MATTHEW SERMONS – Mircheal Jones

–Why are there 4 Gospels? How does each portray Jesus?
–Besides the Gospel of Matthew, what other words of Matthew are recorded?
–What are the major divisions in the Genealogy of Christ? (Vs 17) (David in Hebrew = 14)
–Jewish Genealogies always contained men. The Genealogy of Christ contains 4 women. Who are they and what is their background?
A)
B)
C)
D)
–What distinction does Manasseh (vs 10) have as a king?
–Whose Genealogy is found in Matthew? In Luke?
(Matthew lists Human Heredity 1-17 Divine Heredity 18-25) [Jesus is the only person who can prove his claim to the throne of since all the records were burned in the temple in 70AD]
–Matthew’s name as a tax collector was Levi. Matthew = “Gift of God”
–Matthew- Home town (Capernaum) rejected Christ – Matt 11:23. His friends and business associates rejected Christ. His income was diminished.
–Matthew serves as a Bridge between Old and New Testament. The Old Testament is the “Book of the Generation of Adam” (Gen 5:1) while the New Testament is the “Book of the Generation of Jesus Christ” (Matt 1:1). In Genesis chapter 5 every person ends with “and he died”. In Matthew chapter 1 each person ends with a Birth.
–The key word in Matthew is “Fulfilled” (15 times)
–Matthew is divided into 10 sections in which doing and teaching alternate- A period of activity followed by a period of teaching which always ended with “When Jesus had ended these sayings”.
–Matthew contains 20 specific miracles and 6 major sermons (Sermon on Mt- 5-7, charge to Apostles 10, Parables of the Kingdom 13, Lesson on forgiveness 18, denunciation of the pharisees 23, Prophetic discourse on Mt of Olives 24-25
–Matthew is the only gospel to use the word “Church”
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Where did the name Christmas originate? In the medieval ages the celebration of Christmas took the form of a special mass said at midnight on the eve of Christ’s birth. Since this was the only time in the Catholic church year when a midnight mass was allowed, it soon became known in the Old English as Christes Masse (Christ’s Mass), from which is derived Christmas.
How did December 25 gain its Christian emphasis? Evidently, sometime during the early fourth century, Christians began searching for the proper day to celebrate Christ’s birth. Some churches had been celebrating Jesus’ birth on January 6, others April 20, May 20, March 29, and September 29. Finally so much confusion reigned that Saint Cyril, bishop of Jerusalem, about the middle of the fourth century, inquired of the Roman bishop, Julius, regarding the correct date.
Julius wrote Cyril and reported that he personally favored December 25. Obviously refusing to accept this date as valid, Cyril and the Jerusalem church continued celebrating the event for many years on January 6. In A.D. 354, two years following the end of Saint Julius’ reign, the new Roman bishop, Liberius, ordered all his people to celebrate December 25 as the correct day of Christ’s birth. With the passage of time this date became the more popular and was soon adopted by most of Christendom.

Matt 01:18-25 BEING GOD’S DAD

How would you react if God came to you and said, “I want you to raise my Son for me”? That is what happened to Joseph when the angel appeared and told him Mary was about to have the God child and he was to marry Mary. What an overwhelming moment that must have been!
There are many factors that make a person do the things they do:
1. THE PERSONALITY THEY 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 THEY RECEIVE FROM DOING IT- We like to do it
3. THE PROFIT THEY EXPECT FROM IT- We expect to receive something from it
4. THE PRINCIPLES THAT STIMULATE THEM TOWARD IT- Morals standards set by self or society.
5. THE PEOPLE THAT ARE A PART OF IT- Family, Friends, Foes
6. THE PASSION THAT MOTIVATE THEM TOWARD IT- I write because I am a writer. Singers Sing.
7. THE POWER THAT COMPELS YOU 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 Jesus growing serving in the body of Christ and growing into the person God wants you to be. 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 you to be.
FEAR: Joseph had to deal with the fear that he could not handle the responsibilities that came with having God in his life every day. That same fear keeps many people from taking the final step of salvation. They need to hear what the Angel told Joseph, “Fear not”.
SOCIAL PRESSURE: Joseph also had to deal with the social pressure that came with marrying an already pregnant woman in order for God to be made flesh. In the same way, becoming part of God’s family can cause others to misunderstand the changes in our life because of our walk with God.
FAITH IN SUPERNATURAL: The supernatural work of God that brought about the conception of God also had to be accepted by Joseph (“That which is born is of the Holy Spirit” Matt 1:20). Welcoming God into your life is not a mental game you play; it is a supernatural “new birth” performed by the Holy Spirit.
ADAPTING A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD INTO REAL LIFE: Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man. Jesus stayed behind at the temple, was not always accepted by his brothers and sisters, As a prophet “had no honor in his own country”.
If you want God to come into your life and make you part of His family then you need to follow Joseph’s example, “Then Joseph …did as the messenger of the Lord had bidden him”.
The consequences of your unbelief- Story of Lot’s grandchildren (Ammon and Moab) where a woman’s disobedience in Genesis may have contributed to a bomb going off in Paris.
Matthew 1
18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. 19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. 20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. 21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. 22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, 23 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. 24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: 25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.

Matt 01:18-25 JOSEPH, THE FATHER

FORGOTTEN– One of the most forgotten figures of the Christmas Story is Joseph. Ask almost anyone about the Christmas story and they will tell you about Mary, the Shepherds, the Wise Men, and the Angels but seldom, if ever, will they remember to mention Joseph.
FATHER– This “forgotten Hero” played a tremendously important part in the early years of Jesus (He evidently died between the time Jesus was 12 and 30 because nothing is said of him during Jesus’ Ministry). He Married Mary, Cared for her during the move to Bethlehem and the birth of Christ (Probably no family was available), provided for her and the baby until he was old enough to move, listened to the voice of the angels and moved Jesus to Egypt to avoid Herod killing him, and then followed God’s directions back to Nazareth.
He evidently taught Jesus his trade as a Carpenter as well as instilled in him the religious principles a Jewish father was commanded to teach his child (Carried him to the temple each year and instilled a “habit” of church attendance in Jesus {Lu 4:16}). When Jesus began his ministry he was well instructed in the Word of God so he could withstand the temptations of Satan as well as the wiles of the Pharisees.
FAMILY– He had 4 other boys and some girls. Matt 13:54-56 And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethern, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? (Raised on a small town carpenter’s salary) (Disputes- Brothers didn’t believe)
FIANCÉE– Mary was “espoused” (From a Greek work meaning “To give a present”; therefore the initial Marriage gift had been given) to him as a Wife to be. A Normal Espousal period was 1 year.
[“Espoused” is used on only 2 other occasions- When David said he was “Espoused” (Hebrew- Engaged) to Michal (II Sam 3:14) and when Paul said he had “espoused” (Greek- to join) the Church to Christ (II Cor 11:2)].
In New Testament times the Rabbis has fixed the minimum age for marriage at 12 for girls and 13 for boys so it was generally left to the Parents to chose their mates (Abraham sent a servant to secure a wife for Isaac. She was brought over 1000 miles before she even saw Isaac and was considered his “engaged” wife from the time she left home).
Once the engagement was set the parents entered into financial negotiations for the “Marriage Price”. This was not the price of a “Slave” but compensation to the Father of the Bride for lose of a worker in his household. Once the contract had been agreed on and the down payment made the couple were considered “espoused” and a “divorce” was necessary to break the contract (Such a divorce would of course be granted if the Bride to be was found to be unfaithful; as it appeared in the case of Mary).
FAITHFULNESS When told about God’s Plan He immediately did his part. Joseph was a “normal” man with normal duties but he allowed himself to be greatly used of God. WILL YOU??

Matt 01:21 WHY WE CALL HIS NAME JESUS

The primary reason we call His Name Jesus is because God TOLD US TO: And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). It is interesting to note throughout the Bible the importance God puts on Naming People.
Some names describe:
Actions by the Person (Often used as “nicknames”) Adam means “the man”. Eve was called “the woman” until God’s punishment for sin (Genesis 3:20 And Adam called his wife’s name Eve the; because she was the mother of all living).
Conception: Seth means “substituted” for Abel Genesis 4:25.
Physical characteristics: the first came out red, all over like a hairy garment; and they called his name Esau {red} Genesis 25:25
Circumstances: Moses means “drawn out” of the water Exodus 2:10.
On several occasions God named a Child before he was born:
1. Isaac‑ Gen 17:19 and God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac:.. (Laughter)
2. John the Baptist‑ Luk 1:13 and the angel said unto him, fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John
Many times God renames a person after that person begins to Serve Him:
1. Abraham‑ Gen 17:5 neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee. Abram simply means “exalted father” while Abraham= “Father of a great multitude”
2. Sarah‑ Gen 17:15 and god said unto Abraham, as for Sarai thy wife, thou shalt not call her name Sarai (Dominative) but Sarah (Princess) shall her name be.
3. Israel‑ Gen 32:28 and he said, thy name shall be called no more Jacob (Deceiver), but Israel (Prince of God): for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.
4. Peter‑ John 1:42 and he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, thou are Simon the son of Jona: thou shall be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, a stone (Peter).
In fact, We will get a “New Name” in Heaven: To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it (Revelation 2:17).
Today we want to look at the one who was so marvelously announced by the Angels and see the importance of His Wonderful Name.
I. HIS NAME AS KING‑ Is 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called wonderful (Worship), counsellor (Wisdom), the mighty god (Power), the everlasting father (Permanent), the prince of peace (Peace). We can have Confidence, Reliance, and Faith in Him to do right.
II. HIS NAME AS SAVIOR‑ Matt 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus for he shall save his people from their sins. Jesus is the same as “Joshua” and as such describes how Jesus leads us from the Wilderness of Sin into the Promised Land (Eventually Heaven‑ but this is simply a land of Possibilities. Christ gives us ETERNAL Life and ABUNDANT Life; not “pie in the sky” promises but practical help in becoming what God intended us to be here so we will be ready for the hereafter).
III. HIS NAME AS MAN‑ Matt 1:23 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. Jesus said he that hath seen me hath seen the father John 14:9 [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. “Wait 5 more minutes and you will.” the girl replied!!]. Because Christ came to the Earth, We are now able to see how God would act under our circumstances; dealing with Temptation, Hunger, family problems, etc.
IV. HIS NAME AS GOD‑ Phil 2:9‑11 Wherefore god also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is lord, to the glory of god the father. You will confess that Christ is Lord and Saviour‑ The difference is in when you do it: Now when it means eternal life, or later; just before you are cast into the Lake of Fire.
THE PURPOSE OF HIS NAME:
1. PREACH IN IT‑ Luke 24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Christianity’s entire message is Christ. John 12:32 and i, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
2. PRAY BY IT‑ Jn 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the father may be glorified in the son Access to the “Bank of Heaven” with the Son’s Signature!!
3. POWER OF IT‑ Acts 3:16 And his name, through faith in his name, hath make this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the
presence of you all. Many doors are open by the simply mention of the right name in our world. The name of Jesus can open doors in this world and also in the spirit world!
4. PRAISE TO IT‑ Eph 5:20 Giving thanks always for all things unto god and the father in the name of our lord Jesus Christ. All Glory and Praise should be given to His name.
THIS CHRISTMAS, DO NOT FORGET TO CALL HIS NAME JESUS and let the reason for the season be the Joy of your Life.

Matt 02: 1- 11 CHRISTMAS IS THE SAME

It has been over 2000 years since that first Christmas but Christmas remains the same.
1. Even WISE MEN do not know what to give for Christmas.
Joseph- Give him money (Gold)
Mary- Give her some perfume (frankincense)
Baby Jesus- Myrrh of bitterness at having to buy a present for someone you don’t know (Death).
2. The Government is still out to erase Christianity from the earth
Abortion-all babies under 2 killed.
Absolute Truth from God is now considered False (Pharisees knew where Jesus was to be born but would not travel 8 miles to see for themselves when Wise Men Came).
Angry Blaming of God for anything bad that happens (Can you imagine what those mothers must have felt as the soldiers killed their child trying to kill the Son of God.)
3) Christmas is a time of travel and economic hardship for families
Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem and then to Egypt
No job, no room, no doctor, and strangers drop by unexpectedly (Shepherds) to gawk at you and talk about you.
4) It is the Same in its Meaning:
To show God’s Love: ( 1 John 4:9) In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
To “Connect” with Humans- He lived as a man suffering hunger, persecution, family problems, etc. so now we have a great high priest praying for us who knows the needs of our heart
To pay the debt for sin that you could not pay.

Matt 01, 02 CHRISTMAS DREAMS

Many people dream of a “white Christmas” or “sugar plums dancing around their head” at Christmas but the Bible shows several dreams that made a difference at Christmas.
Note- God uses Dreams to speak to Kings in the Bible and Angels to speak to men. Matthew is the book where Jesus is King so all orders about Jesus’ birth are given in dreams.
Luke is the Gospel of Jesus as the son of man so Angels speak to Zachariah, Mary, the Shepherds.
It is interesting that God speaks to Joseph in Chapter one in a dream but he uses an Angel in the Dream! Joseph is a mere man but he is soon to become the “father” of a king!
Five times God uses Dreams in Matthew to give people directions. Normally in the Bible God gives directions to Kings via Dreams [Pharaoh in Gen 41, Nebuchadnezzar in Dan 2, Solomon, David, …] and uses Angels to direct “common” people. Matthew is about Jesus as King so dreams are used but it is also about God becoming Man so the dream contains a spokesman from God.

1) A Dream overcomes dread: But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost (Matthew 1:20).
2) A Dream gives Direction: And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way (Matthew 2:12).
3) A Dream warns of Danger: And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him (Matthew 2:13).
4) A Dream tells about Departure: But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child’s life (Matthew 2:19-20).
5) A Dream reveals a Destination: But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee (Matthew 2:22).
4 Angels gave instructions as Christmas:
1. Zacharias (Luke 1) Fear demanded proof and 9 months of silence followed
2. Mary (Luke 1) Fear declared faith
3. Joseph (Matt 1) Fear demonstrated obedience
4. Shepherds (Luke 2) Fear drove to observe and testify
What is God leading you to Do? / Who is God leading you to Avoid? / What is God leading you to Believe? / Where is God leading you to Be? God has a plan for YOUR life but you must learn to listen to HOW He speaks to you and then OBEY what He tells you to do. It may not always make “sense” but it will always be the best option for your life. Most dreams that men have today are “too much pepperoni pizza!” but there is a dream that I want everyone here to have today- When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream (Psalms 126: 1). Don’t let death be a nightmare. Turn to Christ and enjoy the abundant life today.

Matt 02:- DIVINE DIRECTION TO DISASTER

Sometimes the Leadership of God leads us into difficult; and even deadly, situations. This scripture shows us the faith of the wise men in following the guiding star; but it is also important to note that their trip led to the death of numerous babies.
As we enter a new year this should make us more aware than ever of the need of following God’s will with dedication and determination; regardless of the consequences. That may involve pain and suffering for others (and ourselves) but ultimately God’s will is best.
I. THE ANTICIPATION OF THE WISE MEN- {Magi, Astrologers (No Number Given) Wealthy, Scientist. Isn’t it strange that in the Gospel of Luke (written for the Gentiles) that He shows Jews worshipping Jesus while in the Gospel of Matthew (Written for the Jews) he shows Gentiles worshipping Jesus!!} Possible that Daniel and the Deportation had brought the Knowledge of the coming Messiah to these people. What long range plans God makes!!
A Light shone in the darkness, they followed that and God led them to the Word of God. Then God gave them clear leadership to Jesus. There they found the Poor instead of a Potentate- Christianity is often different than we imagine.
II. THE APATHY OF THE RELIGIOUS LEADERS- Priest knew the scriptures, told others where to find Christ, but wouldn’t go five miles to see for themselves. Surely they had heard the story of the angels visiting the Shepherds at night. Alas, Form had taken the place of Faith.
III. THE ANGER OF HEROD, THE KING- Psa 2:2-4 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, 3 Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. 4 He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision. This Herod had at least 9 wives and had killed a wife and two brothers for treason.
He allowed himself to be used of Satan as Satan attempt once again to destroy the line of Christ. Just as he had tried to kill all the boy babies in Egypt so now he attempts to kill the boy babies to prevent Messiah from coming into the world.
IV. THE ARRANGEMENTS BY GOD–A Need to Move, Money to Move, A Place to Move. Four Prophecies fulfilled in this chapter. 3 involved changing locations (Bethlehem, Egypt, Nazareth) while One involved death. This shows that details are important to God. It matters to God where you work, where you live, and how you have your needs met.

THE LESSONS WE LEARN ABOUT GOD’S DIRECTIONS:
1> The Babies= The working of God’s Will sometimes brings unexplainable pain and suffering.
2> The Wiseman= God’s Will normally include stages of Guidance and Growth but it will always make us travel another way
3> Joseph= God’s Will is place of Protection, Provision, and Peace
Does the Good news about Christ make you: Angry? / Apathetic? / Adoring?
What will it take for you to follow Divine Directions?
Bethlehem= “House of Bread” where Bread of Life was born. Burial place of Rachel when Benjamin was born/Now remembered as birth place. [Rachel name- Benomi “Son of my sorrow” / Jacob Name- Benjamin “Son of my right hand”]
Now the place where some innocents of Israel die at the birth of Jesus. Babies were first martyrs for Christ- When Christ entered Heavenly Jerusalem with death as a defeated foe these would welcome and adore Him. Angels said Peace on earth, good will toward men. Wonder if one of these shepherds had a baby slain by the sword of Herod.

Matt 02:- HEROD: WHEN HEARING TURNS TO HATRED

4 Prophecies fulfilled in this chapter- 3 of them involved change of location- Bethlehem, Egypt, Nazareth. Luke was written for Gentile readers but he showed the Jews worshiping the Baby. Matthew was written for Jewish readers but he showed Gentiles coming to worship the Baby.
Daniel brought knowledge to look, Star led to Scripture, Scripture told where to find Christ.
HOW TO FIND GOD’S DIRECTIONS:
1) Follow the Light God gives you- Daniel brought the knowledge to look, Star led to Scripture, Scripture told where to find Christ.
2) Confirm God’s leadership by His Word- scribes
3) Expect God to show Leadership along the way- star over house
4) Let Christ be the Goal of your going- worshiped the babe, gifts
5) Leave your encounter with Christ changed- went another direction
Herod didn’t know the word, The Scribes didn’t act on the word, But the Wise men heard and acted on the word. Herod became an instrument of Satan in trying to keep Messiah from coming.
THE CHARACTER OF HEROD:
Killed Prisoners at his death so people would mourn instead of rejoice
Built the Temple for the Jews- Herod’s Temple (Use Ps 2:2-4)
Was an Idumaean, Descendant of Esau (When became king, ordered the burning of all genealogies in temple)
Feared lose of Kingdom- Killed
THE RESPONSE OF HATRED:
Trickery- Bring me Word
Hostility- Kill boy Babies (Probably less than 20)
Family- Archelaus was feared like his father
To Herod, The birth of a Baby King was a threat to his:
Power-
Family- Line of King
Way of Life
Herod began to reign around 40BC by order of the Roman Senate. Because Julius Caesar was helped by the father of Herod (Antipater) the Jews were granted exemption from military service and Herod was given a contingent of Roman soldiers to keep the peace. But Herod formed his own army of Idumaeans and Greek-Syrian Mercenaries who were loyal to him alone. He died in 4BC and his kingdom was divided between his three sons. Archelaus, Antipas, and Philip. Archelaus was so inept that the Roman Government banished him to Vienna in AD6 and replaced him with Roman Procurators headquartered in Caesarea. The most famous of these are Pontius Pilate (Crucified Christ) and Felix and Festus (Paul’s Trial in Acts).
When Herod became King one of the first things he did was to execute the High Priest and 45 of the noblest and richest men of Jerusalem and appoint a Babylonian as the High Priest. He killed his uncle, his first 9 wives and many of his children.
The reign of Herod and Solomon were similar- Both were the last to rule over an undivided land. Both brought commerce and people into the streets of Jerusalem. Both built Temples for the worship of God (Herod’s temple had already been 30 years in building when Christ was born and would not be complete until 64AD- 6 years before its complete destruction by the Romans). It was built on a leveled portion of ground (The highest in Jerusalem 1476 Ft from north to south and 984 ft from east to west).
Herod built an Amphitheatre for sports and a theater for entertainment, a tremendous palace and a fort. He built the port of Caesarea (one of the most modern cities of its time). He built theaters at Sidon and Damascus, A gymnasia at Triipolis, Damascus and Ptolemais, baths at Ascalon and an aqueduct at Laodicea and the fortress at Masada
Bethlehem= “House of Bread” where Bread of Life was born
Burial place of Rachel when Benjamin was born/Now remembered as birth place.
Rachel name- Benomi “Son of my sorrow”
Jacob Name- Benjamin “Son of my right hand”
Now the place where some innocents of Israel die at the birth of Jesus. Babies were first martyrs for Christ- When Christ entered Heavenly Jerusalem with death as a defeated foe these would welcome and adore Him. Angels said Peace on earth, good will toward men. Wonder if one of these shepherds had a baby slain by the sword of Herod.

