Everyone needs to tell others how to be Saved
Men are lost because of:
1) What they are- Sinners by birth
2) What the do- Violate the laws of God
3) What they have not done- Trusted Christ as Savior
This Verse shows us:
1) The Cause of Salvation– God so loved
A) Not your Goodness
B) Not your Abilities
2) The Scope of Salvation– The World
A) Not just Israel
B) Whosoever Will come may come
3) The Condition of Salvation– That whosoever believeth in Him
A) Believeth- Verse in Amp Bible: For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He even gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (Trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (Come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.
B) In Him- Faith cannot be thrown into the empty air. It must have a “Hook” to hang on- And that is the Cross.
4) The Consequences of Salvation–
A) Should Not Perish
B) But Have Eternal Life
THE GOD WHO LOVES;
India has 2038 “gods” but THERE IS ONLY ONE TRUE GOD- 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 Corinthians 8:5-6)
This God is the STANDARD against which everything must be measured (A foot used to be the length of a king’s foot. A yard was the distance from the tip of the king’s nose to the tip of his finger. These standards changed as the king changed- OUR GOD IS ETERNAL AND CHANGELESS- For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. (Malachi 3:6) Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. (Hebrews 13:8)
God’s Plan and Program is revealed by chosen men of God through sermons and in the Bible- For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (2 Peter 1:21)
False Gods have Harsh Rules (Suicide bombers) with Harsh requirements (sacrifice your children). They do not show a Love for the World like Jehovah God.
People by road side in India who waited all day in the hot sun in order to hear the gospel because it was the GOOD NEWS they longed for.
God’s way to Him and to Heaven are very simple- He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. (John 3:36) (Elevator in Health South had only 2 floors- Either going up or down. Which direction are YOU going?

John 3:16 The Greatest Verse

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” So simple a child can understand it and so complex scholars have studied it for years and never exhausted it depths.
The greatest Lover- God
The greatest degree- so loved
The greatest number- the world
The greatest act- that He gave
The greatest Gift- His only begotten Son
The greatest invitation- That whosoever
The greatest simplicity- Believeth
The greatest Person- in Him
The greatest deliverance- should not perish
The greatest difference- but
The greatest certainty- have
The greatest possession- everlasting life.

The Originator- God
The Motivation- So Loved
The Scope- The World
The Action- He gave His only begotten Son
The Requirement- That whosoever believeth in Him
The Result- Should not perish but have everlasting life
Knowing the verse in our mind does not mean we know it in our heart. Have you ever set down and spent 5 minutes meditating on this verse???
There is another John 3:16–I John 3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethern. The demonstration of God’s love for us was what Jesus did for us on the Cross. The demonstration of our love for fellow Christians is that we are willing to give our lives for them. It is fairly simple to accept Love- do we give it as freely???
Our motive- II Cor 5:14 the love of Christ constraineth us… (I wouldn’t do it for $1 million dollars but I’d do it for the Love of Christ.). I Cor 13 says that anything I do must be motivated by Love or it is useless.
Our Command- Matt 22:36-40 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. John 15:12-13 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends
How can you get this Love? I John 4:19 We love him, because he first loved us.
We learn to trust the Father- 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love castest out fear; because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
We Grow in Love “naturally”- Gal 5:22 says love is a fruit of the Spirit.
We allow the Holy Spirit to Guide us-Rom 5:5 says that the love is God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

John 03:17 BUILDING BELIEVERS

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (John 3:17). 86% of American Churches are stagnate or in decline. Three main reasons: Internal Politics, Impure living by Leaders/Laity, and/or Apathy of the Leaders/Members
In Ken Folett’s book “The Fall of Giants” a story is told about Russian immigrants who save and sacrifice until they get enough money to buy a ticket to America in order to escape the tyranny and terror of Russia. They board a ship and sail for 10 days until they are told they have arrived one night. They disembark, wait for the daylight, and find the ship’s captain has tricked them and they are in Cardiff, Wale, England instead of in America. Many ended up as virtual slaves in the cold mines of Wales- nothing like what they had anticipated. I know Christians who can relate to this story: They are glad to be saved but the journey is not the joy they had expected and their belief in their belief is strained.
There are many kinds of Believers in the Church today:
1. CONCEITED BELIEVERS: They are so self-absorbed until they are blind to their true condition- 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: (Rev 3:17).
2) CHOKED BELIEVERS: Too Busy to be a Blessing: And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful (Mark 4:18-19).
3) CONTRADICTORY BELIEVERS: Their Talk and their Walk does not agree: They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate (Titus 1:16).
4) CASUALTY BELIEVERS: They have been hurt or disappointed by someone in the Church and now they are afraid to become actively involved- The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear? (Proverbs 18:14).
5) CONFUSED BELIEVERS: Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together (Acts 19:32). Many come to church simply to show up, sing up, pay up, listen up, go home. No Worship on Sunday No walk on Monday.
6) COSMETIC BELIEVERS: They Pretty up but you never see the Power of God at work in their life: Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away (2 Timothy 3:5).

Marks of a Bible Believer:
Saved (By Blood)- Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him (Romans 5:9).
Sure (By Word)- These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. (1 John 5:13).
Sound (In Doctrine)- This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; (Titus 1:13).
Surrendered (To God)- Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. (Romans 6:13). The Secret of Surrender is Trust.
Separated (From the World)- Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, (2 Corinthians 6:17).
Spirit Filled – And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; (Ephesians 5:18). The Bible commands believers to be 1) Filled with the Spirit- Eph 5:18, 2) Walk in the Spirit- Gal 5:16, and 3) Demonstrate the Fruit of the Spirit- Gal 5:22-23
Singing (Joyful Heart)- Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; (Ephesians 5:19).
If you are unsaved you are traveling on the Titanic- no matter how good you enjoy the journey you are headed for disaster. If you are a Christian God is calling you to become blessed and be a blessing. Give God control of your heart and life today.
The Christian Life is the Outliving of the In-living Christ. We call people to a New Life; not simply new living.
Every wife is a woman but every woman is not a wife. She may be able to cook, keep house, sew, take care of children, etc. She may have a wedding dress, her bridesmaids picked out , and a brand new set of dishes BUT IS SHE’S NOT MARRIED THEN SHE IS NOT A WIFE.
Every person is not a sailor but every sailor is a person. You may be able to swab a deck, march in formation, polish bright work, and man a helm BUT IF YOU HAVEN’T JOINED UP THEN YOU’RE NOT A SAILOR.
In fact if you wear the uniform without having joined then you can be arrested for impersonating a sailor.
Every person is not a Christian but every Christian is a person (on earth). You may come to church, live a good moral life, never cheat, swear, drink, or lie BUT IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN BORN AGAIN THEN YOU ARE BOUND FOR HELL.
A woman of Samaria met a man at the well and her life was never the same. She had longed for happiness in life and after five husbands she figured that husbands were not the answer so she was just living with a man now. Then she met a man that in her words “told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?” She drank of LIVING WATERS.
Zacchaeus was a tax-collector, a publican, and not very well liked. One day in Jericho he met a man called JESUS. He then promised to give half of his goods to the poor and restore fourfold any he had wronged. He found riches beyond gold.
Peter, an ignorant and unlearned fisherman, met a resurrected Lord and helped to “turn the world upside down” for Christ.
Saul of Tarsus who watched as they killed Deacon Stephen, who raised havoc in the church, who bitterly fought all who followed Christ; one day on the road to Damascus met the man called Christ and spent the rest of his life under adverse conditions proclaiming the glorious Gospel of THE LORD JESUS CHRIST.
What happened to these people??? Why did they change??? How did they Change???? In the words of Jesus to Nicodemus, they were Born Again.

John 03:18 JEWELS FROM JOHN

Almost everyone knows the “John 3:16” diamond from John but there are other “Jewels” we need to “Polish and Practice” located within this great book.
1) CONDEMNED ALREADY: Christ did not come to Send you TO Hell; He came to save you FROM Hell. A Person will not BE condemned if they do not trust Jesus; THEY ARE CONDEMNED ALREADY: He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (John 3:18).
Christ came to Save you from a destiny you were already destined for: For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:23)
Only believing in His Pardon will bring you peace: Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: (Romans 5:1)
Assurance is based on:
I. BLOOD: In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; (Ephesians 1:7).
II. BOOK: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name (John 20:31).
III BIRTH: Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3). Not Reform but Re-Born- Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; (Titus 3:5).
IV. BELIEF: Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: (Romans 3:22). But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (Romans 10:8-10).
Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: (Romans 5:1).
These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God (1 John 5:13).
But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name (John 20:31).
The Jury is already in. The Verdict will not change unless you do.
2) PIPELINE PEOPLE: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life (John 4:14). Christians are to be “open ended” pipes; receiving the water of life from God and then distributing it to others. If the God end is clogged then we have no power and nothing of value to give. If the People End is clogged we begin to stagnate.
Example of a Pipeline Person: The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? Then they went out of the city, and came unto him (John 4:28-30). This woman received living waters, shared those living waters, and influenced an entire town to come hear Christ speak!
3) DIFFERENT STROKES FOR DIFFERENT FOLKS: And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth (John 4:37). Some sow seeds. Some reap harvest. Let BOTH rejoice in being workers for the Lord instead of allowing Pride or Power plays to dominate (and eventually destroy) their work: For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise (2 Corinthians 10:12).
4) WAITER WITNESS: And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would (John 6:11). Jesus said, I am that bread of life (John 6:48) and He expects us to “Pass the Bread” to the hungry as often as we can and “as much as they would”. We do not just show them bread, we distribute what has been distributed to us.
5) THE WORK OF WORKERS: Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent (John 6:28-29). Our job is not to build buildings but to build belief- For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (Romans 10:13-14).
6) COWARD CHRISTIANS: Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God (John 12:42-43). When your fear is greater than your faith you will fail to be the witness God intended you to be.
7) WHO GIVES GLORY TO GOD? And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them (John 17:10). A God who creates worlds with His word and has need of nothing is glorified in those who seek His glory! Glory!

John’s Testimony Jn 3:22-36

I. The “Problem”: The work multiplied- 22-24 Jesus and John now both baptizing (although Jesus did not baptize- see 4:2). The Problem- Outward- Purifying-vs 25 / Inward- Pride 4:1 Jesus baptized more than John. (Satan trying to “divide and conquer”)
II. John’s response:
1. The source of his ministry- from Heaven vs 27 (Should I question that GOD put Jesus over me!!!).
2. The testimony of John- Not the Christ vs 28 (His appointed forerunner, His messenger, His announcer.) Friend of the bridegroom vs 29
3. The Relationship of John and Jesus 30-36
a. vs 30 He must increase while I decrease (He must grow more prominent, I must grow less so).
b. vs 31 He is a heavenly voice, I an earthly
c. vs 32 I am simply a witness of what I have seen about Him
d. vs 33 I have believed and declared God
e. vs 34 I have spoken God’s Word with God’s Spirit
f. vs 35 Jesus is the Son of God given power by God
g. vs 36 condemnation is based on belief; Not Baptism
The following story is a good illustration of how John and Jesus’ ministry worked together.
In a beautiful district in Scotland, a boy from a well-to-do home in England was swimming in one of the lakes. Suddenly he was seized with a severe cramp. Screaming for help, he struggled to remain afloat. A boy about his own age heard his cry, plunged into the lake and with strong strokes brought him to shore. He administered aid and was able to save his life.
Time passed but the English boy never forgot the lad who saved his life. Making a special trip to Scotland he informed him that it was his wish and the wish of his family that they be allowed to finance him in any advanced education he might choose.
The Scottish boy chose the field of medicine and graduated with high honors. Later he entered into the field of research and in 1928 found that germs could not exist in certain vegetable mold. He named his discovery penicillin- a discovery that was destined to save thousands of lives. His name was, Dr. Alexander Fleming.
The English boy whose life he saved also became famous. While he was on a history-making journey in the near East, meeting Franklin D Roosevelt and Joseph Stalin in a series of important conferences, he was stricken with pneumonia. When his condition became serious, word was flashed to London and penicillin, discovered by the man who had saved him from drowning, was flown to his side. In a few hours, penicillin had added another illustrious name to the long list of lives it has saved- that of Winston Churchill.

John 03:36 THE NECESSITY OF THE NEW BIRTH

(Revivals Need Results and Involvement). (John 3:36) He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
I. THE NECESSITY OF THE NEW BIRTH– (John 3:3) Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
The heart of Christianity, the heart of God, and the hunger of your heart.
II. THE MARVEL OF THE NEW BIRTH– (John 3:7) Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
The word CHRISTIAN is used 3 times in Scripture and they show us the marvel of what happens when you are Born again.
1. CHARACTER: Ac 11:26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
2. CONVICTING: Ac 26:28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.
3. COMMITTED: 1Pe 4:16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
III. THE INSTRUMENT OF THE NEW BIRTH– (1 Peter 1:23) Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. Faith in God’s Word and His Work on your behalf. BELIEVE NOT- CONDEMNED / BELIEVE- NOT CONDEMNED. Condemned means you are away from God’s Presence, Promises, and Peace waiting His Wrath. God cannot turn to us until we turn from Sin.

John 04:1-30 LIVING OR DEAD WATER / EXCUSES THAT KEEP PEOPLE FROM CHRIST

No human being has ever been satisfied with the things of this world. During World War II many men were cast adrift on the sea in open rafts. There were millions of gallons of water all around them but to drink it was to die. Their thirst was VERY VERY REAL, the water was real water–but mixed in with it was salt and it would kill instead of give life. Like this salt water, the Desire for Wealth, the World, and Wickedness are very powerful forces in a man’s life but they destroy him instead of satisfy him.
This Woman came to the well that day with no expectation of meeting anyone. In fact, the reason she came at the noon hour was to avoid meeting the women of the city and suffering their reproach. She was thirsty and needed the physical water but there was a deeper thirst in her that was slowly destroying her. She longed for someone to really love her. She longed for real meaning to life. (She jumped from husband to husband blaming them for HER discontent).
The Living Water that Jesus promised her was just that- living water. It would SATISFY her thirsty soul, RENEW her dead soul, and provide STRENGTH to face life. It DID NOT change the fact that she had 5 husbands and was living with a man (What did she do about that situation when Jesus left??). It did not make her immediately acceptable to the community -see verse 42 “Now we believe, not because of thy saying; for we have heard him ourselves”.
All she had was Jesus’ promise that the well would spring up in her soul and she need never thirst again. Her empty barren life now had the opportunity to flourish and be fruitful. The desert would not disappear in a day but she was given a new beginning and a new ability to deal with life.
I. ENCOUNTER 1-8
A) The Rejection- vs 1-3 The Pharisees refused to hear His message so He takes it to others who will hear. (In Matt 22:1-14 Jesus tells about a King who made a marriage feast and invited his guest. They with one consent began to make excuse and the King had them killed and invited those from the highway and hedges to partake of the feast. It happens in Churches today. People refuse to hear God’s Message from God’s Man and God allows him to deliver it to others.
B) The Reason Jesus went this way- Woman in Samaria needed to hear the Gospel.
Must go where sinners are- Samaria (Outreach)
Must take the opportunities when presented- even if tired (weary from journey), hot (noon), and alone (disciples had gone into the city to purchase dinner). The Majority of people are more concerned with satisfying their needs than with reaching the lost).
Must find an “opening”- “Give me to Drink”
II. EXCUSES 9-26 (Most people are defensive when first met.)
Problem: 9 Prejudice- Jew asking drink of a Samaritan Woman. Today it would be the color of their skin or the clothes they wear or the “class” of people they are.
Answer:10 Knowledge about God and God’s People (“If thou Knewest the Gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee,…”). You don’t fear people when you get to know them. (Remember the first time you attended Church here? Compare to now.)

Problem: 11-12 Misunderstanding-
1. What can you physically do? “Nothing to draw water with” (What does learning about Heaven have to do with paying this month’s bills?? Remember that lost people see only with the Physical eye. They are confused about Spiritual things.)
2. Who made YOU so great? “Are you greater than Jacob that gave the well?” (Don’t challenge my Traditions. I fear Change)
Answer- 13-14. Coming to God changes us from the inside out and that greatly affects our Physical world while giving us stability in the changes.

Problem: 15-18 Wanting “Benefits” from God without Repentance. Pride- unwilling to admit she had 5 husbands and lived with a man (Unwilling to admit her failure at living life)
Answer: Confrontation- Can’t be helped until willing to admit problem.

Problem: 19-20 Different “Religious” Beliefs. Place of Worship.
Answer: 21-24 Know WHAT you worship (Is it Forms instead of the Father); Know WHY you Worship (To honor the Father); Know WHO you worship (God is a Spirit, worship in spirit and in truth.)

Problem: 25 Delay- When Messiah comes I will change
Answer: 26 Faith- I am He

III. EXPOSURE “Come see a man that told me all that ever I did” This woman didn’t need to “Feel good about herself”. She needed to see herself as she was and allow God to Change her.
These are the same Excuses we hear today on visitation:
– Why did you brother me? Jews and Samaritians
– Where is your ability to draw water? Only see physical
– My private life is my own. Husbands
– I’m confused about so many different churches and beliefs. (Notice that she immediately began to point to Religion as an excuse for not doing right. Men always try to cover their sins with “Fig leaves” of morality (Adam, “We hid ourselves because we knew we were naked”. It’s your fault we’re naked, God. You put us here like this!))
– I want to wait until God (Messiah) comes in the way I want Him to come.
What impact does YOUR LIFE have on your Family and your Faith?
A drunkard sat at a table in a bar with several of his companions. His wife entered and set a covered dish down before him. “You were too busy to come home for supper”, she said, “So I brought it to you.” She left as all his buddies laughed. He invited them to share his meal with him but when he removed the cover there was no food inside. Instead there was a note, “I hope you enjoy this supper. It’s the same thing your wife and children are eating!” So it is with Satan’s promises- when you look beneath the cover you’ll find nothing for yourself and hurt for everyone you influence
There is hope for man. Ps 16:11 declares that at the right hand of Jesus are “Pleasures forevermore”. This is the satisfaction you crave and need today. It is found in walking in God’s Plan for your life, living in a Personal relationship with Christ, and staying close to the heart of God.

John 04:4 MUST NEEDS: IMPERIAL NECESSITIES

Some Things “Must Needs” happen:
1) To Bring REDEMPTION- And he must needs go through Samaria (John 4:4)
2) To Live Life- OFFENSES- Temptation wants us to do bad. Testing brings out the best in us- Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! (Mat 18:7)
3) To prepare for the End- WARS- And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet (Mark 13:7)
4) To make us good Citizens- CITIZENSHIP- Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake (Rom 13:5)
5) To complete God’s Plan of Salvation- THE CROSS- Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ (Acts 17:3)
Some things to CONSIDER about our “Needed Necessities”:
A) Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls? (Luke 12:24).
B) Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these (Luke 12:27).
C) Consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not (John 11:50).

John 04:4 MUST NEEDS- “A Necessary Event”

Several Times in Scripture we are told that some thing “Must Needs” happen. Let’s look at some of these Necessary Events in our life and work for the Lord:
1) Unless God provides an alternative we all MUST NEEDS DIE: 2Sam 14:14 For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him
2) Worldly Wisdom and Idols MUST NEEDS have Human Support: Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good (Jeremiah 10:2,5).
3) We MUST NEEDS understand that sometimes our feelings will be hurt: Mt 18:7 Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!
4) Some times we MUST NEEDS go where we do not normally go in order to accomplish God’s Work: Joh 4:4 And he must needs go through Samaria.
5) Scripture MUST NEEDS be Fulfilled: Ac 1:16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.
6) Christians MUST NEEDS learn to Look at Life Correctly: 2Co 11:30 If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.
7) Make Sure your “Must Needs” do not take the place of your MOST NEEDS: Lu 14:18 And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.

Some other MUST NEEDS EVENTS:
Gen 17:13 He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.
2Sam 14:14 For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him
Jer 10:5 (Idols) are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good.
Matt 18:7 ¶ Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!
Mark 13:7 And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.
Lu 14:18 And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.
Joh 4:4 And he must needs go through Samaria.
Acts 1:16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.
Rom 13:5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
2Cor 11:30 If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.

John 04:13-14 Living Waters

Jn 4:13-14 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst: but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life
The Woman came to the well that day with no expectation of meeting anyone. In fact, the reason she came at the noon hour was to avoid meeting the women of the city and suffering their reproach. She was thirsty and needed the physical water but there was a deeper thirst in her that was slowly destroying her. She longed for someone to really love her, she longed for real meaning to life, and she wanted to be able to live with herself (She jumped from husband to husband blaming them for HER discontent.).
No human being has ever been satisfied with the things of this world. Wealth, worldliness, wickedness; all fail to satisfy the craving of the human heart. (During World War II many men were cast adrift on the sea in open rafts. There were millions of gallons of water all around them but to drink it was to die. Their thirst was VERY VERY REAl, the water was real water–but mixed in with it was salt and it would kill instead of give life.) The Desire for Wealth, the World, and Wickedness are very powerful forces in a man’s life but they destroy him instead of satisfy him.
The Living Water that Jesus promised her was just that- living water. It would SATISFY her thirsty soul, RENEW her dead soul, and provide STRENGTH to face life. It DID NOT change the fact that she had 5 husbands and was living with a man (What did she do about that situation when Jesus left??). It did not make her immediately acceptable to the community -see verse 42 “Now we believe, not because of thy saying; for we have heard him ourselves…”.
She did have Jesus’ promise that the well would spring up in her soul and she need never thirst again. Her empty barren life now had the opportunity to flourish and be fruitful. The desert would not disappear in a day but she was given a new beginning and a new ability to deal with life.
There is hope for man. Ps 16:11 says that at the right hand of Jesus are “Pleasures forevermore”. There is the satisfaction you crave and need today. It’s found in a personal relationship with Christ. Notice that Jesus promised her the well would spring up in her soul and she would never thirst again. It’s not SOMEWHERE you have to go to get “Water” when you’re thirsty, the Holy Spirit stays on the inside and gives you what you need every day.
Notice that She immediately began to point to Religion as an excuse for not doing right. Men always try to cover their sins with “Fig leaves” of morality (Adam, “We hid ourselves because we knew we were naked”. It’s your fault we’re naked, God. You put us here like this!)
A drunkard sat at a table in a bar with several of his companions. His wife entered and set a covered dish down before him. “You were too busy to come home for supper”, she said, “So I brought it to you.”. She left as all his buddies laughed. He invited them to share his meal with him but when he removed the cover there was no food inside. Instead there was a note, “I hope you enjoy this supper. It’s the same thing your wife and children are eating!”. So it is with Satan’s promises- when you look beneath the cover you’ll find nothing for yourself and hurt for everyone you influence.

John 04:19-26 TRUE WORSHIP

We live in a “religious” society today. Most people do not go to Church but they know about God and claim some “Religious” affiliation. Their beliefs are wide and varied
1) “Social Christians” who believe it’s “well mannered” to make a show of morality- They are just as concerned with Seals as they are with souls. In their mind all of “mankind” are children of God and they are always ready to jump on any Popular Cause bandwagons.
2) “Seekers” after wisdom who hop from guru to guru seeking a new method of controlling their flesh and arriving at perfection by meditation or application of some new technique.
3) Science worshippers who believe that man can solve all of His problems (and the problems of the world) by increased knowledge and research.
These all seek “Peace and Love and the good of mankind”– yet each is so sure that their method is right and everyone else is wrong until they will use all their energy to attack anyone who does not agree with their viewpoint.
Even among Fundamental Christians there are many widely held beliefs–that produce many different denominations and churches. Within these denominations (or even Churches) there are a number of differing beliefs- 1) Is baptism necessary for salvation? 2) When will the rapture take place (If at all!!)? 3) What is the roll of women? 4) Should you Shout or be Silent to worship God?
It is confusing to the average person and used by many to try to cover their unwillingness to deal with their sin. The Samaritan Woman in today’s text was like this. As soon as Jesus exposed her sin she began to run the “rabbit trail” of different Religious beliefs. She hoped this would divert Jesus away from her sin (Just like Adam and Eve tried to hide from God when they sinned and then tried to blame everyone else for their sin.)
Instead of being diverted, Jesus used this as an opportunity to show her what True Worship is so she could stop making excuses and allow God to change her life. This is a very pressing need in today’s Church. Many make “Professions” of Faith but don’t even make it back to the Evening service. They don’t really know what Repentance is. Most people repent of the fact that they have “made a mistake” that God calls sin and they must ask God to forgive them. They repent of their ACTION but many never change their ATTITUDE. They determine to be BETTER PEOPLE; not SAVED SERVANTS!!!
Because of confusion over what God expects from you and what you can expect from God there are many “Samaritan women” in churches and communities today. Let’s get some basic facts down and determine what “True Worship” is–so we can worship correctly and show others how to worship correctly.
I. Worship Defiled– Samaria’s worship problem came from:
1) Desire for Political Power (I Kings 12:25-35- Jeroboam’s revolt that divided Israel and Judah).
2) Mixing Man’s wisdom with God’s Word (II Kings 17:24-33- Jeroboam’s sins led to God rejecting Israel and sending them into captivity in Assyria. Assyria then repopulated Samaria with people of other lands who feared not God. God sent lions into the land to punish them so they hired the “lowest” of men to be priests so they could know just enough about God to avoid punishment- “They feared the Lord, and served their own gods” II Kings 17:33).
II. Worship Defined– Worship: To fall down before; To show reverence to or awe of. Worship comes from the word “Worth-ship”. It is actually an expression of the right to honor which man feels is due God. We should respect many things but reverence only God. To worship anything other than God is to worship nothing- for God is the only God! The Angels always stressed “Worship God” when they appeared to men.
There are several facts we can gather about Worship from Jesus’ words: 21-24
1. It is possible to worship without knowing who you worship. “Ye worship ye know not what”. Acts 17:23 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.
2. The place of Worship is not as important as WHO you worship- The hour cometh when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet in Jerusalem, worship the Father.
3. Some worship falsely- “The True Worshippers”. These False Worshippers worship one of two false “gods”:
A) Satan- Normally not as the “demon of darkness” but as the angel of light. He promises them Possessions (Jesus was promised the world to worship Satan. Luke 4:7-8) or Power (Eve in Garden was promised knowledge to equal God).
B) Self as God: The sin of Satan becomes the sin of his followers (Is 14:12-14 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High). Rom 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
4. Who and How and Why we worship are very important: “The true worshipper shall worship”-
A) WHO- The Father: Men have forgotten the basic things about God-
1. “God is a SPIRIT: and they that worship him must worship him is spirit and in truth.” (God’s kingdom is not of this world. He does not seek to entertain the flesh, He wants to redeem the Soul).
2. God is JEALOUS- Ex 20:3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me. (I believe God is called Jealous more than He is called Love. Men emphasize the Love because it meets THEIR need.)
Ex 34:14 thou shalt worship no other gods: for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God:
B) HOW- “In Spirit and in Truth.” God seeks people to worship Him Spiritually and Truthfully (without pretense: about ourselves or God). The act of worship is of little significance. The intent behind the act and the belief that fosters the intent is what God looks at. We think the song is worship, God looks for the adoration in it. Paul described this type Worship in Phil 3:3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh
Prayer: The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight (Proverbs 15:8).
Praise: Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints (Psalms 149:1).
Pay: 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 (Malachi 3:10).
Preach: For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe (1 Corinthians 1:21).
C) WHY- “The Father seeketh such to worship Him.” That God should allow his creatures to have fellowship with Himself is wonderful enough, but that He desires it, that it brings to God satisfaction, is as far beyond human understanding as God’s ways are above the ways of men.
When we stand before God and all our excuses fade as the morning fog, the question God will ask us is, “Who did you Worship?” Did you bow to Public Opinion and Personal Pleasures; or did you accept God’s way of Salvation in Christ?? Remember this, we do not FIND Christ by obtaining Wisdom, donating Wealth, or forsaking the World. We INVITE Him into our heart by Faith as we are genuinely sorry that we have offended a Holy God. ONLY THEN are we able to truly Worship.

John 04:26 I AM IS

When God called Moses to deliver His people from the bondage of Egypt Moses asked God who he should say sent him. God said to say, “I AM” hath sent you. [Ex 3:13-14]. When Jesus came to die for men His message also was I AM [He used it 23 times in John’s Gospel- (4:26, 6:20,35,41,48,51, 8:12,18,24,28,58; 10:7,9,11,14; 11:25; 13:19; 14:6; 15:1,5; 18:5,6,8).
The main thing we need to understand out of this is that the Lord’s Message was HIMSELF– I AM. He did not try to establish a new Religion; He wanted a new Relationship! He did not give new Laws; He gave new Life! He did not come to PREACH the Gospel; He is the Gospel. He did not come to GIVE Bread; He said, I am the Bread. He did not come to SHED light; He said, I am the Light. He did not come to SHOW the door; He is the Door, He did not come to POINT the way; He is the Way. He did not come to PLANT a vine, He is the vine! The Lord’s purpose is Fellowship. Jesus came to die that we might have that Fellowship but many people look at what He did instead of who He is. We need to recognize what Christ means to our life.
There are 7 times in John’s Gospel that Jesus used “I AM” to enable us to see how wonderful this new relationship is.
1. The Bread of Life– 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. SATISFACTION. “I have found the pleasure I once craved, It is joy and peace within”
2. The Light of the World– 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. ILLUMINATION
A) Direction- “he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness”
Guides us thru life’s pathways. Showing where to go and what to avoid.
Promotes Fellowship- I Jn 1:7 If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
B) Detection- Jn 3:20-21 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. I Jn 1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
C) Reflection- 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. Matt 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify our Father which is in heaven.
3. The Door– 10:9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. ACCESS
A) To Pardon- “any man enter in, he shall be saved,”. The ONLY WAY- 10:1 He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
B) For Protection- The Shepherd would actually become the door to the sheepfold by sleeping in the only entrance. Nothing could get to the Sheep without first coming thru the “Door”. The Christian can rest assured in that today.
C) To Pasture- “Shall go in and out, and find pasture.” We find Rest and Comfort and Protection in the sheepfold but we find Pasture in the world.
Christianity is not a “Hot-house” religion that is lived in the walls of a Church building. In Church we get Direction from the Word, show our Devotion thru Worship, and perform certain Duties of Work but we must Demonstrate our Christianity in the World. We must learn, like Jesus, that “my meat is to do the will of him that sent me” (Jn 4:34) and it is not the will of God that any should perish but that all should come to life in Christ (I Tim 2:4).
4. The Good Shepherd– 10:11, 14, CARE
A) Sacrifice- 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
B) Companionship- 10:14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. Our Shepherd knows our limitations and our abilities. He knows when we are down and when we need that “special care”. He even knows the number of hairs on our head!!!
We are supposed to know His voice when He calls and seek to build such a relationship until the mere movement of His eyes will tell us what He wants us to do (Ps 32:8)
5. The Source of Life– 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life; he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? LIFE We are raised to newness of life in Him. We receive Pardon for past sins, Power for present living, and Promises of eternity with Him.
6. The Revelation of the Father– 14:6-7 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also; and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. REVEALING- Jesus is the Way to the Father, The Truth about the Father, and the Life the Father wants us to live.
7. The True Vine– 15:1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. WAY TO FRUITFULNESS. It is not my ability that produces fruit; it is my abiding. When I remain in Him then fruit will come in my life. When I lift HIM up then men will be drawn to Him for Salvation.
Jesus does not simply HAVE what you need today. HE IS WHAT YOU NEED. Won’t you accept Him into your life today?

