Expository Sermon Outlines - Larry de la cruz
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Pastor Larry dela Cruz
eXpository
SERMON OUTLINES
Teaching Series
“Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching.” 1 Tim 4:13
“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.” 2 Tim 4:2-4
Title: Creation
Context: Genesis 1-3
Key Words: Beginning, man, good and evil, seed
Key Verses:
GE 1:26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”
GE 3:15 And I will put enmity Between you and the woman,
And between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise you on the head,
And you shall bruise him on the heel.”
Introduction:
In the beginning God made the heavens and the earth. Man was the center of his creation. Why did God create man? What was His purpose? How man was made? How did man fall into disobedience? Did God made a provision for man’s redemption?
Body:
I. Creation
Beginning, creation of the heavens and the earth (Verse 1:1) Heb 11:3 Col 1:16
1. First Day
a. Earth formless, darkness over the deep (Verses 1-2)
b. Commanded there be light (Verses 3-5)
2. Second Day
a. Separated the water above and below, atmosphere (Verses 6-8)
3. Third Day
a. Gathered the water, the seas (Verses 9-10)
b. Dry land appeared, the earth (Verses 9-10)
c. Earth sprout vegetation (Verses 11-13)
d. Mist water the earth (Verses 2:5-6)
4. Fourth Day
a. Made two lights, the Sun and the moon (Verses 1:14-19)
b. Stars also (Verse 16) Ps 104:2
c. Give light for the earth and for seasons (Verses 17-18)
5. Fifth Day
a. Living creatures on water and sky (Verses 20-23)
6. Sixth Day
a. Living creatures on earth (Verses 24-25)
b. Man (Verses 26-31)
7. Seventh Day
a. Heavens and earth completed (Verses 2:1,4)
b. God rested and sanctified the day (Verses 2-3) Ex 31:17
II. Man
1. God’s Image
a. In His image and likeness (Verses 1:26-27, 31) Eph 4:24
b. Rule (Verses 1:26, 28)
c. Blessed, fruitful and multiply (Verses 28, 3:20)
2. Life
a. Dust from ground (Verse 2:7) 1Cor 15:47
b. Given breath of life (Verse 7)
c. Living soul (Verse 7) 1Cor 15:45
3. Blessed
a. Garden of Eden (Verses 2:8-15, 1:29)
b. Cultivate and keep (Verse 15)
4. Commanded
a. Not eat from Tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Verses 2:16-17,25)
5. Help mate
a. Woman (Verses 18-24) Mt 19:4-6
III. The Fall
1. The Serpent
a. Crafty (Verse 3:1) Rev 20:2
b. The Lie and the truth (Verses 2-5, 13) Rev 12:9
2. The Fall
a. Disobedience (Verse 6) Rom 5:12
b. Sin (Verses 7-13)
3. The Judgment
a. Serpent
Enmity between the seeds (Verse 15) Rev 12:13-17, 20:4-10
Redemption for man (Verse 15) Jn 12:31, 14:30
Col 2:15
b. Woman
Pain in childbearing (Verse 16)
Serve the husband (Verse 16) Tit 2:4-5
c. Man
Ground is cursed (Verse 17)
Toil for food (Verses 17-19)
Go back to dust (Verse 19)
d. Cast out from the Garden
Clothed them (Verse 21)
Not touch the Tree of Life (Verses 22-24)
Conclusion:
All that God has made in the beginning were good until man fell and the whole of creation suffered corruption. Things would have been different should man not sin in the beginning. The ground was not cursed. There was no death. God was walking and conversing with man in the Garden. God provided everything for man. When man disobeyed, God never gave up. Though man has sinned and death passed to all men because all have sinned He prophesied that Christ shall bruise the head of Satan. And at the fullness of time Christ died for the ungodly. The relationship between God and man was restored. Man can now live eternally with God. His soul shall not surely die and suffer and banish away from the presence of His Creator. Now that we are in Christ, He has given us everything that pertains to life and godliness. And we see a future- a Kingdom and a City. There shall be a new heaven and new earth. God dwelling among men. No more pain. No more curse. No wickedness shall dwell therein. God and man forever. Glory to God.
Title: God and Abraham
Context: Genesis 12-26
Key Words: Bless, covenant, land, believed, walk, obey, multiply
Key Verses:
GE 12:2 And I will make you a great nation,
And I will bless you,
And make your name great;
And so you shall be a blessing;
GE 22:16 and said, “By Myself I have sworn, declares the LORD, because you have done this thing and have not withheld your son, your only son,
GE 22:17 indeed I will greatly bless you, and I will greatly multiply your seed as the stars of the heavens and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your seed shall possess the gate of their enemies.
GE 22:18 “ In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.”
Introduction:
Did you know that we are descendants of Abraham? All who come to God through faith in Christ are of Abraham. God made a covenant to him that through his seed, that is Christ, all nations shall be blessed. And did you know that the fathers of our father Abraham were righteous men of God? From the lineage of Abraham upward we see men calling and walking with God- from Abraham to Noah to Enoch and to Enosh, son of Seth, the son of Adam. There is one thing in common with these men. They believed, obeyed and walked with God. God destroyed the earth by flood in the olden times because men became utterly wicked but spared the life of Noah a righteous man and his family. God knew Abraham. God was with Abraham and Abraham was with God. He was tested of his faith and found obedience in his heart. How is God’s promise to Abraham related to us now? What can we learn from Abraham and more from our God?
Body:
I. God with Abraham
1. God commands
a. Communicates (Verses Gen 12:1, 13:14, 15:1, 18:1-2)
b. Get out (Verse Gen 12:1)
c. Into (Verses Gen 12:1, 15:7)
d. Gives the vision (Verses Gen 15:12-21)
2. God’s covenant
a. Between Him and Abraham (Verses Gen 12:1-3, 17:1-8)
b. Great nation (Verse Gen 12:2)
c. Blesses to be a blessing (Verse Gen 12:2)
d. Multiplies (Verses Gen 13:14-16)
3. God covers
a. Protection (Verses Gen 12:17-18, 19:13-16, 29)
b. Gives land (Verses Gen 13:15,17)
c. Recovers (Verses Gen 14:10-16)
d. Our shield (Verse Gen 15:1)
e. Sustains (Verses Gen 15:2-5)
f. Fulfills (Verses Gen 17:15-16, 21:2)
II. Abraham with God
1. Believed God (Verses Gen 12:4, 15:5-6)
(Rom 4:3 Gal 3:6 Js 2:23)
2. Obeyed (Verses Gen 12:4, 6, 9, 13:3, 26:5)
(Gen 26:5 Heb 11:8)
3. Worshiped Him in everyplace (Verses Gen 12:7-8, 13:4,18, 21:33)
4. Enriched along the way (Verses Gen 13:2, 5-6, 24:1)
5. Paid tithes, God his Provider (Verses Gen 14:18-20, 21-24)
6. Walked blamelessly (Verse Gen 17:1)
7. Kept the covenant (Verses Gen 17:9-12, 26-27)
8. Abraham not perfect (Verses Gen 12:11-1, 20:1-7, 11-13)
9. Faith tested (Verses Gen 22:1-14) Heb 11:17-19
Js 2:22-23
10. Obedience rewarded (Verses Gen 22:15-18, 26:1-5)
III. Promised Fulfilled
1. The Promised Gospel (Verses Rom 1:1-4 Gal 3:8)
2. Christ the seed of Abraham (Verses Gal 3:16-18 Gen 49:10
Mic 5:2 Jn 7:42 Mt 2:6)
3. Justification by faith (Verses Gal 3:7-8,22-24 Rom 3:22-26)
4. Children of God by faith in Christ (Verses Gal 3:26, 29 Jn 1:12)
5. Heavenly (Verses Heb 11:16 Mt 22:31-32)
Conclusion:
God in the beginning created Man to be with Him. Man fell. The early generations were destroyed. God made a covenant with Abraham that through his seed who is Christ all the nations shall be blessed. The man in Christ shall be justified by faith in Christ who perfected us. Abraham who was an imperfect man sought to believe and obey God. Because of his faith and obedience, his descendants inherited the blessings and we inherit the blessings. God and Abraham. A covenant is between two parties. But it was God who made the covenant. He initiated it. Man knew nothing about it until God revealed it to His prophets and now to us. The blessing of Abraham is our union with God through faith in the promised Savior Jesus Christ. With Him, in His promised land, the new heaven and the earth- the promised eternal life. God restored through Christ what was lost in the Garden. We are back with God. God promised. God sustained. God finished.