Matt 04:1-11 POWER OVER TEMPTATION

God does NOT give us the Power to not have Temptation! In fact, Many times the Scripture say GOD ALLOWS TEMPTATION TO REMAIN (Isn’t it interesting that we are taught by Jesus to pray “Lead us not into Temptation”!!). Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the LORD your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul– Deu 13:3
And Hezekiah prospered in all his works. Howbeit in the business of the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, who sent unto him to inquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him, to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart– 2 Chr 32:30-31
Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil– Mat 4:1
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it– 1 Cor 10:13
And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure– 2 Cor 12:7
So when we talk about “Power over Temptation” we are NOT talking about conquering our ability to be tempted. That’s our dream; but not our reality. The reasons it’s like this if found in:
I. THE CAUSE OF TEMPTATION.
A) The Will of God- Matt 4:1 says that Jesus was “led by the Spirit” into the Wilderness. God’s leadership put him in the place of Temptation- BUT GOD DID NOT TEMPT HIM (See James 1:13) (God allows us to be put to the Test for our good (Paul’s Thorn in the flesh) and His glory (Job). Satan tests us to destroy us.)
B) The Work of Satan- It also says that He was “tempted of the Devil”. Satan did the tempting by APPEALING to Jesus to do wrong. Note that he could not make him do wrong!! He could only encourage Christ to submit to his fleshly desires.
C) The Weakness of Self-
1> The Draw of Lust- James 1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away OF HIS OWN LUST, and enticed. God WILL not make you sin and Satan CANNOT make you sin. Note that Temptation is:
1. A Common Problem: EVERY MAN (See I Cor 10:13). Every person inherited the sin nature from Adam and must contend with it’s pull.
2. A Varying Problem: HIS OWN LUSTS (One man’s worm may be another man’s bait!!)
3. An Enticing Problem: Bait is used to lure you. Sin never shows the naked hook! Satan shows you the Bait but not the Bite of sin.
2> The Desire for Riches- But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows– 1 Tim 6:9-10. Note that this is a Three-fold Problem: (1) Temptation, (2) a Snare, and (3) many foolish and hurtful lusts–You WANT riches; You’re TRAPPED by your Treasures; until, finally, you’re WILLING to do anything to keep what you have and get more.
We don’t have the power to AVOID Temptation but we do have the Power to OVERCOME Temptation. That is best seen in The Example of the Temptation of Christ:
Note: 1. The time of the temptation-
a. At the beginning of Christ’s ministry. Before a man can rule others he must prove he can rule himself (See Prov 25:28).
b. After the Triumph of the Baptism. The greatest danger is after a victory.
2. The places of the Temptation- In the wilderness, on a mountain, and at the Church. Satan can and will tempt you anywhere.
3. The nature of the Temptation- Fleshly reasoning instead of Faith in God’s Provision and Plans.
FIRST TEMPTATION: Turn Stone into Bread- Misuse a NORMAL Desire. It was natural for Jesus to feel Hunger (Withstanding the Temptation did not ease the Hunger-After the Temptation the Angels came and ministered to Him.)
Hunger is right but gluttony is wrong. Sexual desire is normal but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge (Heb 13:4). The tongue can be used to spread the Gospel or Gossip! Each of these is a good thing that can be used wrong. God can not remove the problem without harming the person. Jesus did not seek to escape the desire. He simply looked at the higher priority based on God’s Word.
SECOND TEMPTATION: Cast self off Temple to prove God’s Care (Note- Temptation 2 and 3 are reversed in Matthew and Luke. Matthew shows Christ as King and the final trial is about receiving a Kingdom. Luke shows Christ as a man and the final trial is about becoming a “Super” man. Remember that a problem for one man may not be a problem for another. Know what YOUR weaknesses are).
Tempted to walk by Sight instead of Faith. Faith TRUSTS God, it does not TEMPT Him (Satan tries to Tempt us to Tempt God!!). God is God because of WHO He is; not WHAT He does. You cannot produce Faith in God by Works (Heb 11:1) nor Wisdom (I Cor 2:5).
THIRD TEMPTATION: Worship Satan to receive your Kingdom- Accomplish a good thing at the wrong time in the wrong way (It’s right to want to pass the exam. It’s wrong to cheat to do so.)
There are no “short cuts” or “easy roads” to Glory. The Cross must come before the Crown (Most of us will never win a sweepstakes- we will earn our living by the sweat of our brows). Satan tries to get us to lose Patience or compromise on Principles- Be careful that you Wait on the Lord and Work His Way.
The POWER that Jesus used to overcome Temptation was:
1. SWORD OF THE SPIRIT- The Word of God. It’s important to KNOW and USE the Word of God as you face life’s Temptations.
2. SHIELD OF FAITH- Confidence in God’s care and God’s Plans. This will “Quench the fiery darts of the devil” (Eph 6:16). When you’re confident that God will give you what you need then Satan can’t tempt you to do wrong to get something else (Remember Eve).
3. SPEAKING WITH AUTHORITY- “Get away from here Satan”. Words of defeat and doubt only encourage Satan to continue attacking you. When he sees you stand firm with and for God he will realize he’s defeated.
What a great joy to know The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: (2 Pet 2:9). God is faithful; lean on Him.

Matt 04:1-11FACING TEMPTATION AND GETTING THE VICTORY (Mk 1:12-13)

THE JOY AND PEACE OF YOUR LIFE WILL DEPEND ON HOW YOU MEET AND OVERCOME TEMPTATION. Christ came to give us life and that more abundantly – and that includes the right to victory over temptation! He showed us how to do this at the very beginning of His ministry when He “took on” Satan and came out victorious. Let’s look at what Temptation is and how we, too, can be victorious.
I. Temptation is a Common Problem – Even Christ (was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin Heb 4:15). See I Cor 10:13
II. Temptation comes and goes – Satan departed for a season. Sometimes it’s just a glow in the distance but other times is’s a raging fire – I Pet 4:12 and Ep 6:16. It was severe for Christ because He had just fasted for 40 days and was hungry.
III. Temptation is for a reason –
A. God’s Time – Driven of the Spirit
B. Tested at the Beginning of his work: Remember that the seed cast on the stoney ground endured until the heat of the day! Christ was put to the test immediately to strengthen Him for the trials to come (In that He himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted Heb 2:18).
IV. Temptations Vary – (For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world I John 2:16).
A. Normal Desires: Hungry so turn stone to bread (Every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lusts, and enticed. James 1:14). Is your desire for God’s Glory or your Good??
B. Normal Reasoning: Why not leap off the temple and show Satan His great Faith? (Notice how Satan misused the Word of God). Faith is the Substance of things hoped for the Evidence of things not seen.. Heb 11:1. Faith becomes Folly when we put our Faith in “Faith” and not in God!!!
C. Normal Tendencies of the will: Take the Easy way instead of the Cross way. Man becomes what God wants when he says, “Not my will but thine be done”.
V. Temptations bring us closer to God – Angels minister to Him “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” I Pet 1:7.
VI. Temptation is overcome thru Faith in the Word – (All quotes are from the book of Deut.) Christ used the same “tools” that are available to everyone else – Faith in, and a knowledge of, the Word of God.

Matt 04:18-20 INSTRUCTIONS IN SOUL WINNING

From Spurgeon’s “The Soul Winner”
I. OUR PART – Follow Me (Not follow me for what you are or what you want to make yourself)
A. BE separate unto Christ – These men were called to leave family & job. Today we realize the need of separation from the world and sacrifice for Christ (Remember the flood came when the sons of God married the daughters of men. BE HOLY for God is). Fish will not be fishermen! Christ was holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate from sinners.
B. Abide with Christ – Come and live with me. – be my students, my servants, and my friends. He lifted up, will draw men.
C. Obey Christ – failure in obedience may lead to failure in success. Do not grieve or quench the spirit.
II. GOD’S PART – I will make you fishers of men
A. We are enabled to follow him by His power.
B. He will make us by our experience – Moses in Wilderness, David in caves.
(I know the borders of despair, the edge of darkness, the path of faith Made all things to all men that I might by all means save some.)
C. He will make us by a sensitive heart (Ex mother’s care for child) (Phillip – go near and join to that chariot Samaritan woman – saw need)
D. He will infill us with the Holy Spirit – Walk around Jericho and take it; Gideon and barley loaf. GREATEST POWER ON EARTH
III. FISHERS OF MEN
A. A fisherman is very dependent and needs to be trustful. He cannot see the fish, He must cast his net by faith.
B. A fisherman is diligent and persevering. Up at dawn, fish all day, patch the net, guard the corners.
C. A fisherman is a laborer. Hard work (Not rec. fisherman) Does whether feels like or not.
D. A fisherman catches fish. That’s his job and he doesn’t stop with a pretty boat, or clothes – HE WANTS FISH!! GOD CALLS EVERY DISCIPLE TO BE A FISHERMAN. HAVE YOU BEEN FISHING?? OR PLAYING IN THE WATER???

Matt 05: THE AMPLIFICATION OF THE LAW BY JESUS:

5:21 Thou shalt not kill

5:27 Thou shall not commit Adultery

5:32 Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement

5:33 Thou shall not perjure thyself, but shall perform unto the Lord thine oaths

5:38 An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth

5:43 Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy.

5:22 Whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of judgment.

5:28 Whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her in his heart.

5:31 Whosoever shall put away his wife except for fornication causeth her to commit adultery.

5:34 Swear not at all but let your communication be Yea, yea; Nay, nay.

5:39 Resist not evil, but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

5:44 Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you, and persecute you.

Matt 05:1-12 9 WAYS TO BE HAPPY

The Word “Blessed” means O, How very Happy. It originally came from the idea that God’s favor was bestowed on an individual. Jesus lists 9 things in the beginning of this famous sermon that describe the kind of happiness he was offering His followers.
The First 4 Deal with ATTITUDES; and the Last 5 Deal with ACTIONS.
1. BE HUMBLE- “POOR IN SPIRIT”-. {3} Jesus uses this sermon to show (Mat 5:20). The Pharisees were Proud of their outward show (see Luke 18:9-14). Christ begins by showing that the Kingdom of Heaven is for the HUMBLE (This is not downgrading self, “I am a nobody”. It is seeing your self against a holy God. It is the Prodigal son awaking in the far country looking at the hog pen and remembering the Father’s house). The Road to true Happiness begins at the door of Humility.
2. BE SERIOUS- “MOURN”- {4} “Those who laugh shall lament, but those who sorrow shall sing”. This is not crying over your Situation but over your Sin! To grieve over sin means that you are sorry that they have committed it and are afflicted and wounded that they have offended God. These shall find comfort in the Gospel.
“I walked a mile with pleasure; she chattered all the way.
But I was none the wiser for all she had to say.
I walked a mile with sorrow; not a word said she.
But, O, the things I learned that day when Sorrow walked with me”
3. BE PATIENCE- “MEEK”-. {5} “He has the best of this world who thinks the least of it!”. Meekness is Patience in the reception of injuries. It is not cowardice but control. Moses faced Pharaoh and led 5 million people but he was (Num 12:3).
4. DESIRE GOD- “HUNGER AND THIRST”-. {6} Your desire is for the Divine. The motivation in your life is to be like God.
5. EXTEND MERCY- “MERCIFUL”-. {7} “What we are to Others, God will be to us” (2 Sam 22:26-27).
6. KEEP YOURSELF PURE- “PURE IN HEART”-. {8}
Dirt in the Heart dims the eyes. Jesus said that sin originated in the heart. The outward things you do are simply a manifestation of the inward person you are.
To See God is to recognize Him in the things He does. Others see chaos, we see the circumstances of God.
7. BUILD BRIDGES TO OTHERS- “PEACEMAKERS”- {9} We should not cry “Peace, Peace” when there is no Peace (Jer 6:14); and we must ever remember that the Pure in Heart come before the Peacemakers- (James 3:17), but true happiness comes from building bridges instead of walls.
8. ACCEPT OPPOSITION- “PERSECUTED”- {10} Those who in the first Blessing were Poverty Stricken are here Persecuted; and given another assurance of the fact that the Kingdom belongs to them.
9. BE THE TALKED ABOUT INSTEAD OF THE TALKER- “SLANDERED”-. {11}. {12}
The slanders of the tongue put us in the company of the Prophets.
Jesus was called a Samaritan and told he had a devil- ? (John 8:48)
He was called Mad- ? (John 10:20) : (1 Pet 2:23)
9 Ways to be Happy. None of them would make a talk show host very happy! They aren’t what the world expects or looks for; they are what God requires. These tell us how to have Happiness as a result of change in Character. The World seeks to have Happiness resulting for good Circumstances- Anyone can be happy when things happen to happen happily. God shows us how to have the Victory in a world set for defeat. Will you follow God’s Plan or will you live in defeat and despair??
‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘
Some use these Beatitudes as a type of Salvation:
Our ATTITUDE in coming to God:
1. Poor in Spirit- His attitude toward HIMSELF (sees Need)
2. Mourn- His Attitude toward SIN (Sorrow for sin)
3. Meek- His Attitude toward OTHERS (No excuses)
4. Hunger and Thirst- His Attitude toward GOD (Desires), Our ACTIONS after we meet God:
5. Merciful- Has a forgiving Spirit toward others because forgiven
6. Pure in Heart- Holiness of life comes from within
7. Peacemakers- Instead of a Troublemaker; He brings Peace
8. Persecuted- Because his light exposes darkness
9. Slandered- Because you are at war with the father of lies
The Way to Happiness goes down the road of Holiness. The Door to enter this way is Jesus. That’s Him knocking at your heart right now.

Matt 05:1-12 ELEVEN TIMES TO BE HAPPY

Jesus listed 9 ways to be happy but what makes you Happy? Can you list 5 things that if they happened in your life they would make you Happy? It seems everyone wants to be happy but few know how to accomplish that goal. The thing to do (like always) is to go to the Bible and see what God says.
As I went thru the Bible I found the word “Happy” listed 28 times. These are the main thoughts of those verses. They show 11 things that should make us Happy. Note how similar they are to the Beatitudes.
1. Happy to be Saved- Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places (Deu 33:29).
2. Happy to be Corrected by God- Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty: (Job 5:17)
3. Happy to have Children to raise for the Lord- Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate (Psa 127:5)
4. Happy when you stand in awe of God- Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labor of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee (Psa 128:1-2).
5. Happy when God is on your side- Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God: (Psa 146:5)
6. Happy to obtain Wisdom- Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding (Prov 3:13)
7. Happy to Help Others- He that despiseth his neighbor sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he (Prov 14:21)
8. Happy to Obey the Lord- If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them (John 13:17)
9. Happy to Witness for the Lord- I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews: (Acts 26:2)
10. Happy when you have a Clear Conscience- Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth (Rom 14:22)
11. Happy to Suffer for our Stand for the Lord- Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy (James 5:11)
But and if ye suffer for righteousness sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; (1 Pet 3:14)
If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified (1 Pet 4:14)
Are you Happy? You can be. Accept Christ as Savior and find Joy unspeakable and full of Glory!

Matt 05:13-16 BUSHEL BELIEVERS

Salt (of the earth)- Inward Character / Light (of the world)- Outward Conduct
Note that Jesus uses the NEGATIVE sense
Salt has lost its savor (ability to change the taste or prevent decay) / good for nothing / cast out and trodden under feet of men
Light- Cannot be hid if on a mountain, should not be hid under a bushel. When you are not lit you can stay in a drawer but when you are aflame you must be put on a candlestick- Candle can’t burn in a river.
Purpose of the Light- Give light to all in the house (Cheers, Directs, Reveals). To let men see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven (First time in NT God is called our Father- when see the good works of His children)
I. BUSINESS BUSHELS- Is religion your business or is your business your religion?
II. BASHFUL BUSHELS
III. BAD ACTIONS BUSHELS the fond imagination of sin is sin
IV APATHY BUSHELS- Cares of this world, deceitfulness of riches, lust for other things enter in and choke word and it becomes unfruitful
Laziness
Love of sin
Pride
Self Seeking

Matt 05:6 HUNGER

Ne 9:15 And gavest them bread from heaven for their hunger, and broughtest forth water for them out of the rock for their thirst, and promisedst them that they should go in to possess the land which thou hadst sworn to give them.
La 4:9 They that be slain with the sword are better than they that be slain with hunger: for these pine away, stricken through for want of the fruits of the field.
Ro 12:20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
You grow “Hungry” for Holiness when you Substitute:
1) Religion for Righteousness- Mt 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
2) Good works for Godly Relationship
3) Filler for food so we are always hungry- Lu 15:17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
4) When you Suppress Goodness Hunger:
– Ignore God’s Call and time with God
– Substitute “junk food” things. Laziness causes us to hunger for “junk food) Prov 19:15 Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.
– Deaden Hunger- Get to the place you do not want food.
How to get FULL from Hunger:
Joh 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.
Ps 34:10 The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing.
Re 7:16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat.

Matt 05:14 LIGHT-

Paul told the Corinthians about 3 types of people they had to consider in their ministry-The Natural (Lost) man, the Carnal (Babe) Christian, and the Spiritual (Mature Christian. Within each type there are varying degrees of growth but these are the 3 basic classes of people you will have to deal with and it’s good to keep them in mind. They are described in other parts of the Bible in their relationship to the Light- and that’s how we want to look at them.
I. SOME ARE IN DARKNESS II Cor 4:3-4 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
A) They may try to lead others- Matt 23:- “blind guides” (Rom 2:19)
Matt 23:16-22 They promote Gold instead of God (Prosperity)
23-24 They strain at Gnats and swallow camels (Dot “i’s”
and cross “t’s” and never realize that the words are misspelled!!)
25-26 They make sure the outside is clean while neglecting the inside (Hypocrites)
Matt 15:14- They lead into the ditch!!
B) They don’t realize their condition-having eyes to see they see not. They think everyone is in the same condition they are in.
The Gospel light is turned on them and they either flee from it or come to it. Jn 3:19-21 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather that light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
II. SOME WALK IN THE LIGHT I Jn 1:7 We walk in the light
A) Saying we see doesn’t make it so I Jn 1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth.
B) Walking in the light results in 2 things: I Jn 1:7
1. We have fellowship one with another (By this shall all men know you are my disciples, if you have love one for another.) (See I Cor 3:1-4 Where this fellowship was broken for “Babes” by division and strife over leaders- sometimes when you walk in a leader’s shadow your eyes become blinded!!)
2. The blood of Jesus Christ his Son Cleanseth us from all sin. Salvation-Freedom from Sins penalty / Sanctification- Sin’s power broken as we see the problems before we stumble over them.
As we walk in the light we should Grow in the ability to distinguish what’s helpful and what’s harmful to our Christian life. Heb 5:14 But strong mean belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
If you fail to grow in Christian graces you will become “near sighted” and forget what a joy it is to have sight-II Pet 1:9.
III. SOME BECOME LIGHTS Matt 5:14 Ye are the light of the world.
A) You shine that others may see the way (Life testimony) vs 14. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid
B) You must be careful not to hide your light vs 15
1. 2 Ways to hide it: a. under a bushel=too much work / b. under a bed=too much laziness
2. Put it on a candlestick that it may give light to all that are in the house
C) Make sure your good works bring Glory to your Father in Heaven
As a light you are to Glow for God. Dirt will “dim the window” and cut down on your light (Avoid Sin). The glow is not from your “Burning up yourself” but from the oil of the Holy Spirit within.
If the Holy Spirit is within and the window is clean you won’t have to try to glow-you can’t help it!!!

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Ps 119:105 Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Ps 119-130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.
Luke 11:34 The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness.
John 1: 4 In him (Christ) was life; and the life was the light of men.
Phil 2:15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, and the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and Perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world

Matt 05:17 I AM COME

As we approach this Christmas season it is good for us to ask the question, “Why did Christ come from Heaven?” At least 7 good reasons are given in scriptures:
1. TO FULFIL OLD TESTAMENT PROPHECIES-Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil (Mat 5:17). Bethlehem, Nazareth, Mary,
2. TO TEACH US HOW TO LIVE/To Furnish an Example for us to Follow- For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you (John 13:15)
3. TO MAKE PEOPLE MAKE A CHOICE- Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law (Mat 10:34-35) (Luke 12:51)
4. AS THE FATHER’S REPRESENTATIVE- I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive (John 5:43)
5. TO BRING TO US THE AWARENESS OF SINS in order to Transform our sinful Hearts-I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness (John 12:46)
6. TO GIVE US LIFE EVERLASTING.-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)
7. TO ESTABLISH THE BASIS OF JUDGEMENT- 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)

Matt 05:29 WHEN SEEING HURTS

WHY CLEAR SIGHT IS NEEDED: Mat 5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
Without Clear Sight we Forget what God has done and miss fellowship with Christ- 2 Pet 1:8-9 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.
Wrong Sight can lead to Addiction to sin- 2 Pet 2:14 Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children:
THINGS THAT HURT TO SEE: Only eyes washed by tears can see clearly. –Louis L. Mann
1. The “Delights” of Sin never give SATISFIED SIGHT:- Prov 27:20 Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied. Eccl 1:8 All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing. 1 John 2:16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
2. The Actions of Sin “VEX” OUR SIGHT– 2 Pet 2:7-8 And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: 8 (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds😉
The Results of Sinful Sight HURT OUR HEART– Lam 3:51 Mine eye affecteth mine heart because of all the daughters of my city.

Matt 05:37 COMPELLING COMMUNICATION

We are all faced with times in which we wish we had communicated more or better to someone. Tonight I want us to look at How we Communicate and then try to discover How We SHOULD Communicate.
We have been able to identify 5 levels of communication:
1. Clichés- “Nice Day”, “Hope you have a good day”
2. Information- Who won the game last night? Did you see that special TV program?
3. Opinions/Judgment- I believe this about that. This is what we need to do about that situation.
4. Feelings- Beneath Exterior- This is my motive. This is what causes me to do that.
5. Maximum Truth/Love- 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; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: — Eph 4:14-15
HERE ARE SOME COMMUNICATION GUIDELINES:
1. KEEP YOUR WORD: [Mean what you say] But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil (Mat 5:37)
2. Remember that COMMUNICATION CAN CONTAMINATE: Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners (1 Cor) 15:33. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers (Eph 4:29)
3. EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION INVOLVES PRAYER: Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things (Gal 6:6).
4. COMMUNICATION IS NOT ALWAYS VERBAL: Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (Romans 8:26). Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction (Phil 4:14)
5. COMMUNICATION IS SOMETIMES A CONTRIBUTION: Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only (Phil 4:15). That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; (1 Tim 6:18)
6. CHRISTIAN COMMUNICATION INVOLVES TELLING OTHERS ABOUT WHAT GOD IS DOING IN YOUR LIFE: That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus (Phil 1:6). But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased (Heb 13:16).

1. DID YOU COMMUNICATE YOUR DEEPEST SECRETS TO GOD TODAY??
2. DID YOU TELL GOD ABOUT YOUR FEARS AND STRUGGLES??
3. ARE YOU AFRAID OF WHAT GOD WILL SAY IF YOU EXPRESS AN OPINION??

Matt 05:45 When RAIN doesn’t come

Who does God listen to when the Farmer prays for needed rain for his crops while at the same time the Golfer prays for no rain so he can play his game!
Rain normally comes according to the “rules of Nature”- Matt 5:45 For he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
It can be stopped or started by the Prayers of a man of God-James 5:17-18 Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.
God sometimes uses rain to reward or punish those that obey Him- Deut 11:13-14 And it shall come to pass, if ye shall hearken diligently unto my commandments which I command you this day, to love the Lord your God, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul, That I will give you the rain of your land in his due season, See Deut 28:12
Deut 28:15, 24 But is shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statures which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee:… vs 24 The Lord shall make the rain of thy land powder and dust: from heaven shall it come down upon thee, until thou be destroyed.
HOW TO GET IT TO RAIN– II Chron 7:13-14 If I shut up heaven that there be no rain,…If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
1. Forsake Selfish Pride (Man has to come to the realization that there are some things he can’t control.)
2. PRAY (Real Prayer, not pretty prayer)
3. Seek God (Don’t look for Rain; look at God!!!)
4. Repent of Sin.(Be willing to accept the lesson God has given)
HOW TO KEEP THE RAIN COMING– Lev 26:3-4 If ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them; Then will I give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit.