John 04:31-38 MAINTAINING ENERGY AND ENTHUSIASM

Jesus had just won this wayward woman when the disciples returned from their “trip to Hardees” to get dinner. They marveled that Jesus would be seen talking with a Samaritan Woman in public and they were slightly embarrassed. Finally one of them remembered about dinner and asked Jesus to eat. He told them that He did not need to eat because he had a source of energy that they did not know about. They naturally assumed he was talking about Physical food and they questioned where he had obtained it. Jesus then shows them the source of His energy- and the source of ours as well- My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work vs34
I. GOALS ENERGIZE US– Jesus said His Nourishment came from DOING the WILL of him that sent Him. People tend to keep going when they know WHERE they are going and WHAT they hope to accomplish. Without a real Goal people tend to wander into inactivity or self pity and lose heart.
The Goal must have a long range Objective while providing for short range victories.
The Goal must be Obtainable and worthwhile (Something you feel you can accomplish so you are willing to work for it and sacrifice to obtain it).
Christ listed several things about His Goal:
A) His Goal provided nourishment for His Soul and Body (“MY MEAT”)
B) It meant Involvement (“DO”) Participator- not Spectator
C) It recognized Accountability (“WILL”)
D) It acknowledged God’s Right to lead (“SENT”)
II. COMMITMENT SUSTAINS US– Finish his work. (Perseverance)
A) Accepts need to Fulfill Job (“FINISH”). Jesus said on the Cross, “It is finished”. Paul said at the end of his life, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: (2 Tim 4:7)
B) Recognizes it as God’s Work- (“HIS”) God’s Work exalts and exposed His Son- This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent (John 6:29).
C) Accept the fact of Toil- (“WORK”). It’s not a game we play but a life we live. It’s not supposed to be “Easy” or “Fun”. We are commanded in Scripture to be not weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not (Galatians 6:9).
III. VISION DRIVES US– Lift up your eyes and look on the fields, for they are white unto harvest.
Jesus looked on the fields and saw them “white unto harvest” and found His “Food”. The Disciples looked for a restaurant because they saw the Samaritans as Problems instead of Potential.
A shoe salesman was sent to Africa to sell his shoes. After several weeks he returned in defeat saying no one wore shoes in Africa. Another man was sent in his place and immediately sent a telegram asking for more shoes to be sent because no one wore shoes in Africa. One man saw a hopeless situation; the other an unlimited potential. How do YOU see our Church?? Our Community???
Energy and Enthusiasm are a part of our life when we:
1) Maintain a close relationship with God- For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure (Philippians 2:13)
2) Allow our eyes to touch our heart- some of the saddest words ever spoken are: Jer 8:20 The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved. You cannot pay me enough to keep me doing what I do but the cries of a lost world will not let me stop doing all I can to reach all I can with the Gospel.

John 04:34-38 HARVEST

Example of the tree between Rock Hill and Lancaster that had nothing but bare limbs; no fruit or leaves. Contrast this to the trees in Biltmore Gardens that were loaded with fruit and trained to follow the wall; thus providing fruit, shade, and beauty.
The Church service in Silver Springs where a liberal “gospel” was preached while multitudes desperately needed to hear the true Gospel contrasted with the services here at Grace where we try to reach as many as possible by every means possible.
Let’s re-examine our goals and determine to gather a good crop for God. The thing to keep in mind above all is that our Goal is not the Crop but the obeying of God; which will produce the crop!!! Sometimes people tend to look to harvest before we clear the “new ground”, plant the seed, weed the fields, and depend on God for Sun and rain. If we do our part and God blesses with His part then THE FRUIT WILL COME.
1. The TIME of Harvest– Jn 4:35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. Consider the ant who- Prov 6:8 Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.
Are we READY to Harvest any time the Lord gives a crop?? (Facilities, trained workers, foundation to establish new converts)
2. The COOPERATION in Harvest– vs 36-38 “One soweth, and another reapeth”. See I Corinth 3:6 Paul planted and Apollo watered.
We need LABORERS- Matt 9:37-38 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. Laborers are people who WORK and WORK and WORK. During the heat, the rain, and being “tired”.
Don’t be LAZY- Prov 10:5 He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame. How sad to let the fruit rot in the field because of unconcern!! We can PRAY, we can PARTICIPATE, and we can PRACTICE what we already know to do.
3. The REWARD of Harvest– 36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together (See I Sam 30:24 “But as his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.” The “support group” shares like the “warriors”.)
Some of the saddest words you’ll ever hear are: Jer 8:20 The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved. Let us Harvest the Fields every time God gives us fruit by being willing to Work hard and accept God’s Payment as Reward.

John 4:31-38 The Source of Energy

Jesus had just won this wayward woman when the disciples returned from their “trip to Hardees” to get dinner. They marveled that Jesus would be seen talking with a Samaritan Woman in Public and they were slightly embarrassed. Finally one of them remembered about dinner and asked Jesus to eat. He told them that He did not need to eat because he had a source of energy that they didn’t know about. (“My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work” vs34). They naturally assumed he was talking about Physical food and they questioned where he had obtained it. Jesus then shows them the source of His energy- and the source of ours as well.
I. GOALS ENERGIZE US– Do the WILL of him that sent me. (Purpose). People need to know WHERE they’re going (Where there is no vision people perish) and WHAT they hope to accomplish. Without this vision they tend to wander off and lose heart.
A) They need a long range Goal and short range victories.
B) The goal must be obtainable and worthwhile (Something you’re willing to work at and sacrifice for.).
Christ listed several things about His Purpose:
A) The Spiritual more important than the Physical (“MY MEAT”) (Remember the first Temptation He faced- rocks to bread).
B) It meant Involvement (“DO”) Participator- not Spectator
C) It acknowledged God’s Right to lead (“WILL”)
D) Responsibility means Accountability (“SENT”)
II. COMMITMENT SUSTAINS US– Finish his WORK. (Perseverance)
A) Accept need of Dedication (“FINISH”)
B) Recognize it as God’s Work- (“HIS”) Jn 6:29 This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.
C) Accept the fact of Toil- (“WORK”). It’s not a game we play but a life we live. It’s not supposed to be “Easy” or “Fun”.
How does this turn into a source of energy??? Purpose gives life meaning and gives us “Heart” to carry on. Commitment causes us to “Stick-to-it” when the road gets difficult and Purpose battles with Pleasure.
Jesus looked on the fields and saw them “white unto harvest” and found His “Food”. The Disciples looked at the Samaritans and saw Problems instead of Potential.
A shoe salesman was sent to Africa to sell his shoes. After several weeks he returned in defeat saying no one wore shoes in Africa. Another man was sent in his place and immediately sent a telegram asking for more shoes to be sent because no one wears shoes!!! in Africa. One man saw a hopeless situation; the other an unlimited potential. How do YOU see our Church?? Our Community???

John 04:39-45 Familiar Faces

How easy it is for us to “Take for granted” those around us. (And how hurtful!!). “Familiarity breeds contempt” is an old saying that is too often true. We are always looking for something new and exciting to eat, drink, or do. This is good when it causes men to explore and find new worlds and new wonders (What if everyone still lived in the Middle East with its deserts and nomadic life style?? What if you had to eat the same food every meal? Wear the same clothes every day?? How drab and dreary our lives would be.). But there is a bad side to this also. All too often we find ourselves ignoring someone or something because it is familiar (How often do you put something in a corner with the intent of doing something with it and then pass it by so often until you don’t really see it?).
Today’s lesson contains two examples of “Familiar Faces” that people ignored to their hurt
1. The Samaritan Woman 39-42
A) Some believed her report and requested Jesus to stay
B) Others believed because they heard the words of Christ. 41-42. What if Christ would have been too busy to stay?? What if the ones who believed hadn’t persuaded Christ to stay??
Because of the fact that this woman was so familiar to these people they almost missed trusting in Christ as Savior. I wonder how often WE miss hearing God’s speak to us because He does it thru the common instead the miraculous. (Remember Elijah’s “Still small voice”).
George Washington Carver spent much of his life developing multitudes of products from the peanut because he always tried to look at it in new ways. Issac Newton discovered the force of gravity when an apple fell on him! Most people would ignore 2 fish and 5 loaves but Jesus fed the multitude with them. God asked Moses, “What do you have in your hand?” (Ex 4:2) and proceeded to change a stick into a snake!! and with that staff Moses parted an ocean and led a nation.
What do you have in YOUR hand?? Have you ignored the voice of God because it came thru the Familiar instead of the Famous??
2. Christ at “Home” 43-45
Instead of producing Faith, Familiarity produced unbelief in Jesus’ home town- Jesus “did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief” (Matt 13:58). He had to go to Jerusalem and “cause a stir” before the people who were familiar with him would take an interest. (Joseph was despised and ridiculed by his brothers at home but mightily used of God in Egypt.)
Do we miss the “miracles” because the person performing them is familiar? Is it possible that God could “Bless” you as much thru your Pastor as thru some great TV Evangelist?? Could He use your money HERE to accomplish as much good as some “Great” ministry would?
Have you missed a Blessing because it’s Familiar???

John 04:39-54 FAR REACHING FAITH

Sometimes “little” things ripple a long way in the pool of life. Who would have thought that throwing tea into the sea would help start a nation! Who would have believed that a simple statement to “Tear down this wall” would lead to the end of the cold war and the dissolving of a major world super power? In the same way, there are things that Christians can do that will have long ranch impact on others as well as themselves. Today’s scripture shows us two examples.
I. The Samaritan Woman impacts a Town 39-42
A) Her Testimony and her excitement had an impact on the town. Jesus kept telling people to Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. (Mark 5:19). When this woman shared what Jesus had done for her many people became so excited until they asked Jesus (a Jew) to stay in their town and share His message.
B) Others believed when they heard the words of Christ. 41-42. Note the “ripple effect”. The Woman believed Christ. Some people in the town believed the woman and asked Jesus to stay. Other people believed when they heard Christ in person.
What if the Samaritan Woman had been too shy to speak? What if the ones who believed her report had not tried to persuade Christ to stay? Where are YOU in someone’s “chain of faith”?
George Washington Carver spent much of his life developing multitudes of products from the peanut because he always tried to look at it in new ways. If he could accomplish so much with faith in a peanut then what can we do with Faith in Christ?
II. The Nobleman’s Far Reaching Faith healed his son 43-54
A) Familiarity often hinders Faith- In his home town, Jesus was without honor and the people missed miracles (Jesus did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief (Matt 13:58) because they refused to see God in someone near to them. He had to go to Jerusalem and “cause a stir” before the people who were familiar with him would take an interest. (Joseph was despised and ridiculed by his brothers at home but mightily used of God in Egypt.)
Do we miss the “miracles” because the person performing them is familiar? Is it possible that God could “Bless” you as much thru our Pastor as He could thru some great TV Evangelist?? Have you missed a Blessing because of familiarity??? God wants to do great things at Lebanon. Will we let Him?
B) Faith must Stretch:
1. Realize that getting in touch with Jesus is the most important thing you can do- The Nobleman traveled to meet Jesus rather than wait for Jesus to come to Capernaum.
2. Seek a specific need- Heal my sick son who will die unless something is done.
3. See without seeing- (The man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him) Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).
4. Faith grows when it becomes sight- So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house (John 4:53).
The Faith of the Samaritan Woman brought salvation to many in her village. The Faith of the Nobleman brought healing to his son. What impact will YOUR FAITH have on those around you this week? (Remember the men who brought the man sick with Palsy to Jesus in Luke 5:20. Jesus saw “Their Faith” and forgave the man of his sins.)

John 4:46-54 A Father’s Love

In this second miracle that John writes about we see a Father’s love and a Savior’s ability. The 4 main “Characters” are:
I. The Sick Son. (The Lost Man)
His Condition- Sick, at the point of death. (A lost man is dead in Sin).
Unable to help himself- Father had to go for him. (Lost should seek help themselves but someone who loves them must bring them before God).
Saved with his father when God’s power was seen. (The Philippian jailor was saved with whole house. Rahab’s whole house was saved. God’s power shown in a home will convict EVERY person in the home and convert many of them.
II. The Confirming Servants. (People and events that confirm our Faith.)
Anxious – met him. Unwilling to wait for his return because they knew how concerned the Master was. (Delay brings defeat many times. An “open door” can close while you delay)
Good News- “As cold water in summer so is good news to him that receiveth it” Thy son liveth (The same thing Jesus said).
Knowledgeable- Knew when the son was healed (seventh hour- 1pm). Shared the concern of the Father.
III. The Seeking Father. A Nobleman was a town “Councilman”.
Looking for help- heard Jesus was come into his area.
Prayer- besought Jesus for son.
Would not be put off- come down ere my child die.
Willing to accept by Faith what could not be seen- The distance from Cana to Capernaum was less than 20 miles. Jesus gives the man the assurance he needs and the man goes off in Faith in the word of Jesus- Faith evidently so strong until he spent the night in Cana instead of returning to Capernaum immediately. Faith comes by Hearing and hearing by the Word of God
Believed Jesus’ WORD then saw the WONDER. Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence on things not seen. (Every man who has made a mark for God has been this way- Abraham)
Told of his faith to His family- himself believed and his whole household (Servants and son!!!). With the heart man believes and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
IV. The Healing Savior–
Accessible- Nobleman could present his need to Him.
Accurate- Told him his son was well and he was!!
Able to handle the situation- no matter what it was.
Are you a Father with “Sick” children?? Have you brought their case to Jesus??
Are you willing to take God at His word today–and live by what He says regardless of what you can see???

John 04:46-53 A GROWING FAITH

This man coming to Jesus shows us the Good and Bad of Faith. It also shows us how to go from a Weak Faith to a Strong Faith.
I. THE SIGNS OF A WEAK FAITH
1) Demands Visible Proof- Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe (John 4:48) Unbelief puts our circumstance between us and God, but faith puts God between us and our circumstances (F.B. Meyer). Thomas was called “Doubting Thomas” because he had to see to Believe!
2) Must have an overwhelming need before it comes to God- John 4:47 “For he was at the point of death” The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my child die (John 4:49). This man had probably had numerous opportunities to invite Christ to His home but didn’t until his child grew deathly ill (What about YOU??). Vance Havner related the story of an elderly lady who was greatly disturbed by her many troubles both real and imaginary. Finally she was told in a kindly way by her family, “Grandma, we’ve done all we can do for you. You’ll just have to trust God for the rest.” A look of utter despair spread over her face as she replied, “Oh, dear, has it come to that?” Havner commented, “It always comes to that, so we might as well begin with that!”
3) Dictates to God instead of seeking God’s Will- Come Down (to my house). Weak Faith tells God what to do as if God is not capable of making the right decisions without your input!
As children bring their broken toys with tears for us to mend,
I brought my broken dreams to God, Because He was my friend.
But then, instead of leaving Him In peace, to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help in ways that were my own.
Finally I took them back and said, “Dear God, why are you so slow?”
“My child,” He said, “what could I do? You never did let go.”
4) Impatience- Come down before my son dies (Hurry). Weak Faith demands an immediate answer; missing many of God’s Blessings! (Daniel’s answer was delayed 3 weeks. Over and Over in Scripture God waits until HIS time is right).
II. THE SIGNS OF A STRONG FAITH
1) It believes God’s Word- Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth. And the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way (John 4:50). I said to the man who stood at the gate of the Life, “Give me a light, that I may thread safely into the unknown,” and he replied, “Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.”
2) Rests in the Lord- It was the Next Day before he got home. We HAVE the Answer before we SEE the answer!
3) Receives Confirmation of God’s Words- Servants came to meet him and told him his son was healed the same hour Jesus said it (How many many times have I had a message from the Lord confirmed like this).
4) Continues to Grow- So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house (John 4:53). Faith in the Ability of God becomes Faith in God; And that’s the goal of Faith!

John 4:48 SIGNS OF THE SON

Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe Jn 4:48.
John is written around 8 miracles performed by Jesus. (Cp to 20 in Mathew, 18 in Mark, and 20 in Luke.). Matt has 16 parables, Mark has 5, and Luke has 20- John has only 1 ( Jn 10:6). John is aware of these “oversights” and tells us why in Jn 20:31.
Facts about Miracles:
1. Miracles did occur in the Bible at various times.
2. They came only as an independent action of God. He set the time and frequency.
3. Miracles are not governed by laws of any kind; therefore there are no ritual, formula, prayers, or demands that anyone can use to bring about a miracle. We must request them of God and then rely on HIS integrity and Love as to when and where they occur.
I. Our Need for Miracles– A King needs only a Kingdom, A Servant needs only work, A Man needs only to exist- but God Needs to be GOD!! Jn 20:30-31 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: but these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name
II. The Purpose of Miracles:
The Eight Miracles The Key Thought is TRANSFORMATION
1. Turning of water into wine 2 (Common to uncommon)
2. Healing of nobleman’s son 4 (Disease to Health)
3. Curing of Bethesda Paralytic (Inactivity to Activity)
4. Feeding of 5000 6 (Meager to Much)
5. Walking over the sea of Galilee 6 (Troubles to Triumph)
6. Sight to blind man 9 (Darkness to Light)
7. Raising of Lazarus from dead 11 (Death to Life)
8. Miraculous catch of fish 21 (Failure to Success)
The key thought in each of these is TRANSFORMATION: sadness to gladness; disease to health; paralysis to energy; hunger to fullness; agitation to tranquility; darkness to light; death to life; failure to success.
III. The Working of Miracles–God’s Way of Working Miracles- Not our way
1. Put water in pots and carry to master by Faith as wine
2. Go home to find son well by Faith
3. Disregard “Wonders” and rise by Faith
4. Use what you have by Faith
5. Trust in the midst of storms
6. Trust God’s “Medicine” to cure you. Go to Priest by Faith
7. Open Grave by faith
8. Work trusting in God’s word in spite of “reasoning”
Miracles Jesus Manifested:
1. The Holy Spirit’s Appearance- 1:33-34 And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.
2. Water to Wine- 2:11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.
3. Announcement of Resurrection-2:18-22 Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body. When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.
4. Miracles He performed- 2:23 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did.

John 05:1-8 THE VINE AND THE BRANCH

THE NATURE OF THE UNION- A living Connection
1. No external temporary union- cannot be tied; must be joined
2. Born Again with the living sap of the Holy Spirit flowing from vine to Branch
THE COMPLETENESS OF THE UNION- One nothing without the other
1. Without vine the branch can do nothing
2. Without the branch the vine can produce nothing (marvel of marvels)
3. All the vine possesses belongs to the branch (The glory thou has given me I have given them)
4. All the Branch possesses belongs to the vine (It has no reason to exist except to be joined to the vine)
THE OBJECTIVE OF THE UNION
1. Branch is for fruit alone (Fruits of the Spirit) away (Father, as husbandman, is naturally glorified when the vine and the branches bear much fruit- who wants a scrimpy harvest?)
2. Fruitless branches are taken – The Father is the husbandman who prunes, purges, and pampers
THE SECRET IS ABIDING IN THE VINE- vs 6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
Three hindrances to Abiding:
1. Past sins
2. Present weakness
3. Future Strength

John 5:3 What are you Waiting for?

These people waited day after day for the angel to come and move the waters in the hopes that they would be healed. We look at them today and feel pity or sorrow for them. Yet there are multitudes of people today that are waiting for a miracle in their life also–and sadly the thing they are putting off while they wait is the most important decision in the world; the decision to accept Christ as Savior.
1. Waiting until Older– Ecc 11:9, 12:1 Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment. Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them:
2. Waiting until tomorrow– James 4:14 …ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. Prov 29:1 He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.
3. Waiting until established in Business – Matt 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
A) The Rich Fool- Luke 12:16-21 20-21 But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.
B) The Rich Young Ruler- Luke 18:18-27 24b-25 How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
4. Waiting for Others– Ez 18:20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
5. Waiting for a Feeling– Heb 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Rom 8:24 For we are saved by hope; but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?

John 05:1-9 WHEN YOUR DAY IS TODAY

When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? (John 5:6).
Jesus often asked Life changing Questions- Do you WANT to be healed? (Wilt thou be made whole?)
God seldom healed people with “short term sickness”- This man had been sick for 38 years- The woman with the issue of blood for 12 years, etc
Christ brought change into this man’s life with 4 actions:
1) “Rise up” Have enough faith in me to believe that I can change your situation and then act on that faith.
2) “Take up thy bed” Change your surrounding and circumstances with no desire to go back.
3) “Walk” Begin a new way of life based on the change Christ brought into your life.
4) Never allow “New Life Difficulties” to tempt you back into old life ways- It was easier to lay around all day and complain about no help but that never got him help! Going back to that way of life would have terrible consequences: Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee (John 5:14).

John 5:1-9 Performance over Promises

There is an old saying, “A bird in the hand is worth 2 in the Bush”. This simply means it’s better to have something you can depend on rather than a possibility down the road. Today’s message gives us that same idea.
There are a number of Helpless and Hopeless people in our world today that are waiting on SOMEONE, SOMEHOW, to bring them aid. That’s why they fall for every “quack” or “miracle worker” that comes along. They want so very much to believe in something and so they fall for anything. (The failure of Christianity is that the people who have what these folk need have failed to reach them while others have taken advantage of their situation) Let’s look today at their Sickness, their Situation, and then see how meeting the Savior can make all the difference in the world. And realize that the same principles apply to YOU today.
I. THE SICK 1-3 The Ailments. In chapter 4 Jesus healed from a distance. Today we are going to see Him travel a distance in order to heal someone. (Jesus cannot be put into a “pigeon hole”. He works in the manner HE desires. Man can’t always understand why He works a certain way and should be very careful about “deciding things for God”. Jesus decided to let Lazarus die in order to raise him, many others He healed before they could die. God knows what’s best for EVERY situation. Trust Him.)
The pool that everyone was gathered around was called “Bethesda” (House of Mercy). It had 5 porches for the sick people to shelter in from the sun and rain (The world today tries to provide for man’s Physical needs by providing him some sort of shelter but they leave him in the same sick condition.).
Note their Condition:
1. Impotent: Without Power to do for themselves. Someone else had to do for them. They were this way because some were:
A) Blind- Without Sight Someone else had to lead them. No vision. (II Cor 4:3-4 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.). (How sad to go thru life “in the dark” about life)
B) Halt (Lame)- Without Movement Someone else had to carry them. (People “crippled” by Fear, or worry, or lack of Faith)
C) Withered- Without Ability Paralyzed due to Lack of use. People of missed Potential and unused talent.
2. Waiting- Wasting their life in the vain hope that a “miracle” would happen in their life and change their circumstances. (Many times God does not change circumstances, He changes People!) (I wonder how many people had been cured during the 38 year this man was there??)
II. THE SITUATION 4-5 The Angel
A) The Angel- (Many manuscripts leave off verse 4 because they don’t believe God would perform miracles in this manner. God used Angels in many ways through out the Bible (To announce the birth of Christ, to protect Elijah, to slay the firstborn of Egypt, etc.); He could use them in this way IF HE SO DESIRED!!). Regardless of the actuality of the fact that the Angel troubled the water and healed the first one in after that, it is still true that these people were here in Faith that that was so. These sick people looked and longed and, day after long dreary day, they waited for the angel to make an appearance so that one of them could return to a normal life. (Did they talk of their dreams?? What they would do if they could see, or walk, or work??? Did they share complaints??? Was there a “favored” spot that the strongest had “staked out” while the helpless had to hope for the impossible??).
B) The Man- He had been sick for 38 years. (Was there ever a time that he was well?? Had he ever known the joy of health and did that make his sickness that much worst??? What was his sickness?? The verse only says he had an infirmity. Why did Jesus pick him out of all that were there???).
III. THE SAVIOR 6-9 The Answer
A) Do you want help?? “Wilt thou be make whole?”. What a foolish question you say.
1. Some people enjoy the sympathy they receive while sick. (If you don’t believe it just ask them how they are!!!) (Some people would rather enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season instead of turning to Christ. They don’t want to go to Hell but they don’t want to turn away from their sin either.)
2. Some people use sickness to avoid facing life. (“You can’t get a man saved until you first get him lost!”. People look for excuses to avoid admitting their own sinfulness. They try to blame circumstances instead of facing their need.).
B) Do you know where your help is coming from?
1. People Help- “Sir, I have no man,”
2. Pool Help- “To put me into the pool”
3. Personal Help- “While I am coming, another steppeth down before me”
C) Help comes from Hearing and Obeying the Word of God- “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk”.
1. You must believe God’s ability
2. You must obey God’s Directions
Are you waiting for a “miracle” to change your situation? Do you really want to change your life today? Jesus can turn you from the Weak into the Walking, from the Sick into the Singing. Come to Him today.

John 5:10-16 Precepts over People

Jesus had just arrived in Jerusalem and, finding a crowd of sick folk awaiting a miracle from God, He performed one by healing a man that had been sick for 38 years. You would think that everyone would have rejoiced with this man and praised God for His work. This was not the case however. The Religious leaders were more concerned with the LETTER of the Law than they were with the SICKNESS of the man!!. (Do WE ever allow Projects and Principles to overshadow People???)
1. ACCUSATION of the Jews- vs 10 Looking to Blame instead of Bless. (Do you Admire or Accuse when people are Blessed??)
2. ANSWER of the Man- vs 11 The same man that told me to rise told me to take up my bed- If I obeyed him for the first, shouldn’t I obey him for the last?? (Will Jesus EVER lead you wrong??)
3. ASTONISHING facts- vs 12-13
A) The man didn’t even know Jesus’ Name!!! (It is not the amount of knowledge we have but the amount of Faith.)
B) Jesus left when the crowd began to form around the man. (Most of us would have used this for a time of receiving praise or proclaiming the Gospel. Sometimes God’s methods astonish me.)
4. ADMONITION of Jesus- vs 14 Jesus found the man and told him not to take God’s blessing lightly or he may receive more punishment. (Evidently THIS sickness was caused by sin because Jesus told him to “sin no more”).
5. AMAZING reactions- vs 15-16
A) The man told the Jews it was Jesus. (The idea is that as soon as Jesus identified himself to the man that he ran to tell the Jews. WHY??????)
B) The Jews sought to Kill (!) Jesus to satisfy the law!!! (The punishment for Sabbath work was death. Remember that one of the main reasons the Jews were sent into captivity was because they had not kept Sabbath.). The Sabbath was not made to restrict man but to refresh man. (Ex 31:17 (The Sabbath) is a sign between me and the the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed). God rested from His creative work but continued His continuing work- rain, natural order, etc.
The thing to keep in mind here is that Satan will either try to “hit the gas or the brakes” in a person’s life. He will try to get you so involved with the Law until you forget the “Love” that makes the Law work or he will get you so involved in the “Love” that you ignore the demands of the Law.
The central question in this portion of scripture is our relationship to the Sabbath and Jesus’ right to question man’s ideas about that relationship. Jesus asserted His right as the Son of God to work as God the Father did (vs 17) and the Jews understood that that was what He meant (vs 18). (Jesus deliberately healed on the Sabbath, asked the man to carry his mat, and returned to identify himself so there would be no question about who had performed this miracle.). This gave Jesus an opportunity to clearly proclaim that He was the Son of God (19-47) and equal with the Father in Honor, works, and power

John 05:14 FAILURES IN THE FIGHT

John 5:14 Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.
Once again the Christian world has been rocked with scandal and sin as a major TV “Preacher” confesses to failure. The Media is having a great time “bashing Christianity” and all ministers, even all Christians, hurt as a result. But what about you?? Are you one of those Christians haunted by a secret sin life and wondering if there is any help for you if even these “big name” people can’t stand?? Or maybe you were about to commit your life to Christ after a time of conviction and struggle but now you don’t really know what to do.
THE REASONS CHRISTIANS FAIL:
1. Fear- Peter warming by the fire of the world
2. Family- Lot living in the “fire” of Sodom
3. “Fun”- Samson laying in the lap of “the world”
4. Failure to Function- Mark turning back on his Missionary Journey
In each case they got away from where they ought to be.
RESULTS of FAILURE:
1. Rejected from the Promised Land- Israel.
2. A Reprobate Mind- Rom 1:28 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.
3. A Ruined Life- Prodigal Son lost his fortune, his friends, and his food.
THE RETURN FROM FAILURE
1. God still loves you- Go tell the disciples and Peter (Mark 16:7)
2. You still have a Purpose- Bring Mark, for he is profitable to me for the ministry (II Tim 4:11).
3. Realize God wants to deliver you from Judgement- He wouldn’t destroy Sodom without getting Lot out.
4. God may not deliver you from the Consequences of your sin but He will forgive your sin and renew relationship- Samson killed more at his death than in his life.