Title: God and Moses
Context: Exodus 2-15
Key Words: Slaves, Moses, speak, power, worship
Key Verses:
EX 3:7 The LORD said, “I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt, and have given heed to their cry because of their taskmasters, for I am aware of their sufferings.
EX 3:8 “So I have come down to deliver them from the power of the Egyptians, and to bring them up from that land to a good and spacious land, to a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of the Canaanite and the Hittite and the Amorite and the Perizzite and the Hivite and the Jebusite.
EX 3:12 And He said, “Certainly I will be with you, and this shall be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall worship God at this mountain.”
Introduction:
Yahweh is the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He is the covenant-making God. He remembered His promise to Abraham. He fulfilled them. The sons of Jacob multiplied in Egypt. Joseph and his brothers and their children were all dead. The new king did not know about Joseph. They tried oppressed the Israelites and gave them to hard labor. They suffered and cried unto God. The LORD heard their cries. Moses was born and sent by God for their deliverance. The Book of Exodus written by Moses showed us God’s salvation for His people. How did the Israelites react to God? Moses? How do we see God as the Deliverer?
Body:
I. God the Deliverer
1. Knows (Verses 2:2-25, 3:7-9)
2. God (Verses 3:5, 13-16, 9:13-17, 10:1-3)
3. Keeps His Covenant (Verses 6:3-5)
4. Power (Verses 6:1-4, 6-8, 8:18-19)
a. Staff to snakes (Verses 7:10-12)
b. Water into blood (Verses 7:19-21)
c. Frogs into the land (Verses 8:5-6)
d. Plague of gnats (Verses 8:16-17)
e. Swarm of insects (Verses 8:22-24)
f. Pestilence on livestock (Verses 9:1-6)
g. Plague of boils (Verses 9:9-11)
h. Plague of hail (Verses 9:22-26)
i. Plague of locust (Verses 10:12-15)
j. Darkness over the land (Verses 10:21-23)
k. All firstborn killed (Verses 12:29-30)
5. Worshiped and served (Verses 3:18, 5:1,3, 7:16, 8:1)
II. Moses the Servant
1. Preserved (Verses 2:1-11)
2. Called (Verses 3:2, 6-9, 3:10)
3. Equipped (Verses 4:1-9, 17)
With His leaders (Verses 4:27-31)
4. Speak (Verses 4:10-16, 6:12, 29-30, 7:1-2)
5. Danger of disobedience (Verses 4:24-26)
6. Not doubt (Verses 5:20-23, 14:15-16)
III. God and the Israelites
1. Welfare (Verses 3:16-17, 21-22, 11:2-3)
2. Oppressed (Verses 2:2-25, 3:7-9)
3. Opposition
a. Pharaoh not listened (Verses 3:19-20, 7:14, 8:15)
b. Pharaoh hardened (Verses 4:21, 23, 5:2, 7:3, 14:4, 17, 7:3)
c. Pharaoh unrepentant (Verses 9:27-28, 34-35)
4. Protected (Verses 9:4, 26, 10:22-23, 11:5, 12-13,
13:21-22, 14:13-14, 19-20)
5. Faith (Verses 5:3)
a. Passover lamb (Verses 12:1-11, 21-28)
b. Feast of unleavened bread (Verses 12:17-19)
c. Consecration (Verses 13:1-2, 12)
6. Doubted (Verses 6:9, 14:11-12)
7. Delivered (Verses 12:33-41, 51, 14:13-14, 24-31)
8. Praised and worshiped the LORD (Verses 15:1-21)
Conclusion:
Whenever God speaks, we should listen. We should never treat lightly His commandments. Whatever His written word has commanded us, we obey. Whatever His Spirit tells us, whenever His Spirit guides us, we do. Our God is not only a good and loving God. He is also a consuming fire. He rewards everyman for every good and bad thing he has done. He wants us to hear from Him and after hearing the instructions from Him we obey, look with His eyes and speak His words. His words to Joshua before he led Israel to conquer the Promised Land, “Just I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you." And “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth. You shall meditate on it day and night so that you shall carefully follow what is written in it and you shall prosper and have success.” Why? Because God knows better. If we obey Him we shall not be disappointed. Though troubles come, we are delivered. Know today that He is the LORD.
Title: The Law
Context: Exodus 20 with Deut 5
Key Words: I am the LORD, no other gods, you shall not, fear Him, not sin
Key Verses:
EX 20:2 “ I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.
EX 20:3 “ You shall have no other gods before Me.
EX 20:20 Moses said to the people, “ Do not be afraid; for God has come in order to test you, and in order that the fear of Him may remain with you, so that you may not sin.”
Introduction:
God brought Israel out of bondage for a purpose. That they shall be His people, serve Him and worship Him. The LORD met Moses at Mt Sinai and gave him the Law. At the presence of the people God spoke and they heard Him spoke His covenant, the Ten Commandments. The mountain was smoking, there were thunders and lightning and sound of trumpet. They were terrified at the sight. What is the purpose of the Law? To Israel? To us today?