Matt 05:48 HOW TO BE PERFECT

Most people think that Perfection is a “proud goal” and not only cannot be attained but is not to be sought. What then do they do with our Text verse- (Mat 5:48) Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
People’s wrong conception about what the Bible is talking about when it stresses the need of Perfection comes from their understanding of the word “Perfect”. In our language today “Perfect” is used to refer to something without error or flaw. In the Greek of the Bible “Perfect” means to “grow into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper place of virtue and integrity” or as we would put it- “To become spiritually mature”.
I. PERFECTION IS A GOAL TO BE SOUGHT:
(Gen 17:1) And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.
(Deu 18:13) Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God.
(Mat 5:48) Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
II. THE RESULTS OF BEING PERFECT
A) We become like Christ- (Luke 6:40) The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master (Col 1:27 28) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: {28} Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
B) We control the Tongue- (James 3:2) For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.
III. THE MEANS OF BECOMING PERFECT
A) Commitment to Christ above all- (Mat 19:21) Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. Here was a good moral man but he could not become spiritually mature until he realized that Christ must have first place in his life. He had to learn the truth of Heb 7: 19 For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
B) Growth in the Teachings of God- (Heb 6:1) Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God. How do we Grow in these Teachings?
1. We grow with the Help of Spiritual Leaders: (Eph 4:11 13) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 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
2. We grow with the guidance of the Word: (2 Tim 3:16 17) All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
C) Suffering (Heb 2:10) For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings (Heb 5:8) Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
Sickness and Circumstances “boggle our brain” but they also bring us to a mature faith- (James 1:3 4) Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
Being Perfect is the Goal of a Life’s Commitment; not the result of a moment’s Prayer- After many years in the Faith Paul had to say, (Phil 3:12) Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
But it all begins with a Moment’s decision to Accept Christ and make Him Lord of Your life.

Matt 06:- Rules for the Redeemed

1. The Money Rule– Matt 6:19.20 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through and steal.
2. The Worry Rule– Matt 6:31-33 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that you have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.
3. The Judgment Rule– Mt 7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged.
4. The Prayer Rule– Matt 7:7-8 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.
5. The Golden Rule– Matt 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

Matt 06:4-13 JESUS TAUGHT US TO PRAY

Our world is a sick world; disillusioned, disease infected, depressed, body weary, and sin smitten. Human philosophy is bankrupt. Nations weary and wicked; divided by politics and race, are walking on the edge of an abyss of anarchy and chaos. Men and women everywhere are bewildered and distracted by the problems of life and our nation and our God are no longer held in respect and awe.
There are so many problems that cannot be solved, so many dangers that cannot be averted, so many burdens that must be borne until we lift out hands in dismay. What we need is what only God can do. What God can do can be done when God’s people pray. That is why I say that nothing is so necessary in the lives of churches and individuals today as earnest, continued, and unending prayer (Adapted from a 1978 article by Dr. Robert G Lee)
The more effort and energy you put into stumbling in the dark the more damage you do! Many people only know how to pray when they are in trouble; they know nothing of prayer as communication with God.
Day of Prayer examples
The Lord’s Prayer is the answer to prayer- And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples (Luke 11:1).
1) Not in Pride: When thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
2) Not as a Form: 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 (Matthew 6:4-8)
ELEMENTS OF THE MODEL PRAYER:
AN EXAMPLE: After this manner therefore pray ye:
REVERENT RELATIONSHIP: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
LONGING SUBMISSION: Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
DAILY DEPENDENCE: Give us this day our daily bread.
MUTUAL REPENTANCE: And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
WEAKNESS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
DIVINE RECOGNITION: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen (Matthew 6:9-13).

Matt 06:9-13 RELATIONSHIP PRAYER

The Bible is about God and our relationship with Him. In this prayer WE ACKNOWLEDGE GOD AS:
FATHER: Our Father which art in heaven (There is a God and you are not him but this God has made a way for you to be part of His family)
KING: Thy kingdom come (We are not home yet but we look for and long for God’s power, promises, and place to come)
MASTER: Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven (He who did not learn submission in the home will find it difficult to be submissive to heaven. You will never enjoy freedom until you submit completely to God’s control of your life)
PROVIDER: Give us this day our daily bread (What if you could only get bread for one day at a time?)
REDEEMER: And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors (Forgive until you forget what you need to forgive)
GUARDIAN: And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil (We never get spiritual enough to take on the Devil in our own strength and wisdom).
GOD: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever (It is all about God and your relationship with Him. Sin removed Adam and Eve’s daily walk with God. Christ died to restore that relationship)
Prayer must be directed TO the Father, THROUGH the Son, and BY the Holy Spirit: For through him (Jesus) we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father (Ephesians 2:18).
If you are sinking in life’s storm’s pray Peter’s Prayer: But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, LORD, SAVE ME (Matthew 14:30).
If you feel unworthy but your need is great; pray the Canaanite Women’s Prayer: Then came she and worshipped him, saying, LORD, HELP ME (Matthew 15:25).
If you need God’s Security and Provision then Pray Jabez’s prayer: And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest BLESS ME indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest KEEP ME FROM EVIL, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested (1 Chronicles 4:10).
The Roads of India present a challenge to the traveler but they lead to beauty and blessings. Prayer is sometimes hard and you feel you are “stumbling in the dark” but if you will travel the road you will like the destination!

Matt 06:9‑13 PRAYING THE WAY JESUS TAUGHT

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen Matt 6:9‑13
1. We are to Pray to our FATHER (In Jesus’ name, thru the Spirit).
A) Knowing God cares enough to only give us what is best for us.
B) Remembering that sinful attitudes and actions break relationship and hinder the answer to prayers.
2. We are to Pray for the Coming of the Kingdom– We are pilgrims and strangers. This world is not our home. If you are more interesting in building your own house than you are in going to Gods house then your prayers will be self centered instead of God exalting.
3. We are to Pray for His Will to be done in everything– When we know God loves us absolutely then we can trust his answer completely. Any answer He gives to our prayers are then considered the best answer.
4. We are to Pray for daily necessities– God know what we need but by specifically praying for these needs we show God our dependent on Him and glorify Him when we tell of His provision.
5. We are to Pray for forgiveness, and practice it– Our prayers are not just to change our circumstances; they are to change us! God is developing us into His likeness with eternity in mind.
6. We are to Pray for deliverance from evil– We are not to seek things or situations that will lead us to do wrong. We daily need to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him; and that takes supernatural strength that can only come from God.
7.We are to Pray in Faith believing that His kingdom, His power, and His glory are the best thing that can happen to us and to everyone around us. 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)
God rewards those who diligently seek Him. Diligently seek means to search out, to crave, to seek after. If you seek God He will be found by you (I Chronicles 28:9); and, when you find God, you will find God blesses those who take the time and effort to seek Him.
Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). men ought always to pray, and not to faint; (Luke 18:1)

Matt 06:14-15 FORGIVE AS WE WERE FORGIVEN

Holding Grudges does a lot more that blow up buildings in Oklahoma! It burns in your heart and destroys your relationship with others and with God.
THE IMPORTANT THING ABOUT PRAYER IS NOT SIMPLY GETTING AN ANSWER, BUT BEING THE KIND OF PERSON WHOM GOD CAN TRUST WITH AN ANSWER. In order to be this kind of person we must understand how God answers our prayers. God gives to us so that we might share with others- Love, Grace, etc. This is especially true of Forgiveness- God Flows Forgiveness in and we must flow it out; else we become like the Dead Sea (Dead because it receives the sweet water of the Jordan but never passes it on. The water evaporates, leaving salt and minerals that kill the animals and vegetation. Just like we become dead and fruitless if we fail to pass on forgiveness).
I. AN UNFORGIVING SPIRIT MEANS:
A) You can’t worship God Correctly (and that ought to be enough to break your heart!)- (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.
B) You can’t Pray and expect Answers- (1 Pet 3:7) Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
II. WHEN WE DON’T FORGIVE OTHERS,
1) WE ARE DENYING OUR COMMON GROUND AS SINNERS IN NEED OF GOD’S FORGIVENESS- Parable of forgiving servant- Matt 18:21-35. How can we NOT forgive when we consider how God has forgiven us?
2) WE OPEN OURSELVES TO BONDAGE AND BITTERNESS- (1 John 2:9‑11) He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes. Unforgiveness not only hinders our relationship with God; it also destroys our relationship with our family, friends and neighbors. It will destroy our health, happiness, and holiness.
3) WE EXPOSE OUR TRUE RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD- (1 John 3:14‑15) We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him (1 John 4:20‑21) 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? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.
III. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO FORGIVE?
A) Withhold revenge- Rom 12:21 Be not overcome of evil but overcome evil with good. When David had the opportunity to kill Saul in the cave and refused to do so, Saul had to admit to David, Thou are more righteous than I. Vengeance belongs to God, A forgiving heart trusts that God will do the right thing about the Situation.
B) Replace Anger with Love- (Mat 5:44) But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; (Luke 6:27) But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
C) FACE UP TO THE FACTS THAT BROUGHT ABOUT THE PROBLEM: (Mat 7:12) Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
1) Is the criticism justified? Were you Wrong?
2) Was the act meant to deliberately harm you or was it simply the self absorption of the person? Most drivers who cut you off could care less about who you are or where you are going. They are only thinking about what they need to get done.
3) Would Christ Forgive Them? Careful, not cut and dried- Are they violating God’s Law, the Laws of the Land, or Moral Laws. Forgiveness does not mean you condone evil- My wife and I forgave the man who assaulted her but we had him put in jail because he showed no signs of remorse. We believe that given the chance, he would do it again. God has provided forgiveness for everyone but those who refuse to trust Christ as Savior will spend eternity in Hell!
HOW CAN YOU TELL IF YOU HAVE FORGIVEN SOMEONE?
1) Do you Rejoice when Calamity befalls those who do you wrong?
2) Do you dwell on the memory of wrong suffered?
3) Do your reject overtures of repentance from others?
ARE HURT FEELINGS WORTH GOING TO HELL OVER? IS YOUR ANGER AT OTHERS WORTH FACING THE ANGER OF GOD? (Mat 6:14‑15) For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Matt 06:19-34 LAYING UP TREASURES

INTRODUCTION – We’re living in difficult times as far as money is concerned. Inflation is like a cancer (mostly unseen but constantly eating and weakening). The latest report says that what $100 would buy in 1967 you would have to spend $205 for now – and yesterday’s headlines screamed that it’s getting worse instead of better [16% (savings actual lost)].
Where’s it going to end? (Destruction) What can I do to help? Is there any security? Yes, Lay up a Secure Savings that will remain stable regardless of circumstances. Which led me to search for Treasures in the Bible with some interesting results.
I. TREASURE OF WONDER
A. Snow and Hail – Job 38:22 Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the hail?
1. Snow flakes – every one different
2. Hail – (in Miss.) Hot weather – Clouds full of Rain- How does anything that big stay in the air?
B. Wind – Jer. 10:13 When he uttereth his voice, there is a multitude of waters in the heavens, and he causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings with rain, and bringeth forth wind out of his treasures (Born again like wind – Jn 3)
THE BEAUTY OF NATURE – Appreciate and care for (Wife loves being in mountains because of their beauty even though she was raised in country.)
II. TREASURE OF WISDOM – We live in a fact hungry world (People watch the news every night and can’t wait to pass facts on.) Gennis Book of Records.
A. Education Wisdom. Soloman said – Wisdom is the Principle thing therefore get wisdom – we praise him for seeking wisdom (Encourage to get education).
B. Realize the True Treasure of Wisdom is found in Christ Col. 2:3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I Cor 1:30 Christ is made unto us wisdom. I Cor 2:6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought. But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery.
I am Saved by Simple Grace; not my great Wisdom – Remember that Great discoveries were simple: Law of Gravity from an Apple. Airplane uses same principle as a kite (lifted by air).
III. TREASURE OF WEALTH TEXT
A. Lay not up Treasure on earth
1. It will decay (Inflation can eat up)
2. It can be stolen
3. You die and leave it
B. Where your treasure is there will your heart be also
1. Depending on earthly treasure means depending on self
2. Trust God for present and future Blessings. Luke 12:32-33 Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
IV. TREASURE OF WICKEDNESS Proverbs 10:2 Treasures of wickedness profit nothing; but righteousness delivereth from death.
A. Imagination – as he thinketh in his heart so is he (Stays there but draws interest!)
B. Reap what you sow – (even if you stop sowing you can reap past seed sown – David)
V. TREASURE OF WRATH – Rom 2:4-5 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgement of God: LIKE A MOUNTAIN OF SNOW READY TO AVALANCE DOWN / LIKE A STEAM KETTLE WITH THE FIRE UNDER IT.
One of these days you’ll reap the interest on your wickedness ARE YOU READY???

Matt 06:23-34 WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULDN’T WORRY

“Take No Thought” here deals with emotion tensions, not mental preparation. This is not talking about preparing for the future (Must plan meals, payments, for Heaven, etc). It is talking about ANXIOUS TENSION concerning the obligations of life. Jesus says we are not to be anxious about BASIC Necessities; not the luxuries. This is trusting God for Daily Bread.
Worry manifest the violation of 4 Basic Christian Practices:
1. UNABLE TO ENJOY LIFE– Only thing Worry does is rob you of peace of mind.
2. UNWILLING TO TRUST GOD– Mat 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?
3. UNFRUITFUL LIVING– Mat 13:22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful
4. UNPREPARED FOR LORD’S RETURN– Luke 21:34 And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.
3 Principles Jesus taught in this scripture:
1. Worry won’t do any good (Difference between anxious thought and anticipation of need- vs 28 Why take ye thought for raiment. Must plan what to wear if it is to be cleaned and ready. We’re talking about worrying about whether God will supply the clothes you NEED)- Mat 6:27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
2. Worry implies doubting God’s:
A) Love and Concern- Aren’t you better than birds?
B) Knowledge by God of your Situation- “Heavenly Father Knows”
C) Ability of God to Provide- Observe Plants. All will be added to you.
3. More Important things that things we worry about- vs 33 Seek Kingdom of God FIRST. Worry makes us focus on wrong things
Conclusions:
1- Today’s troubles are enough for today- do your duty (Mary and Martha- Martha was Anxious about many things but Mary chose the NEEDFUL thing)
2. It makes a difference to God- 1 Pet 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
3. Why Worry when you can Pray and Praise—Phil 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
4) Worry will make you think about God’s Ability to meet Your Needs (Robbing God of Tithes and Offerings)- Hag 1:6-9 Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes. 7 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways. 8 Go up to the mountain, and bring wood, and build the house; and I will take pleasure in it, and I will be glorified, saith the LORD. 9 Ye looked for much, and, lo, it came to little; and when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the LORD of hosts. Because of mine house that is waste, and ye run every man unto his own house. We need equipment to do our work of reaching a Million people a month with the Gospel. Lack of money hinders us.
5) Fear- I was afraid so I hid my talent.
6) Prayerlessness- Have not because ask not. Ask, Seek, Knock

Matt 06:33 FIRST

We know the first mention of a Death (Gen 4:8), a “Book” (Gen 5:1), Building a City (Gen 4:17), and putting someone in a Coffin (Gen 50:26) are found in Genesis. Here are some other “FIRST” that will help you live a “first class” life.
1. What should you do FIRST if you want “all these wonderful things added unto you”? Seek the Kingdom of God FIRST- But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).
2. What has to happen FIRST if you will see clearly how to cast the mote our of your brother’s eye? Cast out beam out of your eye FIRST- Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye (Matthew 7:5).
3. What is required of you if you Desire to be FIRST? The last of all and servant of all will be FIRST– And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all (Mark 9:35).
4. What are the Qualifications to Cast the FIRST Stone? Without Sin – He lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her (John 8:7).
5. What attitude is essential to observing the FIRST commandment? Loving God above all: And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: 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 (Mark 12:29-30).
What is the First thing you want to do your Second Day in Heaven? Who is the First person you led to the Lord? What is the First sermon you can remember that changed your life? What are some “First Things” that are “First Things” for you?

Matt 06:33 FIRST PRIORITY

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).
I. First is your Relationship with God
A) Kingdom of God- “Natural” relationships
B) His Righteousness- “Spritual” Relationship
II. Second is In your “Private” Life-Clean Inside First-Matt 23:26.
III. Third is in Your “Public” Life-Clear Own Eyes First -Matt 7:5.
IV Fourth is In Your Prayer Life- Matt 5:24 (Forgive to be forgiven).
Here are some other FIRSTS you Need to be Aware of:
FIRST COMMAND (Love God above all)-Matt 22:37-38.
FIRST RESPONSIBILITY (Bring others to Christ)-John 1:40-41.
FIRST OBLIGATION (Care for your Family)-I Tim 5:4.
FIRST GIVING-
When: I Cor 16:2. Regular, Systematic.
How: II Cor 8:5. Not just your money but yourself- you aren’t “buying God” you’re gratefully giving God what is rightfully His and the Lord loves a Cheerful giver.
What: Exodus 23:19. Not the “Left overs” but the Best of the first.
What occupies First place in your life? In your Giving? in your Service?

Matt 06:33 KINGDOM OF GOD

The Kingdom of God is not meat and Drink; The Kingdom of God is within You. Here are some things to help you allow the Kingdom of God to do its work IN and AROUND You:
1. Make it a PRIORITY: Mat 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
2. Make use of its POWER: Mat 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.
3. Accept YOUR POVERTY: Mat 19:24 And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
4. Obey above your own PREFERENCE: Mat 21:31 Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.
Here are other scriptures to help you SEEK and SERVE the Kingdom of God:
Mat 21:43 Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.
Mark 1:14-15 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
Mark 4:11 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:
Mark 4:26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;
Mark 4:30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?
Mark 9:1 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.
Mark 9:47 And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire:
Mark 10:14-15 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
Mark 10:23-25 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
Mark 15:43 Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.
Luke 4:43 And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent.
Luke 6:20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God.
Luke 7:28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.
Luke 8:10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.
Luke 9:2 And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick. Luke 9:11 And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing.
Luke 9:60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.
Luke 9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.
Luke 10:11 Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.
Luke 11:20 But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.
Luke 13:18 Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it?
Luke 13:28-29 There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.
Luke 16:16 The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it.
Luke 17:20-21 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.
Luke 21:31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.
Luke 22:16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
Luke 22:18 For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.
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.
John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
Acts 1:3 To whom also he showed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
Acts 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
Acts 14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
Acts 19:8 And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.
Acts 20:25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
Acts 28:23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.
Acts 28:31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
Rom 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
1 Cor 4:20 For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.
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, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
1 Cor 15:50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
Gal 5:21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
Col 4:11 And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.
2 Th 1:5 Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:

Matt 06:33 SEEK GOD

This morning we are going to look at what God is to you. Tonight we will look at what you are to God.
One of the biggest misconceptions among Christians is believing that because God has us then we have God. It is not enough to simply believe IN God; you must seek FOR God-But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him (Heb 11:6).
Jesus Said, Do not seek me for WRONG REASON- (John 6:26) Jesus answered them 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.
On a scale of 1 – 10 with 1 being just saved and 10 being as close to God as possible, where do you rate your relationship with God?
There are two things every person should desire- To have life and to enjoy living. God tells us plainly how to accomplish both of these goals:
1) Life– For thus saith the LORD unto the house of Israel, Seek ye me, and ye shall live: (Amos 5:4) (or as Paul said, For in him we live, and move, and have our being; Acts 17:28)
2) Enjoy Living– (Mat 6:33) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. There are Four Parts to this Verse:
1) A COMMAND- SEEK YE– HEART-(Psa 27:8) When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek. Let it be a Hunger of your Heart- (Psa 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;
2) A PRIORITY- FIRST (Isa 55:6-7) Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
3) A TWO FOLD GOAL- THE KINGDOM OF GOD (His Reign on earth and in our life)
AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS (His Righteousness) (Hosea 10:12) Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground [Unused areas of your life]: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.
4) A PROMISE- ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE ADDED TO YOU Glory!
God is looking for you to look for Him today (Psa 14:2) The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God.
But your seeking must be whole heartedly- (Deu 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 (Jer 29:13) And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
There is a Danger in Not seeking Him– (1 Chr 28:9) And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever.
There is JOY in seeking Him– (1 Chr 16:10-11) Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.
It is EVIL NOT TOO Seek Him– (2 Chr 12:14) And he did evil, because he prepared not his heart to seek the LORD.
5. GOD WILL BE FOUND IF SOUGHT CORRECTLY– (2 Chr 15:2) And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you.
A) With ALL YOUR HEART- (2 Chr 31:21) And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.
B) With PERSISTENCE- (2 Chr 34:3) For in the eighth year of his reign, while he was yet young, he began to seek after the God of David his father: and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem from the high places, and the groves, and the carved images, and the molten images.
C) With PREPARATION- You Seek it and then you Do it-(Ezra 7:10) For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments (Isa 51:1) Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the LORD: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged.
D) By PREACHING (Mal 3:1) Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.
(Acts 17:27) (I Preached) That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
DANGER that one day you will SEEK BUT NOT FIND- (Hosea 5:6) They shall go with their flocks and with their herds to seek the LORD; but they shall not find him; he hath withdrawn himself from them.
(John 8:21) Then said Jesus again unto them, I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come.

Matt 07:13-27 HOLY OR THE HERD?