John 5:19-47 Condemnation or Christ

Jn 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
I am a Christian. A follower of the teachings of Jesus Christ. Outwardly, He was simply a man who lived in an insignificant town in a small nation in the Middle East during the height of the Roman empire. Yet I believe that He was God in the flesh, that He lived as a man, died on a Cross as a payment for the sins of the whole world, and one day will return for those who have accepted Him as Saviour. These are very important statements. If they are true then it is of the utmost importance that EVERY person here repent of their sins, recognize Christ as Saviour and receive Him into their heart. If they are not true then it is dangerous for you to even be here listening to me talk about this man.
This was the kind of situation facing the people in today’s lesson. Jesus had just healed a man that was sick for 38 years but in doing so He had told him to disobey some of the religious laws of the Jews. In answering His accusers Jesus made them realize that He could do the things He did because of Who He was. Some decided to accept Him, some decided to slay Him. You are faced with the same dilemma today- will you trust Him with you life and soul or will you go your own way??
Here is the evidence He presented: JESUS SAID HE WAS EQUAL WITH GOD:
I. ACCORDING TO HIS WORDS:
1. In Works 5:19 What things so ever He (The Father) doeth, these also the son doeth likewise. (Jesus said He could do the same things God could do!!)
2. In Knowing 5:20 For the Father loveth the son, and showeth Him all things that He himself doeth. (Jesus said that God “Consulted” him about everything He did!)
3. In Resurrecting 5:21,28.29 For as the Father raiseth up the dead, so the Son quickeneth whom He will. (Jesus has the ability to raise the dead- spiritually and physically
4. In Judging 5:22,27 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committeth all judgment unto the Son. (Chrisitans will stand before the Judgment seat of Christ and Sinners will be judged at the great White Throne)
5. In Honor 5:23 That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. (Worship, respect, and honor are due God and Christ)
6. In Regenerating 5:24,25 He that heareth my Word and believeth on Him that sent me…is passed from death unto life, (Jesus is able to deal with your sin problem- death)
7. In Self-Existence 5:26 For as the Father hath life in Himself, so hath He given to the Son to have life in Himself.
Either Jesus was the world’s biggest Liar!! or He is the Son of God. If, in fact, He is God then YOU had better come to Him on His terms today. And there can be no question that He claimed to be Equal with God.
II. ACCORDING TO HIS WITNESSES:
1. John the Baptist- Jn 1:34 And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God. Jn 1:36 And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! (John was acknowledged as a Prophet and he said Jesus was the Son of God- and a false prophet was supposed to be killed!!)
2. Jesus’ Works- Jn 5:36 But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me. (Did Jesus ever do Wrong? Did He ever act out of selfish motives??)
3. The Heavenly Father- Jn 5:37 And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. (Baptism: “This is my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”)
4. The Scriptures- Jn 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they that testify of me. (Adam’s promised deliverer, Israel’s Passover lamb, and David’s Good Shepherd all point to Christ)
5. His Own Words- Jn 8:14 Jesus answered and said unto them, Though I bear record of myself, yet my record is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go; (He could bear witness because He knew who He was and God’s purpose for His life.)
6. The Holy Spirit- Jn 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: (With our spirit and thru the Scriptures)
7. Christians- Jn 15:27 And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning. (For 2000 years multitudes have proclaimed that Christ is the Son of God and Saviour of Men. Were all these wrong??)
In a court of law, two witnesses are normally all that are needed to convict a man. Jesus listed 7 different witnesses to His claim of being the Son of God. You must decide today whether you will believe these witnesses or continue on your way to a Devil’s Hell. For the amazing thing about this “Trial” is that YOU receive the sentence!! The wages of Sin is death!!
Jn 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
Believe- have everlasting life / Unbelief- Condemnation—death

John 5:22-23 Reciprocal Honor

Jn 5:22-23 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgement unto the son: That all men should Honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He that honoreth not the son honoreth not the Father which hath sent him.
This is the time of the Proud Parent- Parents look at children graduating or receiving honors in school and “swell with pride” at what “THEY’VE” accomplished. When one part of the family receives Honor every part accepts that Honor. (Sadly, this works in reverse also- If a child in the family suffers failure or problems then everyone else in the family suffers with them. “I Cor 12:26 Whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it .”). Jesus says in today’s text that that same principle applies to the Spiritual realm also. Let’s look at how this “Reciprocal Honor” works and then apply it to our lives.
Reciprocal Honor works in:
1. Family life– Ex 20:12 Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. Practice- Honor your father and mother (Respect for parents), Result- days may be long upon the land
2. Business life– Gen 30:27 And Laban said unto him(Jacob), I pray thee, if I have found favour in thine eyes, tarry: for I have learned by experience that the Lord hath blessed me for thy sake. Gen 39:5 And it came to pass from the time that he had made him (Joseph) 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. (See also 39:23 Joseph in Prison).
Practice- Godly dedication. (This is supposed to apply to even Preachers! I Tim 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine)
Result- Godly Blessings upon you and those you work with.
3. Social life– Luke 14:8 When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him: and he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. Prov 15:33…before Honor is Humility. Paul told the Romans that Christians were to “in honor prefer one another” (12:10); that is, build each other up, not tear each other down!
Practice- Seek not to exalt yourself. Remember to Honor those who deserve Honor- Rom 13:7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
Result- Ye will be exalted IN DUE TIME
4. Religious life–
A) Salvation: Matt 10:32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him shall I confess before my Father which is in Heaven Ps 91:14-16 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him, and show him my salvation.
B) Service- Jn 12:26 If any man serve me, let him follow me, and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honor. DOING GOD’S WORK HONOR’S GOD- “DUCKING” GOD’S WORK DISHONORS GOD. I Sam 2:29-30 Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded in my habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people? Wherefore the Lord God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the Lord saith, Be it far from me; for them that honor me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.
C) Sacrifice- The example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego- They did not know if God would deliver them but they Honored God and God honored them.
D) Substance- Prov 3:9-10 Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first fruit of all thine increase: so shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
1. BE REALISTIC– –Faith does not put us in the driver’s seat giving orders to God on how to run the universe or what to do about a specific part of the universe that concerns us. Rather, Faith is believing the promises of God. (“Prophets of Prosperity” Page 21) God does not always give us the Honor we expect or want- the 3 Hebrew children were delivered; multitudes of other Christians died in the fire and God honored them as martyrs. Tithing every week will not make you a millionaire overnight. (Are you seeking to HONOR God or HOARD things for yourself???)
2. BE REAL– Mark 7:6 Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
DOES YOUR LIFE HONOR GOD??? WILL YOUR DEATH HONOR GOD- or will it be another sad case of rejecting God’s free Gift of Salvation thru Christ?????

John 05:40 MAKING LIFE WORK

And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life (John 5:40).
Many people live lives of quiet desperation. There always seems to be more month than money. On TV the couples always seem to fall hopelessly in love with one another and cannot get enough of holding and hugging. In your world your wife holds you real close for a moment and then says, “We need to look at changing the deodorant you use.” Making life work as it should is a challenge!
Jesus said He came to give us life and that more abundantly (John 10:10).
1) Our life does not work when we limit God’s ability to work in us by
A) Sin in our life: If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: (Psalms 66:18).
B) Rebellion against God’s Plan for our life- Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel (Psalms 78:41). Our rebellion limits what God can do IN us, THROUGH us, and FOR us.
2) Our life does not work when we refuse to Acknowledge our Problems – You must name it before you can change it. Over and over Jesus asked people “What do you desire?” (Financial: You can handle money or money will handle you).
A) Admit Problems exist; do not pretend they are not real. Jesus could not change the Pharisees because they would not admit they needed to be changed. Feeling “Bad” about yourself does not change your conduct.
B) Do what you can, where you are, with what you have. What kind of Doctor would tell you to come back later because only One of your legs was broken right now!
C) Talk with God about your problem (Prayer)- Ask God for Wisdom to know how to deal with the Problem and believe He will Help you- If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord (James 1:5-7).
Our Scripture said the problem was our resistance to coming to God- You will not come to me, that you might have life (John 5:40). We must desire to Walk with God and allow Him to work in our life. The Missing Ingredient in many people’s relationship with God is that they will not allow the Holy Spirit to work in their life.
A man had just purchased a new push mower to replace one that had become extremely frustrating to use because it was almost impossible to crank. He told his son to put gas in the new mower while he finished some things in the house and he would be out soon to crank it and make sure everything worked as it should before they cut the grass.
When the man went outside and tried to crank the new mower it would not crank no matter how much he pulled the starter cord or adjusted the controls. Frustrated beyond words that this new mower was acting just like the one it was replacing the man angrily grabbed the handle of the mower and slung it around- – where it connected with a fence post he had forgotten was there and warped and bent his new mower beyond use. Just at that moment the man looked up and saw his son come into the yard holding a gas can and saying, “Dad we were out of gas so I had to go get some.”
To try to do the work of God without the power of God is like trying to empty the ocean with a pitchfork- you will work all day and end up doing more harm than good. New methods and new programs may look exciting and show great potential but human effort without divine power produces frustration and failure instead of marvels and miracles.

John 05:40 NOT DYING IS NOT THE SAME AS LIVING

And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life (John 5:40). 4-19-20 Drive in Service Tabernacle FWBC
Many people live lives of quiet desperation. There always seems to be more month than money. On TV the couples always seem to fall hopelessly in love with one another and cannot get enough of holding and hugging. In your world your wife holds you real close for a moment and then says, “We need to look at changing your deodorant!”
Making life work as it should is a challenge as people learn that Not Dying is not the same as living. Surviving is not the same as thriving. Adequate life is not the same as abundant life.
The Coronavirus scare is a good illustration:
Foolish: We can handle a crisis situation as Abner- And the king lamented over Abner, and said, Died Abner as a fool dieth? (2 Samuel 3:33). Playing in the street, pretending there is no traffic coming may work for a while but sooner or later things will come to a tragic end.
Fearful: Go not forth into the field, nor walk by the way; for the sword of the enemy (death) and fear is on every side (Jeremiah 6:25). You can hide from a tiger in a cave but the tiger will just wait for you to come out.
For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears (2 Corinthians 7:5).
Faith: Come unto Jesus and learn to live an Abundant Life regardless of the circumstances. Our Scripture said the problem was our resistance to coming to God- You will not come to me, that you might have life (John 5:40). We must desire to Walk with God and allow Him to work in our life.
God allowed problems in the lives of Bible People to provide Rest (Captivity), Reflection (Elijah), Read (Paul), Re-join Family (Joseph Egypt), Reach out (Philippian Jailor).
The Missing Ingredient in many people’s life is that they are trying to live it without God. A man had just purchased a new push mower to replace one that had become extremely frustrating to use because it was almost impossible to crank. He told his son to put gas in the new mower while he finished some things in the house and he would be out soon to crank it and make sure everything worked as it should before they cut the grass.
When the man went outside and tried to crank the new mower it would not crank no matter how much he pulled the starter cord or adjusted the controls. Frustrated beyond words that this new mower was acting just like the one it was replacing the man angrily grabbed the handle of the mower and slung it around- – where it connected with a fence post he had forgotten was there and warped and bent his new mower beyond use. Just at that moment the man looked up and saw his son come into the yard holding a gas can and saying, “Dad we were out of gas so I had to go get some.”
Life is not Abundant Life when we limit our Partnership with God:
A) Sin in our life limits our Prayer Life: If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: (Psalms 66:18). Answered Prayer about Brother Carlisle’s sickness.
B) Rebellion against God’s Plan for our life limits what God can do IN us, THROUGH us, and FOR us.- Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel (Psalms 78:41).
Not Dying is not the same as living an abundant life. You can hibernate or you can celebrate. Which will you do? To try to do the work of God without the power of God is like trying to empty the ocean with a pitchfork- you will work all day and end up doing more harm than good.

John 6:- Testing Times

Into every life a little rain must fall (Land that receives only sun becomes desert!). In the first half of chapter 6 Jesus allows His disciples to be tested in order for them to develop into the “Disciples” they should be (A disciple is one who learns the DISCIPLINES of his master. Are you seeking to be more like Christ, or just have more??).
Jesus returned to his home county of Galilee where a large crowd followed him because of the miracles He did. He was up on a mountain with His disciples (probably to instruct them) when He looked down and saw a large crowd of people coming to him. He decided this would be a good time to train some of His disciples in the practical aspects of Godly living so He put them to the test and then performed another miracle. (Do you know the answers in Sunday School? Do you mouth the words in Preaching? Do you fail the test in the “real world”???? Can you apply our songs, sermons, and sayings to what you live??).
Several Important things to keep in mind:
1. This was a very important miracle: All 4 Gospel writers write of it. It also happened before a large crowd and allowed Jesus to give His great discourse on the “Bread of Life”.
2. God will NEVER tempt you to do wrong– James 1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:– Every time God puts us to the test it is to DEVELOP us; not DESTROY us. You can rest in God’s LOVE. (Ask for notes on James “Faith on Trial”)
I. PHILIP’S TEST– (vs 6 This he said to prove him:) Where will we buy bread, that this great crowd of people may eat? (If you were me, how would you handle this problem?). Philip failed because he looked at:
A) The circumstances- “200 pennyworth (Nearly a year’s pay) of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.”. Do you fail the test when the money gets slim?
B) The CROWD instead of at CHRIST. (Jn 14:9 Jesus said to Philip, “Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me?”). Have you come to Church for a long time and yet don’t know what it is to allow Christ to rule and reign in your life??
II. THE DISCIPLES TEST– Jesus had “run away” from the crowd’s attempt to make Him King. Instead of going with Him to Pray the Disciples decided to return to Capernaum (Disappointed (??) that Jesus did not do things the way they assumed He would.). It grew dark (It always does without Jesus!) as they rowed and then they felt the wind begin to blow up a storm. They tried with all their self effort to fight the storm but failed. (Have you “left Jesus” to go your own way because God didn’t work the way you thought He should and now don’t know how to handle life?)
When the Disciples saw Jesus coming to them they were fearful instead of faithful. Sometimes we are the same way. We fear God’s work in our lives, not realizing that when He “comes aboard” the storms will pass and peace will come.
III. THE MULTITUDE failed the test because all they were interested in was the immediate physical need- vs 26 Jesus answered and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Will you “sell your birthright” for a mess of pottage like Esau?? Will you refuse to yield your money to Christ like the rich young ruler??
God makes a covenant with His people. HE will never break it and He will honor it as long as you don’t break it. Sadly, in many lives people don’t seem to realize when they’re put to the test and end up failing….and it changes them for life.
Abraham was put to the test about sacrificing his son, Isaac:Gen 22:1-2 And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt (Test) Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham:…Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and…offer him there for a burnt offering. 22:16 And (God) said, By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son: That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, …because thou hast obeyed my voice.
Joseph’s trial was as the son that was sacrificed! Ps 105:17-19 He sent a man before them, even Joseph…whose feet they hurt with fetters; he was laid in iron: Until…the word of the Lord tried him. Betrayed by his brothers, his master’s wife, and Pharaoh’s butler yet he remained true to God and God promoted him to honor as the “Vice-President” of Egypt.
Israel failed the test at the door of Canaan and died in the desert (Lack of Faith to Fight). Moses failed his test at the rock by hitting it instead of speaking to it and missed going into the promised land (Allowed People Problems to overcome God’s Word). Demas loved this present world and left the ministry–and was tagged with the eternal epitaph of a “quitter”.
Are you going thru a “testing time” today??? Are you going to keep on trusting God or are you going to miss the opportunity to grow and develop as a Christian??? Blessings await the Faithful. Will you pass the test and be Blessed or fail and miss God’s plan for your life??

John 06:1-12 USING A LITTLE TO REACH A LOT

It is amazing the Jesus did not try to GET a crowd; He tried to GET AWAY from the crowd in order to get needed Rest: And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat (Mark 6:31). But this did not keep Jesus from seeing and meeting needs: And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things (Mark 6:34).
At the end of the day’s sermon Jesus recognized that the crowd needed Physical nourishment as well as Spiritual nourishment so He commanded His disciples to feed them. This surprised the disciples because they had no food. Then Jesus did something so extraordinary until it is one of the few miracles recorded in all four of the gospels- He used a little boy’s lunch to feed 5000. And He began this miracle by Giving Thanks (vs 11)
If the Church is to do “Godly Good” in the world we must learn to do like Jesus; use a little to reach a lot.
I. PROMOTION.
A) Programs which are interesting
B) Power that is manifested
C) People that share the program and care about helping people.

II PARTICIPATION.
A) Philip was made to grow thru questions
B) Andrew was made to grow in Faith
Philip was looking for ANSWERS; Andrew was looking for FOOD! Some people will be reached by programs; others by participation.
III ORGANIZATION.
A) The multitude was organized into groups (Find areas of need for everyone to work: widows, sick, phone, mail, personal, new contacts, Members who need “petting”…)
B) The Disciples were shown that Prayer for God’s Blessings comes before Physical distribution.
IV FOLLOW-UP.
A) To preserve the gains- “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost”
B) To carry thru on “common days”. This bread was either sold to provide money for the ministry or kept to feed the disciples. Every day is not a “miracle day”. You will need to “feed” off the Great days during the Grueling days.
What do YOU have that God can use? It may appear too small for the job but God can take it and “Feed the World”. A “Bantam Egg” is small but she “did what she could”. Jesus used water to make wine at a wedding, He took clay and made a “miracle drug” to cure blindness, and He took a “half blind” dwarf of a Pharisee and made him a world changing Disciple (Paul).
Are you WILLING for God to use you today?
Are you READY for God to use you today?
Will you give your “lunch to the Lord” and let Him use you, and what you have, to feed a starving world?

John 06:1-12 THAT NOTHING BE LOST

This scripture includes one of the most famous the Lord ever worked, the feeding of the 5000. But Jesus shows here that He not only cares for the big but that he also cares for the small.
1. LOT LOST HIS FAMILY Gen:19
a. We need an example of righteousness at home
b. We need family devotion at home
c. Satan is trying to destroy our homes
2. DAVID LOST HIS JOY Psalm 51
a. This was a man after God’s own heart
b. His joy was gone after his sin with Bathsheba
c. It is the joy of the Lord that keeps us going to prayer meeting, soul winning, etc.
3. THOMAS LOST THE REALTY OF HIS FAITH John 20
a. Thomas was always a pessimist Jn. 11
b. Thomas did not believe the words of Christ
c. The God of the scriptures is our God
4. PETER LOST THE TESTIMONY HE HAD Luke 22, 23
a. He boasted of his zeal for the Lord
b. He betrayed the Lord at the enemies fire
c. Your testimony can bring glory or reproach on you and your church
5. BUT THE SADDEST OF ALL IS THAT A MAN MAY LOSE HIS SOUL
a. It is the eternal part of man
b. The importance of Mark 8:36-37

John 06:3-13 PHILIP AND THE BREAD

Many people prepare themselves for the big sacrifices they expect to make for Christ but fail to serve him in the small situations of life. We need to realize that most people will face decisions about giving bread for the Lord instead of facing a Lion’s den. In today’s scripture, Jesus brings Philip to a major test involving a hungry crowd and a few loafs of bread. It’s a test we all can relate to.
I. WHY DID JESUS ASK PHILIP WHAT SHOULD BE DONE? vs 6
A) To PROVE Philip’s: (The Trying of Faith works Patience)
1> Love- Do you have compassion on the Multitude? Are they an annoyance or an opportunity?
2> Faith- He had to learn to Pray in Faith- Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, (Eph 3:20)
3> Sympathy- Bethsaida was Philip’s home town. If you won’t help those close to you then you will fail with those far away.
B) To Develop COOPERATION among the Disciples- Learning to handle a problem together- Philip said couldn’t do anything. Andrew said could do Something. They learned to see various viewpoints.
NOTE– Jesus Knew what He was going to do before he asked Philip- Prayer is not for you to instruct God but for God to instruct You–But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. (Mat 6:7-8)
Since Jesus knew what He would do there was no need of Panic or Haste- Remember that in your work for God.
II. THE LESSON OF THE BREAD.
A) The PROVIDENCE of God- Having the Boy with the food present. God feeds the sparrows, surely He knows what YOU will need.
B) The PROMINENCE of the Lad- Like Esther, who knows if you are come to the kingdom for such an hour as this. He got to meet Christ. Was willing to use what he had for God
C) The POSITION of the Bread-
1> Put into the Hands of Christ. That made it a Miracle
2> Put at the Disposal of Christ- God loves us for what we are becoming- Augustine. God sees what the Loaf can become.
D) The PARTNERSHIP of the Disciples- They shared the Blessed Bread with the Needy- We are to use what we have trusting God. Use it now; Manna is no good a day old!
III. THE RESULTS OF DEDICATED BREAD
A) Misery removed- The Hungry were fed
B) Christ Glorified- Crowd saw His power
C) Fragments remained to feed Disciples and Jesus (Giving to others makes a way for God to give to us).
We, at Grace, may have nothing but fishes and loaves but God can feed multitudes with them if we are willing to give them to Him. Give your meager talent to the Lord today and expect Him to feed a Multitude!

John 6:24-33 Seeking the Savior

While Jesus was teaching His disciples a large crowd came to Him. He used 2 fish and 5 loaves to feed them and then escaped when they tried to make Him a King. He went into the mountains to Pray while the disciples decided to sail across the lake. A storm came up and the disciples were in trouble until Jesus came to them walking on the water. The next day the multitude found ships and sought to find Jesus. When they found Him they asked him how He had gotten there (They had seen the disciples leave alone and did not know that Jesus had walked on the water to them.). Instead of answering their question (and proclaiming His miraculous powers over nature!!) He made them look at the reasons they were seeking Him in the first place.
One of the greatest things about Jesus as a man was His ability to “strip away the veneer” and get to the heart of a person. Eventually it made Him many enemies and led to His crucifixion but it remains the heart of the Christian Message. Christians are to proclaim the Truth- not as people want it to be; but as it really is. This “light” that shines on the darkness of the human soul causes many to reject our message (You can listen to a lie for so long until you actually begin to believe it’s the truth!! II Thess 2:10-11) and many more to turn back (see 6:66) but it is something we desperately need—-because we will stand within this “light” when we face judgment.
Jesus told this crowd that they were seeking Him to meet their Physical needs and not their Spiritual needs. They were simply looking for more bread- ignoring where the bread came from or what it meant. That same situation exist today.
Some Seek the Lord for SELFISH REASONS– Ez 4:1-2 The adversaries…came to Zerubbabel, and said, Let us build with you; for we seek your God, as ye do;. (Their real intent was to weaken the people and lead them astray- vs 4-5). (Lady who got “saved” and joined church Sunday Morning so she could use it in her custody battle the next week)
The Bible tells us to “lay hands suddenly on no man” and to try a man before he is ordained to Preach or be a Deacon. Satan’s false Prophets will try to trick God’s people and we need to be “cautiously friendly”. (Many people will not attend Church unless they have a job- making their reasons for coming questionable.)
Some seek the Lord only during TROUBLES. Every time they have a crisis in their life they will start coming to Church and stop as soon as things ease up.
Some seek the Lord every time they turn over a NEW LEAF. They determine to do better and so they will attend a few services; then the pressures of life or laziness of the flesh interfere and they fall by the way side.
SO MANY PEOPLE SEEM TO JUST LOOK FOR BREAD. WHEN YOUR CRISIS COMES YOU NEED MORE THAN FOOD. ISN’T IT TIME YOU SOUGHT THE LORD INSTEAD OF THE LOAF???
I. WHEN SHOULD YOU SEEK THE LORD?? SEEK THE LORD EARLY– Ps 63:1 O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; (Remember now thy creator in days of youth- before life situations can’t be changed.). The 3 “Most Important Decision” a person make are generally made by the time they’re 25: 1) Mate, 2) Job, and 3) Salvation
II. HOW SHOULD YOU SEEK THE LORD?
A) Diligently seek God by Faith- Heb 11:6 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. (Diligently- With careful attention, Industry) AS BREAD FOR A HUNGRY MAN.
B) Whole Heartedly- Deut 4:29 If thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. (Undividedly. Let dead bury dead). WHEN HUNGRY YOU DON’T NEED FUN YOU NEED FOOD!!
C) Continuously- Matt 7:7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek (and keep on seeking), and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. (Not a moment’s decision, A life time goal). DAILY BREAD.
III. WHAT SHOULD YOU SEEK FROM GOD? SEEK THE RIGHT THINGS–
A) Not a SIGN-I Cor 1:22 For the Jews require a sign,
B) Nor “SENSE”- and the Greeks seek after wisdom
C) Nor SELF- Phil 2:21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.
DON’T SEEK YOUR OWN WAY– Num 15:39-40 (Ye shall have a fringe upon your garment), that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the Lord, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring: That ye may remember, and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God.
GET YOUR PRIORITIES IN ORDER– Matt 6:33 Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
What you should seek is a LOVING RELATIONSHIP with Christ. Seek to Know Him as Saviour and Serve Him as Lord.
Are you looking for another “loaf of bread” that will satisfy only for the moment?? Or are you looking for the Bread of Life that satisfies the Hunger in your soul??

John 6:28-29 THE FOLLY OF FAITHLESSNESS

We are living in a sick, sad, sinful world. There are plenty of specialists doctoring the sickness, but they are treating the symptoms, and not the cause (Someone has said that if all the experts were laid in a row, they never would reach a conclusion!). In the midst of this sickness stands the great physician with the answer to every need and the solution to every problem. But man will not receive him and stumble at the Gospel of Faith. Therefore we can lay the world’s problems at the feet of “Unbelief”– and the Church’s also!!!
I. THE RESULTS OF UNBELIEF
A) Loss of Place- Rom 11:20 Israel was broken off and set aside as God’s chosen people because of unbelief. People, nations, and even Churches (See Rev 2 where Christ threatens to remove their candlestick) can be set aside.
B) Loss of Privileges- Matt 13:58 Jesus did no mighty works in Nazareth because of unbelief. He wants to save and sanctify men and live his life in them, but he cannot do his mighty works because of unbelief. Power is available but not used- It’s like living in the dark because you don’t understand everything about electricity!
C) Loss of Possessions- Heb 3:19 The Jews who came out of Egypt with Moses could not enter Canaan because of unbelief- They began but quit because of Problems.
D) Loss of Power- Matt 17:20 The disciples could not cast out the evil spirit from the demon possessed boy because of unbelief. Like a cancer unbelief saps the strength.
II. THE PROBLEM OF LITTLE FAITH
A) For daily Care- Matt 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Cast all your cares upon him for He cares for you. (Example of woman who wrote out her prayer and brought it to the butcher. He asked how much a prayer weighed and put it on the scale. First he put a small piece of meat on the other side; then a larger one; and then more, until finally he told the woman to take the meat and go. When he checked after she had left, he found the scale broken– but why had it broken at exactly the moment he put the prayer on it!!)
B) For the Fears of Life- Matt 8:26 Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Even though you’re in the midst of a storm tossed sea. When we are fearful we are not believing- I John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. Gal 5:6 says that Faith worketh by love so faith based on love casts out fear. Peter walked on the waters as long as he kept his eyes on Jesus and not on the circumstances- Ps 112:7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings, his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord
C) For the World’s Supply- Matt 16:8 O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because we have brought no bread. He fed the multitude with 2 fish and 5 loaves. He fed the Preacher, the widow, and her boy on an empty meal barrel. II Cor 9:8 God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work. Ephesians 3:20 Now unto him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.
The Problem is not the AMOUNT of Faith (Luke 17:6 If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamore tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you. but in the PUTTING OF IT INTO ACTION.
Christ always demands that we EXERCISE THE FAITH WE HAVE– Stretch forth thy hand, rise, take up thy bed and walk, put faith into action, be not faithless but believing.
This final word of Caution- Faith must be IN CHRIST– not in our ability TO DO or even in our ability TO BE like Him. The Work of God is that we BELIEVE on Him whom He has sent.
Faith is not a “Magic Portion” that allows you to ORDER GOD around for your own pleasure. It is not “Wishful Thinking” that allows you to want a million dollars and expect to receive the check in the mail tomorrow- It must be based on the WILL and WORD of God.
Have faith in God’s will to Save you- Not willing that any perish. Have faith in God’s will to Sustain you- I will never leave nor forsake you.

John 06:35 JESUS IS BETTER THAN YOU THINK

If this church closed would it make a difference in this community? Must the church become different in order to make a difference? What is the core message of this Church?
When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden it not only broke God’s Law; it broke God’s heart. God regularly came down and walked with Adam and Eve in the cool of the day and enjoyed their companionship. Sin in their life broke that fellowship AND STYMIED GOD’S ULTIMATE GOAL FOR MANKIND: FELLOWSHIP.
When Jesus came to earth He did not simply come to die to deliver you FROM Hell; He came to pay sin’s debts so you and God could again be in fellowship. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. (John 15:15).
When you come to faith in Christ your life is not about existing on earth until one day you meet God the Father in Heaven. Faith in Christ means you invite God into your body (Your body becomes the temple of the Holy Spirit) and your life (Paul said, “For to me to live is Christ.”)
God calls us to KNOW Him and to make Him Known. When Moses asked God for His name God said tell them, “I AM hath sent you.” [Ex 3:13-14]. When Jesus ministered His messages centered on “I AM” [He used it 23 times in John’s Gospel].
Jesus’ message was HIMSELF. He did not come to PREACH the Gospel; He IS the Gospel. He did not come to GIVE Bread; He said, I am the Bread. He did not come to SHED light; He said, I am the Light. He did not come to SHOW the door; He is the Door. He did not come to POINT the way; He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Many people, however, look at what Jesus did instead of who He is. Let’s look at 7 times in John’s Gospel that Jesus used “I AM” and see how wonderful this new relationship is.
1. SATISFACTION (The Bread of Life)- 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. “I have found the pleasure I once craved, It is joy and peace within”
2. ILLUMINATION (The Light of the World)- 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
A) Direction- “he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness”} Guides us thru life’s pathways. Showing where to go and what to avoid.
B) Detection- Jn 3:20-21 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
C) Reflection- 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. Matt 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify our Father which is in heaven.
3. ACCESS [I was always the “no you take him” guy. Jesus took me!] (The Door- 10:9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
Jesus is the ONLY WAY- 10:1 He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
4. COMMITMENT [Jesus will never leave or forsake you]-10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
10:14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. Our Shepherd knows our limitations and our abilities. He knows when we are down and when we need that “special care”. He even knows the number of hairs on our head!!!
We are supposed to know His voice when He calls
5. ETERNAL HOPE– 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life; he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
6. THE EXAMPLE OF GOD’S CHARACTER– 14:6-7 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also; and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
Jesus is the Way to the Father, The Truth about the Father, and the Life the Father wants us to live.
7. THE WAY TO GIVE MEANING, PURPOSE, AND FRUITFULNESS TO YOUR LIFE 15:1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman..
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing (John 15:4-5).
It is not my ability that produces fruit; it is my abiding. When I remain in Him then fruit will come in my life. When I lift HIM up then men will be drawn to Him for Salvation.
Jesus did not come to establish a new Religion. He came to establish a new Relationship. He did not die for your sins so you could simply “make it to heaven one day”. His blood paid your sin debt so “as many as believe on his name, to them gave he power to become the sons of God” right now! Glory!
Jesus is better than you think. He does not simply HAVE what you need today. HE IS WHAT YOU NEED. You think you cannot live it. Jesus said I will live it with you!