Body:
I. The Giver of the Law
1. God (Verses 20:1)
a. YAHWEH revealed to Moses (Verses 2) Ex 3:14-15
b. His Name forever Ex 3:15
2. Only True God Jer 10:10 Jn 17:3 1Thess 1:9 1Jn 5:20
3. No other Savior Is 43:11 Hos 13:4 Act 4:10-12
II. The Given Law
1. The First Covenant,
a. Ten Commandments Ex 34:27-28
b. To Israel Deut 5:1-4
c. God came down and spoke Ex 19:18-20:2 Deut 5:22-24
d. God wrote in two tablets Deut 5:22
2. The Covenant
1st Commandment
Have no other gods (Verses 20:3) Deut 5:7
2nd Commandment
Do not make idols (Verses 4) Deut 5:8
Do not worship and serve them (Verses 5) Deut 5:9
3rd Commandment
Do not take His Name in vain (Verses 7) Deut 5:11
4th Commandment
Remember the Sabbath (Verses 8-11) Deut 5:12-15
5th Commandment
Honor your father and mother (Verses 12) Deut 5:16
6th Commandment
Do not commit murder (Verses 13) Deut 5:17
7th Commandment
Do not commit adultery (Verses 14) Deut 5:18
8th Commandment
Do not steal (Verses 15) Deut 5:19
9th Commandment
Do not bear false witness (Verses 16) Deut 5:20
10th Commandment
Do not covet (Verses 17) Deut 5:21
III. The Good Law
1. Purpose
a. Not curse (Verses 20:5) Deut 30:19
b. Love (Verses 6)
c. Fear Him and not sin (Verses 18-20) Deut 6:2
Prov 16:6 Ps 128:1
d. No other gods (Verses 21-23)
e. Worship Him alone (Verses 24-25)
f. Knowledge of sin Rom 3:20, 7:7 Gal 3:19
g. Be blessed Deut 5:3, 6:1-3,24, 28:15,20
h. Love God with all of your heart Deut 6:4-6, 10:12, 30:20
i. Live righteous lives Deut 6:17-18, 25
j. For the wicked 1Tim 1:8-10
2. Fulfillment
a. Love God and others Mt 22:37-4 Mk 12:28-31
b. Love Rom 13:8-10 Gal 5:14 Js 2:8
3. Effect
a. Can not justify us Hab 2:4 Gal 2:16 3:11
b. Righteousness not through it Rom 1:17 Gal 2:21
c. Can not make us perfect Heb 7:11,19, 22, 8:7-12
d. Can not give eternal life Lk 10:25-37 Mt 19:16-26
Gal 3:21 Col 2:13-14
a. Worked death Rom 7:9-24, 25
b. Fall short of God’s glory Gen 6:5 Rom, 3:23, 5:12, 7:14
c. Leads us to Christ Gal 3:21-29 Act 13:38-39
Conclusion:
The Law came from God. It is the instruction for us to walk righteously and uprightly in the Lord. It teaches us to fear the Lord, keep His commandments, avoid evil and not sin. The Law of Moses or the Law of God is spiritual and good. It was given to Israel and is a guide to all humanity for it embodied the will of God how man ought to walk. Through the Law we know what is good and evil. It was not intended to save us. It was not intended to give us eternal life. For if righteousness and justification came through the Law then Christ died in vain. Our fallen nature kept fighting against the Law. The Law is perfect but it did not worked for us but worked death in us. For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. So that through the Law it leads us to Christ who died for us and redeemed us from it’s curse. For whoever breaks one point of the Law is guilty of all. And through faith in Him we are set free from all things. God promised Abraham before the Law was given that we shall be blessed, justified and made righteous by faith as Abraham believed God. So then the Law has served its purpose. God before has written them in the tablets of stone but now His Spirit has written them in our hearts that we might obey them. Therefore we are saved by grace through faith in Christ and we please God through the Law of the Spirit. Habakkuk says, “The just shall live by faith.” We obey and keep His Law through the Spirit because He has saved and forgiven us.
Title: Success God’s Way
Context: Book Of Joshua
Key Words: Be strong and courageous, this book of the law shall not depart, meditate it day and night, success, command, consecrate, sin, repent, possess
Key Verses:
JOS 1:6 “Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land which I swore to their fathers to give them.
JOS 1:7 “Only be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may have success wherever you go.
JOS 1:8 “ This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success.
JOS 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Introduction:
God has delivered the Israelites from bondage from the Egyptians. With signs, wonders and miracles by the power of His right hand He has delivered them so that they can worship and serve God. After 430 years of slavery in Egypt God is about to fulfill His promise to Abraham and his descendants shall possess the Land. Moses has died and God called Joshua to take over. As He has been with Moses so He shall be with Joshua. The LORD gave instructions to Joshua so that he shall be successful. Two important commandments: Be courageous and not let the Book of the Law depart from him so that he may obey it and be successful. Let’s see how Joshua journeyed to victory and how they managed the struggles completely.
Body:
I. The Word
1. The Promise
a. God assured (Verses 1:1-4) 1Cor 1:20
b. God’s protection (Verses 5, 9) 2Thess 3:3
2. The Command
a. He speaks we listen (Verses 1:1-2, 3:7-9, 4:15-17)
b. Be courageous (Verses 6-7, 9) Act 23:11
c. Obey the Word (Verse 7-8) Jn 15:3-11, 7,11
d. Succeed (Verse 8) Deut 28
II. The Application
1. The Preparation
a. Cast the Vision (Verses 1:10-11)
b. Equip (Verse 11)
c. Delegate (Verses 12-18)
2. The Plan
a. Survey (Verses 2:1-2)
b. Assured protection (Verses 3-22, 10-11)
c. God moving (Verses 23-24)
3. The Execution
a. Set out (Verses 3:1-2)
b. God ahead (Verses 3-4, 6)
c. Consecrate (Verse 5)
d. Exalted (Verses 7, 14, 6:27)
e. God moves (Verses 5-17)
f. Remember His goodness (Verses 4:1-13, 19-24)
g. Obey and miracles happen (Verses 3:11-13, 4:15-18)
III. The Victory
1. The LORD’s Battle
a. Consecrate again (Verses 5:2-8)
b. Celebrate Passover (Verses 9-12)
c. The LORD’s Commander leads (Verses 5:13-6:2)
d. Listen (Verses 6:3-5)
e. Obey (Verses 6-16, 20)
f. Holiness in Victory (Verses 17-18)
g. Honor the LORD with the wealth (Verses 19, 24)
h. Only the wicked destroyed (Verses 21, 17, 22-23, 25)
2. Our Faithfulness
a. The defeat (Verses 7:1-9)
b. Sinfulness (Verses 1, 10-12)
c. Put away and destroy (Verses 12-25)
d. Lord appeased (Verse 26)
e. Victory (Verses 8:1-29)
f. Worshiped the LORD (Verses 30-35)
3. Victory upon victory
a. Served and feared (Verses 9:1-27)
b. God moves in (Verses 10:1-6, 7-15)
c. Victory (Verses 16-28)
d. Conquer (Verses 29-43)
e. Possession (Verses 11:1-23:16)
f. Faithfulness reaffirmed (Verses 24:1-28, 31)
Conclusion:
Who in the world does not want to succeed? We all want to be prosperous, blessed, and our plans completed as we wanted them done. But why do some fail and others succeed and why some have been victorious but at the end was their ruin. What is real blessing? What is success God’s way? Proverb 10:22 says, “The blessing of the LORD makes rich and He adds no trouble with it.” Do you want to succeed but with head aches or succeed with peace of mind and without fear and trouble? In the Book of Joshua we can read God’s way of success from beginning to the end. He said, “Be only courageous. Let not this Book of the Law depart from your mouth and shall meditate it day and night so that you may obey it and have success.” Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone but from every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Success God’s way is His way not ours. Joshua and the Israelites came from bondage in Egypt, from the wilderness into the possession of the Land. How they were able to do it? God led them. God spoke through Joshua and they obeyed. Joshua led the reading of the Book of the Law and commanded them to obey God and consecrate themselves. Their loss was when Achan sinned and hid the devoted things from the enemies that should be sent to the LORD’s treasuries. Disobedience and sinfulness brings defeat to us. God commanded that those who sinned be destroyed. When they have followed then the LORD was pleased. They continued their consecration and every battle the LORD gave them victory. They defeated many kings, conquered the Land, took possession and distributed among them, as God has promised to Abraham these lands were given to them. Success God’s way- be courageous for He is with You with all His promises, take the Word of God and obey it and abhor sin and the Commander of the LORD’s army- our Lord Jesus shall go ahead for us. If we obey blessings, if we live in sin defeat is at the door.
Title: David and His God
Context: 1 Samuel 17:1-58
Key Words: Philistines, Israel, God, Spirit of the Lord
Key Verses:
1SA 17:45 Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted.
1SA 17:46 “This day the LORD will deliver you up into my hands, and I will strike you down and remove your head from you. And I will give the dead bodies of the army of the Philistines this day to the birds of the sky and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel,
1SA 17:47 and that all this assembly may know that the LORD does not deliver by sword or by spear; for the battle is the LORD'S and He will give you into our hands.”