The curse of modern day Christianity is Compromise (Apathy to Commitment and Holiness). We have tried to be all things to all men and have ended up being NOTHING to ANYONE (And a sin-cursed world is seeking answers in Psychiatry, Pleasures, or Pills!!). At a time when Christians are too busy to Serve and too Bound to Selfish interest to become involved we need to re-examine our path and see if we are walking with the HOLY OR THE HERD!!
I. FALSE PATHS vs 13-14 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. There are 2 Paths men walk down. One is Broad and crowded with the “HERD”. The other is Narrow and designated for the HOLY.
A) The Entrance to the Path
1. The Broad Way: Many “Go In”. All you have to do to go to Hell is exist. At the first opportunity you rebel against God and sin.
2. The Narrow Way: Few there be that “Find it”. Must have a desire to go this way.
B) The Character of the Gate
1. Broad Way is WIDE- Able to accept any doctrine or deed. Many enter side by side (Antichrist’s one world church)
2. Narrow Way is STRAIT (“Narrow”, not straight)-
Religious Nicodemus had to be “Born Again”
“Righteous” Paul had to count all things but dung for Christ
Rich Young Ruler found it too narrow
C) The Description of the Way
1. Broad: No direction or discipline (Chaff of Psalm 1)
2. Narrow: Holy (Example of Road in Russia set apart only for Officials). Is 35:8 And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called the way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but is shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein. The COMMAND for the “Narrow Walkers”- “Be ye Holy”. The COMPANIONSHIP for those walkers- “For I the Lord your God am Holy”.
D) The Number on each Path
1. Broad: Many (Herd) Following the Crowd without regard to the destination.
2. Narrow: Few (Holy) Willing to make a definite stand
E) Destination of each Path
1. Broad: Destruction. Easy road to Hell
2. Narrow: Life, Abundant life here, and eternal life with God
ARE YOU ONE OF THE HOLY?? OR THE HERD??
II. FALSE PROPHETS vs 15-20 Attempt to get you to join the “Herd”
A) Their Appearance- Wolves in Sheep’s clothing
B) Their Judgment- Look at Fruit. Is it Good or Gold. Success or
C) Their End- Cut down and cast into fire. | Service???
III. FALSE PROFESSIONS vs 21-23 Sought to please the “Herd” instead of God. EVEN GOOD WORKS ARE BAD IF NOT IN GOD’S WILL
A) What they say: Prophesied, cast out devils, and done many wonderful works in thy name
B) What God says: I never knew you; depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
IV. FALSE FOUNDATION vs 24-27 Houses may look the same but foundation is faulty. One day you’ll be on trial. Will you Stand??
A) Build on Sand- can’t stand storm
B) Build on Rock- withstands storm
Are you building your Eternal Destiny by following the HOLY or the HERD??

Matt 7:21-23 A REAL CHRISTIAN

In this Scripture Jesus gives us 3 Marks of a Real Christian:
I. Fruit– 2 kinds of Fruit:
1) Other Christians:
A) Influence- Matt 5:14-16. Don’t get too Busy (Bushel) or Lazy (under the Bed) to shine.
B) Evangelism- We are to “Win” men (as a prize in a contest!); Seek men (as we would a lost sheep or coin); and Make Disciples (Teach men about Christ because if He is lifted up He will draw all men unto himself). This means we must Strive for men, Search for Men, and “School” men in Christ; not morals or organizations
2) Fruit of Spirit- Gal 5:22-23. This is a CHANGE OF CHARACTER brought about by a change of Masters-Gal 5:24-26. Our life is now controlled by the Spirit instead of the Self. [The average Christian’s fault is that he has dealt with his SINS but not with his SELF!! He thinks he’s ready to live with Jesus in Heaven but finds it hard to live with men on Earth!!]
WHAT KIND OF FRUIT DO YOU HAVE??
II. Food (Feed)-
1. Word of God- Matt 4:7. The Word of God instead of the husk of the World.
A) He Meditates on the Word- Ps 1:2. B) He Memorizes the Word- Ps 119:11.
C) He “Meals” on the Word- Like Jesus, he realizes that feeding the soul is as important as feeding the body (The average Christian reads less than a chapter a day in the Bible and wonders why they’re starving spiritually).
2. Will of God- John 4:34. The energy and Enthusiasm we need is found in knowing we are part of God’s plan.
WHAT’S ON YOUR MENU- THE WORLD OR THE WORD??
III. Fellowship–
1. With Christians- I John 1:7.
2. Not with the World- I John 2:15.
WHO DO YOU WANT TO BE AROUND?? WHO CALLS YOU FRIEND??
3 Good tests of a Real Christian- His Fruit, His Food, and His Fellowship. Can you “pass the Test”?

Matt 9:27-29 GOD’S ABILITY

[Challenge to Beulah Church- 1-3-16] Let’s do something Great FOR God. Let’s do something Great WITH God- 100 next Sunday-Postcards (address, stamps, printed, mailed). Attendance Counter
And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou Son of David, have mercy on us. And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord. Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you (Matthew 9:27-29). Two blind men come to Jesus and asked to receive their sight. Jesus said their healing was based on their faith in His ability. If you believe God can, God can.
The King James Bible has 23,145 verses in the Old Testament and 7,957 verses in the New Testament. This gives a total of 31,102 verses. Contrary to popular belief, the middle verse in the Bible is not Psalms 118:8 {It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man}. Because there are an even number of verses then the middle two verses are Psalm 103:1-2- Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
There are 929 chapters in the Old Testament and 260 chapters in the New Testament. This gives a total of 1,189 chapters. Psalm 117 is the middle chapter of the Bible, being the 595th chapter. It is also the shortest chapter in the Bible with the longest chapter (Psalm 119) being found almost next door. Psalm 118:8 is the middle verse between these two chapters and it tells us that in the long and the short of life we need to Trust God! (Girl with 3 cm Tumor who was prayed for and next week tumor was gone- Dr. said, “This is God”.) (God’s guidance in telling me to go crush cans so I would hear freezer going bad before we lost all our frozen food!)
God’s Ability provides Security (To Save us and Keep us Saved):
A) In Salvation: Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them (Hebrews 7:25).
B) In Preservation: Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, (Jude 1:24).
God’s Ability provides Assistance to our weakness: For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succor (undergird, strengthen) them that are tempted (Hebrews 2:18).
God’s Ability gives us Peace [Because we believe God’s Ability to keep His Promises]: And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform (Romans 4:21).
God’s Ability is greater than our weakness: And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (2 Cor 9:8).
God’s Ability deserves our trust and confidence: For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day (2 Tim 1:12).
God’s Ability astonishes us: 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).
The Two blind men responded, “Yes, we believe that YOU ARE ABLE” and were given their sight. If we believe in God’s ability then soon we will see God’s Power at work in our life.

Matt 09:27-31 BLIND TESTIMONY

There are a number of instances in the Gospels that show Jesus Healing the Blind (Many list Seven times but it is evident that several of the incidents are the same occurrence. It appears that there are FIVE different times that specific Blind people are healed; although healing of the blind is mentioned numerous other times as part of general healing). [2 Cor 4:3-4 talks about the fact that Sinners are blinded by Sin and Satan].
We want to look at these Five incidents of healing of the Blind today as “Parables” (Of course, they’re real) that show us how we are to witness to men blinded by sin. Hopefully, by seeing the way Jesus dealt with a Physical Blindness we can learn how to help those who are Spiritual Blinded; staggering downward into Hell.
1. DEMAND A STATEMENT OF FAITH– Mat 9:27-31. Jesus did not Waste His time on those who refused to believe His message. It’s alright to knock on a slammed door again but it’s wrong to live in front of slammed doors while ignoring doors that are waiting for someone to knock.
2. REMEMBER WE ARE IN SPIRITUAL WARFARE-Mat 12:22. My job is to present my witness and the Word of God. The Holy Spirit must bring Conviction and Conversion. That’s one important reason for purity of life and Bible Memorization. That also kills your excuse about intellect and ability.
3. SEPARATE FROM THE CROWD– Mark 8:22-26 (Item of Interest- Only place we find that Jesus used “Gradual Healing”).
Even in a Church service, we don’t go to the sinner and pray with him in the congregation. We ask him to come forward where we can pray and talk person to person. In the crowd you must fight unbelief, embarrassment, and distractions; and Satan is well able to use all of these weapons against you as you war for a sinner’s soul.
4. GIVE CLEAR DIRECTIONS– John 9:1-7. Tell the Sinner exactly what He needs to do- Repent of Sin, Believe Christ died for his sin, Walk by Faith in God’s power to change his life. Have a “Sinner’s Prayer” you can pray with him- “Lord Jesus, I’m a sinner on my way to Hell. I believe you died to pay for my sins and, by faith, I claim your pardon and forgiveness today. I ask the Holy Spirit to come in and make me a new Creature in Christ. From this day forward I am going to live for you and look forward to the day I can be with you eternally in Heaven.”
5. DON’T LET THE CROWD DROWN OUT THE CRIES OF THOSE IN NEED– (These are Three incidents that we believe are the same; just told from different perspectives) Mat 20:30-34 / Mark 10:46-52 / Luke 18:35-42. We live in a busy world where news, advertisements, family, and duties all call for our attention. Listen for the lost, they’re trying to get your attention also; and time is running out.

Matt 10:16 SERPENTS

Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves (Matthew 10:16). [Amp version- Lo, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; be wary and wise as serpents, and be innocent- harmless, guileless, and without falsity- as doves]. “Wise as Serpents”? A SERPENT IS:
1) Made by God- Job 26:13 By his spirit he hath garnished the heavens; his hand hath formed the crooked serpent.
2) Symbol of Sin/Savior- John 3:14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: [Jesus changed the Judgement of serpents on God’s People to the redemption of God’s people on the Cross!]
3) Dangerous-Exo 4:3 And he said, Cast it on the ground. And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from before it.
4) Surprising- Gen 49:17 Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward.
5) Skillful- Prov 30:18-19 There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not: 19 The way of an eagle in the air; the way of a serpent upon a rock; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea; and the way of a man with a maid.
6) Swift- Jer 46:22 The voice thereof shall go like a serpent; for they shall march with an army, and come against her with axes, as hewers of wood.
7) Not Normally Desired- Luke 11:11 If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent?
8) Sly- 2 Cor 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.
HOW DID THE SERPENT GET EVE TO DO WHAT HE WANTED?
1. Curiosity- Has God said you shall not eat of every tree of the garden?
2. Challenge- You Shall Be as God
3. Choice- Gen 3:6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

Matt 10:32-33 YOUR TESTIMONY

One of the Problems in Christianity today is our failure to properly communicate our Faith. The world’s idea of Christianity is a “Fanatic” with a closet full of hidden sins or a “Liberal” who spouts mushy mushy love and tolerates everything in the world. Christianity rises or falls on Communication (Rom 10:17) and we must learn to be more effective in WHAT and HOW we communicate.
One of the most effective means of communication is first person testimonial- You tell someone what actually happened to you. Let’s look at some guidelines in giving your Testimony about your relation-ship with Christ and then allow you to practice what you’ve learned.
I. THE REQUIREMENT OF TESTIMONY:
MATT 10:32-33 Whosoever there shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. Mark 8:38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.
II. THE RULES OF TESTIMONY Ps 107:2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, who he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;
A) WHAT should you testify about? Testify of your:
FOUNDATION- When, where, why, and How you were saved.
FRUIT- Things God has done IN and WITH You since being saved
FAITH- In God’s PLANS for this life and PROMISES for the next.
B) WHEN should you Testify? I Pet 3:17 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: / Ps 119:46 I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed.
C) HOW should you Testify?
1. Make it interesting- It’s a contradiction to talk about how exciting Christ is in an uninteresting way. If you don’t care to tell it then they won’t care to hear it!!
2. Make it understandable-
a. Use Language that the Lost can understand
b. Use Logic that allows them to follow what you’re saying: A) Before I accepted Christ I was lonely, felt unloved, had no peace about his life, and feared death. B) The change came in my life when I trusted Christ by Faith. C) Here are a few of the changes that have taken place in my life as a result of being Born Again.
3. Make it as specific as you can- Use the date if you know it, Name the place, describe the circumstances, etc.
4. Make it as Realistic as Possible- Don’t promise that Salvation will solve all your problems, or cure all your aches. Let them know that you have taken up your Cross to follow Christ and it’s no picnic; but the Holy Spirit lives within and you have a power and a purpose you never had before.
5. Don’t get bogged down in Religious Questions- Cain’s Wife, Revelation, etc.
6. Show your Concern, your love, and your genuine desire that this person accept the Pardon and Peace found in Christ. Don’t be a Sales-man; be a Sharer. Don’t be a “Better than thou”; be a Burdened Heart.
7. Look for opportunities to share your testimony on a regular basis.
I Thess 1:8 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.

Matt 11:19 ACCUSATIONS AGAINST JESUS

1) He associates with the wrong crowd: The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children (Matthew 11:19).
2) He does not following our Fasting Guidelines: And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to fast: and they come and say unto him, Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not? (Mark 2:18).
3) He allows His followers to disregard our Laws: And it came to pass, that he went through the corn fields on the sabbath day; and his disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn. And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful? And he said unto them, Have ye never read what David did, when he had need, and was an hungred, he, and they that were with him? How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which is not lawful to eat but for the priests, and gave also to them which were with him? And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath (Mark 2:23-28).
4) He thinks helping People is more important than observing our Practices: And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that he entered into the synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered. And the scribes and Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on the sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against him. But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth. Then said Jesus unto them, I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? to save life, or to destroy it? And looking round about upon them all, he said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other (Luke 6:6-10).
5) He is not thinking correctly because He is influenced by Evil: And the multitude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread. And when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on him: for they said, He is beside himself. And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils. And he called them unto him, and said unto them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan? (Mark 3:20-23).

Matt 11:28-30 LEARNING WHAT JESUS SAID

HOME WORK FOR PRAYER MEETING AT GRACE FWB CHURCH ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 25, 1994
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light (Mat 11:28-30).
FIND 3 COMMANDS IN THESE VERSES
1.
2.
3.
FIND 2 PROMISES IN THESE VERSES
1.
2.
FIND 1 STATEMENT OF FACT IS THESE VERSES
1.
WHEN YOU STUDY SCRIPTURE THERE ARE 3 THINGS THAT HELP YOU UNDERSTAND WHAT IT REALLY SAYS. FIND THEM FOR THESE VERSES:
1. CONTEXT (Why is it found it this place?)
2. CONTENT (A one sentence statement about what the verses contain)
3. COMPLIMENTARY Verses (Other verses that shed light on these verses)
FINALLY, FROM THESE VERSES, MAKE A:
1. DECLARATION-
2. APPLICATION-
3. INSPIRATION-
4. ILLUSTRATION (Put the verse into a real life situation).

Matt 11:28-30 YOKES

Yoke- a bond or method of joining two together. Emblem of submission, servitude, or bondage.
THERE ARE 2 MAIN YOKES THAT EVERY MAN MUST CHOSE BETWEEN (Satan will try to convince you that you can be “Free” and not chose which way you will go but in reality that is simply yoking to Satan) either the Yoke of Slavery to sin or the Yoke of Satisfaction in the Savior.
I. THE YOKE OF CHRIST: Matt 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my YOKE upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my YOKE is easy, and my burden is light. “Join with me and let us walk together. You will find the satisfaction your soul craves. You think you want to be “Free”. The only real freedom there is is when you walk with me.”
A) When to begin wearing this Yoke : Youth- Lam 3:26-27 It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord. It is good for a man that he bear the YOKE in his youth. The reason I let our young people do everything I can in Church.
B) Be careful of what else you Yoke up with: II Cor 6:14 Be not unequally YOKEd together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
Love- marriage, date (Wife and I celebrated our 17th year of being “Yoked” together Friday)
Labor- Business
LAW- Acts 15:10 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a YOKE upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the YOKE of bondage. Guidelines for testimony vs man’s opinion that becomes a law.
It is wrong to misuse the freedom you get after the Yoke is broken (Offer money to “Idols”, Worship “Pleasure” instead of God)- Jer 2:19-20 Thine own wickedness shall correct thee, and thy backslidings shall reprove thee: know therefore and see that it is an evil thing and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the Lord thy God, and that my fear is not in thee, saith the Lord God of hosts. For of old time I have broken thy YOKE, and burst thy bands; and thou saidst, I will not transgress; when upon every high hill and under ever green tree thou wanderest, playing the harlot.
C) Be a Breaker of YOKES- Is 58:6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every YOKE?
Set the captives free. The Reason Commitment to Christ breaks the yokes- Hosea 11:4 I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love: and I was to them as they that take off the YOKE on their jaws, and I laid meat unto them. He Loves us and wants to feed us.
II. The YOKE of SIN – Lev 26:13 I am the Lord your God, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, that ye should not be their bondmen; and I have broken the bands of your YOKE, and made you go upright.
Destroyed their children / Made them work as slaves
Becomes a yoke of Iron-Deut 28:47-48 Because thou servedst not the Lord thy God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart, for the abundance of all things; Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies which the Lord shall send against thee, in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in want of all things: and he shall put a YOKE of iron upon thy neck, until he have destroyed thee. Jeremiah’s sermon of the yoke of iron
Lam 1:13-14 From above hath he sent fire into my bones, and it prevaileth against them: he hath spread a net for my feet, he hath turned me back: he hath made me desolate and faint all the day. The YOKE of my transgressions is bound by his hand: they are wreathed, and come up upon my neck: he hath made my strength to fall, the Lord hath delivered me into their hands from whom I am not able to rise up.

Matt 13:- DADS AND DIRT

A man found a vacant lot full of trash and overgrown with weeds. With tremendous work and energy, he was able to clean it up, plow rows, and plant a fruitful garden. One day a preacher came by and commented, “My, what a garden God has raised”. Replied the man, “You should have seen it when God had it by himself!”
God has given you dads a vacant lot. It can be filled with trash and overgrown with weeds, or it can be a fruitful garden. You must realize that God needs YOUR help to make it become what it is supposed to be.
The parables in Matthew chapter thirteen give Dads some very valuable information about their resources and responsibility. Basically they deal with the seed that is planted and the dirt that receives the seed. Dads have the responsibility of planting the seed and cultivating the dirt.
1. THE FRUITFULNESS OF SEED- Matt 13:18-23 Don’t Expect every Child to respond to seed in the same way; nor to bear the same fruit [See NOTES below].
2. THE CORRUPTION OF SEED- Matt 13:24-30 Accept the fact that you can’t protect your children from all evil influences. Since you cannot ISOLATE them from evil influences you must INSOLATE them with Prayer and EDUCATE them with Bible Principles.
3. THE POWER OF SEED- Matt 13:31-32 A small seed can grow into a great tree. The “little things” you do now may be the most powerful in days to come. Your Example (Alcohol, abuse, etc) and your Attitude (Love, rejection, etc) will have a tremendous impact in days to come. The Psalmist said that Children were like Arrows- They must be guided because they have a Potential for harm as well as good. Parents need to aim them toward the correct target.
NOTES:
THE SEED IS THE WORD OF GOD: The Principles of God’s Word are the only reliable guidelines for you to follow. Deu 6:6-7.
THE DIRT accepts these Principles differently:
(1) Some Principles will be ignored- Fowls of air devour. Failure to stress, live, or clarify principles– Work ethic but no job. Importance of seeking God’s direction but never show in own life.
(2) Some Principles will be destroyed- Heat of sun destroys. Failure to put down deep roots- establish principles that will stand storms: Faith in God’s Justice in spite of present Politics. Hope for Divine Provision because serving God.
(3) Some Principles will be choked- thorns choked fruit.
A) Peer pressure- if not accepted at home then will seek people who will accept them.
B) Profit pressure- Dad’s find it easier to buy toys than build boys
C) Pleasure Pressure- Fun more important than faith (Children rule)
(4) Some Principles are fruitful-
Scatter lots of seed.
Realize all will not be equally fruitful- different children
Dad Principles:
1) Dads need to be Christians. ARE YOU SAVED??
2) Dads need to learn Bible Principles- Active in Church, Bible Study
3) Dads need to commit to God: Their Life, Their Children. Have YOU??

Matt 13:- RECEIVE AND PRACTICE

We Receive the Word then we must Practice the Word (Matt 13:-). Jesus listed 4 types of Heart that receives the Word:
1) Hard Heart- No understanding so No Receive the Word
2) Shallow Heart- No Root. Delight in hearing the word but No Depth to Retain the Word
3) Crowded Heart- No Commitment to Word so allow other things to crowd out the Word
4) Fruitful Heart- Rooted in the Word, Regular in the Word, and Fruitful in the Word
The Fruit of a heart that Practices the Word:
1) Winning Souls: Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles (Romans 1:13). The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise (Proverbs 11:30).
2) Growing in Holy Living: But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life (Romans 6:22).
3) Sharing our Material Possessions: When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain (Romans 15:28).
4) Spiritual Character: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23).
5) Good Works: That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; (Colossians 1:10).
6) Praising the Lord: 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 (Hebrews 13:15).
7) Righteous Living: Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby (Hebrews 12:11).
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen (Hebrews 13:20-21).