John 6:52-71 When the Going Gets Tough

Jesus has fed the multitude and they would have gladly followed Him. Now the Picnic is over and He tells them to think of spiritual things. Soon the crowd drifts away. It is easy to follow Him when we are on the receiving end but men tend to lose interest when they are called upon to give of themselves.
You can almost understand when some of the “Comfort Crowd” fall away but some of Jesus’ disciples left Him also. This is indeed a tragedy. Yet the same thing is happening today. Their are many people who are forsaking the Lord to follow their own ways. They once showed a great interest in Christ and His work but now they seldom even go thru the motions. (The cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lust of other things have entered in and choked the word and it has become unfruitful).
What caused these people to fall back??? Did they gain or lose by doing so??? Let’s see.
I. The Demands– 52-58 “Eat my flesh and drink my blood” Not Physically”: God does not demand cannibalism!! And drinking Blood was condemned by God through out the Bible. Eating and Drinking symbolize the two main needs of a person (Jesus had been talking to these men about bread so it was just natural that He would use this as an illustration.). Here Jesus is saying that His death on the Cross (Where His body was broken and His blood was shed) meet all the needs of a man. Many are unwilling to accept this because it does not allow them to claim they saved themselves.
There are many who turn back today because of the “Demands” that Jesus makes upon them that they do not understand- If you gave a child everything it desired it would be spoiled for life; yet many expect God to give in to their every whim and blame God when things don’t go their way. Others would rather not develop Character if it means going through tough times and difficult circumstances. Jesus calls us to Take up our Cross and follow Him. Too many people this means the lose of everything; to those who have obeyed Christ it means life more abundant!!
II. The Doctrines 59-65 Some of the Disciples found this a “hard pill to swallow” and began to murmur. Instead of easing up, Jesus continued to “apply the Pressure”.
First He told them to watch and they’d see Him ascend back to Heaven where He was before. This is the doctrine of SONSHIP. Do you really believe that Jesus is the Son of God?? Not just a great prophet but the Son of God. If so, then you can trust what He does TO you and FOR you.
Then there was the doctrine of the SPIRIT–
a) The Spirit gives life. NOTHING the flesh does profits. Yet we major on the Flesh and ignore the Spirit.
b) The Spirit draws us to the Father- men are not saved when they want to be saved, they must come on God’s terms and at God’s time.
III. The Decision 66-71 “Will ye also go away?”
To Whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.
Some go to the “god” of Pleasure, some to the demon of drink or drugs, some simply turn in on themselves and hide their head in the sand like the ostrich; simply ignoring life until they die or are forced to face situations. As bad as this is, yet it is not as bad as some Christians who forsake the Lord (It is better not to have known the Lord than after you know him to turn again to the weak and beggarly elements See II Pet 2:20).
How do people forsake Him??
1. Some Forsake Him in Prayer- At one time you were a “Prayer Warrior” now you hardly ever Pray.
2. Some forsake Him in Service- Once you served Him, now you serve self. The old time lamplighter used to leave a “Trail” of light behind them as they went about their work. Do you leave Light or Darkness behind you??
3. Some Forsake His House- Miss more than come, unwilling to work
4. Some forsake Him in the matter of Giving- They started out well but personal comfort or a “crisis” made them stop and now they give little; and that with no system.
Once there was a P.O.W. who learned to communicate with the next cell by tapping out Morse code. One day he tapped out a message to the Pastor in the next cell, “It is Hell to be alone with one’s self”. The Pastor tapped back, “It is Heaven to be alone with one’s Savior”. The difference is the Savior!! Do you have this difference in your life today?? When the going gets tough do you RUN from Life– Or REST in the LORD??

John 06:66 69 WHY FEW ARE SAVED, MANY ARE LOST

INTRODUCTION – The Two Questions (66 68)
A) Jesus performed many miracles Jn 20:30 31
1. This miracle (Jn 6:5 13, The feeding of the multitude with 2 fishes and 5 loaves) is recorded in all of the Gospels.
2. This miracle speaks of His broken body
B) John gives us the record of this miracle because there are many lessons to be learned from it.
C) I am surprised when I come to the close of the record of this miracle:
I see:
5 thousand men with wives and children sitting on grassy slopes
behold with open eyes the greatest miracle of the Son of God manifested
eat bread that literally came from Heaven
behold a miracle before their eyes from the Son of God.
D) But at the close I do not find what I expect to find – the multitude falling at His feet and acknowledging Him as Lord; instead I see:
1. the multitude has been divided – a large group and a small group
2. the large group turns their back upon the Son of God and leaves
3. 13 lonely men stand upon those grassy slopes and as the multitude leaves Jesus turns to the 12 and asks them, “Will ye also go away?”
E) God divides the world – large = unsaved, small = saved

John 7:1-19 Opposition

MOST CHURCH PROBLEMS RESULT FROM EITHER GUILT (about lack of duty or devotion) OR FRUSTRATION (Over lack of participation or recognition). Often these Problems turn into “Personality Conflicts” which results in people criticizing one another
In today’s lesson Jesus is now faced with Criticism and opposition. There are a number of reasons for this:
1. NEW AND DIFFERENT IDEAS– Persecution began because he had cured the lame man at the pool of Bethesda on the Sabbath. The Religious leaders in Jerusalem sought to kill him and He now had to teach in Galilee instead of Judea. vs 1 There are several things to remember about new Ideas:
(a) The Implication: Sometimes you come across as if you’re say, “I’m much smarter than you because I see this my way and you should have seen it this way long ago!!”;
(b) The “Golden Ball” idea: You have thought about this idea for a long time and have worked thru many of the “mazes” that are involved in it. Yet you throw it on the table and expect everyone else to immediately grasp what you have taken a long time to think thru.
(c) People have an inbred resistance to new directions (Even in the physical world it is difficult to move an object sitting still or to change the course of a moving object). Jesus knew all these things about new Ideas but He also knew that these men needed to leave the path Human reasoning had brought them down and He had to face Persecution in order to do this.
2. JEALOUSY– Problems at Home: His brethern began to pressure him to declare himself openly as the Messiah so they could bask in the glory with him or else expose him for a fake in their jealousy. vs 3-5. A “Prophet is not without honor expect in his own home”. The most difficult people to persuade are those who see us every day.
3. FAILING TO MEET PEOPLE’S EXPECTATIONS– Jesus’ Popularity as a “miracle worker” was coming to an end because He did not function in the way that people thought He should. vs 12 and 43 (Sometimes the worst things a Preacher can do is listen to someone’s compliment about his sermon. Then he tries to meet their expectations instead of following God’s will. Sometimes a preacher “works himself to death” trying to be what everyone expects instead of what God wants.)
WHAT TO DO WITH CRITICISM:
A) Expect it- To avoid Criticism- say nothing, do nothing, be nothing
B) Profit from it- When Abraham Lincoln was told that Stanton had called him a “fool” he responded, “Stanton is a wise man, If he said I am a fool, then I had better look into the matter”.
1. Is it True? If so correct it.
2. If it isn’t true, what can I do to avoid it? (Sometimes we “Blow smoke” and people think there is fire!!)
C) Forget it- President Lincoln once said, “I do the best I know how, the very best I can. I mean to keep on doing this, down to the very end. If the end brings me out all wrong, then ten angels swearing I had been right would make no difference. If the end brings me out all right, then what is said against me now will not amount to anything.” I Cor 4:4-5 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
Trusting- Living with a Christian does not make you one. (Jesus’ brothers did not believe.) It gives us the opportunity to witness and work with. (Later believed).
Timing- Patience needed. Boldness needed when time right.
Talking- Some talked good of him, some bad- all “Whispered”
Teaching- Divine Instruction- God’s Doctrine
Doing Instruction- Do will and you will know
Judging
According to Appearance
According to Arguments
Living Waters 37-53
Drink it
Division results

John 7:14-31 THE BASIS OF CONFIDENCE

Jn 7:14-31 vs 26 But, lo, he speaketh boldly, and they say nothing unto him. Do the rulers know indeed that this is the very Christ?
There are multitudes of “Doctrines” and “Beliefs” in the world today. Some people are more and more confused about all the different voices that are directed at them. Things that used to seem all “black and white” now seem muddled in shades of gray. Because of this many have lost confidence in themselves, in the world, and even in God. We need to find the basis of Confidence and start living life instead of allowing it to “run over us”.
Jesus gives several things in this chapter that allow us to see how He remained confident even when family, friends, and the world turned against Him.
I. AWARENESS OF GOD’S PLAN FOR HIS LIFE– “My time is not yet come” vs 6. He did not need to “run ahead of God” by “Showing off” but was willing to wait patiently on the Lord’s time and honor. Do you know God’s “Path of Life” [Ps16:11] for you??
II. KNOWLEDGE OF THE BASIS OF HIS BELIEFS– “My doctrine in not mine, but his that sent me.” vs 16
A) Holy Spirit as a Teacher- vs 15 Jesus did not go to school
B) Proved in Practice- vs 17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine.
C) God exhalting- vs 18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.
D) Leads to a willingness to sacrifice for beliefs- vs 19 Why go ye about to kill me? A Total Commitment
III. SUSTAINED BY COMMITMENT; NOT CIRCUMSTANCES
A) Regulates your judgment- vs 24 Judge not according to appearance, but judge righteous judgment.
B) Follows God’s direction for life instead of self- “I am not come of myself,…for I am from Him, and he hath sent me.” vs 28-29
AND MANY OF THE PEOPLE BELIEVED ON HIM, AND SAID, WHEN CHRIST COMETH, WILL HE DO MORE MIRACLES THAN THESE WHICH THIS MAN HATH DONE? vs31

John 07:16-17 THE WILL OF GOD

There is nothing that a Christian wants more than to do the Will of God. Let’s look at some things about this will.
I. You have a responsibility to know God’s will. Ep 5:17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is (Literally- don’t be stupid but…).
II. The Requirements to recognize God’s Will:
A) Desire accompanied by a determination “If any man will do his will, he shall know…”
B) Dedication Rom 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethern, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
C) Recognize the need of Delay (“Paul, arise, and go into the city and it shall be told thee what to do”
D) The Deductions to be made
1. What does the Word of God say? (The Spirit will never lead you contrary to the Word of God. Sex, Alcohol, Drugs,
2. Is there an open door? Rev 3:8 behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.
3. Is there ability to do the will? Mute can’t preach (God is able to give you a spiritual Gift. Ep 4:7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.)
4. Is there Peace of Heart about it?

John 7:32-53 LIVING WATER

When I was a young boy we used to have to get water from a pump. You would have to go out and “prime The pump”, pump a bucket of water, bring it in; and then go do it again until you final got the washing machine full or the sink full. I didn’t like it and longed for running water. Too many Christians today are still “Pumping water” (and getting worn out) instead of enjoying the rivers of water from God. Jesus came to give us life and that more abundant– and to give us springs of water instead of burdensome buckets!
On the last day of the feast the Priest drew water from the pool of Siloam and brought it to the gate of the Temple where it was mixed with wine and poured on the sacrifice on the altar (We do not know where this “custom” came from. Evidently the Jews used it to symbolize death [Remember that blood and water flowed from Jesus at his death. Jn 19:34]).
Jesus uses this time to show men that their “forms” could not satisfy. They would leave their ceremony as empty as they were when they came. Like the woman at the well, they needed to find the “Satisfying Source” of life. [Will YOU leave Church today empty and “Thirsty” when God has what you need??].
NOTE– “As the Scriptures have said”- we do not know where the Scripture says this. It is an application of a general principle. We need to be aware that God gives us Principles as well as Precepts. Beware of just living by the Precepts. (See Matt 5:21-48 where Jesus says “Ye have heard” about murder, adultery, swearing, and revenge and then goes beyond the Precept to the Principle.)
I. THE CRAVING– THIRST: for a better life, to know God, for ease of conscience and peace of mind, for assurance of forgiveness of sins. SATISFACTION. Isn’t that what everyone is seeking??? Some look for it in Sin; some in Slavery to drugs, alcohol, lust or loot; but it’s like drinking Saltwater- the more you drink the worst off you are!!!!!
You know what is even sadder than a man dying of thirst? A man dying of thirst and not knowing it!! Doctors say that sometimes Children eat dirt because their body need certain minerals; how sad that some people “wallow in the dirt” and don’t even know what they need.
II. THE COMING– COME UNTO ME. As the Shade invites the hot weary traveler, as the smell of fresh cooking invites the hungry person, so Christ invites you to come to Him today.
A) Come for the Fellowship you need- Num 10:29 “come thou with us and we will do thee good:” (Never alone, never lonely)
B) Come for a Satisfying Portion- Is 55:1 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat;
C) Come for Rest of Soul- Matt 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Refreshment)
D) Come for a place of safety- Gen 7:1 Come into the Ark. Security
E) Come for Cleansing- Is 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord; though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
F) Come while God still calls- Rev 22:17 and the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.
Be AWARE that ignoring this call may result in “Ye shall seek me but shall not find me”- Rejecting Him may lead eventually to Him rejecting you!!!!- Heb 12:16-17 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears. Prov 1:24-26 Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; But he have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh;
III. THE CONTINUAL FLOW–
a) The “Center”: Out of His belly [ means “Heart”] . Jesus wanted them to know that it was not so much what you did but what you ARE (Which will determine what you do). Jesus is saying that when we come to Know Him that it will affect our Heart. This is not just an outward “change of clothing”; it affects our very being.
b) The Supply: “shall flow rivers of living water”. The illustration would be a stature in a garden which has water flowing from it. The idea is that the person will now be a constant source of refreshment for others.
c) The Source- vs 39 But this he spake of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive; for the Holy Ghost was not yet given, because that Jesus was not yet glorified.
SOURCES OF WATER IN THE BIBLE:
1. Water provided for Israel in the desert – rock that followed them. [SYMBOL OF CHRIST. (I Cor 10:4) Moses struck the first time but was supposed to speak to the next time. Salvation.]
2. Water provided for Israel and Judah in desert while fighting- dug ditches and God provided the water. II Kings 3:- [WORK/FAITH. Did their part-dug ditches, trusting God to do His part].
But this “water” is the Holy Spirit living within us- renewing us, refreshing us, revealing Christ TO us and IN us. He wants to take up residence in your life today. Will you let Him???
Is 55:1-2 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.

John 07:37-39 TAPPING THE POWER

In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) (John 7:37-39)
We have already discussed three vital issues:
(1) The Holy Spirit’s Power is AVAILABLE to, and NECESSARY in, the Christian’s life.
(2) The Holy Spirit’s Power on a person’s life is not evidenced by a performance (such as speaking in tongues) but is shown in the ability given to the person to perform his duties as a Christian.
(3) The command to be filled with the Holy Spirit is a COMMANDED action and a CONTINUOUS action- be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; (Eph 5:18) {“Be filled” here means to “Be being filled” with the Holy Spirit. Not a one time experience but a continuing process of being controlled by the Spirit as a man can be controlled by liquor}.
One of the things many young people are learning after Christmas is that toys have to have batteries to run and those batteries don’t last very long. This same thing is found in the Christian life. We must obtain a “Battery” to begin with by being Born Again; and that new found energy and enthusiasm begins to fade in the rat race of life. We want to do right but don’t know how to find the time and energy to accomplish what’s expected of us.
How do we get the “rivers of living water” that Jesus spoke about flowing in our life?
I. REALIZE THE POWER’S AVAILABILITY– In Eph 1:15-20, Paul prays for the Ephesians to become aware of the fact that God has given them the same power He used to resurrect Christ from the dead!! We live in the dark because we don’t know the power that’s available to us by simply flipping the switch by faith. The Power of God’s Spirit is not an “extra” for some special people; it’s the normal for anyone requesting it–If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? (Luke 11:13)
II. REST IN THE LORD– He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint (Isa 40:29-31). Stay close to the Source.
III. RESPOND BY FAITH– The main thing missing in many people’s Christian life is “JDI” (Just Do It). The Available Power must become Active Power. We don’t wait for a sign to believe we have some mystical power; we accept God’s word by Faith and act on it- If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself (John 7:17).
Don’t live in the Dark, Turn on the Power!

John 08: FORGIVING THE SINFUL

There has probably never been a more misunderstood portion of Scripture than today’s text. It has ben used to CONDONE more wrong and prevent people from CONDEMNING Evil than any other Scripture in the Bible. Everyone knows that “People who live in glass houses should not cast stones” and that it’s impossible for me to stand against sin in other people’s lives because I have sinned also!!! At the beginning of today’s message let us understand some very Basic things- The Bible does tell us to Judge not, that ye be not judged but it goes on to say that with the same judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged (Matt 7:1 2). This means that I need to be aware that I AM NOT DOING THE SAME THING THAT I AM JUDGING OTHERS FOR!!! (Paul warned about this also in Rom 2:1 3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?).
In the Greek in Today’s text Jesus tells these men that he that is without the SAME sin to cast the first stone. From the reaction it must mean that when Jesus called this an Adulterous and sinful generation He meant it literally. There is a distinct possibility that this was a “Set up” by the Pharisees. It would be unusual to find someone in the very act of adultery. It was also required the man as well as the woman be stoned. Did the Pharisees hire someone to set this up with this woman??
So, Yes, I am to be careful how I cast Stones at people— BUT I am not to ignore sin and allow people to go on in their wickedness. That means there are some things we must be aware of about Sin:
I. Sin Carries CONSEQUENCES:
1) Physical/Spiritual
Now/Later
You/Others
2) Public Exposure
Of Confessing To Christ- Every tongue shall confess-Rom 14:11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
Of giving account for every Idle Word- Mat 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
Thoughts of every heart exposed????? Mat 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
3) Pharisees Sins:
A) Rebellion against Christ as Messiah- Do YOU obey Him as Lord and Master??
B) Trying to Cover Sin with Self- Righteousness
C) Brought to Shame by their own Conscience.
II. SIN CARRIES CONDEMNATION: The Pleasures of sin always come with a hangover!
Self-Condemnation- This woman was taken in the very act of Adultery. She was guilty; and she knew it!! What drove her to such a wretched crime??
Personal Problems- unhappy marriage, desire for Love,…
Attitude of the People- when Jesus told the Pharisees to cast the first stone if without sin the words literally mean, “Without THIS Sin”!. Evidently this was an ADULTEROUS and sinful generation. Whatever the reasons the woman could find something to accuse her self of- just like you and I.
Even men of God recognized their unworthiness:
A] Abraham: I am but dust and ashes Gen 18:27
B] Job: Behold , I am vile Job 40:4
C] David: Behold, I was shapen in iniquity Ps 51:5
D] Ezra: I blush to lift up my face Ezra 9:6
E] Isaiah: I am undone…I am a man of unclean lips Is 6:5
F] Peter: I am a sinful man Luke 5:8
G] Paul: I am the chief of sinners I Tim 1:15
There are three things you should do with sin in your life:
a) Forsake it- Go and sin no more
b) Forgiveness for it- Neither do I condemn thee
c) Forget it- God does!! Cast into the sea of forgetfulness.
Are you so busy pointing out the sins of others until you fail to notice that your clothes are on fire!!
Have you escaped the Penalty of sin by trusting in Christ for Salvation?? Do it today.

John 8:23-59 LESSONS FROM THE LORD

I. VS 24 UNBELIEF BRINGS DEATH: I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins; for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
Remember the METHOD of Salvation:
1. Always by Blood. Blood must be innocent, shed, and applied.
2. Always by Grace. God provides the means
3. Always by Faith. In God’s Provision.
This Produces Peace with God but sometimes we begin to think that God has DONE something for us and now we must try to live on our own! That is why we fail so often and live so miserably- WE’RE TRYING TO DO WHAT ONLY CHRIST LIVING IN US CAN DO!!
The Bible is full of TYPES that show what Accepting Christ does for and in us:
Adam and Eve shows that Salvation CLOTHES us.
The Ark and the Passover show that Salvation PROTECTS us.
The Brazen Serpent shows that Salvation CURES us.
Naaman dipping in the Jordan shows that Salvation CLEANSES us.
The Tabernacle Shows that Salvation RESTORES FELLOWSHIP with God.
DO YOU PLAY AT CHRISTIANITY??? OR DO YOU HAVE LIFE BECAUSE YOU HAVE CHRIST???
NOTE: I am NOT saying that Christians should not work IN their Salvation; just not FOR.
vs 31- FAITH PRODUCES WORKS If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
Jn 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me; (When I first typed this I typed it “he it is that LIVETH me;”. That was wrong but yet it was right. If you LOVE Him you will LIVE Him.)
I John 2:4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
Head Faith says, I believe, Heart faith does something about it. The example of getting in the boat and going across the river (Believing the boat will carry you across will not get you across. You must enter the boat and take the trip.)
By Faith we:
Live Rom 1:17 “The Just shall live by Faith”
Stand II Cor 1:24 “by Faith ye stand”
Walk II Cor 5:7 “We walk by Faith, not by sight”
Fight I Tim 6:12 “Fight the good fight of Faith”
Overcome I Jn 5:4 “This is the victory that overcometh the world, even out Faith.”
IF YOU HAVE ACCEPTED CHRIST INTO YOUR LIFE BY FAITH AND THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE IN THE WAY YOU LIVE OR IN THE THINGS YOU LOVE THEN YOU NEED TO EXAMINE WHAT YOU HAVE.
II. vs 32 SALVATION SETS US FREE: Freedom-
1. The Requirement- Knowing the Truth: and ye shall know the truth We have learned from courts that there is a vast difference in what a person THINKS and what they KNOW. What is the Truth????? Jesus said HE was the Truth. Man must come to the place that he realizes that HIS works cannot save him or keep him saved. When we come to the realization that all we need is found in Christ then we can really have freedom.
2. The Result- and the truth shall make you free.
III. SIN BINDS US– vs 34 Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. Rom 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? /Because Satan lies to us- vs 44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning (of the world. He led Adam and Eve to sin and incure death and sin has brought death upon all since [Rom 5:12]), and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
Praise God, Christ frees us- 36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
THERE ARE 3 BASIC LESSONS THE LORD TAUGHT IN THIS PASSAGE:
Unbelief brings Death
Faith produces Works
Salvation sets us Free
THIS IS WHAT YOU SHOULD ASK YOURSELF:
1. HAVE I REPENTED OF SIN AND ACCEPTED CHRIST AS SAVIOR?? If not then be absolutely sure that Hell awaits you.
2. DOES MY LIFE SHOW WHAT MY LIPS HAVE PROCLAIMED?? If not you need to fall in love with Christ. It is not your ABILITY that is in question but your AFFECTION.
3. DO I ENJOY THE FREEDOM I HAVE BY TRUSTING CHRIST? Do you enjoy the Liberty God has given you as a Son or do you find yourself enduring the Slavery of Sin.
You won’t have to answer to ME today for this message. It’s the LORD’S LESSON and you must face Him with your response.

John 08:27 UNDERSTANDING NOT
They understood not that he spake to them of the Father (John 8:27).
It is easy for most people (including even Daniel the Prophet!) to admit that they do not understand Bible Prophecy: And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? (Daniel 12:8). We need to realize, however, that “understanding not” can make us “miss God” (John 8:27) and can lead to a variety of problems
Understand not can be because of wrong language (count to ten in several languages)-
A) SEEK WRONG GOAL– (Luke 9:44-46) Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men. {45} But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, that they perceived it not: and they feared to ask him of that saying. {46} Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.
Use 3 Targets- Need to Hit Center, Need to hit center of right target!
B) SAY WRONG THING– (Job 42:3) Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. Accuse God and people of doing wrong.
C) LOOSE FAITH– (Psa 106:7) Our fathers understood not thy wonders in Egypt; they remembered not the multitude of thy mercies; but provoked him at the sea, even at the Red sea. When the way we expect is closed.
D) BRINGS CONFLICT– (Acts 7:25) For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.
E) CAUSES CONFUSION – (Luke 2:49-51) And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. {51} And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
(John 10:6) This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.

John 8:29 PLEASING GOD

And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him (John 8:29).
The desire of every Child of God should be, like Jesus, to always do the things that please the Father. That should be our goal and our purpose in life. Most Christians, however, give me the impression that their main life goal is to be as happy and prosperous as they can be. They seem much more interested in what God can do for them than they are in learning what they can do to please God.
Let’s look at several things in the Bible that DO NOT PLEASE God and then find some things that need to be in our life if we are to be vessels pleasing to God.
WHAT DOES NOT PLEASE GOD:
1) Allowing our life to be controlled by the Flesh instead of the Spirit: So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God (Romans 8:8). No matter what good a person does it is all just “filthy rags” (Isa 64:6) if it is done apart from God’s Will. God expects us to yield our life to Him so He can make us into a vessel unto honor for the Master’s use. You cannot please God while walking under the control of the flesh.
2) Attempting to please the crowd instead of following God: For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ (Galatians 1:10).Jesus made it very plain that He expected His followers to walk in a different direction than the crowd was walking (Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it Matthew 7:13-14).
3) Rejecting the Salvation offered through Christ: Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men (1 Thessalonians 2:15). How horrible it will be to face God and acknowledge that you rejected His Only Son and counted the blood of His Sacrifice as mere dirt to be trampled under your feet! (Heb 10:28-29). The World tells you to do the best you can and God will accept your earnest efforts but the Bible declares 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).
HOW THEN CAN WE PLEASE GOD:
1) Come to Him in repentance for Sin and believe that Jesus CAN save you and WILL save you: But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6).
The Bible is abundantly clear that the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him (Hebrews 10:38). Life if like a Dark Room. God calls us to grasp His hand and allow Him to lead us to the Light. We can continue to stumble around in the dark doing harm to ourselves, and to others, or we can hold God’s hand in Faith that God will guide us safely through the dark places in life- even the valley of the shadow of death!
2) Being IN the world but not OF the world pleases God: No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier (2 Timothy 2:4). God wants us to be workers and witnesses in the world but we are also to be Pilgrims and Strangers (Heb 11:13). We cannot allow this world to control or conform us. We march to the sound of a different drummer and it pleases God when He sees His children following His plans instead of the pattern laid down by the devil and the world.
Now that you know HOW to Please God I have one more thing for you to do: 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).

John 08:31-36 FREEDOM WE HAVE IN CHRIST

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (John 8:31-36)
I. IF WE RESPECT RESTRICTIONS– For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another (Gal 5:13). Adam and Eve in Garden. Violin String is not useful until attached.
Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way (Rom 14:13) (Either a STUMBLING Block, a ROAD Block, or a BUILDING Block)
II. IF WE ARE TRUSTWORTHY- My father made me swear, saying, Lo, I die: in my grave which I have digged for me in the land of Canaan, there shalt thou bury me. Now therefore let me go up, I pray thee, and bury my father, and I will come again. (Gen 50:5)
III. IF WE ACCEPT FREEDOM– Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Gal 5:1) (Difference between Jail and Army Restrictions)
A) Freedom to escape the CONTROL of Sin and Satan- All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any (1 Cor 6:12).
B) Freedom to take part in God’s Plan- Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them. Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah (Psa 68:18-19).
C) Freedom from the world system- Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: (Gal 1:4). Gal 1:4: Deliverance from “this present evil age” is assured through the atonement of Christ. This is accomplished in the present in the sense that Christ gives victory over the powers of Satan now. Ultimate delivery awaits either death or the translation of the saints at the time of Christ’s return.
While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage (2 Pet 2:19). Some people picture life as a pit with a ladder. The Ladder is too High or to Hard to Climb. In order to be free they must grasp the hand of Jesus who will bring them up. Join the order of the Pierced ear- “I Love my Master, I don’t want to go Free”.