Introduction:
Who does not know the story of David and Goliath? Goliath was a great warrior from the Philistines. He stood more that 9 feet and his armor weighed 125 pounds. For forty days kept on taunting the Armies of Israel to bring a man to fight him. Israel was afraid of him. King Saul was already rejected by the LORD as king because he kept the spoil from war to be offered which the LORD commanded to be destroyed. The Prophet Samuel had anointed the young man David to be the next king of Israel. What is so special with David? Why did the LORD choose him? How did David face his battles in life? We are in constant battle with the Enemy. How do we face our daily battles?
Body:
I. The Lesser Opposition
1. What they see
a) Big (Verses 1Sam 17:1-4) Num 13:32-33
b Fearful (Verses 5-7) 2Kngs 6:15-18
2. What they heard
a) Boasting (Verses 8-11) Ps 20:7
b) Lies (Verses 23-24) Eph 6:16
II. The Greater Opposition
1. What David had
a) He is faithful (Verses 12-20, 22) Ps 25:18, 20-21
b) Knows their position (Verses 23, 26) Ps 1
c) Unfazed within (Verses 28-30, 33)
d) Courage (Verses 32) Ps 31:24 Josh 1:5-7
e) Confidence in the LORD (Verses 37) Ps 46:1, 50:15
2. The experience
a) What the LORD has done (Verses 34-37) Ps 77:11-12
b) Not man’s way (Verses 38-39) Ps 86:11
c) For all Ps 7:1, 31:1, 115:9, 124:8
III. Winning over the Opposition
1. Not by sword or spear (Verses 40) Ps 33:16-22 Eph 6:10
2. Not moved (Verses 41-44) Ps 27:1-3
3. In the Name and glory of the LORD (Verses 45-47) Ps 9:10, 20:5
4. But by the Spirit (Verses 16:13, 14, 23) Zech 4:6
5. Head on (Verses 48-50) Ps 18:31-38
6. Victorious spirit shared (Verses 51-53) Ps 20:5-8
Conclusion:
David was a great warrior of the LORD during his time. At a young age while tending the flock he has stopped the mouth of a lion and the paws of a bear. He has great faith and unwavering confidence in the LORD. He knew the LORD who has delivered him from all his adversaries. It was said that David was the man after God’s heart. He honored the LORD. He knew where he stood in the LORD. He walked with in integrity and faith. God has anointed him as King for He knew his heart. David was no different from us for we have the same Faithful Almighty God. God was able to deliver David. He is able to deliver all His children. Build that trust and confidence in the LORD. No mountain that is too big for our God. Let not the boasting and lies of the world put us down for the battle is the LORD’s not ours.
Title: Suffered for All
Context: Isaiah 53 with Psalms 22
Key Words: Servant, forsaken, despised, sheep, transgression, satisfied
Key Verses:
ISA 53:6 All of us like sheep have gone astray,
Each of us has turned to his own way;
But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all
To fall on Him.
PS 22:16 For dogs have surrounded me;
A band of evildoers has encompassed me;
They pierced my hands and my feet.
Introduction:
The death of our Lord Jesus Christ is the sacrifice God has planned before the foundation of the world. God knew man shall fall and in the beginning He has prepared salvation for him. Some religions do not believe He died and resurrected. Others believed He came from God, existed as a prophet but was not crucified. Some say Jesus did not die for all but only for some. But what does the scripture really say. Isaiah prophesied about someone who shall die for our sins, to whom God shall lay on our sins for a ransom. Let us take a look at the report from Isaiah. To whom was this prophesy fulfilled? Let us go back in time in the writings of Isaiah and David. Let us see what the apostles have testified also. What did Jesus say concerning the things that were written?
Body:
I. Plan of God
1. Message revealed (Verse 53:1)
a. Salvation proclaimed (Verses 52:7, 10) Ps 22:27-29
Rom 10:15-18 Lk 22:47
b. Justification for believers (Verse 53:11) Ps 22:25-26, 30-31
Rom 10:9-13, 3:21-26
2. Destined to suffer (Verse 53:2) Heb 9:25-26
c. Lord’s will and plan (Verse 10) Rev 13:8
3. Destined to die (Verse 12) Mk 9:31 Mt 26:31-32 Lk 22:44-46
d. With wicked men (Verse 9, 12) Mk 15:27-28 Lk 22:37
e. Buried in a rich man’s tomb (Verse 9) Mt 27:57-60
4. Exalted (Verse 12) Phil 2:8-11 Rom 14:11
II. Perfect Redemption
1. His suffering
f. Despised and forsaken (Verse 53:3) Ps 22:1-2, 6-7, 9-11
g. Bore our grief and pains (Verse 4) Mt 8:14-17
h. Punished by God (Verse 4)
i. Oppressed and afflicted (Verse 7) Ps 22:6-7, 12-13
j. Like a sheep for slaughter (Verse 7) Ps 22:14-15
k. Oppressed and Judged (Verse 8) Ps 22:16
2. His ransom
a. Pierced for our sins (crucifixion) (Verse 53:5) Ps 22:16-18
b. Crushed for our iniquities (Verse 5) Rom 4:25 1Cor 15:3
c. Chastised for our well-being (Verse 5) Rom 5:1,10 Eph 2:13-15
2Cor 5:18 Col 1:21
d. Wounded for our healing (Verse 5) 1Pet 2:24
e. Our iniquity fell on Him (Verse 6) 1Pet 2:24 Gal 3:13 Rom 8:3
f. Killed for the people’s sins (Verse 8) Dan 9:26 Mt 16:21 Mk 9:31
g. Sinless offering (Verse 9) 1Pet 2:21-22 1Jn 3:5
h. Satisfied in His suffering (Verse 11) Heb 10:1-14, 10-12
III. People Lost
1. Suffered for all (Verse 53:6) Jn 1:29, 4:42, 1Tim 4:10
1Jn 2:2, 4:14
a. All have gone astray (Verse 53:6) Rom 3:9-10, 5:12 Gal 3:22
b. Turned on his own way (Verse 6) Rom 3:11
c. Our sins upon Him (Verse 6, 12) Rom 5:8-10 1Pet 2:24, 3:18
2Cor 5:21
d. Life through Him 1Cor 15:21-22 Rom 5:15-19
2. Suffered for His people Act 20:28 Eph 5:25
d. Killed for their sins (Verse 53:8) Mt 1:21 Mk 9:31
e. See His people (Verse 10) Ps 22:22-25 Tit 2:14
f. Justify many (Verse 11) Ps 22:26 Rom 10:9-13,16
Jn 3:14-2, 10:16,26, 17:6-9
g. Bear their iniquities (Verses 11,12) Eph 5:1-2, 25
Conclusion:
The Lord is our salvation. Forgiveness is and comes from the Lord. He has redeemed His people. He has prepared a sacrifice. A ransom. An atoning perfect sacrifice- His Son our Lord Jesus Christ. Holy, blameless and without spot or wrinkle. Jesus paid it all. Through one man – Adam, death came to many through his disobedience and through the obedience of one man – Christ, life and justification came to many. He was obedient unto death. God was satisfied. Man has no excuse. Salvation is available for all but not all obeyed the gospel. We who had faith in Him, placed our trust in Him, on His finished work on Calvary were therefore justified through His death and resurrection. We were made perfect in Him. In that old rugged cross, He has become a sweet savor offering for us. By His offering we were perfected once and for all time. God has planned all of these. We are to give Him due honor, glory and praise. For Jesus has been exalted and now seated at the right hand of the Father. And He shall come again for us. Let us give thanks unto the Lord what He has done. Glory be unto God.