Matt 13:34 PARABLES PRINCIPLES

Webster [Gr. para-, beside + ballein, to throw] a short, simple story teaching a moral or religious lesson. Roget (a moral tale, a similitude, a comparison, a figure of speech.) Pictorial Bible Dictionary (to throw or cast beside, thus, “a comparison of two objects for the purpose of teaching.”)
Even though the word “Parable” is found 15 times in the O.T., it is primarily thought of as a New Testament word. It is found 48 times in the first 3 Gospels and Twice in Hebrews (9:9 and 11:19) [It is also found in John 10:6 but it should be translated “Proverb” there]. Thus a Proverb “Parable” was a method of teaching primarily used by the Lord.
A parable is different from a fable in that it does not deal with the mythical, but follows the natural order of things since it deals with spiritual matters. Christ is the only one in the N.T. who used parables. At one time in His ministry it was His only method in speaking to the masses (Mt.13:34). When His disciples asked Him why He began teaching this way, He noted to them that it was an effective method of revealing truth to the spiritual and ready mind and at the same time of concealing it from others (Mt.13:11)- the same sun that melt snow harden concrete!. Christ came as Israel’s King and only after they had rejected Him did He employ this form of imparting spiritual truth. Those who had rejected Him were not to know the “mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.”
Parables are classified into three categories:
I. Didactic (teaching) Parables
II. Evangelistic Parables
III. Prophetic and Judicial Parables
In spite of all this information, probably the most recognized definition of a parable is still the one that the children learn in Sunday School, “A parable is a heavenly story with an earthly meaning.”
1. Study each parable in its Context- Each is used to illustrate a point in a particular setting.
2. Look for the MAIN POINT the Parable teaches.
3. Don’t make a Point out of EVERY DETAIL- Some are simply to help you understand the story.
4. The parables Illustrate Doctrine more than they declare it- Many parable seem to teach salvation by works if you use them to build doctrine; this contradict the rest of the Bible
5. Jesus explained the Parables to His Disciples- Ask Him to explain them to YOU.
LEARN THE TRUTH OF THE PARABLE
LIVE THE TRUTH OF THE PARABLE
SHARE THE TRUTH OF THE PARABLE
Some Parable to Ponder
Luke 14:7-11 Place of Honor
Luke 14:15-24 Great Banquet
Luke 14:25-33 Cost of Discipleship
Luke 18:1-8 Persistent Widow
Luke 18:9-14 Pharisee and Tax Collector

Matt 13:44-50 FINDING GOD’S BEST

NOTES we need to note:
1. As we saw last week, The LITERAL MEANING of these parables is a description of God’s dealings with His “Hidden Treasure”, Israel; His Pearl of great price, the Church, and the Net of Fish, the Gentile Nations. Today I want to look at some SYMBOLIC lessons we can learn from these parables.
2. Don’t try to make every detail in a parable mean something- How do you explain the morality of finding a treasure in a field, purchasing it, and then claiming the treasure as your own.
Sometimes we Find God:
1) BY ACCIDENT– Treasure in Field
A) Look for God everywhere- While walking this man found a treasure- God walked with Adam in the cool of the evening. Enoch walked with God and did not suffer death. Is it your goal to walk daily with God?? God shows Himself in Nature but we’re too busy watching TV. God reveals Himself in a child’s smile, in a stranger’s kindness, and in daily mercies (The Deer that slipped on the road just before he would have crashed into our car).
B) Seize the Moment- Shakespeare “There is a tide in the affairs of men, which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; omitted, all the voyages of their life is bound in shallows and in miseries”.
When you find a Treasure don’t let it get away from you- That’s why I write note on napkins and sales receipts. That’s why I try to be so completely attuned to God’s voice and directions and instantly obey His promptings. [Living on impulses will get you into trouble. Living attuned to God so that when He shows you a treasure you will seize the moment is part of the Abundant Life!].
2) BY SEARCHING– Pearl
A) Don’t be Afraid to look- Fear not to probe the depths of Christianity- Plato said “The unexamined life is a life not worth living”. God can stand up to the most careful examination. Don’t let your Doubts lead you to doubt but, on the other hand, don’t try to hide your doubts as if somehow God comes up short in that situation. A man once told a great thinker, “I skirted the howling deserts of infidelity”. The thinker replied, “You would have done much better to have struggled through them and come out on the other side.”
B) Realize the Sacrifice required when you find what you are looking for- Sell all to gain this one pearl.
1> May have to give up Material Things- Rich young ruler. FW Charrington inherited the family brewing business with all its wealth. But when he saw the results of his business he sold it and got into other work.
2> He may have to give up Comfort- If Olympic athletes and movie stars sacrifice food, sleep, and daily activities in order to accomplish their goal; how much more should we as Christians give up anything for God.
3> He may have to give up Family ties- Let the dead bury the dead, come follow me. Jesus told his disciples they would lose their family to gain 100 families; and that is exactly the way it works.
3) BY WORKING– Net
A) Working produces Faith- 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). When we do the work God has told us to do we find God’s presence and power as evidence that we are walking with God.
B) Working produces Fruit- Had to get in the boat and go into the sea; but caught a net full of fish. There must be sowing if there is to be reaping. Few people find God staring at a wall. Many find Him in the process of doing the task He has assigned.
C) Working produces Decisions- Some fish are saved and some are thrown back. Walking with God enables us to recognize “Green” Fruit and Smelly Fish (For instance, I can’t remember a person who came to our church and joined it immediately who remained faithful. I am more and more convinced that people should be required to attend Church for at least a month before they join).
The over riding principle in all of these three parables is that we Must give up the GOOD in order to gain the BEST. Are you looking for God, Searching for God, and Working for God?? It takes effort but the reward is worth more than anything in the world.

Matt 13:45-46 PRECIOUS PEARLS

Throughout history, the pearl has been one of the most highly prized and sought-after gems.
Real Pearls:
1) Are created from a Life: Unlike other Jewels, Pearls come from a living organism (Oysters) instead of a pressure process. Unlike gemstones or precious metals that must be mined from the earth, pearls are grown by live oysters far below the surface of the sea. Gemstones must be cut and polished to bring out their beauty. But pearls need no such treatment to reveal their shimmering iridescence, luster, and soft inner glow.
2) Are developed by Pain (Irritation in the Oyster) (Cross). A natural pearl begins its life as a foreign object that lodges itself in an oyster’s soft inner body where it cannot be expelled. To ease this irritant, the oyster’s body takes defensive action. The oyster begins to secrete a smooth, hard crystalline substance around the irritant in order to protect itself. This substance is called “nacre.” As long as the irritant remains within its body, the oyster will continue to secrete nacre around it, layer upon layer. Over time, the irritant will be completely encased by the silky crystalline coatings
The nacre is not just a soothing substance. It is composed of microscopic crystals of calcium carbonate, aligned perfectly with one another, so that light passing along the axis of one crystal is reflected and refracted by another to produce a rainbow of light and color.
3) Need a Shell for protection (Church). The Pearl must remain encased within the closed oyster shells in order to continue to develop.
4) Their Value make them worth abandoning all you have to obtain: Matt 13:45-46 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. In 1916, famed French jeweler Jacques Cartier bought his landmark store on New York’s famous Fifth Avenue by trading two pearl necklaces for the valuable property.
5) Can be used incorrectly: 1Ti 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array. Cleopatra reportedly dropped a single pearl in a glass of wine and drank it, simply to win a wager with Mark Antony that she could consume the wealth of an entire nation in just one meal.
6) Pearls (Developed by a painful process of a Living Organism!) are used as the “Gate” to the New Jerusalem: Re 21:21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
7) Need to be Guarded and Cherished: Mt 7:6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. During the European expansion into the New World, the discovery of pearls in Central American waters added to the wealth of Europe. Unfortunately, greed and lust for the sea-grown gems resulted in the depletion of virtually all the American pearl oyster populations by the 17th century.
Do NOT:
A) Give Holy to “Dogs”
B) Cast Precious Pearls before Swine:
1> Trample under their feet
2> Turn on you and Harm YOU (Since Swine want Garbage for food instead of Pearls).

Matt 13:54-58 CONCERNING CAPERNAUM

Jesus moved from his hometown of Nazareth to the nearby town of Capernaum when he began his ministry (about 20 miles- same distance from Crow Corner to Lake City). There are a number of reasons for this; and in understanding these reasons we can begin to see WHY God allows certain things in our own life.
What was there Concerning Capernaum that brought Jesus There?
IT’S PHYSICAL LOCATION: Nazareth was off the beaten path while Capernaum was a cross-roads town of commerce on the Lake (!). It was the home town of Andrew and Peter and James and John (And we know that Jesus and the disciples stayed at Peter’s home at least some of the time- healed Peter’s mother in law). It was where He Paid His Taxes (With the help of a fish!) and where Jesus went to Church (John 6:59).
God is very Practical in many of His decisions- If I was Pastor at my Home Church we could not have a radio ministry and I would not have the contacts to have started the Newspaper ministry.
IT’S REMOVAL FROM FAMILIARITY: The People in Nazareth would not ACCEPT Jesus or BELIEVE His Ministry because they “knew” Him. And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief (Mat 13:54-58).
This caused Capernaum to be a SOURCE OF JEALOUSY to Nazareth- And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country (Luke 4:23).
Have you ever noticed how people on a bank fishing throw their lines as far out as possible while people in boats come as close to shore as possible- we always overlook the obvious.
LIVING THERE FULFILLED PROPHECY– And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, (Mat 4:13-14). God has a Place for you to serve and if you don’t then many people will suffer (Most of the ministries in our church function because God brought People in to do the jobs that needed doing).
IT PROVIDED A PLACE TO LOOK FOR JESUS– When the people therefore saw that Jesus was not there, neither his disciples, they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus (John 6:24). When people stop “playing the game” of religion; I want them to know they can find the Lord here in the “city by the Lake”.
Possibly the saddest thing about Capernaum, however, was its MISSED OPPORTUNITY– And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day (Mat 11:23). The Lord lived there, taught there, performed miracles there; and yet the people refused to repent. Doesn’t that sound like our “Lake City”. May God help us to realize the opportunities and obligations He has given us.

Matt 13:54 58 NO MIGHTY WORKS

(Matthew 13:54 58) And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
Conrad Hilton died with a $200 million dollar estate but he had made no preparation and $199 million dollars went to various taxes and fees. Andy Warhol died with a $200 million dollar estate but he had made preparations and only paid $2 million in taxes.
It takes $400.000 in savings to get $20,000 per year in interest. Plan for retirement now.
5 Brothers: The five brothers of the rich man needed a witness. Goliath was one of five brothers fighting against God’s work. Jesus was one of five brothers and, even though they were with him they did not believe until His death. Familiar but not faithful.
No Mighty Works. Because of Unbelief.
Limited God- (Psalms 78:41) Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel.
Limited their benefits- No mighty works
Your people must believe in your leadership and trust your vision if you are to lead them to mighty works.

Matt 13:55 THE CARPENTER’S SON

Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? (Matthew 13:55).
Have you ever wondered why Jesus was trained as a carpenter instead of a shepherd? We think of Jesus as the “Good Shepherd” watching over His flock so why was He raised by a carpenter instead of a Sheep Farmer?
Let’s look at this subject and see some Great things about our Great God.
1) God has a Place for everyone. God chose Joseph and Mary to raise Jesus so He wanted Jesus to learn how to be a carpenter. God has a Plan for YOU.
2) Lessons a Carpenter Learns:
a. Building requires a Goal (Plan). You do not begin building without knowing what you want.
b. Building needs a good Foundation- Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it (Matthew 7:24-27).
c. Building requires Material- Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is (1 Cor 3:12-13).
d. Building requires Tools and the skill to use them- And he hath put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart, to work all manner of work, of the engraver, and of the cunning workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of them that do any work, and of those that devise cunning work (Exodus 35:34-35).
e. Building requires Accurate Measuring- Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). Measure twice, cut once
3) A Carpenter learns that what he does will be inspected- Jesus loved to tell the story of a master giving talents [5, 2, 1] to his servants and then coming back to see what they had done with what they had been given (Matt 25). The one who hid his talent did not throw away or squander his talent; he simply failed to do anything with it. When God ask you what you have built with what He has given you; what will you say?

Matt 14:22-33 TYPES OF FAITH

The Just shall live by his faith (Rom 1:17) and without faith it is impossible to please God (Heb 11:6). You cannot be a Christian without Faith (I don’t think you can even live without some type of Faith- even if it’s nothing else but in the sun rise!) but we need to realize that there are different types of Faith. We need to understand what they are, which types we have, and which types we need to have.
I. SAVING FAITH– Acts 16:30-31 Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. Rom 10:8-9 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. [Realize you’re lost and doomed. Recognize your inability to save yourself. Receive Christ as your Savior.] HAVE YOU EXERCISED FAITH IN CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR??
II. LITTLE FAITH– Matt 14:31 “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” Peter started by faith and did the impossible (walk on water). Then he saw the storm (Circumstances) and doubted- producing fear; which caused failure. In his distress he called on the Lord and received the help he needed.
His Faith was little and he allowed himself to lose even that but even Little Faith can accomplish much if it’s used (Note this: Peter started and failed; the other disciples didn’t get out of the boat!!!) – Matt 17:20-21 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.
Many times we must start with the Faith we have and allow it to develop as we work for the Lord. DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH FAITH TO START???
III. LIMITED FAITH– John 11:23-24 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. Martha believed that Lazarus would be resurrected but her faith was limited. She did not believe that he could or would be resurrected NOW. Her faith was in the Future. She believed in the DOCTRINE of resurrection but not the DEMONSTRATION. James 2:19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
Many people believe that God delivered men in the Bible but they won’t trust Him for Their situation in this life. I sometimes call this “Head Faith” as opposed to “Heart Faith”.
The Sad fact about Limited Faith is that It can Limit God!! (Ps. 78:41). God can’t do what He wants to do and needs to do because our Faith hinders His work (Matt 13:58). DO YOU SIMPLY KNOW ABOUT FAITH? OR DO YOU EXERCISE FAITH????
IV. LIVING FAITH– Heb 11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
A) Living Faith accepts God at His word (Faith is produced by the Word of God Rom 10:17). When God says something it is acted upon without reservations or reasoning. You don’t discover God’s will to Decide if you will do it; you determine God’s will and then act.
B) Living Faith produces works- James 2:17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. There is the proper “mixture” of Faith and Works- Heb 4:2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. James 2:22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
C) Living Faith Pleases God- “God testifying of his gifts”. This is the kind of Faith God is looking to produce in your life (For by [Faith] the elders obtained a good report. Heb 11:2).
V. VICTORIOUS FAITH- I John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
A) Faith is our Defense against Satan’s attacks- Eph 6:16 The Shield of Faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
B) Faith is our means of victory in all of life’s circumstances- Heb 11:33-34 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS:
1. Do you have Faith in “Faith” or Faith in God??
2. Are you willing to use the Faith you have??
3. Are you hindering God’s Work and Will by not exercising your Faith??
4. Does your Faith move you to action?
5. Do you realize the Power and Privileges available to you thru Faith?

Matt 15:18-19 WHAT IS IN YOUR HEART?

I realize it is Christmas time but since I do not know what your Pastor had been preaching about I decided to share one of the most important truths I have learned in my 50 years of ministry (saved on March 19, 1962). I have been blessed in my latter years to be help to help several young men in their ministry- both of them are averaging over 300 in attendance each Sunday and both have won large numbers of people to the Lord this year. The basic formula we use is Desire to Grow, Determine to Grow, Do what it takes to Grow (Change your view of the Church, Change God’s view of the Church, Change the community’s view of the Church).
Churches fail to reach their potential for God because of
• Internal politics and power struggles
• Impure living by the leaders and/or the laity
• Apathy of the leaders and/or the laity
Jesus said that what was in a man’s heart is what comes out of the man’s mouth and mind: But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: (Matthew 15:18-19). So my question to you today is “What is in your heart?” [Preaching that produces results must “prick the people to their heart” (Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Acts 2:37].
• The Word of God in your heart will keep you clean: Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee (Psalms 119:11). A biblical conviction without Christ like character makes you a Pharisee- Believing right must be coupled with acting right.
• A Vision from God in your heart will motivate you to work for God: And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me; neither told I any man what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem: neither was there any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon (Nehemiah 2:12). Paul mainly used three types of people to illustrate Christian Disciples- Soldiers (Courage to obey orders), Athletes (Desire to work toward and obtain goals), and Farmers (Faith to plant and willingness to work while waiting on a harvest).
• Wickedness in your heart will break fellowship with God: If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: (Psalms 66:18). Your life is like a pond of water reflecting the sun to others. When you stir the mud from the bottom the water stops reflecting the sun and shows dirty water. What are you reflecting to your family and the world around you?
Discipleship is a decision to allow God to live His life through you. Half-hearted Christianity is worst that no Christianity- I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth (Revelation 3:15-16). Is your heart right with God today?
Attitude makes a difference in the outcome-hating to lose may bring you success but loving to win lets you enjoy the victory!

Matt 15:32 FAINTING

We’re living in a day when Churches are failing and Christians are struggling (Christians seem to be faint and weak instead of Conquering and Continuing). Let’s determine the problem and correct it.
I. THE CAUSES OF FAINTING:
A) Trouble- Prov 24:10 If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small (Do you joy in tribulation or tremble at trials??)
B) Sin Clogged Arteries- Is 1:4 5 Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward; Why should ye be stricken any more? Ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint (The “Cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lust of other things” enter in and slowly choke you until you are unable to work for “fainting”).
C) Lack of Nourishment- Matt 15:32 I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way (How much Spiritual Nourishment have YOU had today? No wonder you feel faint!!)
D) Absence from God’s House- Ps 84:2 My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God (Evidently some people have “fainted” in the “wilderness of the world” and need someone to bring them back to God’s House where they can be revived!)
E) Lack of Assurance of Salvation- Ps 119:81 My soul fainteth for thy salvation: but I hope in thy word (You faint without Faith. If you’ve never trusted Christ you haven’t fainted- you’re dead!! If you have accepted Christ by Faith then you must live by Faith.)
II. THE RESULTS OF FAINTING:
A) Loss of Blessings- Esau sold his birthright because he was “faint” (Gen 25:29 34). Present Problems overcame Future Promises and his “dizziness” brought disaster. The children of Israel had the same problem; they were at the door of the Promised Land but their Faith was Faint and they died in the desert.
B) Failure to Harvest Fruit- Gal 6:9 Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. We don’t have Patience and Perseverance and others are lost as a result (Ever notice how one person Fainting affects everyone in the room?? It applies in Churches also!!!)
III. WAYS TO AVOID FAINTING:
A) Believe God- Ps 27:13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the Living (Renewal of Faith in God is like a cup of cold water to a fainting soul)
B) Remember God- Jonah 2:7 When my soul fainted within me, I remembered the Lord (When all seemed lost, God wasn’t!!!)
C) Pray- Ps 107:5 6 Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses. Lu 18:1 Men ought always to pray and not to faint.
D) Realize how important the Job is- II Cor 4:1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not (The Position and the Pay won’t keep me going but the plight of lost souls won’t let me stop!!).
E) Wait on the Lord- Is 40:28 31
1. God does not faint (vs 28) Rest in that.
2. God gives power to those that faint (29) Depend on that.
3. Even Youth faint (30) Remember that.
4. They that wait on the Lord renew strength (31) Do That!!!
When a person is about to faint you tell them to:
1. Sit or lie down- Almost all the ways to avoid fainting involve sitting and calmly seeing what God has done, what He is doing, and what He Can do.
2. Put your head between your knees- Take your eyes off circumstances and pray in faith.
If you feel “Faint”: Rest in the Lord, Remember your commission, and Renew your Commitment. DON’T QUIT!! DON’T QUIT!! DON’T QUIT!!

Matt 17:14-21 FOOT OF THE MOUNTAIN

Several times in Scripture we are told about situations where God was doing a great work on the Mountain top while the people at the foot of the mountain missed seeing God at work-
1) When Abraham went to offer Isaac as a sacrifice:- And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him. Then on the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the place afar off. And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you (Gen. 22:3-5).
2) When Moses was getting the Ten Commandments (Exodus 32:15-24). And Moses turned, and went down from the mount, and the two tables of the testimony were in his hand: the tables were written on both their sides; on the one side and on the other were they written. And the tables were the work of God, and the writing was the writing of God, graven upon the tables. And when Joshua heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he said unto Moses, There is a noise of war in the camp. And he said, It is not the voice of them that shout for mastery, neither is it the voice of them that cry for being overcome: but the noise of them that sing do I hear. And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw the calf, and the dancing: and Moses’ anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt it in the fire, and ground it to powder, and strawed it upon the water, and made the children of Israel drink of it. And Moses said unto Aaron, What did this people unto thee, that thou hast brought so great a sin upon them? And Aaron said, Let not the anger of my lord wax hot: thou knowest the people, that they are set on mischief. For they said unto me, Make us gods, which shall go before us: for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.
3) When Jesus was being Transfigured- And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him (Matthew 17:1-3).
And when they were come to the multitude (At the foot of the Mountain), there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:14-21).
How Christians get to “transfiguration mountain”:
– By a Renewed Mind- 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 12:2).
– By Allowing the Holy Spirit to Conform us to Christlikeness- But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord (2 Corinthians 3:18).
4) It was at the foot of Mount Calvary where the multitude mocked while Jesus died for sins- And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself (Luke 23:33-37).
I. Some had the glorious privilege of GOING UP the Mountain
A) Abraham saw God provide a sacrifice to save Isaac which was the symbol of coming Messiah
B) Moses and Joshua- met with God and received the Ten Commandments
C) Jesus, Peter, James, and John- where they met with God, Saw Jesus Transfigured (with Moses and Elisha), and heard God speak “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased”.
D) On Mount Calvary Jesus could declared, “It is Finished”!
Those on the Mountain had fellowship with God, saw the glory of God, communicated with God, and fulfilled the Plan of God.
This message, however, is not about your need of going UP the mountain (We should all realize that need). It is about how to deal with life is you are left at the FOOT of the Mountain.
II. Those who stayed at the foot of the Mountain.
A) Reason they stayed- God told them not to go up the mountain! Sometimes God puts us in “Foot of the Mountain” places in order for us to trust him.
B) Dangers in Staying at “Foot of Mountain”:
1) The servants of Abraham were Spectators but not participators. God did a miracle in provide a Ram for a sacrifice but they only heard about it. Easy for Church to become a “spectator sport”
2) The Children of Israel were Easily Defeated because Moses was gone 40 DAYS so they turned to Fleshly lust and built an Idol to replace God
3) The Disciples of Christ were defeated by Doubt and Demon Power because they thought BEING AROUND JESUS GAVE THEM THE POWER OF JESUS. Showing up at Church is not the same as Meeting with God at Church.
4) Calvary shows us that Foot of the Mountain people find it easy to Mock God’s Work and Disbelieve God’s Man.
Foot of the Mountain people see others receive blessing but obtain none for themselves, find it easy to lose Purity and Power, and, worst of all, lose Personal contact with God. It is not wrong to be at the foot of the Mountain (Cannot live on the Mountain Top). It is wrong to allow your time there to defeat you.
Are you at the foot of the mountain today in the valley of disgrace, the valley of doubt, or the valley of disobedience? Remember there is a valley of the shadow of Death coming- and after this the judgment!

Matt 17:20 ELEPHANT PRINCIPLES

And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you (Matthew 17:20).
Elephant is not found in Scripture except indirectly in the original Greek word (elephantinos) translated “of ivory” in Rev. 18:12, and in the Hebrew word (shenhabim, meaning “elephant’s tooth”) rendered “ivory” in 1 Kings 10:22 and 2 Chr. 9:21 (Easton Bible Dictionary) but some “Elephant Principles” can be good instructions for life.
When there is an awkward situation or circumstance in a gathering of people many people seek to avoid mentioning it but everyone knows about the “Elephant in the room”. Jesus called it “straining at a gnat, and swallowing a camel” (Matthew 23:24). Decorum must sometimes give way to discussion.
The question I often ask congregations is, “How do you eat an elephant?” The answer, of course, is “One bite at a time”. When Jesus decided to feed 5,000 people He had them divide into groups of fifty and one hundred. Then a little boy’s lunch fed them a group at a time until, amazingly, there was still food left over! Remember that the next time you have an “elephant of a problem”.
How do you describe an elephant? A favorite story in India is about five blind men coming upon an elephant and describing what they had encountered. The one touching his leg said he was like a tree. The one touching his trunk said he moved like a huge snake. The one touching his body said he was like a rock. Each man described according to his own perception.
How do you stop an elephant? Put a Mouse in his path! {Yes, elephants are afraid of mice but it certainly isn’t because they can crawl up their trunks. If a mouse did do that, their trunk is powerful enough to just blow the mice right out. It’s actually because they are a mammal. Most mammals have brains that are programmed to jump back or be startled by critters that scurry by in a hurry. Elephants, regardless of how big they are, are also startled by things that move by them fast, like mice. According to elephant behavior experts, they would be scared of anything moving around their feet regardless of its size}.