John 08:32 CONTROLLING CHARACTER

Freedom from spiritual bondage is not a power encounter; it is a truth encounter -And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (John 8:32) (First Church problem- that brought death- was the fact that Annanias and Sappharis LIED TO THE HOLY SPIRIT).
Satan uses lies to:
1) Harass You- You are no good
2) Halt You- You can’t make it
3) Habit you- Satan convinced Eve that she needed something that God was not able or willing to provide for her. Thinking you need something besides God is easily converted into a “holding habit” that captures and controls you (Satan convinces you to believe you cannot stop the habit- a lie!)
So what does Satan use to Defeat Christians and bring us into the bondage:
1) DECEPTION:

When we hear the word of God and don’t do it (Do not practice what is preached)- (James 1:22) But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
When we think we are something we are not-(Gal 6:3) For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
When we think we are smarter than we really are- (1 Cor 3:18 19) Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. {19} For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God
When we don’t bridle our tongue (Our Mouth displays our morals)- (James 1:26) If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.
When we think we won’t reap what we sow (Think we can get by with it)- (Gal 6:7) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
When we think we can fool God- (1 Cor 6:9 10) Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, {10} Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
When we think we can continually associate with bad and not be corrupted (Societies standards are more important than God’s Precepts)- (1 Cor 15:33) Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. (Remember Bob Harrington)

2) ACCUSATIONS– Disinformation: We must learn the difference between Satan Accusations and Holy Spirit Conviction
3) TEMPTATION– Jesus was asked to disobey the Will of God, The Word of God, and the Worship of God. We learn to make the proper choices- Lend car to Pastor to deliver food or to thief to rob bank.
4) INTIMIDATION– (1 Pet 5:8) Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: The opposite of Faith is Fear. Fear will allow Satan to control you.
You will only dislodge Satan’s lies in the light of God’s revelation; not human rationalization- (James 4:7) Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (If a dog is biting you don’t beat yourself, call out to God and beat the dog). Denying your “Self” (Self on the cross) is not the same as self-denial (Seeking to control self).
You defeat lies with the Truth- repeated over and over as the lies were.

John 08:44 WHY WE DO IT

Have you ever wondered why you do things the way you do things? Habit, Routine, Environment,
I. Because of WHOSE we Are: Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it (John 8:44). New Creature in Christ
II. Because of WHO we Are: There are many factors that make a person do the things they do:
1. PERSONALITY WE ARE BORN WITH: Men do what they do because they are who they are- Paul realized this when he talked about his own failings- For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not (Romans 7:18).
2. THE PLEASURE WE RECEIVE FROM IT and THE PASSION THAT MOTIVATE US TOWARD IT: Hunting, Golfing, Shopping, Singing, Writing
3. THE PROFIT WE EXPECT FROM IT- Exercise, Dieting, Working.
4. THE PRINCIPLES THAT STIMULATE US TOWARD IT- Morals standards set by self or society.
5. THE PEOPLE THAT ARE PART OF IT- Family, Friends, Foes
6. THE POWER THAT COMPELS US TO DO it- Laws, your job, The Deity in your life.
Salvation instantly changes WHAT you are- from a Child of Satan to a Child of God and WHERE you are headed- Heaven not hell. But it progressively changes WHO you are- You become a new creature in Christ. In the process of accepting God into his family, Joseph shows us what it means to take God into our life and grow into the person God wants us to be.

John 09:1-7 WHOSE FAULT??

1. The Situation- Jesus passed by, and saw a man blind from birth.
2. The Sin- vs 2-5 Not the result of sin but for God’s Glory
3. The Strange Healing- vs 6-7
A) Christ involved himself: spat on ground-
B) He put works with raw materials: made clay-
C) He came into contact with the need: anointed the eyes of the blind. [Different ways of healing same disease: No touch (Blind Bartimaeus Mk 10:46-52), one touch(Matt 9:27-30), two touch(Mk 8:22-26), anoint with clay].
D) He involved the man in the healing: ordered him to go to the pool of Siloam (Sent) and wash-.
E) Faith motivated obedience which produced a miracle: He went and washed and received his sight.
4. The Sabbath Breaking- 8-41 This became the “straw that broke the camel’s back” as far as the Jews were concerned. From this time on they sought to slay Jesus.

John 10:4 Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us

(John 10:4) And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
One of the most meaningful prayers that has ever been spoken by the lips of a believer is that one ascribed to Dorothy A. Thrupp. This prayer has been put to music, and congregations around the world have joined in singing it with both delight and profit. Let us join together in singing the beautiful prayer hymn “Saviour, Like a Shepherd Lead Us.” (#611)
Did you sing it as a song, or did you sing it as a prayer from a needy heart? Let us examine some of the petitions contained in this prayer.
I. Stanza 1- PRAYER FOR GUIDANCE
A. “Savior, like a shepherd lead us”- (Psa 23:1) The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
B. “In Thy pleasant pastures feed us; For our use thy folds prepare”- Psalms 23:2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
II. Stanza 2- PRAYER FOR PROTECTION
A. “We are Thine: do Thou befriend us” John 15:14-16 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
B. “Be the guardian of our way”- (Psa 23:3 4) He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
C. “Keep Thy flock from sin, defend us”- (Psa 23:4) Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
D. “Seek us when we go astray”- (Mat 18:12 13) How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? {13} And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.
(Isa 53:6) All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
E. “Hear, O hear us when we pray”- I Peter 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
III. Stanza 3- PRAYER OF SUPPLICATION– Thou has promised to receive us, Poor and sinful though we be, Thou hast mercy to relieve us, Grace to cleanse, and power to free. Early let us Turn to Thee
IV. Stanza 4- PRAYER FOR COMMITMENT–(Psa 23:5 6) Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. {6} Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
A. “Early let us seek Thy favor”- Psalms 27:4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.
B. “Early let us do Thy will: Ecclesiastes 12:1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;
C. “With Thy love our bosoms fill” Romans 5:5 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
Conclusion: Again let us join together to sing this prayer hymn. Let us sing it as a prayer rather than just a hymn.

John 10:7-10 DECISION DOORS

It is a Great day to be in a Great Church talking about a Great God who wants to do Great things in your life.
One of God’s most basic rules is that He gives people choices, allows them to make decisions; and then suffer the consequences of those decisions. (Adam No Eat from Tree) What a wonderful awful power! Often these decisions are described as Doors. Today I want to look as some of the Bible “Decision Doors”:
The “Death Door”: The Blood of the Passover Lamb was sprinkled on the doorpost to protect Israel from the angel of death’s visit in Egypt.
The Declaration Door: The Law as to be written on the doorpost of the house (Deut 11:18-20).
The Door of Hope: And I will give her vineyards and the valley of Achor for a door of hope: and she shall sing there, as in the days of her youth, and as in the day when she came up out of the land of Egypt. (Hos 2:15).
Paul speaks of
an Effective Door (For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries. (1 Corinthians 16:9),
a Door of Opportunity (Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord (2 Corinthians 2:12),
and a Door of Gospel Explanation (Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds (Colossians 4:3).
Jesus told a parable about Ten virgins coming to the Wedding Feast Door but Five were Foolish and not prepared so the door was shut and they were not allowed entrance (Matt 25)
Remember the Resurrection Door Dilemma (And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? (Mark 16:3) but it turned out to be a not existent problem.
James warns us that the Judge is at the Door listening to what we say (Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door James 5:9)
And Jesus promised an Open Door for God’ Work that no man could shut (I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name Rev 3:8),
But we need to weep because , in the last days, Jesus is Outside of the Luke Warm Church Door seeking entrance (Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me Rev 3:20).
Which brings us to the Door of Faith (And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles Acts 14:27) and our Scripture Text.
Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:7-10).
The DOOR OF THE SHEEP is:
1. Privilege: Free to “Any man” but any other entrance makes you a “thief or robber”.
2. Protection: “he shall be Saved” from Sin’s Punishment and Power (Holy Spirit indwelling)
3. Provision: “Find Pasture” that Provides Abundant Life.
LIFE IS ABOUT DECISIONS- Choosing a Partner, a Job, a home, a “God” to serve, and a place to spend eternity. What is YOUR Decisions today?

John 10:10 THIEVES

John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
Normally when we talk about a Thief it is in a bad light. In our Key verse today even Jesus talked badly about Thieves- steal, kill, and destroy. And I think it’s important in our present circumstances to look at a few of the things about Thieves before we look at them from a different light:
1> You should not be a thief of this world’s goods– I Peter 4:15 let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters. In this time when free food stamps are flowing like water, insurance is paying billions for damage, and many people want to help those in need; we need to be aware that 6 months from now, when Hugo’s memories begin to fade, God will still have accurate record books of all our transactions.
2> You should not steal from God–
A) His Tithes- Mal 3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Many people think that because they had to miss a couple of Sunday’s from Church that that somehow absolves them from paying tithes for those weeks. If God paid you according to the way you pay HIM could you survive next week!!
B) His Time- We are to redeem the Time; that is, “Buy up” every opportunity. People have been very diligent recently in cleaning up storm debris from around their homes. What kind of Revival would we have if they were as diligent in cleaning up their life?
C) His Honor- Mark 11:17 Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? But ye have made it a den of thieves. When Church becomes a “Power Base” or a Profit Scheme then it loses its Prayer Power; and if it loses that it loses everything!
3> A Thief can’t remain a thief and go to Heaven– I Cor 6:10-11 thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Now that we’ve seen how Bad being a thief is I want us to consider the fact that there is coming a day in which Jesus will act like a Thief!! I Thess 5:2-4 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. This is a very serious day; a day that we are commanded to WATCH for, A day in which the Lord will return for His Church. Because of this I want us to see the PLAN of a Thief as it relates to Christ acting like one and then I want us to see how we should PREPARE for His coming as a Thief.
I. THE PLAN OF A THIEF–
1. A Thief does not announce his coming- Joel 2:9. You must be ready at all times.
2. He comes for a certain purpose- He’s not going to come to debate with unbelievers, or exhibit His wonders; He’s coming to claim a prize- His Bride.
3. He does not take everything in the house- Jer 49:9. Just because you’re attending a Church does not mean you’ll be taken! You must be Born again.
4. He takes only the most precious things- The gold, silver, and precious items- That’s why Matt 6:19 says you’d better lay up your treasures in Heaven. Malachi 3:17 says that those who witness for Him are His Jewels.
5. He does not come to stay- as soon as he gets what he came for he departs- You must be ready WHEN he comes! or you’ll be left
6. He leaves more than he takes- The Broad way has many while the straight and narrow has few.
II. PREPARING FOR A “THIEF”. His Coming calls for:
1. Alertness- Matt 24:43 know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. You must be on Guard at all times.
2. Holiness- II Peter 3:10-11 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night: in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness. There won’t be time to “take a bath” when He comes. Keep clean.
3. Awareness- I Thess 5:2-4 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye brethern, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief. When you know it’s time for the baby to come you pack your bags, gas up the car, and stay when you can be contacted. We don’t know the day or the hour that Christ is coming but we know the time is near!
4. Covering- Rev 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. Armor of God, Garment of Righteousness. Clothed in Salvation.
Do you have your “Spiritual Security System” ready for the coming “Thief in the night”?

John 10:10 Five ways to Enjoy Life

[Sunday Morning Sermon- Jan 20, 2013 Hanna Memorial Church, Sonapur, India]
This is my Fifth time to visit you in India (2001, 2004, 2007, 2010, 2013). It is a joy to see familiar faces and once again worship in this great church. I keep up with you even when I am away- Check local weather each day; read Times of India most days; keep up with Evan Guha on Facebook regularly. Work each week to promote God’s work in India and try to raise funds to provide for needs in India. I have you in my heart and I desire God’s very best for all of you.
I have walked with the Lord for 51 years. During that time I have had many opportunities to gain wealth but I am happy with the riches I have in Christ. I have suffered trouble and persecution but God has always been my Rock and my strength.
My walk with the Lord not only changed my life but it also changed my family. The first two people I led to the Lord were my father and my mother. I have 3 brothers and they (And their wives) also walk with the Lord. My wife is also a faithful followers and a dedicated Christian. Thank God for the difference Christ has made in my family.
That is why I chose as my Scripture: These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. (John 15:11). And The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10). So I can talk about Five ways to Enjoy Life.
When a CHRISTIAN sins he loses Fellowship, Fruit, Rewards, Testimony, and Blessings. Sin Destroys Lives, Divides Families, Distresses God, and Dooms a person to Hell.
1) COMPLAIN LESS– (1 Pet 3:10) For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: It is amazing how much more you enjoy life when you don’t let your tongue get ahead of your brain. Talking bad does not make you feel good. Complaining about a problem does not fix the problem.
2) GIVE MORE– Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. (Luke 6:38). A widow’s mite is recognized by the Lord. Helping others helps you. Have a generous heart when you give and you will reap a generous Harvest.
3) PRAY HARD– Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. (John 16:24). Pray about protection, provision, and a partner.
4) LIVE RIGHT– Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. (Heb 1:9) You never regret doing right. You are never ashamed of being righteous. Be sure your sin will find you out so stay out of the dark.
5) DRAW NEAR– Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore (Psa 16:11). Perfect peace and rest for your soul are found in walking near the Lord.
If you would love life and see good days:
Make the Word of God your daily diet
Make your walk with God your daily duty
Make the world’s pull on you your daily dying
Make the wealth and wisdom of Christ your daily delight
You will never know real joy or peace until you ask God to forgive your sins and allow you to enter into a daily walk with Christ. If your life has lost its joy and peace then return to your place near to Christ and let Him share His abundant life with you.

John 10:10 INDIA PASTORS’ MESSAGE

1-20-13 Pastor’s Message India [Used “How many squares” handout to get to see that you need to look deeper into your ministry].
Is the trouble you are facing:

• A cross to bear or an attack from Satan?

• A thorn in the flesh allowed by God or a fiery dart from Satan?

• A trial of your faith or a temptation of your flesh?

The truth shall set you free but believing a lie will lead you into slavery. Pastors must know the truth and make sure their congregations know what is true. [Satan will lie to you, about you, and through you].

1) A Pastor is a SHEPHERD: (I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep (John 10:11-13).
• Hirling does not have the sheep in his LIFE- “Whose own the sheep are not”
• Hirling is concerned for self and not the sheep- “seeth the wolf coming and leaves his sheep”
Hirling allows the wolf to catch and scatter his sheep
• Hirling does not have the sheep in his HEART- “careth not for the sheep”
Pastor is a shepherd not just a preacher. If all you want to do is show up and preach then get another job and turn in your ordination papers.
2) A Pastor is a WATCHMAN ordered to guard God’s people– But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman’s hand (Ezekiel 33:6). Example of the watchman in Viet Nam who slept on duty and had to face a sentence of death because his actions could not only have killed him but also his company of soldiers.
3) A Pastor is a MESSENGER with a life or death message from the King– For the priest’s lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts (Malachi 2:7).
a. Messenger must have a true message- A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish. (Proverbs 19:9). Counterfeit money may work until it is discovered but then it is simply a worthless piece of paper.
b. Messenger must be a true man of God- Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world (1 John 4:1).
c. False Messengers are dangerous- Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves (Matthew 7:15). Example- Message about Wellington and Napoleon sent across the English Channel- “Wellington defeated” and then fog came. When fog lifted the complete message read “Wellington defeated Napoleon”. One word made all the difference in the message.
Positive Part of Message- How to accomplish something great for God- Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:1-2).
1. Set a Great Goal– We have a great cloud of witnesses from Heb 11 who have done great things for God. Let their example lead us to do something marvelous. If you do what you have always do you will get what you have always gotten.
2. A Great Goal is worth giving up anything that holds you back– “Lay aside every weight and the sins which do so easily beset us”. Jesus called us to leave family, friends, and fishing boats in order to become “fishers of men”
3. A Great Goal requires long term commitment– “Run with patience”. Cannot quit just because you do not feel well, when opposition comes, or when you do not feel excited as you did when you began. It is always too soon to quit- unless the God who sent you there moves you to another location.
4. A Great Goal exalts Jesus and leads men to trust Him– “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith”. It if ever stops being all about Him then you need to repent and reexamine what you are doing.
You will never be great as long as you are satisfied being good. Example of little boy trying to ride big bike. Could not reach the pedals so he used one hand to steer, one hand to hold on to the middle bar, and stuck his feet under the bar to pedal. He was determined!
May God give you a great vision to do a great work for a great God so when you come to the end of your life you will able to say like Paul- Acts 26:19 “O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto that heavenly vision”.
Extra Material:
A Pastor is a failure when he does not:
Plow the fields so ground is ready for seed (Cultivate his congregation and area)
Plant a crop- No goals, no going. Expects a harvest with no seed planted
Weed the growth- No standards. Allow weeds to choke the fruit and kill the young
Harvest the fruit- Keep the main thing the main thing. Prune the trees, send forth laborers into the harvest, do not let the crop rot in the field while you keep repainting the barn!
Rev 22:12- Behold I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

John 10:14 RESPONSIBILITIES OF OUR RELATIONSHIP

I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine (John 10:14).
The greatest relationship in the world is our relationship to Christ. Therefore, the greatest responsibility in the world is to properly maintain that relationship. What are these relationships and what are our responsibilities?
1. We are the FLOCK of which Christ is the Shepherd: WE FOLLOW HIM. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me (John 10:27).
2. We are the BRANCH of which Christ is the supporting Vine: WE BEAR FRUIT FOR HIM. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing (John 15:5).
3. We are a New CREATOR of which Christ is the Creator: WE SHOW NEW LIFE IN HIM. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new (2 Corinthians 5:17).
4. We are the BODY of which Christ is the Head: WE FUNCTION AS HIS DIRECTION. And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all (Ephesians 1:22-23).
5. We are the TEMPLE of which Christ is the Cornerstone: WE LEAD IN WORSHIP OF HIM. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit (Ephesians 2:19-22).
6. We are the BRIDE of which Christ is the Bridegroom: WE ARE COMMITTED TO LOVING HIM. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:31-32).
7. We are the serving PRIESTS of which Christ is the High Priest: WE INTERCEDE THRU HIM. Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:5).
God “put away” Israel because they would not live up to the responsibilities of their relationship. Christianity is not a game we play but a responsibility we take seriously because of our love for, and desire to please, our Master.

John 11:- THE MAN WHO WAS REVIVED

12:11 (11:34-46, 12:9-11)
We have just come thru a very unusual week of revival. There were a number of very unusual CIRCUMSTANCES to deal with (Sickness, death, and Paula’s trial), all of which tended to divert our attention. It was unfortunate about these circumstances but that is something we have little or no control over. It is not the CIRCUMSTANCES that brother me; it is the CARELESSNESS and lack of CONCERN shown by many people. We need to re-establish the spiritual Life and work of our Church and return to Growing for the Lord.
A Physical example of such a return is shown in today’s scripture.
I. LAZARUS WAS DEAD– Jesus said so- 11:14 He had been buried 4 days 11:39 (The Jews considered a man “Officially dead” after 3 days.)
Churches can be this way also- Rev 3:1 And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.
Death is characterized by:
Lack of Activity- No Movement
Lack of Appetite- No Meals
Lack of Awareness- No Concern
But we all know that Jesus spoke the word and Lazarus was Raised from the dead. HE STILL HAS NEEDS THOUGH
II. LAZARUS WAS DEFEATED 11:44 “He that was dead came forth bound hand and feet with Grave clothes.” We are Still “bound” by the Flesh with sinful desires and habits. Although we’re saved from the PENALTY of sin we still live in the PRESENCE of sin. There are still old ways we must discard and old habits we must gain the victory over. Salvation is not just a new birth- it’s a new life!
A) By Grave clothes- hand and foot (Old customs and habits that must be dealt with when you begin the new life in Christ.)
B) By Napkin over his face- Blind to many of the truth of God.
Jesus commanded his friends to Help him get free. 11:44 “Loose him and let him go”. Rom 6:14 “For sin shall not have dominion over you.”
Phil 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthened me.” I Jn 4:4 “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.”
Lazarus’ friends were commanded to help him. That’s why it’s so vital for new converts to get into a Bible teaching Fellowship of Believers. They will then have people to help them grow in Christ and develop as Christians
III. LAZARUS WAS DEDICATED
1. He fellowshipped with the Lord 12:2 “But Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.”
Rev 3:20 “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”. Feasting on the riches of His word.
2. He Witnessed for the Lord 12:9 “Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.”
The Change in his condition was a Witness.

John 11 THE MAN WHO CAME BACK TO LIFE

The Story of Lazarus is a good TYPE OF REGENERATION.
1. Lazarus was Dead 11:14 “Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.”
A) Dead IN Sin Eph 2:1 And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins.
B) Dead TO Sin Rom 6:2 How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein.
2. Lazarus was Raised 11:44 “He that was dead came forth”. All human effort had failed but Jesus simply spoke the word. Ep 2:4-6 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great live wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (By grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
3. Lazarus was bound 11:44 “He that was dead came forth bound hand and feet with grave clothes.” Still in Flesh with sinful desires and habits. Although we’re saved from the PENALTY of sin we still live in the PRESENCE of sin. There are still old ways we must discard and old habits we must gain the victory over. Salvation is not just a new birth- it’s a new life!
4. Lazarus was loosed 11:44 “Loose him and let him go” Rom 6:7 “For he that is dead is freed from sin”.
Rom 6:14 “For sin shall not have dominion over you.” Phil 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthened me.” I Jn 4:4 “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.”
Lazarus’ friends were commanded to help him. That’s why it’s so vital for new converts to get into a Bible teaching Fellowship of Believers. They will then have people to help them grow in Christ and develop as Christians
5. Lazarus was Feasting 12:2 “But Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.” Rev 3:20 “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”. Feasting on the riches of His word.
6. Lazarus was Witnessing 12:9 “Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.” The Change in his condition was a Witness.
7. Lazarus was Convincing 12:11 “Many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus”. Show me thy faith without thy works and I’ll show thee my faith by my works.
When a man comes back to life he has a freedom others don’t have. He was talked about–
by some that believed vs 45
by some that wanted to cause trouble vs 46 He was so dangerous until the religious leaders wanted to kill him 12:10

John 11:21-26 NEVER DIE

FUNERAL SERVICE FOR RONNIE JONES When Jesus arrived four days late for Lazarus’ funeral Martha was not a happy camper- Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? (John 11:21-26).
Mankind fears death, fights death, and formalize death with funerals like this but it is appointed unto man once to die. It only takes four short chapters of the Bible before funerals become front and center- And all the days of Seth were nine hundred and twelve years: and he died. (Genesis 5:8)., And all the days of Enos were nine hundred and five years: and he died. (Genesis 5:11). And on and on it goes.
Amazingly, Mankind finds it increasingly difficult to define death- At one time when you stopped breathing you were dead. Later they said it was when your heart stopped beating that you were dead. Now they said it is when you are “brain dead”. God says it is when the spirit leaves the body (As the body without the spirit is dead even so faith ..)
The Bible describes several types of death- Physical death, memory death, spiritual death, eternal death.
1) Physical death is when breath stops, heart stops, and brain dies. Saturday morning Ronnie was eating watermelon, watching fishing on TV and Physical death arrived. How neat is that!
2) Memory Death– For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten. (Ecclesiastes 9:5). Ronnie was not perfect (Like all Jones he was “strongly opinionated” and sometimes moody) but I told him as I tell all my brothers- “There are a hundred things you can do that would make me not like you; but there is nothing you can do that will make me not love you”.
It is up to us who loved Ronnie to continue to cherish his memory and rejoice in his love for us. (The last time I talked with him was Friday morning. He called me as I was making that 1200 mile trip from Maine because he was concerned about my well being).
3) Spiritual Death– Some people Live Dead –But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth. (1 Timothy 5:6) And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. (Revelation 3:1). Their body has breath but it does not have joy, meaning or hope. Without Christ, they are without hope.
4) Eternal Death– And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:12-15).
Knowing Death is coming, Job asked the question everyone wants answered- If a man die, shall he live again? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come. (Job 14:14). Jesus told Martha- “If you believe in me you shall never die, believeth thou this?”
Share Ronnie’s Sermon “Things NOT in Hell”. No water, No Hope, No Christians.

John 11:21-46 A DANGEROUS DEAD MAN

I. Lazarus was Diseased:
Concern of the Family- Sent for Jesus, Friends around to help, Tears or sorrow.
II. Jesus was Delayed: “Doctrine of Delay”
Waited 4 days before coming so Lazarus went from sick to dead.
Tears and “anger” of family about delay.
III. Lazarus was Dead:
Lack of activity
Lack of appetite
Lack of awareness
IV. Lazarus was Defeated:
Grave clothes around hands and feet (Old customs and habits are hard to break without help)
Napkin over face- Blind to the light he needed to see in order to escape the grave
V. Lazarus was Dangerous:
Lazarus was talked about- vs 46 Some went and told the Pharisees
Lazarus was different- 12:10-11 The religious leaders were upset because Lazarus did not conform to their way of doing things. The most dangerous man is one who has defeated death!
Lazarus was a witness with and for Christ.
Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the Life”. It is the Spirit that gives life. Do not ask for more of the Spirit; give the Spirit more of you!

John 12:1-8 THE MEMORIAL

I. The Feast
Jesus liked fellowship with friends
Everyone had a part- Martha served, Lazarus sat, and Mary sacrificed
II. The Fragrance
Mary took a pound of ointment of spikenard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. AND THE HOUSE WAS FILED WITH THE ODOR OF THE OINTMENT
III. The Fault finding
Judas Iscariot wondered why the ointment was not sold instead of “Wasted” by being put on Jesus. More interested in Dough than in Devotion.
Jesus commended her and pointed out a very important lesson- God’s plans are even more important than people.

John 12:24 WHEAT

I. SOME WILL BE SATISFIED TO BE HUSK
A) No Purpose- Ps 1:4 The Ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Sin is missing God’s Plan for your life so you “get thru the day, try to pay your bills, and silently cry in the night, ‘Is this all there is’?”
B) No Profit- Jer 23:28 What is the Chaff to the wheat? Fit only to be burned. The man who hid his talent was condemned because he RETURNED EXACTLY WHAT HE WAS GIVEN.
C) No Pride- The Prodigal would have filled his belly with the husk of the wheat, fit only for the hogs!! (Luke 15:16). When the party is over and you have made a fool of yourself (again!) just remember the Father is waiting for you to repent and return to His Welcoming Arms. We lose sight of being created in God’s image.
II. SOME WILL BE HARVESTED FOR BREAD
A) Some will be Unwilling Bread: The Disappointments and unequalness of life will grind you up; the furnace of affliction will bake you; and the world will eat you!! and hunger the next day!! You become bitter or better.
B) Some will be Living Bread: John 6:51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh; which I will give for the life of the world. There is sometimes a need for this type of sacrifice. We are at war!! Sometimes you must sacrifice a few lives to save many. Willing to be crushed so that others may live.
III. SOME WILL BE SEED TO GROW MORE John 12:24 Verily, Verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die; it abideth alone; but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
Separation- “A Corn of Wheat” Can’t grow in the Bag!
Sacrifice- “Fall into the ground and die” Only way to life
Substance- “It bringeth forth much fruit”
THE REQUIREMENTS FOR GROWTH:
1. SEED- The Word of God (Mark 4:14)
2. SOIL- 4 kinds of hearers: Wayside (distracted), Hard “heart” (No Endurance), Choked (by Weeds of the World), Fruitful (Mark 4:15-20)
3. SUN- The Energy emanating from the sun warms the earth so the seed will sprout. The Sunlight also gives the plant life [photosynthesis]. In the same way the word grows under the pull of the Holy Spirit and Christians live in the Power of God.
4. WATER- Normally comes during rain storms or from roots buried deep beneath the earth; even so Christians need the storms of life to develop us and we find strength in a deep private relationship with the Lord.
If either of these 4 is missing you cannot have growth; even so you can not get saved in a vacuum. Better be saved before the harvest.
Are you Chaff or Wheat?? Remember the Chaff will burn!!
Are you willing to be “baked” or “Buried” for the work of God?
When harvest day comes will you be gathered with the wheat or cast aside with the Weeds??

John 12:26 SERVANTS OF CHRIST

If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour (John 12:26). Servant: One who waits upon and serves another
I. The Servant’s HEART– Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men (Philippians 2:3-7).
II. The Servant’s WORK: For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch (Mark 13:34).
A) Authority= Power to do what needs to be done
B) Responsibility: To Every Man his work. Gifts that differ but are expected to be used.
III. The Servant’s EXPECTATION: Working while Watching. Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh (Matthew 25:13).

John 12:37-50 CHRIST REJECTERS

What an awful thing to reject your only Hope! This scripture gives insight into why people would make the awful decision to Reject Christ:
1. They believed not in spite of miracles vs 37
2. Therefore they could not believe because God blinded their hearts 39-40a
3. Which produced Spiritual Blindness- “That they should not see” 40b (Judgement)
1) REASON FOR LACK OF BELIEF: Darkness-
a. Mental Jn 1:5-8 26 Blinded by Satan so can’t see Spiritual
b. Moral Jn 3:18-21 Loves Sin and hates the light.
c. Judicial Jn 12:35-36 If men don’t obey the light, God sends the darkness and Christ hides.
d. Eternal Jn 12:46 To “abide” in darkness means to live in Hell.
2) THE REASON THEY REJECTED CHRIST: FEAR OF MEN 42-43
a. Put out of Synagogue- away from accepted way
b. Loved praises of men more than the praise of God
Believing in Christ is believing in God 44
Believing Christ means believing God’s Word 48-

John 13:35 RECOGNIZING A DISCIPLE

There are many Religions in the world today, and all of them claim to be right. But, of course, we believe that Christianity is the only True Religion. Yet, even within Christianity, there are many different denominations and beliefs. There are also many who claim to be Christians and are not (Matt 7:21~23).
How can we know what is right? How can we recognize a Disciple of Christ???
I. THINGS IT’S NOT Matt 23:- (Of course, you realize that a right relationship with God will affect every one of these areas. The thing is that we cannot use these qualifications as the only test)
A) It’s not in the clothes he wears Matt 23:5 (Modesty is required)
B) It’s not in his Position in the Church Matt 23:6-12 (Honor to have a position)
C) It’s not· in his Long Prayers Matt 23:14 (Needful, but in secret)
D) It’s not in his “converts” Matt 23:15 (If they are like Him!).
E) It’s not in the payment of tithes Matt 23:23 {Should but don’t leave other undone)
F) Or even in the outwardly clean life he lives 23:25 (God is looking at the heart)
II. HOW TO RECOGNIZE A DISCIPLE
A) The Way the world Knows: By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another (John 13:35). How can we Show the World our Love?
B) The Way we Know: We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death (1 John 3:14). How can we Show Love to Other Christians?
C) The Way God Knows: If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? (1 John 4:20). WE LOVE GOD AND SHOW IT BY LOVING THEM THAT CHRIST DIED FOR.
Love is not Mush. It is not a “funny feeling” sentiment.
1. It CARES for someone because it cares and not just because of any benefit that can be obtained from that person (Rom 5:8).
2. It CHASTENS that person if the need arises in order to help them be what they should be (Heb 12:6).
3. Its CHARACTER is unmistakable (I Cor 13:).
LOVE IS: Friendly- It invites and shows concern
Forgiving- Doesn’t hold a grudge
Faithful- Can be depended on in all circumstances
DO YOU SHOW THE WORLD YOU ARE A DISCIPLE BY YOUR LOVE???????