Title: God and His People
Context: Book of Malachi
Key Words: I have love you, profaned my altar, Lord will come, LORD not change, statutes, good and evil
Key Verses:
MAL 1:2 “I have loved you,” says the LORD. But you say, “How have You loved us?” “Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?” declares the LORD. “Yet I have loved Jacob;
MAL 3:1 “ Behold, I am going to send My messenger, and he will clear the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight, behold, He is coming,” says the LORD of hosts.
MAL 3:6 “For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed.
MAL 3:7 “From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from My statutes and have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return to you,” says the LORD of hosts. “But you say, ‘How shall we return?’
Introduction:
Malachi showed to Israel how God loved them and yet they have not returned that love from the Lord. The priests profaned the altar by offering rejected sacrifices and give partial instructions. Israel has dealt treacherously with his brothers. They worshiped foreign gods. They divorced their wives which the Lord hates. They say among themselves that evil is good in the sight of the Lord and that the proud shall be blessed. They had no regard for His statutes. They rob God by not giving their tithes and offerings. The LORD shall then come and those who feared the Lord shall be separated from those who are wicked.
Body:
I. God
1. Loves His people
a. Establishes Israel (Verses 1:1-5) Ezek 11:17
b. Not change (Verse 3:6) Ps 33:11
2. Corrects
a. Reverence to God (Verses 1:6-8, 12) Rom 1:21
b. God’s favor (Verses 1:9, 2:13) Jn 15:7, 16
c. Service to God (Verses 1:13, 3:13-14) Jb 21:14-15
d. On wickedness (Verses 2:17, 3:15) Is 5:20
e. On blessings (Verses 3:10-12) Am 5:21-24
3. Judges
a. Curses (Verses 1:14, 2:1-3, 3:8-9) Dt 28:15
b. Straight path (Verses 2:4-7) Zech 1:3-4
c. Cut off (Verse 2:12) Heb 10:28-31
II. Israel
1. Sin of the priests
a. Defiled the sanctuary (Verses 1:6-14) Lev 1:2, 10
b. Corrupted the priesthood (Verse 2:8) 2Kin 23:4-5
c. Taught falsely (Verse 2:9) Jer 5:31
2. Sin of the people
a. Dealt treacherously (Verse 2:10) Jer 6:13
b. Worshiped other gods (Verse 2:11) Ex 20:1-5
c. Divorce their wives (Verses 2:14-16) Ex 20:14
d. Not kept His statutes (Verse 3:7) Ps 78:10
e. Rob God (Verses 3:8-9) Lev 27:30
3. Those who feared
a. Fellowshipped (Verse 3:16) Ps 84:4,10 Heb 10:24-25
b. He heard (Verse 3:16) 1Pet 3:12
c. Remembered (Verse 3:16)
d. Spared (Verses 3:17-18)
4. Final admonition
a. Remember the Covenant (Verse 4:4) Rev 14:12
b. Restored on the last day (Verses 4:5-6) Rom 11:11, 25-27
III. The Son of God
1. Coming foretold (Verse 3:1) Mk 1:1-3 Mt 11:10
2. Purifies (Verses 3:2-4) Jer 23:5-6
3. Judges (Verse 3:5) Rev 11:18, 22:12
a. Wicked destroyed (Verses 4:1) 2Thess 1:7-9
b. Righteous reign (Verse 4:2) 2Thess 1:10-12 Rev 20:4
Conclusion:
Our God is a consuming fire. He corrects His people so that we may not be judged with the world. Israel in the olden times has forsaken the LORD and disobeyed His statutes. They had no regard for His ways nor revere His Name. They even say, “The arrogant and wicked shall be blessed and escape the LORD”. “What shall it benefit us in serving God.” But because of these they were judged. History showed us down the ages how they were dispersed and scattered to many nations. How they suffered because they have rejected not only the Father who reared them but they have rejected the King the Son of God. People today have committed the same error. People removed God from their thoughts, from their hearts and from their lives. They have gone their own way. They have gone astray. So calamites and curses come their way. When they call upon God no help come. But those who feared the LORD were heard and spared. The LORD listens to them and they were blessed. If only the people repent and come to the Light, healing shall come to their lives. Arise people of God. Let the sun of righteousness shine in our lives so that there be healing to the world. Let Light overcome darkness. For the LORD is with us. He has not changed. His words stand forever. And He is the rewarded of them that do what is good and right.
Title: Jesus our King
Context: Book of Matthew
Key Words: Jesus, king, heals, teaches, Lord, Jerusalem, Temple, suffering, resurrection
Key Verses:
Mt 1:23 “The virgin is going to have a baby. She will give birth to a son. And he will be called Immanuel.” The name Immanuel means “God with us.”
Mt 2:2 They asked, “Where is the child who has been born to be King of the Jews? When we were in the east, we saw his star. Now we have come to worship him.”
Mt 21:5 “Say to the city of Zion,
‘See, your King comes to you.
He is gentle and riding on a donkey.
He is riding on a donkey’s colt.’”
Mt 25:31 “The Son of Man will come in all his glory. All the angels will come with him. Then he will sit on his throne in the glory of heaven.
Mt 25:32 All the nations will be gathered in front of him. He will separate the people into two groups. He will be like a shepherd who separates the sheep from the goats.
Mt 25:33 He will put the sheep to his right and the goats to his left.
Mt 25:34 “Then the King will speak to those on his right. He will say, ‘My Father has blessed you. Come and take what is yours. It is the kingdom prepared for you since the world was created.
Mt 27:11 Jesus was standing in front of the governor. The governor asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?”
“Yes. It is just as you say,” Jesus replied.
Introduction:
Matthew was one of the apostles Jesus called. History tells us that he wrote this book. He was a Hebrew and Jew and the context of his writings was generally for the Jewish believers but also for all humanity for He is the coming King of kings and Lord of lords. Matthew showed the human ancestry of the Christ from king David and from the tribe of Judah. He is indeed the King that came down to us. He is Immanuel, God with us. He was worshiped at birth by three wise men as the born king of the Jews. Jesus fulfilled His ministry. He was asked if He is the King of the Jews and He answered yes. At His teachings when He comes again, He shall sit on Hs Throne as King and judge all the people. He has come and showed us who He really was.