Matt 18:10-35 PRAYING FOR STRAYED SHEEP

I. THEIR PRECIOUSNESS 10-14 Jesus said it was not the will of the Father that even one sheep should perish. They are precious because:
A) Their angels always behold the face of the Father.
B) Christ came to save them.
C) Their return brings rejoicing.
II. THE PROBLEMS 15-17
Brothers out of harmony: The action taken (Going to him singly, then with 2 or 3, then before the Church) is to restore Harmony not to “hang” the offender.
One brother singing the wrong tune can cause the whole church to sound bad.
III. THE PROCLAMATION 18-20
A) The Authority of the Church- Bind or Loose in Heaven
B) The Agreement of the Church- Harmony in asking allows God to grant the request.
C) The Assembly of the Church- 2 or 3 gathered in (Harmony) in His name he is in the midst.
IV. THE PERSISTENT FORGIVENESS 21-22
Til 70 X 7
For we were forgiven much.
Are there any Strayed Sheep YOU should be seeking?? Becoming reconciled to?? Forgiving???

Matt 19:14 CHILDREN OF THE LORD

Matt 19:14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of Heaven. Children are a Blessing- Ps 127 Says they are the heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. We are concerned with Raising this Child right or allowing that child to become the Person God intended. Let’s look at some aspects of that work.
CHILDREN:
1) Their purity- Yet all our righteousness is as filthy rags (Even Andrew cuts a fit ever now and then).
Older man, who in the twilight of life, realizes his need of new birth. A brand new start- new birth new desires, new destiny.
2) Their Preciousness- not the will of God that any perish
Children of the Lord:
I. A Second Birth– Jn 1:12 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;
The need of- Must be Born again
The Mystery of- As the wind
II. A Separated Believer– 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.
The Separation- Ep 5:1 7 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to god for a sweetswelling savor. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, not unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be ye not therefore partakers with them.
The Reception- And I will receive you saith the Lord.
III. A Spiritual Beacon– Rom 8:16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.
The Guidance of the Spirit- Rom 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (Not guidance as the world knows it- Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.
The Goodness of the Spirit- Comforter
IV. A Son’s Blessings– Gal. 4:7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.
New Relationship
New Rewards.
Whose Child are you??

Matt 19:27-30 PENNY PEOPLE

The word “Penny” is found 9 times in the Bible (It is also used another time in the word “pennyworth” in Mark 6:37) but it is only used in three different incidents (Several Gospels have the same incident so “Penny” appears in the same incident in different Gospels). Each of these incidents show us some important principles.
I. Wage Workers- “What will we get out of this?” Matt 19:27-30, 20:1-16
A) vs 2 Bargain Saints- Give me the price I want
B) vs 3-4 Grace Saints- Depend on God’s Grace and Goodness
C) vs 6-9 Faith Saints- Desire to work but do not have a place to work
II. Tax Payers- “Give to Caesar that which belongs to Caesar” Luke 20:19-26
A) Satan will always try to misrepresent what you say- vs 21-23
B) Do not be afraid to use the world to challenge the world- vs 24
C) We have Human as well as Heavenly responsibilities – vs 25
III. Famine Merchants- “All you make to barely survive” Rev 6:6
A) The Black Horse of Famine at the Beginning of Tribulation vs 5
B) The Scales of God’s Judgment brings famine to those who refused the Bread of Life- vs 5
C) The poor do without while the rich dine with oil and wine vs 6

1) What do you expect to “Get out” of your relationship with Christ?
A) If Christianity is only about Heaven then it will change you little on Earth
B) If Christianity is only about Church then it will change you little on Monday
C) If Christianity is about Christ then it will make you a new Creature.
2) Do you know how to deal with those who oppose God’s way and work?
A) How can you think a loving God would throw someone into eternal fire just because they refused to obey Him?
B) Why are there so little results when Christians pray?
C) Would you prefer to have Christian neighbors or non Christian neighbors?
3) Who will we trust to meet our needs? The world or the Lord? Trust Christ, Obey Christ, Share Christ.
– Mark 12:42-44 The Widow’s two mites made about a Penny. God was pleased with her gift.
– Matt 17:27 When Peter needed to pay taxes for Jesus he was told to go fishing and found the money for the tax in the mouth of the fish. God can help you meet your normal obligations.
– Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father (Matthew 10:29) A farthing here is less than a half penny, yet God cared for them

Matt 20:1-16 WHY WORK IF EVERYONE GETS PAID THE SAME?

Chapter divisions confuse us- Note that Chapter 19 and Chapter 20 are one Discourse! But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first (Matthew 19:30). So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen (Matthew 20:16).
1> EVERYONE is saved the SAME– 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). 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).
2> EVERYONE who is saved goes to HEAVEN regardless of how long you have been saved- Dying Thief on Cross just like Paul who served God for years.
So why should we work hard if it everyone gets treated the same- Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? (Matthew 19:27).
A) Heaven is a big place and some will live closer to the throne than others- Matt 20:20-28 where honored positions were desired in Heaven.
B) Salvation is free but works are rewarded (Matt 19:28-29)- We are Saved by Faith but we are rewarded for “Work”: Rom 14:10‑12 For we shall all stand before the Judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, as I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
Some of the things we may be judged for are:
a. How we exercise authority over others
b. How we treat other believers
c. How we use our talents
d. How we suffered for Jesus
e. How effectively we control our old nature
f. How many soul we witness to
g. How we react to temptations
h. How much we read and live the Word of God
I. How faithful we are to Church
j. How much we live our lives in accordance with God’s Plan

Matt 20:1-16 LOOKING AT LABORERS

The Rich Young Ruler had just refused to serve the Lord because the cost was too high. Then Peter wanted to know his reward for service. Jesus told him he would receive 100% interest (Glory!) but then He warned him to:
1) Beware of making bargains with God. First workers (Israel) agreed to a price and received it. Other workers agreed to leave the payment up to the Master (Gentiles who serve God by Faith).
A) Be careful about making bargains with God about Vows- When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed (Ecclesiastes 5:4).
B) Be careful about making bargains with God about Sin– And Jephthah vowed a vow unto the LORD, and said, If thou shalt without fail deliver the children of Ammon into mine hands, Then it shall be, that whatsoever cometh forth of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the children of Ammon, shall surely be the LORD’S, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering (Judges 11:30-31).
EXAMPLE- Let me win the lottery so I can give my tithes to the church:
 would you ask God to bless you as you robbed a bank so you could tithe the money you stole.
 God does not need the Devil’s money in order to do His business- The Devil offered Jesus all the world if Jesus would just worship him.
 Would not accept tithes from a lottery win if we knew where it came from: If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience sake. But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof: (1 Corinthians 10:27-28)
2) Beware of Watching other workers. Looking at laborers instead of the Lord produces:
A) Comparison- 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)
B) Envy- The Prodigal’s Brother.
C) Complaining- Is thy eye evil because I am good? (Matt 20:15).
3) Beware of Overconfidence– They supposed they should have received more (vs 10).
A) It is the Motive that determines the value of the Ministry- 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 (1 Corinthians 4:5)
B) It is possible to accomplish God’s Work and not really do God’s will- Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity (Matthew 7:21-23)
Everyone got the same wages- Eternal Life is given to ALL who come by faith
How many days a week are you supposed to work? Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: (Exodus 20:9)
Because of Sin men must earn their living by the “Sweat” of their face- In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return (Genesis 3:19)
If any man will not work then do not let him “eat” – For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10)
What is the Work of God?- Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent (John 6:29).
Finally, Remember this: 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)

Matt 20:17-19 WALKING WITH DEATH

Jones Paraphrase- I will be given to the Gentiles so they can make fun of me, whip the skin off my back, and execute me by crucifixion; but on the third day I will return to life.
Death is a dilemma that all of us must deal with. I know that on a beautiful spring day when the birds are singing and the flowers are blooming the last thing you want to think about is death. Yet Death is an appointment we ALL must keep. It’s on my mind today because of my consideration of the Easter season.
Resurrection is a reality but in order for Jesus to conquer Death He had to taste death on the cross. And, as you can see from today’s scripture, He faced death with full appreciation for all its implications. How could he walk so confidently down life’s path knowing the cruelty that awaited Him at its end? How can we?
Most of us think of death in terms of its aftermath. An accident, a heart attack, or some surprise tragedy claims a loved one or friend and we must deal with the sorrow, the sadness, and the shock that follows. We cope somehow by using tears and memorials and the healing balm of time. And, eventually, we close that chapter in the book and go on with our life. It’s hard but there is really no other choice.
But what of those people who must stare death in the face day after day, week after week? What do you do when the doctor says Aids or Cancer or No Hope? How do you deal with Death when it becomes a constant companion that must be communicated with instead of avoided?
That was a dilemma that Jesus faced every day. He knew every moment of His ministry that He had an appointment with death. And He knew it would not be a quick painless encounter. The Death that awaited Him would be extremely painful, filled with rejection, and soaked in despair as even His father would forsake Him.
Three primary factors allowed Jesus to stare death down each morning and share His dreams with death each night.
First was His confidence in God’s Plan. He knew that His appointment with death was in the will of God and for the glory of God.
Second was His Love for mankind. He knew that man would never reach God unless God took man’s death penalty. He simply loved mankind enough to die in our place.
Finally, He could face death because He knew He could conquer death. He knew that beyond the cross was Easter morning. He knew that Death might win a victory but He would win the war.
When death knocks on your door; whether as a long time visitor or a short time acquaintance, the difference in your dying will be whether Christ is in your heart. Is He?
What will enable you to face Death?
1. Commitment– Jim Bonham, lawyer from SC left Alamo to appeal to Colonel Fannin for help. Had 150 men in Alamo surrounded by over 2000 men from Santa Anna’s Army. Returned to Die.
2. Assurance that you are capable of handling the Situation– Ps 23:4
3. Recognition of Rewards Awaiting you.- Missionary to Salvador Brazil 6 year old son with fever, reached out hand, “I’m reaching for Jesus’ hand”, Went into Coma- 2 days later died of bacterial meningitis.- Holding the Hand of Jesus!

Matt 20:29-34 CHANGING YOUR LIFE

One of the primary principles of Christianity is the change that takes place in your life when you accept Christ as Savior. Christians believe that the New Birth makes you a New Creature (II Cor 5:17).
One of the problems that plague Christians, however, is that the change is not as dramatic or as fast as we would like. Rather than make us into Robots, God normally has to change us thru growth. This means we fight, are sometimes defeated, but eventually learn how to use the Christian armor to defeat that area in our life.
Sometimes, however, the change is dramatic, instantaneous, and life changing; as in the case of these Blind men (Other examples include- Peter’s confrontation about going to the Gentiles {Acts 10}, Paul’s Conversion on Damascus Road {Acts 9}.
3 Principles stand out in each of these cases involving a Life Changing situation. God uses them to change YOU also:
1. DECLARE YOUR NEED
2. DEFINE YOUR PROBLEM
3. EXPECT LIFE CHANGING RESULTS
1. DECLARE YOUR NEED– God has to get your attention before you will act or seek help. Are you Desperate Yet??? Satisfied, comfortable people never seek change (That’s why the Laodicean church made God sick. It was rich, increased with good, and had need of nothing- including God!!) Are you willing to pray for God to do WHATEVER IT TAKES to change you??
2. DEFINE YOUR PROBLEM– Jesus would always ask people, “What do you want me to do for you?” You can’t get answers if you don’t know the questions!! Lord, give me a better wife- what does that mean?? Do you want her to cook more, or clean better, or consider your needs and wants more? If you don’t know the changes that need to be made then you’d better not make changes.
We learned Wednesday night that in Matt 20:
1- The workers in the Parable wanted Christ to Recognize their work
(Especially the fact that they had worked longer than others)
2- The mother of James and John wanted Christ to Recognize the unique relationship they had; and she wanted it done NOW!)
3- The Blind men wanted Jesus to Recognize their Need and do something about it.
What area in YOUR LIFE do you want Christ to Change- not just an area you would like to see different (We would all like to lose weight, be less shy or talkative or something) but an area that God has really brought to your attention that needs to be changed.
3. EXPECT LIFE CHANGING RESULTS– Faith causes things to change; are you ready for the results?? When the Blind see it means they must learn to live in a world in which they are now the helpers instead of the ones being helped. Not only will they see the beauty of a sunset, they will see the horrors of broken, diseased bodies.
This verse sums up the reason for such a Life Change- Psa 50:15.- The change is not to satisfy our desires but to Glorify God! Do YOU want that kind of change in your life today?

Matt 21:1‑19 THE KING REJECTED

Today is PALM SUNDAY. The day tradition says Christ entered triumphantly into Jerusalem and the multitude lined his way with their garments and Palm branches. They welcomed Him as a Hero because THEY THOUGHT HE WAS GOING TO CHANGE THINGS FOR THEM in this world (Set up a Kingdom) but less than a week later they cried, “Crucify Him” because He did not meet their expectations (My Kingdom is not of this world).
How fickle is the Human Heart! How easy to love God in the Sunshine and doubt him in the storm. How easy to misjudge God by the changing standards of this world instead of the eternal Standard (God Himself) (That’s why He told us to love not the world because it passes away).
Let’s take an overview of the events of this Passion Week and then look at the first 3 events and their Spiritual Significance.
I. SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS Called Christ the Prophet, Not King. Men admire Him today and Praise Him but aren’t willing to serve Him. Blind in trespasses and sins, men stumble and fall into the ditch. Many have felt the warmth of the Sun but never have seen the beauty of the Light and they fear the Light because the light will expose them.
ARE YOU WILLING TO CLAIM CHRIST AS SAVIOR? NOT AS PROPHET BUT YOUR SAVIOR?
II. INWARD CORRUPTION The temple had become a den of thieves instead of a house of Prayer. Jesus Cleansed it at the beginning of his ministry and at the end (The People’s hearts weren’t changed so they returned to the same sins). OUTWARD REFORM DOES NOT CHANGE INWARD CORRUPTION. RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY DOES NOT MEAN A RIGHTEOUS HEART
III. FRUITLESSNESS Fig trees cursed because it had leaves but no fruit. FRUITLESSNESS IS A RESULT OF LACK OF LOVE AND FAITH‑ NOT LACK OF ABILITY
3 years of labor‑ fruit is expected; bear or burn Jn 15
2 types of Fruit‑ Fruit of Christian= more Christians / Fruit of Spirit= Love, joy, peace,…
Why did you come to Church today? Because you love God and His work, or to show the world your “leaves”? Have you given Christ “Palm Branches” or your Heart??

Matt 21:- EXPECTATIONS

Why did Psalm Sunday’s Celebration turn into “Good Friday’s” Crucifixion? Jesus “socked it to the establishment” (Cast out money changers) and continued to Heal many (It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves. And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them Matthew 21:13-14) and then commended the words and wisdom of the children (When the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased, And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise? Matthew 21:15-16).
This Chapter gives us the Reasons they, and we, become “disappointed” with God. The Change came because Jesus did not come to meet our expectations; He came to address the needs of mankind.
EXPECTATION ONE: The people expected a Prophet / King to deliver them from the Romans; Jesus came to deliver them from the Devil and Hell. [And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, WHO IS THIS? And the multitude said, This is Jesus the PROPHET of Nazareth of Galilee (Matthew 21:10-11). But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude, because THEY TOOK HIM FOR A PROPHET (Matthew 21:46)]
EXPECTATION TWO: The Nation expected that BEING a Fig Tree, even without Fruit, was all that was expected [Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered. And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away (Matthew 21:18-19].
EXPECTATION THREE: Faith is only believing ABOUT; not believing FOR [And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away! Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive Matt 21:20-22].
Jesus then deals with the source of His authority by invoking John the Baptist (Matt 21:23-27)
EXPECTATION FOUR: The Father only Expects us to SAY we will but it does not matter if we Honor our Commitment to Him [What think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went. And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not. Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. Matt 21:28-31].
EXPECTATION FIVE: God blesses us to BECOME Masters; not to SERVE the Master [There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country: And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that they might receive the fruits of it. And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. Again, he sent other servants more than the first: and they did unto them likewise. But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son. But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance. And they caught him, and cast him out of the vineyard, and slew him. When the lord therefore of the vineyard cometh, what will he do unto those husbandmen? They say unto him, He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons Matthew 21:33-41].
What will come of YOUR Expectations? The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish (Proverbs 10:28)

Matt 21:- 22:1-14 PREACHER’S MAD SERMON

(Prov 27:5). I Love You. I also know that most of you want to be petted and praised right now. Sorry!! I haven’t preached a “mad” sermon in a long time and today is the day (I was VERY VERY good to you during the 9am service. You should have been here then if you wanted to be petted). The best thing you can do is sit still, listen hard, say “Amen” loud and regular, and repent of anything that applies to you.
Today is Palm Sunday; the day we celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. A number of special events and sermons are associated with that time and I want us to see some applications for today in several of them (I can’t do them all or we’d be here all day; and you’d better not tempt me!!).
I. THE DESIGNATED DONKEY– Matt 21:1-11 In the place, For the task God wants. Are you willing to do that? Are you bringing your children along as this donkey brought her colt??
II. THE TARNISHED TEMPLE– Matt 21:12-17 The place of prayer had turned into a place of Profit. Are you more interested in what you can get out of the Church than what you can give (Church policy; no selling). Are you willing to give up a Sunday afternoon to pray for lost loved ones and God’s Blessings on this Church??
III. THE FRUITLESS FIG TREE– Matt 21:18-22 Roots and branches but no fruit- (Mat 7:20). Do you fool people by your looks but never produce fruit for the Lord? Some of you put 50 times as much energy into working for the world as you do in working for the Lord.
IV. OBEYING VERSUS SAYING– Matt 21:23-32 Afraid to make a commitment about what you really believe (Man asked me this week if I really believed in Hell- YES! I told him). You make all kind of commitments to God in public but then fail to follow through. Jesus wants your walk to be as good as your talk.
V. THE PROPERTY PRIORITY– Matt 21:33-46 You live as if God is YOUR servant and you are the Master. We are brought with a price. We belong to God. His will in our life is the most important thing we can ever accomplish. Everything we do is for Him. God’s purpose in life is not to make us happy; our purpose in life is to work for God- (Rev 4:11).
VI. THE WEDDING WOES– Matt 22:1-14
A) Prepared Meal
B) Refused Invitation
C) Unprepared Guest.
Have you accepted God’s invitation to Salvation? Do you have on the garment of self effort (all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags before God) or do you have on the whole armor of God??

Matt 21:22 HOW TO GET SOMETHING TO REJOICE ABOUT

1. Ask for it– And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive (Mat 21:22). Ask , and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: (Mat 7:7). Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full (John 16:24)
If God would give you only 3 wishes; what would you ask for? In other words, what could God give you that would make you rejoice? You may be surprised, it may already be available.
2. Get close to God– Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance (Acts 2:28). 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).
3. Make God’s Word your Guide – These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full (John 15:11)

Matt 21:28-32 BELIEF BEHAVIOR

(Mat 21:28-32) But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. {29} He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went. {30} And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not. {31} Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. {32} For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him.
1) BASHFUL BELIEVERS- (John 19:38) And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus.
A) No Witness because of FEAR- Fear Failure, Fear Persecution
B) No Witness because of PRIDE- Ashamed by lack of Knowledge, Social standing
2) BUSY BELIEVERS- (Mark 4:18-19) And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, { 19} 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.
A) Cares of this world choke the word
B) Deceitfulness of riches choke the word
C) Lusts of other things (Coveting) choke the word
And, Horror of Horrors, It BECOMES UNFRUITFUL
3) BLIND BELIEVERS- (Rev 3: 15-18) I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. {16} So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. { 17} 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: {18} I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. Luke warm hearts blind us to the LOST, the LESS FORTUNATE, and the LORD
4) BELIEF ONLY BELIEVERS- (James 2: 14-17) What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? {15} If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, {16} And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? {17} Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
A) No Tithe, No Teacher, No Tender heart of Service
B) Have a form of Godliness but deny the power thereof- Christianity is a crutch to lean on instead of a life changing experience with God that changes your Character, your Conduct, and your Conversation.
5) BELIEVE NOT BELIEVERS- Believe means to TRUST in, to Rely on. It is not mental acceptance but eternity changing commitment. The fool has said in his heart, “No God”.
Will you tell God you will Believe Him and Serve Him and not do so or Will you say “Yes” to God today with your mouth AND YOUR LIFE??

Matt 22:1-14 WEDDING INVITATION

I. THOSE NOT WORTHY 1-8 Invited and did not come
A) The invitation
1. A JOYFUL Invitation: to a wedding Feast!
2. A FREE Invitation: all of “Grace”. Supplied by King.
3. A REPEATED Invitation: This was the second invitation- the first told them there would be a wedding; this one said it was ready. It was so difficult to imagine people turning down this Invitation until the King thought his servants must not have made themselves clear so he send other servants to deliver the message.
4. A REJECTED Invitation: They with one consent began to make excuse (Luke 14:18).
a. Their attitude- “made light of the invitation”
b. Their actions- ignored the invitation: “went their ways”. The things that make men deaf to the invitation of the Gospel are not necessarily wrong in themselves- Farming and merchandise. The problem is that men get so busy living until they miss LIFE! (The “Cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lust of other things enter in and choke the word”)
-”spitefully entreated the servants” and even killed some of them. Indifference turned to hostility!! (How often have I seen someone “strike out” at the Church or someone in it when they were invited to attend and find new life in Christ).
B) The Judgement– vs 7 brought the King’s anger upon them which destroyed them and burned their cities.
1. Brought upon themselves- They rejected the invitation (You send yourself to Hell!-Acts 13:46).
2. They didn’t realize that it was a “Banquet” or “Burning”. Man today thinks that rejecting God’s invitation doesn’t matter but…
II. THE GUEST 9-10 Invited and came
A) Sought by the Servants. How God loves you to send His servants into the highways and hedges to seek you.
B) “As many as you shall find”. Whosoever will may come. There is room at the cross for YOU.
Good and Bad: Not too good to need it; Not to bad to receive it
III. THE GARMENT 11-14 (Represents SALVATION. Is 61:10) NOTE- CAN ACCEPT THE INVITATION TO CHURCH AND NOT ACCEPT CHRIST!!!
A) Others may ignore the fact that you don’t have a garment but YOU’LL BE INSPECTED BY THE KING!!! (Do you meet God’s Requirements?)
B) The King will ask why you don’t have the Wedding Garment; after all, it was provided by the King (Wanted the feast without submitting to the King.)
C) Won’t be able to answer because you’ll know you were wrong.
1. Won’t be able to blame others- you were offered the garment.
2. Can’t say didn’t know- told at door, saw others
D) You’ll be cast into outer darkness to weep and gnash teeth as others enjoy the Feast with the question ringing in your ear, WHY DIDN’T I ACCEPT GOD’S FREE GIFT???
Most of you would be very insulted if you fixed dinner for me and then I said I wanted to stay home and watch the ball game instead of eat your meal. Yet people treat God that way every week.
In War time a man out of uniform would be shot as a spy. Do YOU have on the “Wedding Garment” today??