John 13:35 SHOWING LOVE

The Gospel of John is built around 8 Miracles that Christ performed. These are not all of the miracles Jesus performed (John later said the world couldn’t hold the book if he recorded everything!). He chose these Seven to demonstrate to the world that Jesus was indeed the Son of God. He was not just a “Miracle Worker”; He was master of every Circumstance and Situation.
When Jesus changed the water into wine, it was the BEST wine, demonstrating He was the Master of QUALITY (Let’s understand wine by saying He changed Coke into Pepsi! Good into the Best!). When He healed the nobleman’s son, while the boy was more than 20 miles away, He showed He was the Master of DISTANCE. When He instantaneously healed the impotent man who had been crippled for 38 years, He demonstrated that He was the Master of TIME.
When He miraculously fed the 5,000, He demonstrated He was the Master of QUANTITY. When He walked on the water, He demonstrated He was the Master of NATURAL LAW. When He healed the man on the Sabbath, who had been born blind, He demonstrated He was the Master over RELIGIOUS LAWS. And finally, when He raised Lazarus from the dead, He demonstrated He was Master over DEATH.
All of these bore witness to the fact that Jesus was the Son of God. We, as His disciples however, are seldom empowered to accomplish these same kind of miracles. God has commanded us to use another way to Witness to and Win the World- (John 13:35) By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. This is:
A) Witnessing Love- By this shall all men know
B) Love for other CHRISTIANS. Although we are to love the World as Ambassadors (Next Section), we are to (1 John 2:15) Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. We love the Sinner but not the System.
This love for Fellow Christians is one of the greatest methods of testimony available to the Christian Church today. Fighting, Bickering, Gossip, etc. make us look like heathens. Praying for one another, Caring for one another, Forgiving one another. These are the things that will make us Witnesses to the World.
This PRINCIPLE of love also carries over into the way we make an impact on the World. They’ve heard lots of words, now they want to see some action- FAITH NEEDS WORKS- 1 John 3:18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
Loving the World (remember Sinners, not System) means we see them in their needs-1 John 3:17 But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? Feed them when they’re hungry, care for them when they’re sick, advise them when they’re in trouble and not retaliate with vengeance when we are mistreated by them– Luke 6:27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Love is also the way we Show our Love to God-John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
Remember the GREATEST COMMANDS-Mark 12:28-31 And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? 29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: 30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
(NOT- Don’t do to others what you don’t want them to do to you but take A POSITIVE STEP- do unto others as you want others to do to you- not a Reaction step
THE PRACTICE:
Toward God- Commit the Keeping of your Body and Soul to God. Trust His Love to care for you and to Carry you through life; no matter what may come your way.
To Church- Commit to Membership and Service. We NEED each others prayers, songs, testimonies, presence.
To the World- Reach out with Goods as well as the Gospel- Outreach, Missions, Training, Helping Hand,

John 14:- PROMISES AND PRESENTS FROM CHRIST

John 14 lists the events immediately after the “last supper where Jesus shared a meal with His Disciples, talked of His soon coming death, and then washed their feet. It was spoken just as they made ready to depart into the garden for prayer and, eventually, betrayal.

I. PRESENTS HE PROMISED:

A Present Comforter: And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you (John 14:16-18).
A Continual Peace: Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid (John 14:27). Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me (John 14:1).
A Future Mansion: In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you (John 14:2).

II. PROMISES HE GAVE:

1. A PREPARED PLACE (vs 1-7)

A) A Wonderful Place: Prepared by Jesus so it must be marvelous- But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him (1 Corinthians 2:9).

B) A Waiting Place: I will come again and receive you

C) The Way to the Place: Jesus is the WAY to the Father, the TRUTH about the Father, and the LIFE the Father wants us to live.

2. POWER TO SERVE (vs 8-14)

A) Jesus’ Power came from the Father

B) The Father Will give this Power to US (Peter and Paul both raised the Death. God will provide the power we need in the situation He places us)

C) The Obtaining of the Power is Prayer- If ye shall any anything in my name, I will do it!

3. PRAYER FOR HELPERS (vs 15-26) [Jesus prayed for ME!]

A) The Comforter (Holy Spirit) to come as our Helper to give us Comfort, Wisdom, and Strength.

B) For Believers so we could follow in his footsteps (see John 17).

4. PEACE IN TRIALS (vs 17-31)

A) Not based on circumstances.

B) Based on knowledge of God’s Love

These are promises to BELIEVERS. They are just as sure as the promise of condemnation to those who do not trust Christ as Savior.

John 14:6 THE CHRIST CHALLENGE

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6). Jesus was the most self-promoting man I have ever known. He made claims about Himself that would cause us to put other men in mental hospitals. Either these claims were true and He is indeed the Son of God or He was completely mentally unbalanced.
I. His Claims about His Divinity-
1. Equal with God: I and the Father are one (John 10:30).
2. Able to Forgive Sins like God: When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee (Mark 2:5).
3. To know Him is to know God: Then said they unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered, Ye neither know me, nor my Father: if ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also (John 8:19).
4. To See Him was to See God: Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father (John 14:9).
II. His Claims about “Religion”-
1) Other Religions only point people to the LIGHT– Jesus said, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life (John 8:12).
2) Other Religions only offer help for this Life. Jesus gives us ETERNAL LIFE: Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live (John 11:25).
3) Other Religions only look for a Better Way- Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6).
This is why Christians Proclaim: 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).
Jesus Promised those who serve Him Fellowship, Relationship, and Honor from God (If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honor John 12:26). Is that what your heart hungers for today?
Jesus said TO RECEIVE HIM WAS TO RECEIVE GOD (But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God (John 1:12-13). Are you willing to Repent of your Sins, Trust Christ for Salvation from Sin’s penalty, and Become a New Creature in Christ today?

[Addendum/ Alternate Conclusion]
III. His Claims about Our Duty Then he would say to men, “Follow me”
A) Our Duty to come to Him for Salvation– John 14:6 He is the ONLY Way. A maze has many paths to follow but only one leads home.
B) Our Duty to Serve Him with all our heart- His call was clear and unconditional. You came on His terms or you went away sad. Jesus does not save men from Sin’s Penalty in order for them to live in Sin’s Pleasures! He calls us to “stop being fishermen and become fishers of men”.
C) Out Duty to Speak of Him- Go to all the world and preach the Gospel (The Good News about Christ).
What do you believe about Jesus? Faith without works is dead. Many Churches are “dying” because they have become a place to COMFORT people in their Sin and Sorrow instead of a place to CONVERT them from their Sins and CHALLENGE them to live a New Life in Christ. Christ Calls you to be Born Again.

John 14:6-7 MAKING CHRIST REAL

One of the primary problems with cults is that they neglect or minimize Christ. And yet this is also a problem with many Churches and many people in the Church today. Christ to us is a Religion instead of a Person. We seek to copy His life instead of seeking His presence. Therefore our work and witness are ineffective. (Remember that Jesus said, “If I be lifted up I will draw all men unto me”. It is the Preaching of the Gross that is the power of God unto salvation.) How can we then make Christ real in our life and witness??
BEGINNING NOTE- Before men can seek God, God must first seek man- No man can come to Christ except the Father draw him. Blinded eyes must know there is light before they seek it. We can only know God as He reveals Himself to us- and He knows our heart so we cannot “go thru the motions” and expect God to accept that as a sincere attempt to find the place of full fellowship with Him.
I. CHRIST OR CHRISTIANITY???
–Today men accept truths ABOUT Christ without accepting HIM.
— God did not call us to accept a formula but to accept Christ.
–Man’s problem is that he wants to “use” God to save him and then live his life on his own instead of allowing Christ to be his life. (Christ in you, the Hope of Glory.). And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (John 17:3). Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. (John 6:29).
Being born into the family is not the end of the road. WE are being prepared to be a chaste Bride for the Lord. (EXAMPLE- the Bride of Rosalie Plantation of Natchez, Miss. Her parents died when she was 13 and her father asked one of his friends to take care of her. It was illegal for her to own property at that young age so to keep her property from going to the state the friend married this 13 year old girl but sent her East to stay with his sister on their wedding day. For 6 years she was schooled and allowed to mature until finally she could come back as mistress of Rosalie.)
Every day should see us wanting to learn more about Him whom we will spend eternity as the wife of.
MOSES CRIED– Shew me thy Glory
PAUL CRIED– I count everything but dung that I may win Christ.
DAVID SANG– My soul follows hard after thee, O God. And As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
II. RELIGION OR RELATIONSHIP???
Everything in our Christian Life and service depends upon our relationship with God. If that relationship is not right everything else will be off center (He is our reference point to mark from) (EXAMPLE- of Target: Circles away from center. Sin is “missing the Mark”)
I want us to look at an Old Testament and a New Testament example of people who “missed the mark” in their relationship with God and failed God and themselves:
1. THE OLD TESTAMENT EXAMPLE– Twice Moses is called to a conference with God on mount Sinai that lasted for 40 days. 4 Circles of Contact are revealed:
1. The Outer Circle Ex 19:11-12 The people could approach the mountain but they could not ascend it. Barriers were erected to keep the people from getting any closer. WHY?? God knew their heart was not in it. They would have come for curiosity instead of commitment. While Moses was away for 40 days (!) they erected a golden calf to worship.
2. The Second Circle Ex 24:9-11 They passed the barrier and ate and drank in the presence of God (a Theophany) but their hearts were not warmed as shown by the fact that they left the mountain and allowed the people to draw them into building and worshipping the Golden Calf (Nadab and Abihu were in this crowd and they would soon be killed for offering “strange fire” before God. Did they have enough religion to make them dangerous??? See the example of the sons of Sceva in Acts 19- “Christ I know and Paul I know but who are YOU?)
3. The Third Circle Ex 24:13-14 Moses and Joshua
–Joshua had a good attitude: The servant of Moses (Greatest shall be servant)
–Joshua had Faith: Remember His report of the Promised Land
–Joshua was dependable: didn’t go along with the crowd, was a leader
4. The Inner Circle Ex 24:15-18 Moses
A) Moses communed with God And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle. (Exodus 33:11).
B) Moses desired to know God’s ways Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people. (Exodus 33:13).
C) Moses desired to have God’s Presence with him (Fellowship) And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence (Exodus 33:15). (Would that every Preacher would pray that before entering the Pulpit).
D) Moses desired to see God’s Glory (Beyond Fellowship to intimacy) And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory (Exodus 33:18). Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom (Proverbs 18:1).
THE RESULTS– Moses radiated the Glory of God And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses’ hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him. (Exodus 34:29).
2. THE NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLE
A) Jesus Chose 70 of his followers to send out 2 by 2 to preach
B) After a night of Prayer He chose 12 of these to train as Disciples
C) Of the 12 three (Peter, James, and John) were his close counsel
D) Of the 3 John was the beloved Disciple that leaned on Jesus Breast.
HOW DO YOU GET IN THE INNER CIRCLE???
Not perfect people- Moses failed, Peter failed.
Not your temperament- Peter was unstable; James and John were “Sons of Thunder”
THE KEY IS LOVE FOR. CHRIST AND A DESIRE TO BE NEAR HIM. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:13).
WE’RE AS CLOSE TO GOD NOW AS WE CHOSE TO BE! ARE YOU TIRED OF TRYING TO LIVE THE CHRISTIAN LIFE???? LET CHRIST LIVE HIS LIFE THRU YOU I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live, yet not I but Christ liveth in me. For me to live is Christ.
Which Circle are YOU in?

John 14:12 BEING A BETTER BELIEVER

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father (John 14:12).
Christians are promised great spiritual blessings which may be divided into Three Classes.
I. THOSE WHICH COME IMMEDIATELY UPON SALVATION: Forgiveness, justification, regeneration, sonship, and baptism into the body of Christ (We may not recognize them immediately but they are ours none the less). We learn about them as we study the Scripture.
II. THOSE WHICH ARE OURS WHEN WE GET TO HEAVEN: The glorification of our bodies, the completion of the restoration of the Divine Image, and our admission into the very presence of God in order to experience forever the joys of Heaven. These are not ours now but they are looked for and longed for: For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it (Romans 8:18-25).
III. THOSE THAT ARE OURS BECAUSE OF WHAT CHRIST DID AND THE HOLY SPIRIT DOES BUT ONLY COME WHEN WE MAKE A DETERMINED EFFORT TO POSSESS THEM: Deliverance from the sins of the flesh, victory over self, constant control by the Holy spirit, fruitfulness in Christian Service, awareness of the presence of God, growth in Grace, an increasing consciousness of union with God, and a constant spirit of Worship.
These do not automatically come but must be claimed:
A) YOU HAVE NOT BECAUSE YOU SEEK NOT (James 4:2). You will get nothing unless you go after it- Joshua entered and conquered the Promised Land because he was willing to Trust God’s Power and follow God’s plan. Being filled with the Holy Spirit will energized for service.
B) YOU HAVE AS MUCH AS YOU INSIST UPON HAVING. Jacob- And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day. And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob’s thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him. And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I WILL NOT LET THEE GO, EXCEPT THOU BLESS ME (Genesis 32:24-26).
C) YOU WILL HAVE AS LITTLE AS YOU ARE SATISFIED HAVING. I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt: open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it (Psalms 81:10). God says Lukewarm makes Him sick (Rev 3:15-16). If you are satisfied to be satisfied you will have little satisfaction: He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding (Proverbs 12:11).
D) YOU HAVE AS MUCH AS YOU REALLY WANT: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? (Matthew 7:7-11).

John 14:15 Love and Responsibility

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.
1. John 13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. We belong to the Body of Christ. We accept each others positions and problems. Our goal is to Help each other be or become what we should be for God.
DOES THE CHURCH AND THE COMMUNITY KNOW US FOR OUR LOVE???
2. Acts 10:42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. We are Witnesses of Christ. Matt 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. More and more it is becoming evident that we must CARRY the Gospel to People instead of expect them to COME to us. WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO REACH PEOPLE FOR CHRIST??? Man who gives ministers vacations, Tapes to shut ins, meals for someone who might not be able to attend otherwise, phone calls, letters, etc.
3. I Jn 3:22- 24 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.
Keeping His commandments means:
1. Answered Prayers- “Whatsoever we ask, we receive of him,”
2. Abiding Presence- “dwelleth in him, and he in him.”. We are in Christ and Christ is in us as testified to by the Spirit.
Name = Authority. ARE WE USING THE POWER WE HAVE?

John 14:15-16 OBEYING PRAYING

If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; (John 14:15-16). Jesus said if we would obey then He would pray. Great Promise
The Devil doesn’t mind a person professing Christianity as long as they do not practice it.
Obedience must be founded upon Faith- When I try, I fail, when I trust, I succeed.
What Obedience Cost:
A) Comfort- The Story of God’s provision for Elijah- I Kings 17:1-7
B) Cross- Obedient unto Death, even death on Cross
C) Casual Christianity- Can’t remain Luke Warm
FEAR– Fear God and Keep His Commandments
Fear of Consequences
Fear of God
Fear of Society’s reactions
LOVE– If You love me, Keep my Commandments
Love God MORE than sin
Love God’s Favor MORE than Sin’s Pull
There are 3 levels of Obedience:
1. We HAVE to: We obey because of FEAR. We should fear and reverence God, and many times fear brings us to Him, but He wants us to be more than Slaves- He wants us to be FRIENDS- Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. (John 15:14)
One of the strangest incidents in the Bible is when the Samaritans inhabited Israel. They brought their own gods and disregarded God so God sent lions among them. This prompted them to send for a priest of God who taught them enough about God so they wouldn’t offend Him (and thus the lions wouldn’t attack them!). It says they “Feared the Lord and served their own gods” (II Kings 17:24-33). There are a lot of people today who serve God just enough to keep the lions off them!!
2. We NEED to: We obey because of REWARD (Selfishness–Children obey because of fear of spanking; Teens obey to get the keys to the Car!). Many people obey God in hopes of getting something out of it- Remember the man who paid his tithes and then sued his preacher because he didn’t get rich like he thought he would! In this day of “health and wealth” preachers who say that serving God will erase all sickness and debt it’s a common thing for people to be “righteous for reward”.
If we aren’t careful we’ll do the same thing, however– “Lord, if you’ll heal my child I’ll study my Bible”. “If I can get this job I’ll start coming to Church regularly”. The saddest part of this type of obedience is that if God doesn’t give us everything we desire then we use that as an excuse not to serve Him!!
3. We WANT to: Service motivated by LOVE. Jn 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. This is what God is looking for (He who has my commandments and keeps them, he it is that loves me. Jn 14:21). This kind of Service:
A) Centers in the Giver instead of the Gift- (Job served God under all circumstances). It has always bothered me that most people are more interested in this world that going to be with God. It is when we value Praise and Popularity and Possessions more than God that we begin to obey the lusts of the Flesh instead of the Laws of God.
B) Does not measure Sacrifice. Jacob served 14 years for Rachel and “they seemed to him but a few days because of his love for her” (Gen 29:20). Like the Father who ruins his health to provide an education for his child, or the mother who sits us night after night with a sick child; a Christian who loves God ignores the pain and the problems in order to please the Father. We live in the day of the “Convenient Christian”; One who is willing to do anything for God as long as it doesn’t cost them money or inconvenience (David said, “I will not offer sacrifice unto the Lord of that which cost me nothing” II Sam 24:24).
C) Gives God what He’s looking for: God gave Adam and Eve everything they needed; including a way to give God’s love back to Him– by not eating of the forbidden fruit! God does not NEED our Work but He longs for our Love.
How do we demonstrate this Love:
A) We accept His offer of Love for us- I John 4:10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. One of the most heartbreaking things is to offer someone your love and have them reject you; Which is what you do to God every time you turn down His offer of Salvation!
B) We keep His commandments because we love Him and we Love Him because we keep His commandments! John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. When you Love someone you want to Do things for them and spend time with Them. Love is not just some Mystical Emotion but a Motivating Force in our life.
C) We share God’s Love with Others- I John 3:17 But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
If I asked you today if You Loved God probably most of you would answer that you did. But let me ask the question the way Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love me MORE than these???” Do you love God enough to accept the Salvation Jesus died to pay for?? Or do you love your own will and way more?? Do you love God enough to Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him into any area of service HE wants you to do???
THE PROBLEM IS NOT THAT WE DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO; THE PROBLEM IS THAT WE DON’T LOVE ENOUGH TO DO WHAT WE KNOW!
Love Defined- I Cor 13:4-8 Love is Long suffering, kind, doesn’t envy, is not boastful or proud, acts correctly, is not self seeking, is not easily provoked, doesn’t look for evil or rejoice in it, but desires the truth; bears all things, believes all things, has continual hope, endure all things, and never ceases.

John 14:15-18 GOD SENDS HELP

A minister traveling on a train in Europe was the sole occupant of a compartment, save for a young man reading a newspaper. The youth was also a Christian, but so weak was his faith, and so many were his temptations, that he told the minister he did not think he would be able to stand life a week longer. The minister took from his pocket a Bible and a penknife and said, “See, I will make this penknife stand up on the cover of this Bible, in spite of the rocking of the train.” The young man, thinking that this was some conjuring trick, watched the proceeding with interest, saying, “I’m afraid that it will not be very easy to do that, sir.”
“But,” said the minister, “I am doing it.” “Oh, but you are holding it up,” retorted his fellow passenger. “Why, of course. Did you ever hear of a penknife standing up on its end without being held up?” “I see,” was the young man’s comment. “I see you mean to teach me that I cannot stand unless Christ holds me. Thanks for reminding me of that.”
As we approach this Christmas season it’s so easy to think only of the little babe in the manger. However, this little babe grew up to live and die for our sins. Knowing we would need help in the new life He offered He also promised us that God would provide someone to help and guide us. Today I want us to take a brief look at this one who is able to hold us up as we live for the Lord in sinful world.
In order to do that let’s look at the PROBLEMS THE HOLY SPIRIT SOLVES: 5 times in the New Testament we find the Greek word “PARAKLETOS” used to describe the Holy Spirit. It literally means “one called along side to help” but is translated as Comforter or Advocate. This very descriptive word helps us to realize part of the Ministry of the Holy Spirit as He develops us into the people of God we should be. Each time we find the Holy Spirit is a “Problem Solver”.
Problem #1- SIN IN THE LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN. I John 2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteousness. Sin can look so tantalizing to be so terrible- The Greek king Tantalus, as punishment for the crime of stealing ambrosia from the gods, was condemned to an eternal torment of hunger and thirst. Water receded as he stooped to drink, and trees lifted their branches as he reached up to pluck their fruit. From this myth, we get the word tantalizing.
John is warning Christians about the danger of sin while at the same time showing what happens when we do sin. It is the Holy Spirit who, through the Word and the Warning of Conscience, warns us away from sin. If we continue on and sin then the Holy Spirit convicts our heart to cause us to turn to God in repentance seeking forgiveness. When we approach God for forgiveness the Holy Spirit knows we have no rights nor righteousness to approach the Father so He “intercedes for us with groanings that cannot be uttered” (Rom 8:26) to Christ who becomes our “lawyer” to plead forgiveness for our sins on the basis of the shed blood.
So the Holy Spirit tries to keep us from Sin and then helps us handle it when we do sin.
Problem #2- SEPARATION FROM GOD (Loneliness)- Jn 14:16-17 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever: even the Spirit of Truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him; but ye know him: for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
The very first problem man faced was Loneliness (See Gen 2:18). God realized that man needed someone to be with him here on earth when Jesus ascended so He send the Holy Spirit to abide within every believer. This means we are never alone- never lonely!!! In prison, in pain, in problems. The World cannot see Him (and cannot understand the source of our strength) but we know the absolute need of His presence and power.
Problem #3- LACK OF KNOWLEDGE: Jn 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. There is no better “teacher” than the writer of the book!! The Holy Spirit is able to teach us what we need to know and even give us a good Memory! Your education is not based on your Schooling but on the Spirit.
Problem #4- LACK OF ABILITY: Jn 15:26-27 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: and ye also shall bear witness…. The Holy Spirit not only gives us the Knowledge we need but He also gives us the Ability to use that knowledge to witness for Christ (See Act 1:8)
Problem #5- AVAILABILITY OF HELP AND COMFORT: Jn 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; it is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. Christ could only be in one place at a time; the Holy spirit can be everywhere.
A man was killed at a railroad crossing one summer evening in 1891. His relatives sued the railroad, claiming negligence on the part of the watchman. During the ensuing trial the watchman was questioned by the Prosecutor. “Were you on duty at the crossing? Did you have a lantern? Did you wave your lantern in warning?” Each time the man would reply, “Yes sir, I did.”
The jury found the railroad not guilty and an officer of the railroad came by to thank the watchman for his testimony. The officer asked, “Tell me, Mr Jarvis, were you nervous during the questioning at the trial?” The watchman replied, “Yes sir, I feared every moment he would ask, ‘Was the lantern lit?'”
Christian, is your lantern lit?? How many people have you shared God at Work in your life with this week? [To the best of my knowledge I have shared with at least one person EVERY DAY]. Lost person, You can’t have the help of the Holy Spirit unless you are saved. Come to Christ today and receive forgiveness of sins and power to live as a new creature.

John 14:27 PEACE IN THE MIDST OF WAR

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. — John 14:27 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. (Mat 24:6)
Trouble, War, Trial, Temptations, Fear, Anguish, Loss, Bereavement, Anxiety, and Alarm drift across the sky and the sun is hidden, these words become precious.
3 kinds of Peace
1. PHYSICAL PEACE
Things that break this peace: Wrong use of Power- Abuse, war, etc
An old lady asked during an earthquake, are you afraid? No, I am Thrilled to know that I serve a God who can shake the whole world.
2. EMOTIONAL PEACE
A) Lost of Control: Art Contest paint a picture of perfect peace- 1st scene on a still, quiet lake high in the mountains. -2nd a thundering waterfall with a branch of a tree bending over the foam, robin sitting on nest on branch undisturbed.> Won first prize.
B) Wrong Desires- From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not (James 4:1-2)
C) Mental Unrest- Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee (Isa 26:3). Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
William Cowper, during one period of his life, clouds choked out all sunlight and hope, tried suicide, first swallowed poison, failed; planned to jump from bridge into Thames River in London but attempt was interrupted, next morning fell forward on a sharp knife, but the knife broke, tried to hang himself but was found unconscious and still alive, later read Romans and found peace in the midst of the storm.
Later wrote, God moves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform; He plants His footprints in the sea, and rides upon the storm. Deep in unfathomable mines of never failing skill he treasures up His bright designs, and works His sovereign will.
3. SPIRITUAL PEACE
A) Peace WITH God- Salvation
B) Peace OF God- Service
Within the Peaceful Heart there is no room for jealousy, envy, discontent, uncontrolled temper, selfishness, pride, intolerance, lust, harsh criticism, selfrighteousness, unconfessed sin, fear, or anxiety.
1. Not the imperfect peace of ignorance <involvement with cults, false doctrine, misinterpretation of Scriptures.>, Jeremiah 6:14 They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace.
2. Not the imperfect peace of stagnation. Idleness is not peace
3. Not the imperfect peace of dependence upon someone or something. A type of Slavery
The Way to Peace of Heart:
1. NAME YOUR TROUBLE- If you can’t name your trouble then you probably don’t have one.
2. BELIEVE THAT GOD IS ABLE TO DEAL WITH YOUR PROBLEM: Matt 7:11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in Heaven give good things to them that ask him??
3. SUBMIT TO THE WILL OF GOD FOR YOUR LIFE: There is no peace apart from being in God’s Will for your life.
4. CAST YOUR CARES ON HIM FOR HE CARES FOR YOU: Unburden your heart to the Lord- Example of the man who agreed to ride on a wagon but would not give up his pack because he didn’t want to add any more burden to the wagon!!!

John 15:1-8 HOW TO KNOW YOU BELONG TO GOD

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. (John 15:1-8)
People say that talk is cheap but people lie- Talk can be expensive to the person doing the talk and Talk can be expensive to the person hearing the talk.
Three things Hinder us from coming and abiding:
1- Prideful attitude about Public reaction and the fear of surrendering everything to God’s control.
2- Past Behavior (Sins)- The shame and the hold past sins continue to have on you.
3- Present Doubts about our ability to come to Christ completely and to live as a Christian correctly.
7 Evidences of Being Born Again
1) New awareness of right and wrong
2) Hunger for God Word
3) Desire for a changed life
4) Love for other Christians
5) Desire to tell others about Christ
6) Increase in testing
7) Punishment for sinful behavior
THREE SIGNS OF SALVATION:
1) You are connected to the Vine- A living connection. No external temporary union (Cannot tie a branch to a vine an expect it to live). The living Sap (Holy Spirit) of the vine flows from the vine to the branch. The secret of the Christian life is ABIDING in the vine. (See vs 6) .
2) You bear Fruit- Without the vine the branch can do nothing. Amazingly, without the branch the vine can do nothing!! All the vine possesses belongs to the branches.(The glory thou gavest me I have given them– John 17:22) All the branch produces belongs to the vine. Branch is for fruit, otherwise taken away.
1. Winning People to Christ
2. Practical Holiness of life
3. Christian Character
4. Good works
5. Sharing what we possess
6. Praising and Thanking God
3) You Depend on God’s Care- God the Father is the Husbandman (Farmer). He cares for the branches by pampering them, pruning them, and purging them.

John 15:11 SAD SAINTS / HOW TO ENJOY LIFE

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full (John 15:11).
Normally a revival speaker tells you how bad you are and encourages you to be better. I want to show how good you can be and encourage you to increase your joy as a way to expand your witness. In his great psalm of repentance, David declares a wonderful principle-Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee (Psalms 51:12-13). If you are joyful in your salvation then you will be more successful in your soul winning endeavors!
I would not preach this message at the beginning of a revival meeting. It is important that people realize their need of repenting of their sins as they develop a genuine concern for sinners- He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him (Psalms 126:6). Having dealt with the sin and failures in our life, however, I want us to realize that honey draws more people than vinegar- It was not the preacher telling me how bad I was but Mr. Buster’s singing of Amazing Grace under difficult circumstances that drew me to God.
HOW TO ENJOY LIFE
There are many “formulas” for happiness in the world today, yet it seems people are enjoying life less and less. The Christian life is not pain, problem, or persecution free but we should be able to enjoy what God has given us-Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; (1 Timothy 6:17).

Here are 5 Bible principles for enjoying life so sinners will see the goodness we have in God:

COMPLAIN LESS– (1 Pet 3:10) For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
GIVE MORE-(Luke 6:38) Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. (Acts 20:35) It is more blessed to give than to receive.
PRAY HARD– (John 16:24) Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.
LIVE RIGHT-(Heb 1:9) Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.
DRAW NEAR-(Psa 16:11) Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
God has a plan (66 books, 39-27. 39= 17, 5, 17. 17=5,12. 12=9,3).
The Presence is FULLNESS of JOY. Pleasures await you- IF YOU ARE SAVED. Otherwise eternal pain is the price you will pay for the “Pleasures of sin for a season” (Heb 11:25).