Body:
I. The Presentation of the King
1. Genealogy of the Messiah (Verses 1:1-17)
2. Conception and Birth of Jesus (Verses 1:18-25)
3. The Visit of the Magi (Verses 2:1-12)
4. The Flight to Egypt (Verses 2:13-15)
5. Herod Slaughters Babies (Verses 3:16-23)
6. John the Baptist Prepares the Way (Verses 3:1-12)
7. The Baptism of Jesus (Verses 3:13-17)
II. The Ministry of the King
1. The Temptation of Jesus (Verses 4:1-11)
2. Jesus Begins His Ministry (Verses 4:12-17)
3. The First Disciples (Verses 4:18-22)
4. Ministry in Galilee (Verses 4:23-25)
5. Jesus Cleanses a Leper (Verses 8:1-4)
6. The Centurion’s Faith (Verses 8:5-13)
7. Peter’s Mother-in-law Healed (Verses 8:14-15)
8. Many Healed (Verses 8:16-17)
9. Jesus Calms the Storm (Verses 8:23-27)
10. The Healing of Two Demon-possessed Men (Verses 8:28-24)
11. Jesus Heals a Paralytic (Verses 9:1-8)
12. The Calling of Matthew (Verses 9:9-13)
13. A Dead Girl and a Sick Woman (Verses 9:18-26)
14. Jesus Heals the Blind and Mute (Verses 9:27-34)
15. The Workers Are Few (Verses 9:35-38)
16. Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples (Verses 10:1-4)
17. Instructions for Service (Verses 10:5-15)
18. A Hard Road before Them (Verses 10:16-23)
19. The Meaning of Discipleship (Verses 10:24-39)
20. The Reward of Service (Verses 10:40-42)
21. John the Baptist’s Questions (Verses 11:1-6)
22. Jesus’ Tribute to John the Baptist (Verses 11:7-19)
23. Woe on Unrepentant Cities (Verses 11:20-24)
24. Rest for the Weary (Verse 11:25-30)
25. God’s Chosen Servant (Verses 12:15-21)
26. Jesus and Beelzebub (Verses 12:22-29)
27. The Unpardonable Sin (Verses 12:30-32)
28. John the Baptist Beheaded (Verses 14:1-12)
29. Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand (Verses 14:13-21)
30. Jesus Walks on the Water (Verses 14:22-36)
31. The Faith of the Canaanite Woman (Verses 15:21-28)
32. Healing Crowds (Verses 15:29-31)
33. Four Thousand Fed (Verses 15:32-39)
34. The Healing of a Boy With a Demon (Verses 17:14-23)
35. Search for one lost sheep (Verses 18:12-14)
36. Sight for the Blind (Verses 20:29-34)
37. Lament over Jerusalem (Verses 23:37-39)
III. The Teachings of the King
1. The Sermon on the Mount; The Beatitudes (Verses 5:1-12)
2. Salt and Light (Verses 5:13-16)
3. The Fulfillment of the Law (Verses 5:17-20)
4. Murder (Verses 5:21-26)
5. Adultery (Verses 5:27-30)
6. Divorce (Verses 5:31-32)
7. Oaths (Verses 5:33-37)
8. An Eye for an Eye (Verses 5:38-40)
9. Love Your Enemies (Verses 5:43-48)
10. Giving to Needy People (Verses 6:1-4)
11. Prayer (Verses 6:5-13)
12. Fasting (Verses 6:16-18)
13. Treasures in Heaven (Verse 6:19-24)
14. Do Not Worry (Verses 6:25-34)
15. Do not Judge (Verses 7:1-6)
16. Ask, Seek, Knock (Verses 7:7-12)
17. The Narrow and Wide Gates (Verses 7:13-14)
18. A Tree and Its Fruit (Verses 7:15-23)
19. The Wise and Foolish Builders (Verses 7:24-29)
20. The Cost of Following Jesus (Verses 8:18-22)
21. Jesus Questioned About Fasting (Verses 9:14-15)
22. New and Old (Verses 9:16-17)
23. Words Reveal Character (Verses 12:33-37)
24. Wicked Generation (Verses 12:43-45)
25. Jesus’ Mother and Brothers (Verses 12:46-50)
26. The Parable of the Sower (Verses 13:1-9)
An Explanation (Verses 13:10-17)
The Sower Explained (Verse 13:18-23)
27. Tares among Wheat (Verses 13:24-30)
28. The Mustard Seed (Verses 13:31-32)
29. The Leaven (Verses 13:33-35)
30. The Tares Explained (Verses 13:36-43)
31. Hidden Treasure (Verse 13:44)
32. A Costly Pearl (Verses 13:45-46)
33. A Dragnet (Verses 13:47-52)
34. A Prophet Without Honor (Verses 13:53-58)
35. Tradition and Commandment (Verses 15:1-14)
36. The Heart of Man (Verses 15:15-20)
37. Cost of Discipleship (Verses 16:24-28)
38. The Temple Tax (Verses 17:24-27)
39. The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven (Verses 18:1-6)
40. Stumbling Blocks (Verses 18:7-11)
41. When Someone Sins Against You (Verses 18:15-20)
42. The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant (Verses 18:21-35)
43. Concerning Divorce (Verses 19:1-12)
44. Kingdom belongs to children (Verses 19:13-15)
45. Rich Young Ruler (Verses 19:16-26)
46. The Disciples’ Reward (Verses 19:27-30)
47. Laborers in the Vineyard (Verses 20:1-16)
48. A Mother Asks a Favor of Jesus (Verses 20:20-28)
49. The Barren Fig Tree (Verses 21:18-22)
50. Parable of Two Sons (Verses 21:28-32)
51. Parable of the Landowner (Verses 21:33-46)
52. Parable of the Marriage Feast (Verses 22:1-14)
53. Paying Taxes to Caesar (Verses 22:15-22)
54. Marriage at the Resurrection (Verses 22:23-33)
55. The Greatest Commandment (Verses 22:34-40)
56. Parable of Ten Virgins (Verses 25:1-13)
57. Parable of the Talents (Verses 25:14-30)
IV. The Rejection of the King
1. Sabbath Questions (Verses 12:1-7)
2. The Demand for a Sign (Verses 16:1-4)
3. The Yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees (Verses 16:5-12)
4. Pharisaism Exposed (Verses 23:1-12)
5. Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees (Verses 23:13-36)
6. The Plot to Kill Jesus (Verses 12:14, 26:1-5)
7. Jesus Foretells His Death (Verses 16:21-23)
8. Death, Resurrection Foretold (Verses 20:17-19)
9. Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus (Verses 26:14-16)
10. Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial (Verses 26:31-35)
11. The Garden of Gethsemane (Verses 26:36-46)
12. Jesus’ Betrayal and Arrest (Verses 26:47-56)
13. Jesus before Caiaphas (Verses 26:57-68)
14. Peter’s Denials (Verses 26:59-75)
15. Judas’ Remorse (Verses 27:1-10)
16. Jesus before Pilate (Verses 27:11-26)
17. Jesus Is Mocked (Verses 27:27-32)
18. The Crucifixion (Verses 27:33-56)
19. Jesus Is Buried (Verses 27:57-66)
V. The Triumph of the King
1. Lord of the Sabbath (Verses 12:8-13)
2. The Sign of Jonah (Verses 12:38-40)
3. Greater than Jonah and Solomon (Verses 12:41-42)
4. Peter’s Confession of Christ (Verses 16:13-20)
5. The Transfiguration (Verses 17:1-13)
6. The Triumphal Entry at Jerusalem (Verses 21:1-11)
7. Cleansing the Temple (Verses 21:12-17)
8. Authority Challenged (Verses 21:23-27)
9. Whose Son Is the Christ? (Verses 22:41-46)
10. Signs of Christ’s Return (Verses 24:1-14)
11. Perilous Times (Verses 24:15-28)
12. The Glorious Return (Verses 24:29-31)
13. Parable of the Fig Tree (Verses 24:32-41)
14. Be Ready for His Coming (Verses 24:42-51)
15. The Judgment (Verses 25:31-46)
16. Jesus Anointed at Bethany (Verses 26:6-13)
17. The Lord’s Supper (Verses 27:17-30)
18. Jesus Is Risen! (Verses 28:1-15)
19. The Great Commission (Verses 28:16-20)
Conclusion:
Jesus is our King. When He was born wise men came and worshiped Him. When He came into the world God commanded all His angels to worship Him. Christ, the Son of God is the King God installed on His Throne. He came on earth and brought His Kingdom. We have entered His Kingdom through faith in Him. He is God with us. He is the Lord of the Sabbath. He is the One greater than Jonah and greater than King Solomon. He transfigured among His three apostles and shown His glory. He was not David’s son for David called Him Lord and his Lord. Though Jesus was the King of heaven and earth He humbled Himself and obeyed His Father so that we who were poor shall become rich and become sons of God and sons of the King. So that we who dwell in darkness shall see and be in His glorious and marvelous light. Jesus is our King. Let us live as sons of the King- having an honorable and pleasing life worthy of our calling. For He shall come as the King of kings and Lord of lords. We shall reign with Him and be with Him in His Kingdom forever and ever.