Matt 22:29 POWER PRINCIPLES

REASONS FOR ERRORS:
1. Don’t Know Scriptures or Power of God- Matthew 22:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God (P1446)
2. Unexplained Magic- (P1497) Acts 8:10 To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God.
RIGHT POWER PRINCIPLES:
1. The Gospel can Save anyone- Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 1 Corinthians 1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God (P1532)
2. Godly living shows God’s Power- (P1533) 1 Corinthians 2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
3. God’s Power can Keep- 1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
HOW TO HAVE STRENGTH
1. The WAY of the Lord- Prov 10:29 The way of the Lord is strength to the upright; but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.
A) Physical Strength from treating Body as temple of Holy Spirit
B) Spiritual Strength from right relationship with the Lord
C) Emotional Strength because as Peace with Self, Society, Saviour
2. WAIT on the Lord- Is 40:31 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.
A) Rest
B) Reflection
C) Renewal
All of which can be summed up in the words of Psalms 23:2-3 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
3. WALK for the Lord- Zech 10:12 And I will strengthen them in the Lord; and they shall walk up and down in his name, saith the Lord.
A) Produces Stamina as we exercise
B) Slows our hurried pace to God’s Patient Pace
4. ONENESS with the Lord- Phil 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
A) The SCOPE of our Strength- Do all things
B) The SOURCE of our Strength- Through Christ
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” Prov 18:21 In its Tone / its Words.
Power of Memorials- Inspire, Inform

Matt 22:37-38 FIRST PRIORITIES

In the early days of shipping the lighthouse was an extremely important safety feature. One lighthouse keeper was given a huge tank of oil in the fall that had to last him through the winter stormy season. One day a fisherman came by asking for some oil so he could take his boat out, catch fish, and support his family. The lighthouse keeper thought that he had plenty of oil so he gave the man enough for his boat. Later a woman came by asking for oil to heat her home and the lighthouse keeper gave her the oil she needed. Several incidents like this happened until the faithful night when the largest winter storm in years hit the coast and ships all along the coast were in desperate need of the direction from the lighthouse in order to reach a safe harbor. The fuel for the lighthouse ran out in the middle of the storm and ships and lives were lost. The lighthouse keeper had forgotten his FIRST PRIORITY.
GOD SHOULD HAVE FIRST PRIORITY:
1) IN YOUR HEART: 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 (Mat 22:37-38). Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also (Mat 23:26)
2) IN YOUR LIFE: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Mat 6:33).
3) IN YOUR WEEK: And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight (Acts 20:7). If your week is too busy to include time for God then you need to rethink your life plan.
4) IN YOUR HOME: Honor thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; (Eph 6:2) But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to show piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God (1 Tim 5:4). He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ (John 1:41)
5) IN YOUR ATTITUDE: And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all (Mark 9:35). Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye (Mat 7:5)
6) IN YOUR GIVING: The first of the firstfruits of thy land thou shalt bring into the house of the LORD thy God (Exo 23:19). – Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come (1 Cor 16:2) Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift (Mat 5:24).
7) IN YOU PRIORITIES: And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come (Matthew 22:3).
Four questions each person needs to ask:
1) Is my heart right with God?
2) Am I where God wants me to be? What is God getting out of this relationship?
3) What does God want me to do that I am not doing?
4) Will God approve my Life when I face Him? Your Last Breath will make God your First Priority!

Matt 24:13 Enduring

We have entered a time when the “drop out” rate among Church people is staggering. People need to again see the importance of staying faithful to God and His work.
I. WHAT IT MEANS TO ENDURE
A) To Stay Under– Matt 24:13 He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. The idea is to remain faithful even though Pressures and Problems remain and increase. Mk 4:16-17 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; and have no root in themselves, but so endure for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended.
B) To Hold up against– II Thess 1:4-5 So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer.
C) To maintain Faith– Heb 11:27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the King; for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Strong enough to Forsake Sin, not to Fear the King, and to live by Faith. Heb 6:15 And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.
II. WHY SHOULD WE ENDURE????
A) For our own salvation’s sake– Mark 13:13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Don’t allow Persecutions and Problems to make you an Apostate.
B) For other’s Salvation’s sake– II Tim 2:10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sake, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. II Tim 4:5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. Jesus DIED to get Salvation to men. I should be able to endure persecution in order to share it!
C) To Build our Character– II Tim 2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Heb 12:7 If ye endure Chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? (vs 10 says He chastens us for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.
D) To Encourage other Christians– James 5:10-11 Take, my brethern, the prophets who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.
E) For Conscience’s Sake– I Pet 2:19 For this is thanksworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. May the Lord deliver us from “Jelly-fish” Christians who aren’t willing to stand for anything that involves suffering.
F) For the JOY to come– Heb 12:2 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. James 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
III. HOW CAN WE ENDURE??
A) Pace Yourself– Jacob found that in a journey you must Pace yourself. Gen 33:14 Let my Lord, I pray thee, pass over before thy servant: and I will lead on softly, according as the cattle that goeth before me and the children be able to endure, until I come unto my lord unto Seir. You renew Strength as you Wait on the Lord. You don’t want the Father to take you out of the oven while you are “half-baked”.
B) Seek Help from Others– In Ex 18 Moses’ father-in-law told Moses he would not be able to endure unless he obtained help. Seek support from Family, Friends, and Fellow Christians (They can help with Concern, advice, and Prayer support.)
C) Remember who’s in control– Ps 30:5 Weeping may endure for a night, but Joy cometh in the morning. God has not forsaken or forgotten you and He will never allow the circumstances to be greater than the strength He supplies.
D) Hold to God’s Love for you and your love for Him– I Cor 13:7 Love endureth all things.
May God grant us some people who will STICK TO IT when the going gets rough, who will HANG ON when the storms of life hit us, and who will never, never, never, never, never, never QUIT.

Matt 24:9-13 THE COOLING IMPACT OF INIQUITY

When Jesus described the End Time times He made an astonishing statement about the impact of Increased Iniquity. Persecution and Problems were hard but increasingly available and accepted Pleasures were the “death of devotion” in some: Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved (Matthew 24:9-13)..
There are numerous examples of this in days gone by:
I. Some began to love the PRAISES OF MEN more than Service for God:
A) God chose SAUL to be the first King of Israel but Saul disobeyed God because of what the people might say (And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice 1 Samuel 15:24) and died on a battlefield as a disappointed and disgraced man.
B) 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).
II. Some began to love the PLEASURES OF LIFE more than God:
A) SOLOMON started out with a desire to serve God and God made him the wisest man of his era but as he grew older his wives turned him away from God and God withdrew His support and divided his kingdom (Wherefore the LORD said unto Solomon, Forasmuch as this is done of thee, and thou hast not kept my covenant and my statutes, which I have commanded thee, I will surely rend the kingdom from thee, and will give it to thy servant 1 Kings 11:11).
B) LOT chose the friendship of the world above fellowship with God and lost his family and possessions in the destruction of Sodom; and the last we hear of him is when he is committing incest in a cave!
III. Some yielded to the PASSIONS OF THE BODY and missed God’s best:
A) SAMSON was the strongest man in the world but he could not control his passions and ended up tamed by a woman’s trickery, blinded and chained by his enemies, and dying as a public spectacle.
B) DAVID was tremendously blessed of God but he yielded to adultery and murder and only after the death of his child did he cry, Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit (Psalms 51:12).
God does not want to use unclean vessels- would you want your home made lemonade put into a filthy, unwashed glass? God is a Holy God. The Spirit is the Holy Spirit.
If you have lost your zeal and love for God and are experiencing grief instead of gladness then you need to take a bath in the blood and allow the Pardon and Peace of God to anoint you with the “Oil of Gladness”. And never forget that “In His Presence is FULLNESS OF JOY” (Psalm 16:11).

Matt 25:14-30 THE PROFIT PRINCIPLE

This parable is almost self-explanatory if you look at it closely. I think the information is something that every person should be aware of. Jesus is talking about the coming Kingdom but the principles he lays down are vital for Christians also.
NOTE- we must distinguish between what God has done FOR us and what WE do for God. It is best illustrated in Ep 2:8-10 For. Salvation is of God. Services is expected. Judgment is sure.
I. THE PLAN PRESENTED vs 14-18
A) The Master- travels into a far country: The Just shall live by Faith. He is going to be out of sight for an unknown time.
B) The Servant- Called His OWN. This message is for Christians.
C) The Task- Delivered unto them is goods- We are stewards of the resources of God. God left them for our benefit and His Glory. Every man has: 1. Time 2. Tithe 3. Testimony 4. Temple (Body)
D) The Distribution- To every man according to his several (individual) ability (5,2,1). Different people have different abilities and they are expected to operate within their sphere of ability (Cp to the Body principle in the Church-Pastor, Deacons, Trustees, Teachers, etc.).
A Talent is a measure of Weight- God does not give you more than you can handle or less than you need to do what you’re supposed to do.
II. THE PROFIT REQUIRED 19-30
A) After a Long Time- Don’t be defeated by Delay. Don’t be weary in well doing. Harvest will come sometime.
B) The Lord of these Servants comes and reckoneth (Checks) with them:
1. TIME -Redeeming the time because the days are evil (Eph 5:16). Have you “bought up” every opportunity.
2. TITHES- Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come (1 Corinthians 16:2) (Where your treasure is there will your heart be also (If a man misses paying his tithes he is to add the fifth part to it as interest- And if a man will at all redeem ought of his tithes, he shall add thereto the fifth part thereof (Leviticus 27:31).
3. TESTIMONY- Abstain from the very appearance of Evil II Thes 5:22 Aware of Brother’s conscience. Aware of Sinners observation
4. TEMPLE (Body)- What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? (1 Corinthians 6:19). For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10).
C) No Profit brings Punishment- Cast the unprofitable servant into outer darkness.
1. It is not enough to give the original investment back!
2. Small talents do not excuse you! 1 talent has just as much responsibility as 5
3. Failure was brought about by:
a. Wrong impression of the Master- He thought the master was a hard man (If He wants Perfection and I can’t be perfect then why try??). Satan used this same approach in Eden- God is keeping something from you by not letting you eat of the Fruit!
b. Fear of Failure- I was afraid (due to lack of Faith) and hid my talent. The greatest cause of Failure is fear to begin (Remember the Children of Israel on border of Canaan.)
Master said it could have been put in the bank to earn interest if nothing else! Besides it would have been safer there. If you can’t do the job by yourself then add your talents to others and go forward (That’s why every member of the Church is so important. Together we can accomplish a great deal for the Lord.)
LESSONS:
1. Use it or lose it! The more you use the more you get. The more you keep the more you lose.
2. It is a dreadful thing to face God and have to admit you’ve hid your talent- Master called him
WICKED- He was going to steal the money if the master didn’t return. That’s why he didn’t want any record.
LAZY- Unwilling to commit to the task because it involved sacrifice. Easier to sit on the sidelines.
GOD EXPECTS NO MORE THAN YOU ARE ABLE TO GIVE BUT HE EXPECTS THAT MUCH! IT’S NOT ENOUGH NOT TO DO WRONG. YOU MUST DO RIGHT. WHEN GOD CALLS YOU TO ACCOUNT FOR YOUR TALENTS WILL HE SAY, “WELL DONE” OR “DEPART FROM ME”??? WILL IT BE JOY OR JUDGMENT?

Matt 25:14‑15 WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH WHAT GOD HAS GIVEN YOU?

For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey (Matthew 25:14‑15)
I. Must have a Correct Vision– Went through old files recently and found many men had started a church but it did not survive the first year. Like David, they had a desire to build a house for God but it was not Gods will for them to build it.
A) They do not have Gods Power- You do not use a tennis racket for a boat paddle- It would work you to death and never get anywhere
B) They do not accept the number of talents God has given them- some five, some two, some one. They want to be a five talent person but God knew their abilities.
II. Must not foul out of the game– Numerous Preachers are no longer working in Gods vineyard.
Discouraged- like John Mark with Paul
Disqualified- Demas has forsaken me have loved this present world.
III. Must realize you will one day have to answer to the Master for the way you have used your abilities.
God calls some men to build boats- Noah
God calls some men to slay giants- David
God calls some men to simply walk with Him- Enoch
Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore (Psalms 16:11). You must walk the Path God has for your life so you can look forward to pleasures for evermore.

Matt 26:36-38 DEEPLY DEPRESSED

Faced several tough weeks- Jenene, Al Hanna, Killings, Lew’s Mother
Facing increasingly tough times- Lost out bearing and now the US is adrift at sea.
This was the Third time these three were taken with Him
1) Raising Jarius Daughter- Power over Death
2) Mt of Transfiguration- Resurrected Life
3) Garden- Taking the Cup that came before the Crown
Mat 26:36-38 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. 37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. 38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.
AMP- 36 Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and He told His disciples, Sit down here, while I go over yonder and pray
37 And taking with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee. He began to show grief and distress of mind and was deeply depressed.
38 Then He said to them. My soul is very sad and deeply grieved. so that I am almost dying of sorrow. Stay here and keep awake and watch with me.
Adam was condemned to live by sweat of Brow. Jesus went to death sweating great drops of blood!
THINGS THAT I FEARED HAD BEFALLEN ME- Job 3:25 For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me.
A) Unfair- No Control Innocent must suffer for guilty
B) Dispair- No Hope Separated from Father
What do you need in time of Deep Depression?
1- Friends to stand by you- Even though these disciples were so tired until they slept.
2- Heavenly Help- Luke 22:43 And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.
3- Divine Direction- God’s Will to drink this cup.
In this world you shall have tribulation but be of good cheer, I have over come the world. Come to Christ for Salvation or Commitment.

Matt 26:39 NEVERTHELESS

NEVERTHELESS; Means Not in any way settling for anything less than the best.
Matt 26:39 And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will but as thou wilt.
Never the Less, we should never accept lest than the Best:
I. IN REGARDS TO GOD’S WILL Matt 26:39
1. Wouldn’t be just a King, Prophet, Priest. It’s good to do God’s work – it’s better to do God’s will. Good, acceptable, and perfect will of God.
1. School
2. Marriage
II. IN REGARDS TO GOD’S WORD Luke 5:5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.
God said it – I believe it – That settles it
III. IN REGARDS TO YOUR GOD CALLED WORK II Tim 1:11-12 Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things: Nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
Joyful Jail, Praising Persecution, Happy Harassment. Best Sunday School Teacher, Bus Driver
V. IN REGARDS TO A NEW WORLD II Pet 3:12-13 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. My eyes are fixed, Paul’s Death Vision
V. SOME CHOSE LESS THAN BEST Martha and Mary Luke 10:41-42 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things. But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her

Matt 27:- THE PEOPLE WHO REJECTED CHRIST

Example of man who asked me if I liked Pump Shot Guns and I told him I really preferred regular Shot Guns; not realizing he was really asking if I wanted him to Give Me a Pump Shot Gun!
I. THE DISCIPLE WHO BETRAYED HIM- JUDAS
A) His Reasons:
1. Greed ($17). How cheap will you sell out? Will it be a “bowl of pottage” or “well watered valley” at look so good? 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 4:19).
2. Disillusionment. He though Christ would be King but Christ claimed a Cross.
3. To force Christ’s Hand. Remember, it is not us who change Christ but Christ who changes us.
B) His Warnings:
1. One of you will betray me.
2. “Is it I?” “Thou Sayest” Jesus confronts us with our self as well as our sins.
C) His tragic End- He took his own life and brought a piece of ground for strangers to be buried (Judas confessed to the Priest; Peter confessed to Christ).
II. THE MAN WHO SENTENCED HIM TO DEATH- PILATE
A) His Warnings-
1) His own conscience recognized Christ as not guilty
2) His wife warned him to have nothing to do with this “just man”.
B) His Bargaining
1) I find no fault in Him (Mental)
2) Beat Him only and let Him go (Compromise and face it later)
3) Jesus or Barabbas- Offer an alternate
4) I will wash my hands of the whole thing (Pass responsibility to others)
III. HIS OWN WHO RECEIVED HIM NOT- SCRIBES AND PHARISEES
A) Religious Leaders- They sought for a sign they could dictate while rejecting the wonders and word of Jesus.
B) The Multitude- Had no one eaten of the bread he supplied? Had no one seen the miracles he performed? “His blood be on us and our children”.
IV. A HOLY GOD- “My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?” For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him (2 Corinthians 5:21).
The Thief made a stand for Christ on the cross / Joseph made a stand for Christ at the tomb.
I am making a stand for Christ- Will YOU?

Matt 27:1-2, 11-26 PILATE’S PROBLEM

Every man comes to times of Cross Road Decisions; decisions that will determine the direction of his life- moral, business, religious. As Jesus approached His crucifixion several men make decisions that will tremendously affect them:
1) Judas listens to the devil and dies.
2) Peter listens to fear and denies the Lord.
3) Pilate listens to the world and sends Jesus to the cross. I want us to look at Pilate’s Problem and see how he could come to the place of rejecting the Lord; while we see if the same problems are at work in our own life.
The Jewish leaders accused Jesus of three crimes: 1) Misleading the nation (Riots), 2) Forbidding to pay tribute (taxes) to Caesar, (Rebellion) and 3) Saying that he himself is the Messiah, a King (Revolution) [Luke 23:2]. Pilate ignored all of them except the last one because that was the only one that he feared; and it is the only accusation that was written above the Cross, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews” (John 19:19).
So Pilate, at this cross road time in his life, must determine if he believes that Jesus is the King of the Jews, the Messiah. That decision will guide his entire future.
PILATE WAS WARNED about his decision concerning Jesus by:
1> His Wife- Mat 27:19. Do you ignore your Family’s pleas about Jesus?
2> Jesus’ words- John 19:10-12: Do you ignore the Bible’s Teachings about Salvation?
3> His own Wisdom- Pilate knew that the real reason Jesus was on trial was the envy of the Pharisees- Matt 27:18. Pilate was never fooled into thinking that Jesus was really guilty (Luke 23:14). Do you ignore the pricking of your own conscience about Christ?
PILATE TRIED TO EVADE the decision:
1) At least 7 times Pilate goes from the hall to the crowd seeking a way to keep from making a decision (The Priest would condemn an innocent man but wouldn’t defile themselves by entering Pilate’s hall!). Do you continually PUT OFF making a decision about Jesus? Are you “Almost Persuaded” but Lost?
2) Upon learning that Jesus was from Galilee, he sent Him to Herod, hoping Herod would handle the situation (Luke 23:6-12). Do you SHIFT RESPONSIBILITY TO OTHERS as a reason you aren’t saved? Do you blame Hypocrites or other people for your not being saved?
3) He offered to chastise Jesus instead of Crucify him- Luke 23:15-16. Do you seek to COMPROMISE YOUR CONSCIENCE INSTEAD OF BE CONVERTED? Do you bargain with God by promising to do certain things; or stop doing certain things but fail to accept Christ as Savior?
4) He tried A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE SITUATION by using the Custom of Releasing a Prisoner at Passover to make the Jews make the decision. He offered them a choice between a well known Murderer and Robber and Jesus; believing they would certainly chose Jesus (Pilate knew the customs of the Jews but not of God. Multitudes of people know a little about religion but nothing about God!). Do you KNOW THE CUSTOMS BUT NOT CHRIST? Do you know enough to “play the religious game” while avoiding the new birth? If you are just a “pretty good fellow” you should remember that lukewarm makes God sick (Rev 3:16).
5) Pilate washes his hands of the entire thing and shifts ACCOUNTABILITY FOR THE SITUATION to other people- Mat 27:24.Do you look for A PERSON TO BLAME OR A REASON TO BELIEVE? Are you so busy finding water for your hands until you never look for blood for your soul?
PILATE FINALLY MAKE THE DECISION to crucify Jesus based on:
1> The Fear of Political Consequences- (John 19:12-13). Pilate chose his job over Jesus. He saved his job for a little while but lost his soul forever.
2> The desire to please the people- (Mark 15:15). It ALWAYS comes down to a decision between the Cross and the Crowd. Always.
When Pilate came to his cross road he found only one road leading to Jesus. It was straight and narrow and required commitment. Instead, Pilate chose the broad road that was crowded with people; all headed downward to destruction. Which direction will YOU take??
PILATE’S PROBLEM. Every person comes to a Cross Road Decision that determines their destiny. When Pilate was confronted with a Decision about Christ he:
1. TRIED TO PUT OFF MAKING A DECISION: 7 times Pilate goes from the Judgment Hall to the Crowd seeking a way out of this decision.
2. SHIFT RESPONSIBILITY TO OTHERS: Sent Jesus to Herod to decide
3. COMPROMISE INSTEAD OF DECIDE: Chastise Jesus instead of Crucify Him
4. OFFER A SUBSTITUTION FOR THE SITUATION: Barabbas (Lord I’ll start going to church…)
5. TRANSFER BLAME BY DECLARING HIMSELF BETTER THAN OTHERS: Wash hands and tell Jews it is on their head (I’m bad but I’m not a murder…).
But Remember: IT ALWAYS COMES TO A DECISION BETWEEN PUTTING CHRIST ON THE CROSS OR INVITING HIM INTO YOUR HEART

Matt 27:11 26 WHAT SHALL I DO WITH JESUS?