John 15:1-8 THE SECRET OF LIVING- FRUITBEARING

One of the earliest lessons I learned as a Christian was that “Still waters stagnate”. I learned that I am saved by Faith; completely apart from my own works, but that once I was saved God demanded Fruit! God, the Farmer’s, system is very simple- Branches that do not Produce Fruit are cut off and fed to the Fire. (Many of you will immediately yell, “Salvation based on works”. NO, But the Salvation talked about in the Bible produces Works; or it is faulty!) I want to look at How we can produce Fruit, How God looks at Fruit, and then see the Kinds of Fruit God expects. And I want us to remember the entire time that God’s statement is very plain, “Fruit or Fire”!!
I. THE BASIS OF FRUIT–
A) Connection- Fruit is the result of being connected to the Vine. You can’t just Tape a branch to a tree; there must be a sharing of life between the vine and the branch- You must be Born Again!!
B) Care- “Paul plants, Apollos waters, but God gives the increase” (I Cor 3:6). The Father is the Farmer and He knows what part you have in the actual Harvest (I was visited by a young man this week who told about being Saved and Serving the Lord in another Church now but the foundation for all of this was laid when he used to attend our Church. The Heavenly Father knows how much credit each deserves). Fertilizer is good FOR a plant but not ON a plant. It must seep into the ground and come into the plant via the roots. Your Foundational Food is vitally important. Are you trying to grow by being AROUND Christians or by spending time WITH Christ?
II. THE JUDGEMENT OF FRUIT– We are judged by our Fruit in two ways:
1. THE KIND OF FRUIT: Matt 7:15-20 vs 17 every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Because you put an apple tree in the middle of a vineyard does not mean it will begin to produce grapes- If you call it a grape vine, feed it grape vine food, and cut it to look like a grape vine; it still produces apples! Because a man starts coming to Church, reading the Bible, etc….
2. THE QUANTITY OF FRUIT: 15:2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Some people think that because they have simply stopped producing bad fruit that God will accept them- God says No fruit is as bad as bad fruit.
Even Christians are asked for “Fruit, More Fruit, Much Fruit”. God keeps cutting away things in our life that would hinder our production because He knows It’s possible for a fruit bearing Christian to become FRUITLESS- Mark 4:18-19 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. FRUIT OR FIRE!
III. THE TYPES OF FRUIT:
1. Winning People to Christ: Rom 1:13 Often I have planned to come to you…in order that I might obtain some fruit among you also, even as among the rest of the Gentiles. There are a number of ways a Soul Winners is Described:
A) Prov 11:30 He who wins souls is wise. To “Win” means “To capture a trophy”. You make an ultimate effort to get some thing that is very valuable.
B) Fishers of Men- To cast a Net into the “sea” and hope to catch some “fish”. Sometimes you fish all night and catch nothing but sometimes the net is full!!
C) Firemen- Snatching Men out of the Fire (Jude 23)
D) Farmer- Fields white unto harvest that needs reaping
E) Ambassador for Christ (II Cor 5:20) – Showing Christ. Bearing Fruit is not memorizing words but living life- as we abide in Christ we produce fruit; People see our Light, Our Love, and Our Lord.
2. Practical Holiness of life: Rom 6:22 But now being make free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. Holiness is the beauty and character of God displayed in our everyday life. Holiness is simply a way to describe our “Spiritual Health” that results from a continued relationship with Christ.
3. Christian Character (Inner Development): Gal 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. Not manufactured by self effort but produced by the Spirit’s Control. This Fruit results in a Change in Character.
4. Good Works– Col 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God. We do Works that are show our Love for the Lord and for People (A woman’s husband died. One neighbor was a Christian. She came over and had prayer with the widow. Another neighbor belonged to a cult. She brought several meals and helped the widow get things organized. Guess where the Widow goes to “church”?) NOTE- Be careful of comparing Fruit- Every Christian has his own ministry (Gift) to fulfill, and no Christian is competing with any other Christian who is in the will of God. We’re not trying to show each other up; we’re trying to share Christ.
5. The Sharing of what we possess: Rom 15:28 When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain. Paul was bringing a “love Offering” to the Christians at Jerusalem. It’s important that we give Generously and from the Heart- II Cor 9:6-7 He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. The Branch does not bear fruit for itself but for others! Fruit has the seed for more fruit! (See II Cor 9:9-10)
6. Praising and thanking God: Heb 13:15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. Sacrifice of Praise- not forced words but joyful witnessing.
WHAT KIND OF FRUIT ARE YOU PRODUCING? Bear not fruit, Become unfruitful, Bear wrong Fruit. Bad Fruit, No Fruit, or Much Fruit?? Bad Fruit and No Fruit result in Fire!! Abide in the Vine.

John 15:1-17THE SECRET OF FRUIT-BEARING IS ABIDING

Fruit bearing is of utmost importance in Your Life; It’s Fruit or Fire! This Fruit comes from Abiding in the Vine so that the life of Christ can flow thru us and change Flesh into Fruit. We want to look today at How We can Abide in the Vine and How we can know we are Abiding, and then we want to look for Fruit.
I. WAYS WE ABIDE:
A) Through the Word- 15:7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you. The Word GUIDES our life (Ps 119:105), GUARDS our life (Ps 119:11), and GROWS our relationship with Christ- They testify of Christ so we get to Know him and become like Him. The Word is a Christian’s Food and Drink; when it stops coming into a Christian’s life their leaves begin to wilt and die.
B) Through Obedience- 15:10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love. The “Branch” cannot have its own purpose, it must maintain its place in the vine. Rebellion produces Rot!
C) Through Prayer- 15:7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask whatever you will, and it shall be done unto you.
II. EVIDENCE OF ABIDING:
A) Fruit- 1. Winning People to Christ
2. Practical Holiness of life
3. Christian Character
4. Good works
5. Sharing what we possess
6. Praising and Thanking God
B) Pruning- 15:2 Every branch that bears fruit, he prunes it, that it may bear more fruit.
1. “Cutting”- Note the Example of Abraham: God had to prune his father, his nephew Lot, His son Ishmael, His son Isaac. He had to leave Babylon and then Egypt. The more you find God setting you apart for Himself the greater the sense of Abiding.
2. Choices- The Abiding Christian learns to chose between the Good and the Best= The “Good” has less pain for ME, the Best has more Profit for GOD. A Mature Christian is one that is able to consistently make the right choices.
C) Submission- 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. You learn to abide in the Vine in the “Winter” of no growth as well as in the Spring of abundant growth and the Fall of Harvest. The greatest peace in the world is knowing you’re where God wants you to be, doing what God wants you to do.
D) Answered Prayer- 15:7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you. Prayer is not a servant showing up for orders but a friend sharing our heart. When we abide in Him our desire is what’s best for the vine; not just for our branch! And because of this attitude answers are regular to our prayers.
E) Love for Christ and His People- 9-10 12-14 Christian Love is simply treating others the way God treated us.
F) Inner Joy- 15:11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. First symptom of backsliding is loss of Joy. David said, “Restore unto me the Joy of Salvation” Ps 51:12. How can you NOT have Joy when you’re in constant contact with the Vine!!
Are you ABIDING in Him? Or just come to visit every now and then??

John 15:1-17 THE SECRET OF ABIDING- OBEYING

1) The Secret of Abundant Living is Fruit Bearing.
2) The Secret of Fruit Bearing is Abiding in the vine.
3) The Secret of Abiding is Obeying- Jn 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. Jn 15:14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
There is a principle that even a Child knows: Disobedience brings disaster (Pain, “I told you you’d get hurt if you did that” and Punishment; Spankings) and Obedience brings Blessings (Hugs, extra Privileges, and Rewards). This same principle is used by the Lord- Is 1:19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the Sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.
But while all of us know the benefits of Obeying, we find it hard to always obey as we should. There are several reasons we don’t Obey:
1. DISTRACTION: Something comes along that turns us away from our task (Husbands are notorious about this. Wife tells him to carry off papers. On shelf beside papers finds wrench he’d lost, goes to car to tighten bolt, then checks oil, etc. 3 hours later wife has to gently and with a very loving spirit (!) remind him of his original task).
2. DELAY: We put off doing what we are supposed to do and either forget or get so involved with what we’re doing until we don’t feel like accomplishing our task (“I’ll wash the dishes after this program goes off”. “I’m so sleepy, can I wash the dishes tomorrow”). [Do you have any idea of how many people each year die and go to Hell because they put off Salvation til “Tomorrow” or Christians put off witnessing til later!].
3. DISCERNMENT: We fail to UNDERSTAND the Purpose of the Order (Why do I have to do this silly science project, I’m going to marry some rich man and the only science I’ll need is the ability to distinguish between gold and silver credit cards!) [In the Spiritual life we have to learn to accept God’s Commands by Faith; even when we don’t understand].
We fail to COMMUNICATE– “I know you told me you wanted dish detergent; not hair spray”. Many people fail to obey God because they don’t take time to listen to His still small voice (And if God has to “holler” at you, He knows how to get your attention!!).
4. DEFIANCE: We “WILL” not do what we’re told to do. We must grasp the fact that the basis of Obedience is YIELDING THE WILL- Jn 6:38 For I am come from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.
A) Some hide Defiance behind Education: Ever learning but never doing anything. Some people won’t do Anything until they know Everything which means they’ll do Nothing! (More people are won by new converts who don’t know much about the Bible than by “Scholars” who know Theology but never tell the Good News).
B) Some hide Defiance behind Emotion: Obedience is tied to how we feel. These are the people who determine to be good Teachers, singers, or workers when they go thru a good emotional time but then can’t be counted on when their down cycle comes along.
C) Some hide Defiance behind Substitutes:
1> Sacrifice for Obedience- I Sam 15:22 And Samuel said, hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifice, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. I won’t teach a class, God, but I’ll work hard at my job so I can give you 10% of the bonus I’ll get.
2> Words for Obedience- Matt 21:28-31 One son said he would go but he didn’t. We try to hide behind our words but God sees our Hearts; and our actions!!
3> Excuses for Obedience- Matt 25:14-30 vs 25 I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: We fear Failure and Public Opinion and so we blame our lack of Ability; or God’s lack of Provision! instead of trusting in the Power and Presence of God.
Ask God to help you Want to do His Will- Phil 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Make obeying God’s Will the most important thing in your life- John 4:34 My meat is to do the will of Him who sent me, and to accomplish his work.
If you will Abide you must Obey! Are you a Disobedient Disciple or a Submitted Servant?? Commit your Will and your Works to God today.
IS THIS YOUR COMMITMENT?
I’ll go where you want me to go, dear Lord,
Real service is what I desire;
I’ll say what you want me to say, dear Lord-
But don’t ask me to sing in the choir.
I’ll say what you want me to say, dear Lord,
I like to see things come to pass:
But don’t ask me to teach girls and boys, dear Lord
I’d rather just stay in my class.
I’ll do what you want me to do, dear Lord,
I yearn for the Kingdom to thrive;
I’ll give you my nickels and dimes, Dear Lord–
But please don’t ask me to tithe.
I’ll go where you want me to do, dear Lord,
I’ll say what you want me to say;
I’m busy just now with myself, dear Lord–
I’ll help you some other day.

John 15:1-17 THE SECRET OF OBEYING- LOVING

1) The Secret of Abundant Living is Fruit Bearing.
2) The Secret of Fruit Bearing is Abiding in the vine.
3) The Secret of Abiding is Obeying God.
4) The Secret of Obeying is Loving God above all. Jn 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. Jn 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me:
There are 3 levels of Obedience:
1. We HAVE to: We obey because of FEAR. We should fear and reverence God, and many times fear brings us to Him, but He wants us to be more than Slaves- He wants us to be FRIENDS- vs 15.
One of the strangest incidents in the Bible is when the Samaritans inhabited Israel. They brought their own gods and disregarded God so God sent lions among them. This prompted them to send for a priest of God who taught them enough about God so they wouldn’t offend Him (and thus the lions wouldn’t attack them!). It says they “Feared the Lord and served their own gods” (II Kings 17:24-33). There are a lot of people today who serve God just enough to keep the lions off them!!
2. We NEED to: We obey because of REWARD (Selfishness–Children obey because of fear of spanking; Teens obey to get the keys to the Car!). Many people obey God in hopes of getting something out of it- Remember the man who paid his tithes and then sued his preacher because he didn’t get rich like he thought he would! In this day of “health and wealth” preachers who say that serving God will erase all sickness and debt it’s a common thing for people to be “righteous for reward”.
If we aren’t careful we’ll do the same thing, however– “Lord, if you’ll heal my child I’ll study my Bible”. “If I can get this job I’ll start coming to Church regularly”. The saddest part of this type of obedience is that if God doesn’t give us everything we desire then we use that as an excuse not to serve Him!!
3. We WANT to: Service motivated by LOVE. This is what God is looking for (He who has my commandments and keeps them, he it is that loves me. Jn 14:21). This kind of Service:
A) Centers in the Giver instead of the Gift- (Job served God under all circumstances). It has always bothered me that most people are more interested in this world that going to be with God. It is when we value Praise and Popularity and Possessions more than God that we begin to obey the lusts of the Flesh instead of the Laws of God.
B) Does not measure Sacrifice. Jacob served 14 years for Rachel and “they seemed to him but a few days because of his love for her” (Gen 29:20). Like the Father who ruins his health to provide an education for his child, or the mother who sits us night after night with a sick child; a Christian who loves God ignores the pain and the problems in order to please the Father. We live in the day of the “Convenient Christian”; One who is willing to do anything for God as long as it doesn’t cost them money or inconvenience (David said, “I will not offer sacrifice unto the Lord of that which cost me nothing” II Sam 24:24).
C) Gives God what He’s looking for: God gave Adam and Eve everything they needed; including a way to give God’s love back to Him– by not eating of the forbidden fruit! God does not NEED our Work but He longs for our Love.
How do we demonstrate this Love:
A) We accept His offer of Love for us- I John 4:10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. One of the most heartbreaking things is to offer someone your love and have them reject you; Which is what you do to God every time you turn down His offer of Salvation!
B) We keep His commandments because we love Him and we Love Him because we keep His commandments! John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. When you Love someone you want to Do things for them and spend time with Them. Love is not just some Mystical Emotion but a Motivating Force in our life.
C) We share God’s Love with Others- I John 3:17 But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
If I asked you today if You Loved God probably most of you would answer that you did. But let me ask the question the way Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love me MORE than these???” Do you love God enough to accept the Salvation Jesus died to pay for?? Or do you love your own will and way more?? Do you love God enough to Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him into any area of service HE wants you to do???
THE PROBLEM IS NOT THAT WE DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO; THE PROBLEM IS THAT WE DON’T LOVE ENOUGH TO DO WHAT WE KNOW!
Love Defined- I Cor 13:4-8 Love is Long suffering, kind, doesn’t envy, is not boastful or proud, acts correctly, is not self seeking, is not easily provoked, doesn’t look for evil or rejoice in it, but desires the truth; bears all things, believes all things, has continual hope, endure all things, and never ceases.

John 15:4-6 ABIDING

“Hit or Miss” Christianity doesn’t please the person who lives it or the world who watches him live it; yet it seems to be the rule instead of the exception among most Christians. One of our continuing goals here at Grace is to get people to not only KNOW Jesus Christ as their personal Savior but also to SHOW Him in their changed life.
The mistake that many people make is in believing they only have to ACCEPT Christ as Savior and so they don’t seek to ABIDE in Christ on a continual basis. They accept Christ’s ability to deal with their “sins” but they never learn the victory He gives over their sinful living. To them, Christ takes care of their past sin debt and prepares a wonderful future for them after death; but He’s not very much help during this present life.
I want us to see during this message WHAT IT WILL MEAN TO US TO ABIDE WITH CHRIST. Then, during the 11am service, I want to look at SOME OF THE THINGS WE MUST PUT GOD FIRST IN IF HE IS TO ABIDE WITH US. My hope is that you can realize how important it is to make Christ a part of your everyday life and turn principles into practice. It will change next year for you and for those around you.
ABIDING WITH CHRIST IS A PLACE OF:
1. INSTRUCTION- But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them (Luke 24:29) Two disciples met Jesus on the road to Emmaus. When He made as if He would go on without them they “constrained” Him to stay with them so they could receive instruction. When is the last time you have begged God to teach you His word??
When Christ left he left the Comforter (Holy Spirit) to abide in us and teach us the things of Christ- But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him (1 John 2:27). And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever (John 14:16). Sin and Slackness in our lives quenches or grieves the Holy Spirit and He can’t instruct us for chastening us.
If you want to know how to walk the Path of Life, walk it with the one who gives the instructions.
2. FRUITFULNESS (Versus FIRE!)- Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned (John 15:4-6)
Everyone needs Purpose and Peace in life. God had given EVERY Christian a Place to serve in the Body of Christ. As you serve there you will find fulfillment and Peace. It is when you wander into the world that you spend your time feeding the Hogs and longing for Home.
3. ANSWERED PRAYER- If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you (John 15:7). What a Joy it is to Know that He KNOWS what you need. As you abide in Him you learn to ask for the things that will honor Him and promote His work. Then your cup overflows as you see His continual provision (As I look back over my life, one of the greatest Joys I have is the thousands of answered prayers from God. Each one somehow seems to whisper, “I Love You”).
4. CONFIDENCE- And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming (1 John 2:28). I don’t fear the Future because He is my Present! This confidence empowers me now so that I can boldly do the Work God has called me to do. It also give me a confident Hope that, regardless of the way things look now, God is still on the throne and will triumph in the end.
5. RIGHTEOUS LIVING- Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him (1 John 3:6). And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us (1 John 3:24). Abiding in Him will affect the way we walk, talk, think, and act (Just as living in South Carolina affects every area of my life, so continually abiding in Him will affect every fiber of my being). He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked (1 John 2:6).
Aren’t you tired of just existing? Wouldn’t it be great to start a new year with a “friend that sticks closer than a brother”. Jesus wants to abide with you; and you need to abide with Him. Give Him the throne of your heart and let him “set up house”. You’ll find instructions for life, fruitfulness in Service, Answered Prayer for needs, Confidence to face the future, and a life changing power.
Remember, however, that Abiding is not a 5 minute trial but a life time commitment. It’s not turning over a new leaf for a couple of days to see if you like it; it’s burning your bridges behind you as you daily take up your cross and follow Christ by faith.
Abiding will change your life as well as change your destiny. And that’s what you need!

John 15:4-10 RESULTS OF ABIDING IN CHRIST

(Preached this to a church in India). God does not call us to simply Believe ON Him. Christ calls us to Abide IN Him. Surrendering to God is not about being willing to do a single thing. It is about being willing to do anything at anytime as requested by God.
1) Much Fruit is Produced: I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. (John 15:5).
2) Prayer is effective- If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:7).
3) Joy is Complete: My Joy remains, Your joy is full.

John 15:4-5 ABIDING2

(Preached this to a church in India). God does not call us to simply Believe ON Him. Christ calls us to Abide IN Him. Surrendering to God is not about being willing to do a single thing. It is about being willing to do anything at anytime as requested by God.
Many people believe Christianity is ACCEPTING Christ as Savior to take care of their past sin debt and rejoicing that He is preparing a wonderful future for them after death. To them, Christ is not very much help during this present life because they do not seek to ABIDE in Christ to gain the Abundant Life of victory over their sinful living.
ABIDING WITH CHRIST IS A PLACE OF:
1. MUCH FRUIT PRODUCED- Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. (John 15:4-5). God had given EVERY Christian a Place to serve in the Body of Christ. When you do YOUR part in the Body of Christ you will be amazed at the results God will produce.
2. PRAYER IS EFFECTIVE- If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you (John 15:7). What a Joy it is to Know that He KNOWS what you need. As you abide in Him you learn to ask for the things that will honor Him and promote His work. Then your cup overflows as you see His continual provision (As I look back over my life, one of the greatest Joys I have is the thousands of answered prayers from God. Each one somehow seems to whisper, “I Love You”).
3. RIGHTEOUS LIVING IS A WAY OF LIFE- Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him (1 John 3:6). And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us (1 John 3:24). Abiding in Him will affect the way we walk, talk, think, and act (Just as living in South Carolina affects every area of my life, so continually abiding in Him will affect every fiber of my being). He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked (1 John 2:6).
4. JOY IS COMPLETE BECAUSE WE HAVE CONFIDENCE TO FACE GOD– But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming (1 John 2:27-28). I don’t fear the Future because He is my Present! This confidence empowers me now so that I can boldly do the Work God has called me to do. It also give me a confident Hope that, regardless of the way things look now, God is still on the throne and will triumph in the end.
Aren’t you tired of just existing? Wouldn’t it be great to start a new year with a “friend that sticks closer than a brother”. Jesus wants to abide with you; and you need to abide with Him. Give Him the throne of your heart and let him “set up house”. You’ll find instructions for life, fruitfulness in Service, Answered Prayer for needs, Confidence to face the future, and a life changing power.
Remember, however, that Abiding is not a 5 minute trial but a life time commitment. It’s not turning over a new leaf for a couple of days to see if you like it; it’s burning your bridges behind you as you daily take up your cross and follow Christ by faith.
Abiding will change your life as well as change your destiny. And that’s what you need!

John 16:12 SAVIOR’S SILENCES

How many of you Young People have ever had a time you pouted and wouldn’t talk because things didn’t go as you expected? How about the wives? Have you ever had a time you sat in Stoney silence while you gave your husband the cold shoulder and the closed mouth? Now, the most dangerous group to question. Men, have you ever had a time you walked out (maybe even slammed the door!) and sulked in your workshop. Or maybe you buried your head in a newspaper or stared with complete attention at the TV to keep from talking to your wife?
In all of these situations people found an amazing truth; sometimes you can communicate with your silence as well as with your speech. And you also found that silence can get your point across even better than a shout sometimes. You also discovered that silence can be a dangerous method of communication. It can divide families, cause hard feelings, and stretch love to the limits. That’s why it must be used wisely, if it is going to be used.
In my spiritual life, There have been times the Lord communicated with me through silence. Many times this silence from the Lord confused and bemused me. Martin Luther prayed, “Oh, Lord God, punish us, but be not silent toward us.” David said in Psalm 28:1- Unto thee will I cry, O LORD my rock; be not silent to me: lest, if thou be silent to me, I become like them that go down into the pit.
There are some times, however, that God used silence as a means of communication that worked better than anything else He could do. It is said of Jesus, “Never man spake like this man” (John 7:46). It could also be said, “Never was a man’s silences like this man.” Let’s look and learn from the times He was silent.
1. THE SILENCE OF EDUCATION– I have yet many things to say unto you, but you cannot bear them (John 16:12). God has far more to say to us than we are willing to hear, more than we are able to understand, more than we are ready to practice. The message of God often has to wait upon our capacity to grasp the lesson He is trying to teach. Therefore our education must be gradual and His revelation must be progressive. His silence is not a sign that He doesn’t want to teach us; it may simply be that He has given us as much as we can digest right now. Chew up what you know real well and He will give you more to chew on!
2. THE SILENCE OF LOVE– When the Woman was taken in Adultery. He did not accuse her; He simply wrote on the ground as He allowed the conscience of the men to condemn them. Only then did He forgave the woman and send her on her way. His love for her was best communicated by silence instead of arguing points of law.
That’s one thing I’ve noticed about Love; it is more often whispered than shouted (think about the way you tell someone you know that you love them- A soft word or a kind touch). Have you heard God’s Whisper of Love.
3. THE SILENCE OF FAITH– Once a Woman came to Jesus asking Him to heal her Child. For a long time Jesus ignored her. Finally He said, “It is not usual to take the children’s bread and give it to dogs!” Instead of being shamed by this she answered in such a way until Jesus gave her the requested healing. I wonder what would have happened if Jesus would have spoken immediately?
Many times in my life God has remained silent in order to build my faith. Now I have learned to trust His heart even when I can’t see His hand at work. That’s because I’ve learned the silence generally means the answer is on the way!
4. THE SILENCE OF SUFFERING– (Isa 53:7) He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. A pig will squeal to the last drop of blood, but the sheep faces death without a bleat. Suffering in Silence as Jesus did has become a lost art. What a tremendous testimony to Faith in God it is when a person suffers with a confident trust in God’s strength and power.
Never doubt in the dark what God has told you in the light. When you are going thru suffering and it seems God doesn’t hear or, if He hears, He doesn’t care; just remember that there is not a hair of your head that falls to the ground without God’s knowledge. Hold on, God is still there; and He still cares.
5. THE SILENCE OF GOD– When Jesus stood trial before Herod and Pilate He confounded them with His silence. How could He remain silent?
–He had nothing to Change- He had lived sinless
–He had nothing to Prove- He did not need to prove He was God. Pilate ordered Him to speak because he said he had power to free or kill Him. Jesus knew that the real power rested with God.
God does not attempt to prove Himself to the unbeliever. He simply declares Himself and expects you to trust Him by Faith. To the merely curious, the moral coward, and the mocking cynic, Heaven always remains silent. Herod wanted Jesus to perform some trick and entertain him. But those who seek a carnival Christ will find the Lord strangely quiet. Jesus has no word for ears that will not listen.
Sunrise and sunset do not speak in tones of thunder, but surely they have a message for our hearts. God has said for us to be silent, to be still, to shut out everything else, and know that He is God.
1) Calm your heart and listen to God.
2) Don’t be nervous if God is silent- Have Faith- God is speaking; even if He is silent!
3) Remember that there is a time to speak; and it is very important that we speak when God says speak. But there is also a time to be silent as we listen for the whispers of God. Paul said he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.(2 Cor 12:4). In the sanctuary of his own soul, every man has something from God that is not always to share with others. If you tried to put it into words it would somehow cheapen it, or make it seem foolish.
We should proclaim the Gospel with a loud voice and a dedicated effort. However, those silent, secret times with God We should hold close and keep in our heart of hearts. Don’t be silent when you should speak; or speak when you should be silent.

John 17:3 KNOWING CHRIST

To Know God Personally is Salvation- And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. — John 17:3
To Know Him increasingly is Sanctification- That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; — Phil 3:10
To Know Him Perfectly is Glorification- For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. — 1 Cor 13:9-12

John 17:4 DOING YOUR JOB

John 17:4 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.
Isn’t it great to start a job when you know what you’ve got to do, how to do it, and that you have the equipment necessary to do the job. But even better than that, Isn’t it great to finally finish a job?? Isn’t it great to stand back and say, “Finished”.
That’s the position Jesus was in in today’s scripture. He had done the job God send Him to do. Now all that was left was the cross where He could finally utter the words, “It is finished” as He ended not only his job but His life.
The goal of every person should be to Glorify God and Finish the task He has given us. The problem comes from the fact that we major many times on how our life should glorify God (Light shine, testify of His goodness, etc) but we seldom get real serious about WHAT our work for God is; and if we are accomplishing what God wants.
I think every one of us would like to come to the end of our life and be able to say, like Paul, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: (2 Tim 4:7 ). In order to do that we must KNOW:
I. What our Work for God is–
A) Faith in the Redemptive Work of Christ-John 6:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.
B) This Faith should lead to Functioning as part of the Body of Christ- Eph 2:8 10 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. This Functioning involves LEADERS guiding into the Proper course and MEMBERS accepting their Part in the Body- Eph 4:11 16 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all 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: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Our Work for God also involves HIS CHOICE for our Physical Life Work
ADAM was to Tend and Guard the Garden- 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.
JEREMIAH was to become a Rejected Prophet- Jer 1:4 5 Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, 5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. Jer 1:19 And they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the LORD, to deliver thee.
MARY was to carry and raise Christ- Luke 1:30 31 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
THE DISCIPLES were to change from Fishermen into Fishers of Men- Mat 4:19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
What Direction change did God make in YOUR life when you were saved-2 Cor 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Are you Doing your job??

John 17:18 YOUR PART IN THE GREAT COMMISSION

As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world (John 17:18).
Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you (John 20:21).
And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high (Luke 24:44-49).
Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen (Matt 28:16-20).
1. The Problem is Doubt. Are you a doubter or a disciple?
2. The Power is available
3. The Personal Part is required
4. The Preaching is to bring people to trust God
5. The Practice of the Precepts is presented
6. The Partnership of Christ is promised
7. The Program is to continue until the Master returns

John 17:20-21 FELLOWSHIP AS THE CHURCH

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me (John 17:20-21)
Christ came to save INDIVIDUALS and then put these individuals into the BODY of Christ- Fellowship is not just a part of the Christian life; it IS the Christian life. What would you think of a Soldier who said, “I belong in the Army but I refuse to become part of any unit!”? This “lone wolf” Soldier may survive on his own but he would not help the rest of the army meet it’s objective. He mission would become centered on SELF instead of SERVICE for the Savior. That’s why Followers become part of the Fellowship.
The qualifications of the members of this Fellowship of Believers are:
Loyalty– The example used over and over in the Bible to represent the Church is the married relationship. The main requirement in that relationship is FAITHFULNESS (Only grounds for divorce. I used to stress the fact that the physical act of adultery was the only grounds for divorce. I’m becoming more convinced that loving alcohol, drugs, or money more than your mate is just as bad- “Love not the world, neither the things of the world”).
Confidence– “Speaking the Truth in Love”. We must be truthful and tactful with one another. We must believe that the Pastor reproves us for our good. We must trust the words and actions of fellow believers.
Responsible– a Church, like a business, cannot function if no one is wiling to do the necessary work. I try not to ask you to do something that I haven’t done before you (I’ve even sung a special before! That wasn’t faith; that was foolishness!). When you see a need, look for a way you can meet that need. On a football team the quarterback gets most of the credit but the other 10 players do most of the work; and if they don’t do their part the quarterback gets in deep trouble!
Forgiveness– The Church is not a fellowship of perfected saints, but of forgiven sinners. We must learn to “Forgive as we have been forgiven”.
Love– By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another (John 13:35). The “cement” that binds together Christians as building Blocks is LOVE. This love cares for one another’s privacy as well as their problems. It lends a hand in persecution and shares a tear in pain. Develop a love for Christ and you will develop a love for fellow believers. As in the spokes of a wheel, the closer we approach the hub (Christ) the closer we get to one another.
What should you do??
1. Join the Church
2. Dedicate yourself to the work of God here at Grace
3. Find your place and practice your profession! (Some are cooks, some are artillery, some are snipers, some are builders, etc).
We don’t want you to join a “club” we have here. We think you ought to be part of the Church here that’s serving the Lord Jesus Christ. We have a well defined mission (To get everyone to Know and to Show Christ), Great Members, and a marvelous Ministry of serving the Master. Come thou with us and we will do thee good.