Title: Temptation of Jesus
Context: Matthew 3:13-4:11
Key Words: hungry, tempter, words that comes from the mouth of God, it is written, away from me Satan
Key Verse:
Mt 4:4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’’”
Introduction:
Our Lord Jesus Christ took the human form. He was like all of us. He thirst, hunger and was tempted like all of us yet He was without sin. When He fasted for forty days before He began His ministry He was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the Devil. How did Jesus respond to these temptations? What can we learn and emulate from our Master? What should be our disposition even before temptations come and when we are tempted what shall be our response? After His baptism the Father called Him His Son in whom He is well pleased then was tempted. Our temptations come after we become children of God.
Body:
I. The Beginning
1. Baptized (Verses 3:13-16)
a. Our conversion Mt 28:19
2. Son of God (Verses 3:17) 17:5
a. Becoming His children Jn 1:12 Gal 3:26
II. The Temptations
1. Physical need (Verses 4:1-3)
a. Compromising truth for cravings Heb 11:24-26, 12:16-17
2. Put doubts, misquotes and tests (Verses 4:5-6) Ps 91:11-12
a. Liar and accuser Jn 8:44 2Thess 2:10 Rev 12:10
3. Lust for the world (Verses 4:8-9)
a. Love for the world 1Jn 2:15-17
III. The Responses
1. Live in His Word (Verses 4:4) 1Jn 2:14
2. It is written (Verses 4:7) 1Cor 4:6
3. Rebuke Satan (Verses 4:10) Mt 16:23 Js 4:6-8
4. Worship and serve God alone (Verses 4:11) Rom 12:2
Conclusion:
Jesus took the human form and became like us. He ate, slept and was tempted just like us. He knows where we are the weakest most and can identify with us so that when we are in need of grace He is there for us. He was tempted but He overcame. He wanted us also to overcome as He overcame. When the Devil tempted Him Jesus response was the truth of Word of God. We do not live by bread alone but from every Word that comes from the mouth of God. There are times when physical needs arise we tend to compromise the Word but Jesus taught us to have faith in the Word. The Devil casts doubts who we are in God, lies and accuses but we are unshaken because of what the Word of God says about us. The lust of this world may draw us away from God but if we know who we are to God, His promises to us, we shall offer ourselves to God and serve Him alone. As Jesus obeyed the Father and pleased Him, we too as His children ought to please Him in all aspects.
Title: Hear and Obey
Context: Matthew 7:13-29
Key Words: fruits, will, acts
Key Verse:
MT 7:24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock.
MT 7:25 “And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock.
Introduction:
In the book of Matthew and Luke, Jesus described that good trees can not produce bad fruits and bad trees can not produce good fruits. He warned the people of false prophets in sheep’s clothing. He also warned them of the outcome of hearing and obeying His words. Our Lord Jesus Christ knows His sheep. How can we know the sheep from the goats? Are you His sheep?
Body:
I. Not Hear
1. By their Fruits
a. Ravenous wolves (Verses 15) Mt 12:34-35 Jn 10:26
b. Bad Fruit (Verses 17-18, 20, 23) Mt 12:33
c. Not Act (Verse 26) Lk 6:46 Js 1:23-24
II. Hear
1. Does His Will
a. Hears (Verses 24) Jn 10:27
b. Acts (Verses 24) Jn 10:27 Js 1:25
c. Good Fruit (Verses 18) Lk 8:8 Jn 15:8,16
III. Their End
1. Goats
a. Fall (Verses 26-27) Js 1:26, 3:6
b. Into the Fire (Verses 19) Mt 3:10
c. Not Enter the Kingdom (Verses 21, 13) Mt 25:41-46
2. Sheep
a. Not Fall (Verses 24-25) Jn 10:28-30
b. Enter the Kingdom (Verses 21,14) Jn 10:28 Mt 25:32-40
Conclusion:
We have witnessed the tragedy and great fall and destruction of houses when a tsunami comes. There is nowhere to go. Nowhere to hold on. I remember the great flood during Noah’s time. No living thing survived in the earth except eight souls, Noah and his family together with the animals in the Ark. What made them survived? Jesus said, “He who hears my words and acts on them, he who does the will of the Father and if anyone keeps my word he shall never see death.” In John 10 Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice and I know them, they follow me and I give to them eternal life and they shall never perish. No man shall snatch them out of My Hand. If you are His sheep you shall bear fruit. No good tree can bring bad fruit. What is more tragic than a soul that perishes in hell? If you hear and obey His Words your life, future and eternity stand on the Rock that can never be shaken.
Title: Parable of the Sower
Context: Matthew 13:1-23 with Luke 8:1-21
Key Words: Sow, seeds, good soil, word of the kingdom, good soil, hear, understand, fruit
Key Verses:
MT 13:19 “When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is the one on whom seed was sown beside the road.
MT 13:23 “And the one on whom seed was sown on the good soil, this is the man who hears the word and understands it; who indeed bears fruit and brings forth, some a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty.”
Introduction:
Jesus spoke in parables when He taught about the Kingdom of God. The believers were given understanding of the mysteries of the Kingdom but those who disbelieve though they hear they can not understand. He talked about a sower who have sown seeds and fell on different grounds. The seed represent the word of the Kingdom and the grounds are the men who heard the word. Let us see how people respond when the word of God is preached.
Body:
I. The Sower
1. The Servants of God (Verse 13:3) Lk 8:1-3
a. Planters Lk 8:1, 16
b. Supporters Lk 8:2-3
2. The Field
a. Cities to villages Lk 8:1, 4
II. The Seed
1. The Message
a. Good News of the Kingdom (Verse 13:19) Lk 8:1
b. Word of God Lk 8:11
2. The Recipients
a. Disciples (Verses 13:10-12, 16-17)
b. Crowd (Verse 13:2) Lk 8:4
c. Disbelievers (Verses 13-15)
3. The Right Response
a. Hear and understand (Verses 13:9, 15, 23) Lk 8:8, 17-18
b. Honest and good heart Lk 8:15
c. Hear and do it Lk 8:21
4. The Snatcher
a. Devil takes away Lk 8:12
b. Not believe and be saved Lk 8:12
III. The Souls
1. Beside the road (Verse 13:4) Lk 8:12
a. Birds came and ate up (Verse 3)
b. Hears the Word (Verse 19)
c. Does not understand (Verse 19)
d. The evil one snatches the Word (Verse 19)
2. Rocky places (Verses 13:5) Lk 8:13
a. Have no much soil (Verse 5)
b. Scorched by the sun (Verse 6)
c. No root (Verse 6)
d. Withered away (Verse 6)
e. Hears the Word (Verse 20)
f. Receives with joy (Verse 20)
g. Word not firmly rooted (Verse 21)
h. Temporary (Verse 21)
i. Falls away due to affliction and persecution (Verse 21)
3. Among the thorns (Verse 13:7) Lk 8:14
a. Thorns came up (Verse 7)
b. Choked (Verse 7)
c. Hears the Word (Verse 22)
d. Worry of the world (Verse 22)
e. Deceitfulness of wealth (Verse 22)
f. Choked the Word (Verse 22)
g. Word becomes unfruitful (Verse 22)
4. Good soil (Verse 13:8) Lk 8:15
a. Yielded a crop (Verse 8)
b. Hears the Word (Verse 23)
c. Understand it (Verse 23)
d. Brings manifold fruits (Verse 23)
Conclusion:
Whenever the Word of God is preached do you hear and understand? Others hear the word, not understand and the devil snatches the word sown in their hearts so that they could not believe and be saved. Some receive it with joy but when troubles come because it has no root and it was temporary he falls away. Others hear the word but the worries, riches and pleasures of this world choked the word and become unfruitful. But those with honest and good hearts hear, understand, take it into heart and bear fruit- some hundredfold, others sixty and thirty. People who have noble and good hearts hear and understand and are saved and bear fruit. And the disciples also understand the word of the Kingdom and bear fruit. James said, “Be not merely hearers of the Word but doers.” John said, “Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.” Jesus said, “He who is of God hears God’s word.” “If you continue in My Words, then you are My disciples indeed.” “My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.” “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.” Jesus summoned the people and said, “He that has an ear let him hear and understand.”