For hundreds of years, men believed the world was flat. Other false assumptions have come and gone. The resurrection of Jesus, however, is a well documented fact- 16 appearances.
A PERSONAL Question What shall “I” do- If you believe that Jesus is REALLY the Christ and is risen from the Dead then it will have application for you in this life and in the life to come.
A Question requiring ACTION; What shall I DO?
Be for Him or against Him
Either Love Him or Hate Him
Accept Him or reject Him
Crown Him or crucify Him
Confess Him or deny Him
A Question about Jesus Christ and No One Else Not the Hypocrites, or the unfaithful, or even sinners (I’m as good as…)
Who will take responsibility for what YOU know about Jesus?
Pilate tried to evade responsibility by: sending Jesus to Herod.
Herod said, “It is someone else’s responsibility” and sent him back to Pilate- “Pass the Buck”
Pilate tried to make the Crowd take responsibility by giving them a choice between Barabbas and Christ- Shift Responsibility to others
Finally, Pilate tried to claim No Responsibility by washing his hands of the whole thing.
Jesus would not let Pilate off the “Responsibility Hook” so He refused to answer anything.
So there is no way around this question, “What will you do with Jesus today?”
1) Accept Him- I once toured an Ice Cream Factory. I enjoyed the tour but was never offered a taste of the Ice Cream!
2) Love Him- If you Love Me keep my commandments and Love One Another
3) Look for Him- with the knowledge that Fruit will be expected

Matt 27:33-44 THE CROSS

The Basic Truth of Christianity is the Death, burial, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Next Week we will examine His Resurrection; but today I want us to look at the Cross- and see what it means for us now, and for eternity.
I. THE MAN ON THE CROSS– Jesus Christ
A) A Unique Background
1) Predetermined in eternity to die for man’s sins- I Pet 1:19-20.
2) Predicted in the Old Testament: To Eve in the Garden, As the Replacement Ram for Isaac in Gen 22; in Temple Sacrifices; In the Passover of Exodus 12; in the Brazen Serpent in the Desert.
3) Predominant in the Gospels and Epistles
4) Principle Theme in Heaven- Rev 5:8-13 “Thou art Worthy..”
B) An Unusual Death- He Did not die
-of Old Age, Accident, or Disease
– A Political Hero (Countrymen cried “Crucify Him”)
– Simply as an Example
– As a martyr for a Cause (Disciple Fled)
– Because he was a Criminal
He died a WILLING (“No man takes my life, I lay it down”), SACRIFICIAL (“For sins debts”), SUBSTITUTIONARY (For you and I) Death.
II. THE MEANING OF THE CROSS
A) A Place of Peace between God and Men- Col 1:20.
B) A Place of Public Death- Gal 6:14.
III. THE MESSAGE OF THE CROSS-I Cor 1:18.
No man can leave here today without making a decision about the Cross.
What is YOUR reaction to the Cross?
1. ACCUSING God of not being what you expected; like the Pharisees, you put Christ on it.
2. ANGRY about having to make a decision; like Pilate, you wash your hands instead of your soul.
3. AMUSED like the soldiers you’re mocking Him and playing games instead of realizing the seriousness of the situation.
4 OBSERVING; like the crowd. Last week you celebrated His good works by giving him a “Heroes Parade” but now you demand a special miracle before you’ll Personally Commit- Come down and we will believe.
5. AWARE of your NEED; like the thief, you are willing to cry, “Lord be merciful to me a sinner”.
6. ABSENT; Like Peter- Maybe you’re a backslidden Believer like Peter who is following afar off and warming at the world’s fire; who will deny the Lord when put to the test. Will you knell at the Cross today and give your heart and life to Christ as you accept his pardon and peace?? you’re washing your hands of the entire situation and laying the Blame on someone else (Hypocrites, family). Warned by his wife, Convicted by his conscience (I find no fault in him),

Matt 27:42-43 TRUSTING IN GOD

Jesus Trusted in God. What did it get Him?
1. In Followers- One Betrayed, One denied, Only one stayed while the rest forsook him and fled.
2. In Material goods- As far as we know, He left nothing physical at all. He had to give the care of his mother to John, and was buried in a stranger’s tomb in stranger’s cloths.
3. In Understanding- Rejected by his people; they finally asked for a robber and a murderer to be released instead of Jesus. Misunderstood by his own disciples.
4. In Fair Play and Justice- A “Kangaroo” court where everyone could find no fault in him but they scourged him and crucified him anyway.
Look at these Examples:
John the Baptist- Head cut off to satisfy a woman’s anger
Stephen- Stoned because he spoke the truth
James- Killed by sword because it pleased the people
Peter- in and out of jail until finally crucified upside down
Paul- Jailed, stoned, run out of town, finally beheaded.
The Key- “He trusted in God”. Our sufficiency is of God and not man. That is why Christians should glory in Tribulation; that they may learn to depend on God.
Let Him deliver him now- God chose to work different than man.
1. Rather than rescue him from death he let him conquer death!
2. His Name was “defamed” to give him a name above every name.
3. He lost eleven “followers” to gain eleven Disciples.
Sometimes trusting in God does not turn out the way we planned. That’s when we must Trust IN GOD instead of circumstances.

Matt 27:45-54 EASTER SYMBOLS

We talked Wednesday Night about why we have Spring House Cleaning (Clean out the Leaven), Hide Easter Eggs (New Birth and New life), and wear new clothes to Church (New Creature in Christ). Today I’d like to look at some of the “lesser” known symbols of this season and draw from them some very important Spiritual lessons. They show us how the Cross dealt with Sin, Self, and Satan.
FIRST SYMBOL– The 3 Hours of darkness while Jesus was on the cross MAT 27:45-46?
Jesus had been hanging on the cross since about 9am. For 3 hours there was much activity around that cruel cross- Jesus had forgiven the thief on the cross beside Him, had entrusted the care of His mother to John, had declared his thirst…. The Priest had mocked Him, The crowd had reviled Him, and the soldiers had gambled for His robe.
Now, Suddenly, at the Noonday hour when the sun was at it’s peak the world was plunged into darkness. Some have suggested that this was an eclipse- but it was during full moon and that makes an eclipse impossible; and an eclipse has never lasted for 3 hours!! The Gospels pass by this 3 hours of time as if nothing happened during it- and possibly very little did happen on this earth during that period of darkness. But during this time the Perfect Precious Son of God accepted the full cup of the darkness of Sin. What agony He must have gone thru during these hours of silent suffering until at the end of the time He cried with all of His strength, “My God, My God, Why hast thou forsaken me?”. He who is the “Light of the World” accepted the darkness of sin that I might be set free from sin’s punishment and power. Jn 3:19
SECOND SYMBOL– The Rending of the Veil- MAT 27:50. Mat7:51 ; The temple had been designed by God to show the Separation caused by Sin. When you entered the temple you first came to the Brazen Altar where you had to offer a blood sacrifice for sin. Upon leaving there you came to the Laver where you washed from the defilement of sin. This was all the “common” people saw. The Priest would then go into the Holy Place where the Table of Shewbread (Christ the Bread of Life), The Candle stand (Christ the light of the World), and the Altar of Incense (representing our daily prayers) were found. But even the Priest had to stop here.
Only the High Priest was allowed to enter into the Holy of holies- and that but once a year; to offer for the sins of the people (It was this Holy of Holies where the Glory of God dwelt for many years. Thus this was a place of direct communion with God).When Jesus passed thru the darkness and could cry, “It is finished” there was no longer anything to separate God and man and the way to God was made available to ALL. [Heb 10:19-20].
(It’s interesting to note that the veil was split around 3pm, the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice. This enabled the Priest to see that it was split from top to bottom. Had it been done earlier no one would have seen it because the Holy Place would have been empty).
THIRD SYMBOL– The earthquake that opened Graves- MAT 27:50-53. This earthquake did not knock down the crosses and only opened certain graves!! Note that only the saints came forth out of the grave. There are 6 recorded instances of people being “Revived” from the dead in Scripture: (1) The son of the widow of Sarepta (I Kings 17), (2) The Shunammite’s son (II Kings 4), (3) The man raise when he touched the bones of Elisha (II KIngs 13), (4) The daughter of Jairus (Matt 9), (5) The Son of the Widow of Nain (Luke 7), and (6) Lazarus (John 11). Each of these was raised from the dead but each had to die again.
When Christ came forth from the Grave He was RESURRECTED, meaning He had a new body and he would never die again. There are some that say that these bodies that came forth after Christ’s resurrection and were seen in Jerusalem were simply REVIVED and had to die again. Yet there is ample evidence to believe that these saints ascended with Christ when he returned to Heaven. ACT 1:11 says,. We do know that when Jesus returns again in a visible form that He will have Saints with Him, also in the Old Testament Type of the Resurrection- The Wave-sheaf- is represented the idea of a “single grain of corn” falling into the ground but an entire sheaf coming forth.
TEACHING FOR US- Jesus has destroyed the power of death; the grave can no longer hold a child of God. The Resurrection is not a Doctrine we believe but a fact we know that allows us to sing,. I Cor 15:55-57. We’re living on the Victory Side!!
For the unsaved it should show you more clearly than ever that you will face God some day. Death is not all, there is a Judgment to come and a Punishment in the lake of fire awaiting you. Come to Christ today.
MAT 27:54. YOU have a choice today- You can observe all that Jesus has done for you and ignore it. Or you can bow before Him and acknowledge Him as the Son of God and Saviour of your soul today.

Matt 27:50-54 BELIEVING CHRIST IS THE SON OF GOD

One of the most familiar portions of Scripture is the Crucifixion of Christ. Upon seeing the awesome sights of the Crucifixion, this Roman soldier cried out, “Truly this was the Son of God.” (Mat 27:54). What could bring this Roman Soldier to change from seeing a criminal to seeing the Christ? And what will it take to bring men today to acknowledge that Christ is indeed the Son of God?
Here are some reasons I found in Scripture that men proclaimed Christ as the Son of God.
I. WHEN WE REALIZE THAT GOD “SEES OUR SECRETS”-
A) Nathaniel- John 1:47-49. When Philip came to Christ he immediately wanted to tell his friend Nathaniel. Nathaniel was skeptical about this new religious leader but when he came to Christ, Christ said he saw him praying under the fig tree. Nathaniel immediately declared that Christ was the Son of God. When Nathaniel found that Christ could see that his heart was SEEKING God he knew this was the Savior he was looking for.
B) The Woman at the Well- When Jesus told her about her husbands she “perceived that he was a prophet”. This woman realized that Christ was the Son of God because he saw the SIN hidden in her heart.
C) When Daniel declared Nebuchadnezzar’s dream then Nebuchadnezzar worshiped God as the only true God. Nebuchadnezzar declared that God was God when he realized that God could SEE what no one else could see.
We all know in our mind that God sees our Secrets. It is when we become aware that we can not hide from Him that we see the need of coming to Christ (We call this Conviction)
II. WHEN GOD RESCUES US FROM DANGER– Matt 14:28-33 Peter had walked on the water to Jesus, and then was rescued from sinking. When He returned to the boat the Disciples all said, “Truly, this is the Son of God.” I know that some people have promised God that they would follow Him if God would only rescue them from some danger and then have gone back to their sinful ways. Many, however, find this to be a time to come to God and really change their life- Like the Philippian Jailor their trouble causes them to call out “What must I do to be saved?” (We call this Repentance)
III. COMING TO THE CROSS– The Centurion found that you cannot come to the cross and remain unchanged. There is something about watching Jesus die that changes you. Jesus said, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” (John 12:32). If only people could realize today that if Churches would proclaim Christ and the Cross then we would see many more converts on the altar and much less dust in the baptistery!
Men are not changed by explaining moral principles or by expounding practical ways to deal with a difficult boss. They will only acknowledge Christ as the Son of God when they see the sacrifice He made on a blood stained cross. Seeing the harsh penalty of sin and the matchless Love of God demonstrated will cause them, like the Centurion, to cry out, “Truly, this is the Son of God” (And we call this Conversion)
There is coming a day when “As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” (Rom 14:11). Today it means salvation when you confess Christ; at the judgement it will mean condemnation. Christ is the Son of God. Won’t you acknowledge Him as such right now?

Matt 28:1-7 ANTICIPATION

How can a man sit in a boat for hours on end, casting his line time after time, and still enjoy it even if he isn’t catching fish? Why do ladies like to go from shop to shop and compare the prices on 4 different dresses before they finally go back and purchase the one they looked at originally? How can a young person stand outside and throw a ball at a basket for hours even though they miss it more often than they hit it?
The answer to all of these questions is ANTICIPATION. There is something about expectation, hope, or Anticipation that is almost like a drug. The Fisherman thinks a fish will certainly bite the next cast. The lady knows she will find that super bargain if she looks at one more store. And that young person see beyond the missed baskets to the time they score that last second three-pointer that wins the game and makes them a hero.
Anticipation was the one thing missing on that first Easter Morning. The city was sleeping in after a long and exciting Passover weekend, the disciples were still numb with fear and confusion, and the ladies were on their way to a tomb where they would have to contend with grumpy soldiers, a huge stone, and a three day old body.
This morning I want us to look at some of the marvelous events that happened on that first Easter and allow the hope and glory of that morning to flood our lives so that we might live lives of ANTICIPATION instead of quite desperation.
1. GRAVEYARD GOOD NEWS– They went to anoint a dead Christ; they came back announcing a living Christ. You don’t expect to hear good news at a graveyard, but the best news the world ever had came from a graveyard near Jerusalem. You don’t expect God to use the tragedies and defeats of life to your good; but He does! (Rom 8:28).
2. SAD TO GLAD– See verse 1 compared to verse 8 – These ladies went to a tomb very sad; they came back very glad. Satan tells us that if we come to Christ we will find death and sadness; instead we find life and joy.
3. BARRIER TO BENCH– I find in Matt 28:2 that the Lord turned the barrier (the stone to seal the tomb) into a bench (the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.) Through the Power of Christ God can turn our obstacles into opportunities.
4. GUARDS TO JELL-O– When the earth quaked, these men of the earth quaked as well and became like the dead man they were guarding. These soldiers had been guarding a dead man (that must have been the easiest job on earth); now they became as dead men. Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world. We are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus.
5. VICTIM TO VICTOR– Because of Easter, the Cross was changed from a symbol of shame, suffering, and sorrow into a symbol of victory and power.
–Christ became all that we were, that we might be all that He is.
–Christ, who had all of Heaven, became poor (not even a place to lay his head); that we who are poor creatures (with nothing to call our own), may own all of heaven.
–Christ, who had perfect health, was sickened by stripes, that by His stripes we might be healed.
–Christ, who was immortal, became mortal; that we who are mortal, might become immortal.
–Christ, who was always in the presence of His Father, was forsaken by His Father; that we who have forsaken God, may always be in God’s presence.
–Christ, who was sinless, became sin; that we who are sinners, might become sinless.
–Christ who had all hope, gave up hope; that we who had no hope, might have all hope (My God, My God, Why has thou forsaken me?)
–Satan thought he had finally won this time; But this was his greatest defeat-because of Christ’s resurrection, our resurrection is assured. Because He lives, we can live, because He arose, we shall arise.
Poem:
How do I know that Christ is risen?
What proof have I to give?
He rescued me from sin’s dark prison
And I began to live.
How do I know He left the tomb
That Easter so long ago?
I met Him at the dawn’s fresh bloom
And life is all aglow.
How do I know he gained for me
Access to Heaven’s door?
Christ’s work in me is guarantee
Of life forevermore.
How do I know that Christ still lives
Rich Blessings to impart?
Abundant grace and peace He gives
And lives within my heart.

When Lord Nelson was buried at London’s Saint Paul’s Cathedral, 30 trumpeters were stationed at the door of the Cathedral, where they stood at attention awaiting the signal to sound. When the illustrious dead arrived, they lifted their trumpets to their lips and gave one united blast; then all was silent. But they did not wake the sleeper.
But what 30 trumpeters could not do, one trumpeter will do on the resurrection morning. When Gabriel sounds the trumpet, those who have died in the Lord will rise to meet Jesus in the air. That should fill us with anticipation as we know that any moment we get to see Him face to face whom so long we have known heart to heart.
If your life is a life of quite desperation let me invite you to come to Christ today. He can change you from sad to glad. He can turn your barriers into benches. And He can turn you from a victim into a victor. When you make YOUR trip to the Graveyard will it be a time of triumph or eternal separation from God? The difference is your trust in, and commitment to, Christ.

Matt 28:16-20 OUR MISSION

1. If you would MEET with Jesus then you MUST BE IN YOUR APPOINTED PLACE– Mat 28:16 God should have an appointment with us Every Day in our Devotions and Every week in our Public Worship. Find where you fit in the Body of Christ and be at your appointed Place.
2. If you would STAY with Jesus then you MUST NOT LET DOUBTERS DOOM YOUR WORSHIP– Mat 28:17 Don’t let the Failure, or the lack of Faith, of some cause you to fail to serve God. Regardless of what others do, I can be faithful.
3. If you would WORK for Jesus then you MUST RECOGNIZE WHAT GOD EXPECTS OF YOU: Mat 28:18-20 He who aims for nothing normally hits it. Clearly see our Mission and perform you function in that mission.
WE ARE TO:
A) Evangelize
1> With God’s Power
2> With God’s Program- Go, Teach, Baptize
B) Edify– Teach them:
1> To Observe ALL THINGS that are commanded (Whole counsel of God)
2> To Depend on God’s presence- With you Always. Not a religion you learn but a relationship you develop.
Within this Mission there are FOUR THINGS WE STRESS:
1- CALL
a) FROM God
b) BY Man
c) WITH the Word
2- CONVERSION
a) Repent– Turn FROM
b) Believe– TRUST IN (Faith, then Feelings, end in Works)
3- COMMITMENT
a) Public Proclamation- By your Words and your Baptism
b) Part of Body- Find your place and function.
c) Discipleship- Cross bearing every day
4. CHANGE— New creature
a) Put OFF Old Man of sinful living
b) Put ON New Man of holiness and Faith
Have You Ever Publicly Proclaimed your Faith in Christ??
Would you like to be Baptized?
Would you like to become a Member of Grace FWB Church?

Matt 28:16-20 THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH

We are in the process of beginning some new work in and around the Church to make it look even better- new lights, Sunday School rooms painted, trees planted, etc-; and I’m excited about it. These are needful things from time to time because they allow us to “See” what we’re accomplishing. But they aren’t our main purpose, and we don’t want to allow them to sidetrack us from the goal of our Church (and every Church). That Goal, of course, is to get people to KNOW Christ as their personal Saviour and then to SHOW Him in their lives as Christians.
This goal is not something “made up” by the preacher to excite or enslave you. It comes from the “Final Marching Orders” of the Lord and as such MUST be obeyed and applied.
I. WHAT WE ARE TO DO:
A) Evangelize
a. Show men their GUILT- Tell men about Sin’s Slavery and Punishment so they will want to forsake it.
b. Present them with the GOSPEL- Jesus Christ died to pay their Sin Debt and they can accept His pardon by Faith.
c. GUIDE them to Repent and Receive Christ as Saviour- Beyond Presentation to Evangelization! (We cannot “Make” anyone be saved and I seldom “Push a man into a corner” but we must let them know that simply knowing about their Sin and learning about the Saviour is not enough. They must “Confess with their mouth the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Jesus said it this way:
1. Go- Not just sit. The reason we don’t go is because we’re satisfied to sit! There is no Burden to reach people.
2. Teach (Make disciples)- Lift up Jesus and He will draw all men unto Himself. We do this with our Lips, with our Lives, & with our Love.
3. Baptize – Beyond Teaching to Commitment. This is the Public Proclamation of what has transpired in your heart- By being placed beneath the water you show that you believe in the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ.
B) Edify (Build up the person in the Faith. Develop the Disciple)
1. Teach them to observe ALL THINGS that were commanded.
Including:
a. Church attendance
b. Changes in Character & Conduct
c. Commitment to share the Gospel with others.
2. Teach them to depend on Lord’s Presence- With us always.
Christianity is not a Religion you have but a Relationship you enjoy.
II. HOW WE ARE TO DO IT:
A) Place: Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, the World. Everywhere- your Family, City, County, State. Use Every means God gives us to reach Every person we can (Church, Tapes, Newsletters, Radio, etc)
B) Power: Comes from the Lord. Can’t do it in our own strength
C) Performance: We know what we are supposed to do. What will we say to the Lord if we fail to do it???

Matt 28:18-20 EVANGELISM

Matt 28:18-20 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.
In order to EVANGELIZE we must be
1) Be Aware of their GUILT
2) Make a Presentation of the GOSPEL
3) GUIDING them to Repent and Receive Christ as Saviour
4) Continuing to help them to GROW from Babies unto Adults.
A) Baptism
B) Church Membership- Sunday School attendance
C) Church Involvement.
D) Personal Relationship with Christ.

Matt 28:19-20 BELIEVERS BELIEFS

Why do we stress missions and reaching a lost world for Christ. When a person disobeys Gods final marching orders-(Matthew 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. – he Disobeys Gods orders!
Most churches are more concerned with who they are losing than with who they are reaching. A pastor attracts people within 10 years of his age; and the head of your programs do the same thing.
1) Many Believe wrong– (2 Thessalonians 2:11‑12) And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. These are those who walk down the Broad way of Man made Religions, Human Reasoning, and feel good Relationships.
2) Some believe with their lips but not with their life– (James 2:19‑20) Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Roadside in India
3) Some believe in Christ and THESE ARE THE ONLY ONES WHO WILL NOT BE CONDEMNED– (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.
(Psalms 14:1) The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good. Will you say, NO to God or will you Believe and be saved? Example- 3 girls in Nepal who knew that Christ was the only way and accepted Christ in spite of the fact that it would be isolation and persecution.

Matt 28:18-20 TIPS ON TEACHING

Matt 28:18-20 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.
Jesus’ final command to His disciples was for them to go and teach. In this command we find some great tips on Teaching that will enable us to do the job He has commanded us to do also.
1. Cooperative Teaching– “All Power is given unto ME” “Lo, I am with you always,”. His Power and His Presence are needed. He is the Source of our Power as well as the Message we proclaim. We fail when we try to do the job in our own ability and strength. A close personal walk with Him gives us something to teach and the ability to do so. Are you “Teamed” up with Christ to fulfil his Commands; or are you trying to do it all on your own?
2. Commanded Teaching– “Go Ye Therefore, and teach all nations”. It’s not an option, but a command for us all to obey. Everyone teaches every day by Conversation and Conduct- What do you teach about?? Are you consciously trying to teach your Family, Friends, and associates about Christ?
3. Complete, Comprehensive Teaching: “teaching them to observe ALL things that I commanded” (What Paul called the “Whole counsel of God” Acts 20:27,20). Not just “Pet” projects but all God commands. God wants us to know how to be Saved, how to live, how to die, and how to be Christians in between.
4. Effective Teaching: “teaching them TO OBSERVE all things that I commanded”. Learn them in their Head and live them in their Life. II Tim 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
5. Correct Teaching: “teach them to observe all THINGS THAT I COMMANDED” I once asked all the older shut-in members of a Church to give their testimony– only one gave a clear statement of Faith in Christ; the others talked about living a good life or joining the church at a young age. Most people know more incorrect facts about Christianity than correct facts.
Our Class is the World / Our Instruction, a matter of life and death / Our obligation, to the Lord