John 17:20-23 UNITING IN OUR MISSION

I know how long your nose is- distance from the end of your thumb to the end of your first finger. Every face is 3 noses high and 3 eyes wide. Your foot is the distance from your wrist to your elbow. Your face is the size of your foot. God made us all proportional
Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me (John 17:20-23).
The Reasons Jesus prayed for us to be united in oneness with He and the Father were
1) That the World may believe that thou has sent me. Evangelization
2) That the God Glory Jesus had might be manifested in His followers. Demonstration
3) That they may be made perfect (complete, mature, the best you can be) Maturation
Paul prayed for this same oneness in Christian Growth- Till we all 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)
How do we bring about this oneness in a Church? Here are three things the leadership of a church MUST have in order to build a successful ministry for God:
1) Burden for the Ministry
2) Belief in the Place and People where they minister
3) Bond with the People about the PHILOSOPY OF MINISTRY- A philosophy of ministry is a framework of beliefs and principles which guide you in making judgments and decisions concerning the methods and meaning of your ministry.
This philosophy of ministry will determine HOW you worship (Low or Loud), what type of music is used (Contemporary or traditional), and what is emphasized in the Pastoral messages. It will determine the way finances are received (tithe or sales) and used (local or world view). You normally seek to join with a church whose philosophy is similar to your philosophy.
My personal philosophy of ministry is built around 3 principles:
1) Supplication: One in our Prayers- These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. (Acts 1:14)
2) Organization: One in Work- Nehemiah built the one wall by assigning tasks to each family. One in Relationship- Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (Psalms 133:1)
3) Evangelization- One in Message- 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)
The objective of life is not to survive it but to be obedient to God during it. I believe the greatest goal of your life should be to join God at His work and allow God to live His life through you. That is what Jesus called people to do and that is what I call you to do tonight.

John 18:5 STANDING WITH

This week I had the sad privilege of being with a family as they stood beside a member facing sentencing for a crime. As I sat in the courtroom with many others who either awaited judgment or who had come to stand with them I began reading my Bible Chapters. Amazingly, the first chapter I read contained 2 examples of men standing with someone also. These examples taught me some valuable lessons about the company I keep.
John 18:5 They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them. John 18:18 And the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals; for it was cold: and they warmed themselves: and Peter stood with them, and warmed himself.
Judas was motivated to stand with the wrong crowd because of- Finances, Fame, Feeling (Felt right about doing it) Psa 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
Peter was motivated by – Friendship, Fear, Flesh (Wanted to see if what was happening and if he could do anything)
1) Look at what you are standing for- Activities, Conduct
2) Determine who you want to stand with- Pick a side
UNDIVIDED STAND– Mat 12:25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:
Joshua called the people to “Chose ye this day whom ye will serve”
Jehu asked when he faced Jezebel “Who is on the Lord’s Side, Who?”
Moses asked at golden Idol “Who will stand on God’s Side?”
Man who dressed in Blue and Gray and both sides shot!!
FIRM STAND– Eph 6:13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
FUTURE STANDS:
A) WITH ANTICHRIST: Mat 24:15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand🙂 If you stand with Antichrist you will be lost forever- Rev 14:9 10 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:
B) BEFORE GOD: Rev 20:12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.

John 18:37 WHY JESUS CAME

Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice (John 18:37).
As we approach the Christmas season it’s very hard for us to keep “Christ in Christmas” because there are so many things to take our mind off the purpose and meaning of Christmas. We have to buy gifts for people that we have no idea what they want, with money we don’t have, while taking the time to do so with a schedule that is already stretched to the breaking point.
It is hard to keep your mind on the babe in Bethlehem when all you hear about is reindeers, Santa Claus, and pre-Christmas sales. I want to look today at the reason Christ gave for His coming and try to get our perspectives back in order.
(One of the keys to life is remembering that the Goal must come before the Going- Example of man who got in taxi and said, “Go as hard as you can!” When we realize the purpose of his coming we begin to live that goal instead of running around in circles “Doing the best we can”).
PURPOSE OF HIS COMING:
I. TO BEAR WITNESS OF THE TRUTH: Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice (John 18:37). What is the Truth? In a world reeling with information, but skeptical of everything, they want to know the truth.
II. TO SEEK AND TO SAVE THE LOST: For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost (Luke 19:10). This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief (1 Timothy 1:15). To Seek (as a shepherd seeking sheep) and to Save (From sin, self, and Satan)
III. TO FULFIL THE LAW: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil (Matthew 5:17). The Lord’s Law has been paid on the Cross. Christ can now undo the heavy burden and set the captive free.
IV. TO SERVE: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). The Christmas spirit is giving of yourself. A gift is bought with money which is a measure of time you invested.
V. TO PURGE EVIL: I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? (Luke 12:49).
Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law (Luke 12:51-53). Purge means to burn our impurities in order to make us sanctified and meet for the Master’suse.
VI. TO BRING JUDGMENT: And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind (John 9:39). To show men the way so they will have no excuse- If I offer to pay for your meal and you refuse; YOU PAY!
That was HIS PURPOSE. What is YOURS?

John 18:38 WHAT IS TRUTH?

Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all (John 18:38).
What brings Stress?
1) Loss of Control
2) Fear of Failure or Exposure
3) Pressure of Time, Society Expectation, or Work
It is obvious that Pilate had doubts about what he was doing. Pilate thought Jesus was on trial; Jesus let Pilate know HE was on trial- and he failed.
When God is in control we no longer have to worry about losing control
When God is in control Perfect Love cast out all fear
When God is in control my time is set to God’s clock, I have different priorities than society, and my work in now energized by the Holy Spirit.
Pilate failed his test; will you?

John 19:30 IT IS FINISHED

Sometimes finishing can be Happy (An unpleasant Job) or Sad (High School). Today’s scripture tells us about an important time of Finishing. Before we look at it I want us to see several other times that
THINGS THAT WERE FINISHED IN THE BIBLE:
1. At the end of Creation God called a TIME FOR REST– Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them (Gen 2:1). God finished creation on the 6th day and rested on the Seventh. Jesus finished Salvation on the 6th day and rested on the Seventh. I believe God will finish with this world in 6 “days” and rest on the 7th (Millennium). “There remains a rest for the Children of God”.
2. When God Judged Beltshazzer’s KINGDOM- This is the interpretation of the thing: MENE; God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it. (Dan 5:26)
Disregarding God, Morals, and History (Nebuchadnezzar). God has entrusted responsibility to 4 areas today:
1. Government
2. Work
3. Home
4. Church
If we don’t do our jobs correctly God will Judge us.
3. FINISHED WORK–
A) Jesus Glorified the Father- Purpose I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. (John 17:4)
B) Paul Followed God’s Plan- I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: (2 Tim 4:7). I Want to leave no debts unpaid, no task uncompleted, no doubt about my Salvation.
4. THE FINISH OF SIN– Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. (James 1:15). Consequences of an action- “What will you do in the end thereof?”
JUDGMENT- At the end of Tribulation- And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done (Rev 16:17).
5. REDEMPTION– At the end of Salvation- When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost (John 19:30). The greek word here is “Tetelestai” and means “It is finished and as a result is done forever.” The price Jesus paid on Calvary was enough for everyone for ever!! (Men don’t go to Hell for sin– Jesus paid for that!- they go because of unbelief)
Salvation is finished and the Spirit is come. Nothing more for you to wait on!

John 20:2-17 RESURRECTION REALITIES

There are a lot of things we don’t understand about:
1. Death and Dying- Why some, not others; Suffering/Pain, Time, etc
2. The Resurrection- Times (Pre, mid, Post), events (Why couldn’t Mary touch Jesus when the other ladies were allowed to?), etc.
There are some realities that come into play about the Resurrection, however, that we need to keep in mind:

FAITH IN THE RESURRECTION IS VITAL TO CHRISTIANITY– I Cor 15:12-21 (Page 1546-47). Like the Disciples, we see and believe; even when we do not understand (John 20:10) everything.
1. This faith will effect the way we live- If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners (1 Cor 15:32-33).

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. (1 John 3:2-3). If you know there is a JUDGEMENT TO COME then you will live accordingly (Notice how women clean their homes when company is expected).

1. This faith will effect the way we view death- So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor 15:54-57).

Death for Christians is simply separation. We miss them but we look forward to seeing them again.

FAITH IN THE RESURRECTION EFFECTS OUR FAITH IN GOD: It changed the Disciples from scared fishermen into world shaking preachers.
1. The Resurrection shows God’s Power- Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage (Heb 2:14-15). God is the Master of every Problem- Frederick Nolan was a believer in North Africa. During a time of Persecution He was fleeing from torture and death. Pursued over hill and valley, he fell exhausted into a wayside cave. He knew his enemies would find him soon but he was too exhausted to continue.

As he awaited his death, he saw a spider weaving a web. Within minutes, the creature had woven a beautiful web across the mouth of the cave. The Pursuers arrived and started to examine the cave. When they saw the spider web across the entrance they assumed no one could be inside and continued their hunt. Having been spared, Nolan exclaimed, “Where God is, a spider’s web is like a wall, Where God is not, a wall is like a spider’s web!” There is NO ENEMY GOD CAN’T CONQUER!! Come to the ROCK and find Shelter from life’s storms.

1. The Resurrection show God KEEPS HIS PROMISES! The entire Bible is about the first and second coming of Christ. First to die for our sins and second to establish His Kingdom on earth. The First coming has no meaning without the resurrection. The Second Coming is not possible without the Resurrection!

When we see God keep His Promises through out the Bible then it encourages us to trust Him in our daily Living. Sometimes we become like the disciples at the Cross; discouraged because we forget God’s promise of Resurrection.
Gary Oliver tells about a time he went swimming at the beach with some of his friends. He didn’t realize the weather was changing and suddenly a rip tide formed and sucked him under the water. The tide carried him under the water until he was completely out of breath. Finally, he was able to fight his way to the surface but he was completely exhausted. Trying desperately to stay afloat, he suddenly saw a life preserver land beside him. He grabbed the preserver and a lifeguard towed him to safety on the beach. The Lifeguard told him that he had seen the change in the weather and knew the rip tide was coming. When Gary was sucked up the water the life guard was already on his way to help him.
In the same way, God looks ahead and sees the dangers we are about to face and makes preparation before we even know there is a danger. God’s Care is Everlasting. What a rock to Cling to in the storms of life.
I was reading an article recently about a scene from the movie “Mary Poppins”. In the scene, the children beg Mary Poppins to never leave them. Then they say, “Will you stay if we PROMISE to be GOOD?” Mary Poppins replies, “That’s a pie-crust promise, easily made, easily broken.”
God’s promises to us weren’t easily made, and they have never been broken. The empty tomb is God’s assurance that He is conqueror of Death, Hell, and the Grave. That’s a Promise you can live, and die, with.
Do you know the REALITY of the Resurrection?? Are you a Born Again Believer? Has your life, and death, been effected by Trusting in the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ??

John 20:24 THE MAN WHO MISSED A CHURCH SERVICE

But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came (John 20:24).
One of the most infamous titles a man ever “earned” is the one given to Thomas because of this incident. From this moment on anyone who shows doubts or misgivings about anything is immediately called a “Doubting Thomas”.
Many times in life we also are faced with a “trial” that affects the way we look at ourselves and the way others look at us. Let’s see what caused Thomas to fall and then examine some ways WE might “fail” Life’s tests.
We cannot doubt Thomas’ courage- When Lazarus was sick the disciples urged Jesus not to go to him because they were afraid he would be stoned by the Jews (Jn 11:7-8). When He told the Disciples He was going anyway Thomas said, “Let us also go, that we may die with him” (Jn 11:16). Doubt will many times lead to lost of courage but it is not caused by being a “coward”. Thomas was willing to fight “stones” he could see but was unwilling to believe a Savior he couldn’t see. Faith is not a matter of “Manliness” or strength- It is not the ability to face some seeable danger; it is being willing to walk into the dark with confidence in God’s Power and Protection. Many people blame their stamina or strength on their failure in faith but you’ll have to look somewhere else.
We cannot doubt Thomas’ desire to understand- Jn 14:5 Thomas saith unto him, “Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?”…yet this very desire may have led to his downfall. If Thomas could not understand something he seemed to have difficulty accepting it. Faith is the ability to trust God “Not knowing where you’re going” (Heb 11:8). When you become completely confident in God’s Love you know He will never lead you wrong so you don’t have to understand everything He says. So you can’t blame your lack of education for your failure in Faith
What brought about Thomas’ doubts then??
1) Absence from fellowship with God’s people- Jn 20:24. Thomas…was not with them when Jesus came. We need the Spiritual Food and Fellowship found in God’s House. When we begin to miss we become weak and open ourselves for Satan’s attack. Faith comes by Hearing the Word of God; that’s why regular church attendance is vital to build your Faith.
2) Dependence on the Physical- vs 25 “Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.” We live in a world that shouts at us all the time, “Prove It!!” It’s so easy then to demand seeable proof about everything– yet this is exactly opposite to what a Christian is expected to do. “The Just shall live by his Faith.” (It seems easy to talk of Abraham’s Faith– but will you leave your home and job and go somewhere you’ve never seen because you believe God has called you to do so??)
What are some areas WE might become “Doubting Thomas” in:
1. Doubting God’s Ability to Keep us- Peter came to Jesus walking on the water but when he began to look at the Circumstances instead of Christ he began to sink (Matt 14:24-33). There is NEVER a time that God cannot or will not keep us. “He that keepeth thee shall never slumber nor sleep”. Ps 121:3
People say, “I couldn’t live Christianity because of”:
A) Temptations- Banks are full of temptations; yet how many people rob banks!! “In that he has suffered being tempted He is able to succor them that are tempted”.
B) I’m not Strong enough to hold out- CHRIST is our Strength!
2. Doubting God’s Love- Job was able to say, “Though He slay me yet will I trust in Him” because he knew that God loved him. If you ever doubt that Love simply look to Calvary and see what God was willing to do for you.
3. Doubting God’s Power- Matt 13:58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief. What are 2 fishes and 5 loaves among 5000 men?? How can you defeat a city simply by marching around it for 7 days?? You do not have a situation God cannot handle!!! IF YOU WILL LET HIM.
4. Doubting Christ’s Return- II Pet 3:4 Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. The world doubted Noah also–until the rains came!! If you expect the Lord to return it will cause you to live Pure (I Jn 3:3) and be Productive as you await the Master’s examination of your talents.
5. Doubting God’s Word- Eve “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” (Gen 3:6) so she disobeyed God’s Word. Most people today believe the Bible as long as it goes along with what they want to do. After that they tend to believe it doesn’t really apply in their case. (Do people dress in modest apparel or comfortable clothes?? How many young people put “being unequally yoked” above being in “Love”??)
Thomas was a man of Courage and Conviction but he allowed flesh to overrule the Spirit. How about YOU??? Are you willing today to step out on Faith and Trust Christ as Savior and Lord?
Just remember, it all began when Thomas missed a “church” service
1. He did not see the Lord or hear the Lord’s message
2. He became a person of doubt in order to justify his absence: The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe (John 20:25).
3. He was rebuked by Christ: Then saith Christ to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing (John 20:27).
4. He missed a Blessing and became a By-word: Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed (John 20:29).
How easy it was for a good man to go astray simply because he missed meeting with God’s people at the appointed time.

John 20:24-29 BODY OF BELIEF

But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed (John 20:24-29).
Someone asked me recently if the Resurrected Body of Christ was a “real body”. That is way beyond the pay grade of an uneducated country boy from Crow Corner, SC but here are some things we know:
There was not a body in the tomb on Resurrection Day and Christ appeared in bodily form no less than 16 times after His Resurrection. 5 times on Easter Sunday, 6 times between then and the Ascension, and 5 times between Pentecost and the completion of the Bible.
Thomas was told to put his finger and hand into the wounds of the body of Christ-[Interesting side note: Paul said “that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption” (1 Corinthians 15:50) and God said “The life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul” (Leviticus 17:11). Jesus shed His Blood on the Cross for our sins so there was no blood dripping from His wounds onto the floor when He met with the Disciples].
It is important to note that Paul said, “There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body” and “There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another” (1 Corinthians 15:44, 40).
It is true that the flesh as we know it returns to the ground at death but the Spiritual part of us has some sort of body in either Hell (Rich man in hell was tormented and wanted a drop of water for his tongue) or Heaven (When people on earth saw people either IN Heaven or FROM Heaven they always saw a body- Rich man saw Lazarus, Disciples saw Moses and Elias talking with Christ on Mount of Transfiguration (Matt 17:1-8), We await our Resurrected Body: But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 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. 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: 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 (1 Thessalonians 4:13-17).
These Resurrected bodies will be our permanent abode: And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt (Daniel 12:2).
Now, back to the Message! In the Spiritual Warfare that Christians wage every day it is important to remember several Principles:
1. If Satan cannot defeat you then he will attempt to defeat someone whose defeat will defeat you. If Thomas would have continued in disbelief it would have split the disciples, generated tremendous harmful “fake news” for the Pharisees and Sadducees, and possibly prevented the Gospel from reaching the 1.4 billion people in India (Thomas is the one who carried the Gospel to India).
2. Satan will support your Doubts but demand proof for your Faith. Gossip spreads like wildfire but the Gospel crawls on the back of a turtle or as one man said it, “A Lie Can Travel Halfway around the World While the Truth Is Putting On Its Shoes”. Satan supports your Doubts because:
A) Doubt limits God’s ability to work: And Jesus did not many mighty works there because of His Hometown people’s unbelief (Matthew 13:58).
B) Believing a Lie keeps you in Satan’s Prison of doubt and despair. Jesus said, Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).
Why is this important to us today? Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable (1 Corinthians 15:12-19).
1> If Christ did not rise from the dead then Christianity is a sham: if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not
2> If Christ did not rise from the dead then God did not accept His sacrifice for our sins: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.
3> If Christ did not rise from the dead then we have no hope of seeing our loved ones after death: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished
4> Believing in the Power of God over Death is the only way to Enjoy Life: If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.
In a day when people are sacred of dying from a virus they cannot see it is important that:
1. We believe in the Resurrection of Christ EVEN IF WE CANNOT SEE HIS RESURRECTED BODY.
2. We TRUST THE TRUTH OF GOD’S WORD EVEN IF WE CANNOT UNDERSTAND GOD’S WAYS.
3. We realize THE IMPACT OUR FAITH HAS ON THOSE AROUND US.
So we answer this question by allowing the Apostle Paul to ask, and answer, this question: But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body (1 Corinthians 15:35-44).
So Rejoice in this Good News: I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men (John 1:14 “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us”), and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God (Rev21:3). Glory!

John 21:1-19 FISHING FINALS

Satan could not keep Jesus from the cross. He could not keep Him in the tomb. Now he tries his ultimate plan to keep the good news from being proclaimed, He attacks the dedication of the 11 remaining disciples. He knows that if he can stop them then the plan of redemption for lost sinners will ultimately fail.
Peter is the leader of the Apostles. At his critical time he makes a very definite statement- “I go a fishing”. In the Greek, it is tremendously important- “I go” means a Final Departure. “A Fishing” means a habitual action that one takes when he does this for a livelihood. Peter was declaring that he was abandoning his preaching commission to depart back to his previous livelihood of being a fisherman.
Not only did Peter go back but, being the leader, he took at least 6 of the other disciples with him. Peter is the key to this entire situation; and it is Peter that Christ confronts. From this point on John record various steps which Jesus used to meet such a crisis.
Many other Christians have come to this place in their life. Today I want us to see what Jesus did on Peter’s Fishing Finals and determine that we will do the job God has called us to do with love and dedication.
I. THE FAILURE– Fished all night and caught nothing. When we depart from God’s plan for our life we become frustrated failures. We may become successful in our business but not in our heart. Always it seems we are grasping at empty air in an endless night.
II. THE SUCCESS– By once more following Christ’s instructions the disciples caught a net full of fish. We all know that Peace is only found in the Plan of God for our life.
III. THE REFRESHMENT– Soup kitchens have a successful formula for ministering to people in need- Soap, Soup, Salvation. Many spiritual problems grow out of physical problems
IV. THE QUESTION FOR PETER– Jesus knew that the entire situation rested upon the answer and attitude of Peter.
Jesus asked him if he “Agapao” loved Him. Peter replied that he “Phileo” loved Him. “Agapao” Love is soul love, a love of a prized object or person. Phileo Love is fondness, affection, liking. Peter was actually saying, “I have a fondness for you but I don’t care for you with my entire soul.

“Agapao” Love is supernatural love produced in our heart by the Holy Spirit- (Rom 5:5) And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. Only “Agapao” love can produce the incentive we need for holy living and sacrificial service- (John 14:23) Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love (Agapao) me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
It is the degree in which we have this kind of love flooding our souls, that we will live holy lives of self denial in the service of the Lord. The degree of the operation of the Spirit in producing this love is dependent on our yieldedness to the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
Later Peter blends these two together- (1 Pet 1:22) Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren (Phileo), see that ye love (Agapao) one another with a pure heart fervently:
The believer must see that the “Phileo” fondness he has for the Lord Jesus, is saturated with the “Agapao” love produced by the Holy Spirit, lest a lack of the latter will result in a Christian life in which the believer exhibits a great fondness for the Lord Jesus, but manifests little love for Him by a life devoid of earnest obedience and service.

John 21:1‑25 PETER’S PROBLEM

The Disciples in today’s lesson are at the same place in their lives. Would the Disciples forget what Christ had done, continue to hide in fear, or “Turn the world upside down for Christ”??

Many in the Church are at this “Cross-roads” also- Some will “drop out” and go back to serving Self and the World, Some will be satisfied to be Lukewarm Christians (wondering why God gets so sick around them!!), and Some will deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Christ. Which course have YOU chosen??

PETER’S ERROR 21:1‑14 He Left God’s Plan for his Life and went back to what he had been doing before Christ called him. There are several factors that may have caused this error-
1. Sorrow and Shame over denying the Lord
2. Anxiety over physical needs (No more contributions coming in with Christ gone. Did Judas steal all the money in the Treasury?? How was he supposed to support his family?)
3. Peter’s natural inclination to do something (ANYTHING) rather than sit and wait. Most of us get into problems for the same reasons: Depression (so we take that drink, or look with lust, …), Economic Pressures (so Church begins to take a back seat to worry or wealth), or Our Fleshly Nature (We don’t have any Patience and we don’t want God to Try our Faith to produce any [see James 1:3]. We’ll trust God with the Cancer but we’ll handle the Colds!!)

What were the Results of Peter’s Error??

A> He Influenced Others to do wrong- Peter was a leader, but in this case he led the wrong way! Leaders need to be aware of this. Every Privilege has a Responsibility; and the greater the Privilege the greater the Responsibility! Peter should have been leading these men into service for the Lord; instead, he leads them back to where he started from.

WHERE ARE YOU LEADING PEOPLE TODAY??? Some people in Church are “natural” leaders. Their responsibility is great. This responsibility is especially great for a Pastor. People today need someone to show them the right way and lead them confidently in that way. This means a Pastor must: (a) Preach the Word of God, (b) Live the Word of God, (c) Provide Leadership (People need a leader, not a signpost. A sign tell you what is ahead. A leader shows you how to get there), and (d) Love his people.

B> He labored in Vain- “That Night they caught nothing.”- When you get out of God’s will for your life, life becomes barren and unfruitful. You work and try but life has no meaning and you accomplish nothing of lasting value.

C> He failed to recognize Christ- Christ reveals Himself to us many times as we go about our activities- Do we Recognize Him in our Work, in our Homes, in all of Life’s activities? (See Matt 25:34‑46 When saw we thee naked, or sick, or hungry?)

Are YOU where God told you to be today? Or have you gone fishing??

II. PETER’S EDUCATION– Jn 21:15‑22 Peter needed to be taught what Christ expected from him and the motivation for that work so Christ gave him a “one word quiz”.

1. What about your DEVOTION -“Lovest thou me?”. Earlier He had told the Disciples If you Love me, Keep my Commandments (John 14:15). Now He brings Peter back to this PRIMARY PRINCIPLE. (He had to learn the difference between DUTY [A boss doesn’t HAVE TO CALL you and invite you to work every day!! It’s your duty to be there and his to fire you if you aren’t!] and DEVOTION [My Wife doesn’t have to invite me to come home to her, I love to do so]. Note the Comparison- “Love me MORE”. I LIKE my Work but I LOVE my Wife!

2. What about your DUTY- “Feed my lambs, tend my sheep”. An awareness of His commission to us. Peter had forgotten that Christ had called him away from being a Fisherman to be a Fisher of Men. Today it seems that many Christians fail to realize that Christ has made them part of the “Body of Christ” and as such they have a function that only they can perform.

When the Children of Israel arrived at the Jordan they were an untrained, untried, unequipped people who could only win if they joined together to obey God’s Plan (Conquer the Promised Land). God had to show them He could be Trusted and they could win so He used the “march around Jericho” battle plan as His beginning battle.

Have you eve wondered why geese fly in their famous “V” formation? Engineers found that when they are in this formation each goose creates an upward lift for the goose that follows. When all the geese do their part the whole flock has 71% greater flying range than if going alone. That is why when one of the geese begins to lag behind the others will “honk” him back into place. Christians need that type of cooperation and concern).

“Birthing the Born Again Baby” into a Church is just the beginning of new life!! That baby must learn to eat, talk, dress properly, etc. There are 2 main reasons today that Christians are living so defeated and worldly: (1) Teachers and Preachers are content to “fill an hour” instead of give the time and effort needed to Prepare the “meals” ; and (2) Many meals “rot on the table” because people will not come to partake of them!! (God says that if those invited will not partake of the supper then He will get them from the “highway and hedges”)

3. What about your DEDICATION to HIM- “Follow me”- A devoted following of Him; without comparing ourselves with Others!!!!! [MOST CHURCH PROBLEMS RESULT FROM EITHER GUILT (about lack of duty or devotion) OR FRUSTRATION (Over lack of participation or recognition)]. God expects us to do our VERY BEST for HIM regardless of the rewards or recognition. He died for us, He called us, and He saved us. We owe Him everything.

Christ expects from you today a Complete Devotion to Him, A realization of your Duty to Him, and a Dedication to HIS will for your life. Don’t take the world’s “Bait”. Keep on keeping on for the Lord.

John 21:1-25 WHAT CHRIST EXPECTS

When the Children of Israel arrived at the Jordan River on their way to Canaan they also arrived at a “Cross-roads” situation in their life. They were faced with 3 choices: (1) Go Back to Egypt and Captivity, (2) Continue to wander in the Wilderness and die, or (3) Cross Jordan with Faith in God’s Promises.
The Disciples in today’s lesson are at the same place in their lives. Would the Disciples forget what Christ had done, continue to hide in fear, or “Turn the world upside down for Christ”?? Many in the Church are at this “Cross-roads” also- Some will “drop out” and go back to serving Self and the World, Some will be satisfied to be Lukewarm Christians (wondering why God gets so sick around them!!), and Some will deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Christ. Which course have YOU chosen??
I. THE ERROR 21:1-14 Leaving God’s Plan for your Life. Choosing “Sense” over the “Spiritual”.
A> Peter was a leader- but in this case he led the wrong way! Leaders need to be aware of this. Every Privilege has a Responsibility; and the greater the Privilege the greater the Responsibility! Peter should have been leading these men into service for the Lord; instead, he leads them back to where he started from. WHERE ARE YOU LEADING PEOPLE TODAY??? Some people in Church are “natural” leaders. Their responsibility is great.
This responsibility is especially great for a Pastor. People today need someone to show them the right way and lead them confidently in that way. This means a Pastor must: (a) Preach the Word of God, (b) Live the Word of God, (c) Provide Leadership (People need a leader, not a signpost. A sign tell you what is ahead. A leader shows you how to get there), and (d) Love his people.
B> “That Night they caught nothing.”- When you get out of God’s will for your life life becomes barren and unfruitful. You work and try but life has no meaning and you accomplish nothing of lasting value.
C> The Revelation of Christ- Christ reveals Himself to us many times as we go about our activities- Do we look for Him? Do we see Him in our Work, do we Honor Him in our Homes, do we Love Him with our life??
D> The Provision of God- (The “Divine Dinner”) When they arrived on the beach they found that Jesus had already made provisions for them. (When we get to Heaven and the Marriage supper of the Lamb we’ll find everything in readiness but God will ask us to show our crowns just as these disciples were asked to haul in their great catch of fish.)
II. THE EXPECTATION– What does Christ expect from us?? Jn 21:15-22
1. A Complete DEVOTION-Lovest thou me? A deep love for Him. A boss doesn’t HAVE TO CALL you and invite you to work every day!! It’s your duty to be there and his to fire you if you aren’t!! A Question: Do you LOVE me? Not like, not admire, not put up with; do you LOVE
“Birthing the Baby” is just the beginning of new life!! That baby must learn to eat, talk, dress properly, etc. There are 2 main reasons today that Christians are living so defeated and worldly: (1) Teachers and Preachers are content to “fill an hour” instead of give the time and effort needed to Prepare the “meals” ; and (2) Many meals “rot on the table” because people will not come to partake of them!! (God says that if those invited will not partake of the supper then He will get them from the “highway and hedges”)
2. A DEDICATION to HIM- Follow me- A devoted following of Him; without comparing ourselves with Others!!!!! [MOST CHURCH PROBLEMS RESULT FROM EITHER GUILT (about lack of duty or devotion) OR
FRUSTRATION (Over lack of participation or recognition)]. God expects us to do our VERY BEST for HIM regardless of the rewards or recognition. He died for us, He called us, and He saved us. We owe Him everything.
Christ expects from you today a Complete Devotion to Him, A realization of your Duty to Him, and a Dedication to HIS will for your life. At your Cross-roads today, what decision will you make?