Title: Second Coming
Context: Matthew 24-25:46 with Mark 13 and Luke 21
Key Words: Signs, coming, tribulation, elect, watch
Key Verses:
MT 24:29 “But immediately after the tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.
MT 24:30 “And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory.
MT 24:31 “And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.
Introduction:
The disciples pointed to Jesus the Temple buildings and He responded none shall be left unturned. They asked Him what will be the sign of His coming and the end of the age. When shall be the coming again of our Lord Jesus? What shall be the events before and after that coming? As believers, what did the Lord admonish us? The Lord Jesus appeared to the disciples for forty days after His resurrection. When He was taken up into Heaven the angels said He shall return in the same manner when He was taken up in the sky. Today, we are looking for His glorious Return.
Body:
I. The Time
1. No one knows the day and hour (Verses 24:36) Mk 13:32 Act 1:6-7
2. The signs of His coming
a. False christs (Verses 24:4-5)
b. Wars and rumors of wars (Verses 6-7)
c. Famines (Verses 7)
d. Earthquakes (Verses 7)
e. Saints killed and hated (Verses 9)
f. Falling away and betrayal (Verses 10)
g. False prophets will deceive (Verses 11)
h. Wickedness increased (Verses 12)
i. Love grow cold (Verses 12)
j. Gospel preached unto all (Verses 13)
3. Before His Coming
a. Abomination of Desolation (Verses 24:15)
Dan 9:27, 7:25, 8:23-25, 11:31, 12:11
Antichrist desecrates the Temple (Verses 2 Thess 2:3-4)
Jerusalem trampled with armies (Verses Lk 21:20-24)
b. The Great tribulation (Verses 21)
c. False christs (Verses 24-26)
d. Signs and wonders (Verses 24)
e. Right at the door (Verses 32-33)
II. The Event
1. The Second Coming
a. Is the Day of the Lord (Verses 1Thess 4:15, 5:2, 2Thess 2:1-2)
b. Visible Appearing (Verses 24:23, 26-28) Lk 17:23-24
c. Saints resurrected (Verses 24:29-31) Lk 21:25-28 Mk 13:24-28
1Jn 3:2 1Thess 4:14 2Thess 2:1
2. After the Great Tribulation
a. After the Antichrist is revealed (Verses 24:29) 2Thess 2:1-4, 8
b. Heavens shaken (Verses 29)
c. Sign of man appear (Verses 29)
d. All nations shall tremble and see (Verses 29)
e. Son of Man coming with power (Verses 30)
f. Angels sent (Verses 31)
g. Great Trumpet (Verses 31) 1Thess 4:16
h. Gather all the Elect (Verses 31) 1Thess 4:16-17
3. Likened in the Days of Noah (Verses 24:37)
a. People eating and drinking (Verses 38)
b. Marrying and given into marriage (Verses 38)
c. They did not understand (Verses 39)
d. Until the Son of Man comes (Verses 38-39)
e. One taken and other left (Verses 40-41, 31)
f. Thief of the night
To unbelievers (Verses 39) 2Pet 3:10
To wicked slaves (Verses 48-49) LK 12:45-46 Rev 3:3, 16:15
Not to wise believers (Verses 24:22-44) 1Thess 5:1-9
4. The Reign
a. Resurrection of the saints (Verses 24:31) Lk 21:28 Mk 13:27
b. Beast destroyed (Verses Rev 19:11-21)
c. Satan bound (Verses Rev 20:1-3)
d. Saints reign with Christ for 1,000 years (Verses Rev 20:4-6)
5. The Judgment
a. The King
On His Throne (Verses 25:31-33) Rev 20:11
b. Satan
Condemned (Verses 25:41) Rev 20:7-10
c. The Righteous
Unto Everlasting life (Verses 25:34, 46) Rev 20:6
d. The Wicked
Unto Everlasting punishment (Verses 25:41, 46) Rev 20:13-15
III. The Saints
1. The Wise Saints
a. Alert and ready (Verses 24:42-44)
b. Faithful and sensible (Verses 45)
c. Doing (Verses 46)
Love (Verses 25:35-40)
Righteous (Verses 25:37)
d. Will reign with Him (Verses 24:47, 25:21-23,34) Lk 12:43-44
2. The Evil Slaves
a. Not ready (Verses 24:48)
b. Not love (Verses 49)
c. Sin with the world (Verses 49)
d. Condemned (Verses 24:50-51, 25:10-13,26,30)
with unbelievers (Verses 25:41-45)
3. The Parable
a. Ten Virgins (Verses 25:1-13)
Saved (Verse 10)
Condemned (Verses 11-12)
Admonish (Verse 13)
b. Talents (Verses 25:14-30)
Saved (Verses 21, 23)
Condemned (Verses 26, 29-30)
Conclusion:
The Day of the Lord is the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a day of contrast. The sons of God revealed and glorified with their Lord and Savior. The wicked condemned. It shall be indeed a glorious day for the saints. It is the Day. We shall be changed. We shall be like Him. Perfect, holy and righteous bodies. We shall live forever. We shall see Him face to face. Eye to eye. We shall forever be with the Lord. Things shall never be the same again. All these were made possible because God sacrificed His Son for us on the cross for our eternal redemption. Praise, glory and honor to our King. Therefore watch, be ready and be alert. Let us continually love the brethren and others. Serve the Lord. Throw behind all filthiness and impurities of the flesh and of the mind. Give glory to Him- the coming great God and Savior. The coming King of kings and Lord of lords, the Only Son of God, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Title: Parable of the Talents
Context: Matthew 25:14-46 with Luke 19:11-27
Key Words: slaves, entrusted, talents, good and faithful slave, gained, hid, wicked lazy slave, King on His glorious Throne
Key Verses:
MT 25:21 “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’
MT 25:29 “ For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away.
MT 25:30 “Throw out the worthless slave into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
MT 25:31 “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne.
MT 25:32 “All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats;
MT 25:33 and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left.
MT 25:34 “Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
LK 19:14 “But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We do not want this man to reign over us.’
Introduction:
Jesus again spoke in parables to His disciples and to the crowd. The parable of the talents was spoken twice by the Lord. Once in Luke when He was in Jericho before His triumphant entry to Jerusalem, He spoke to the people. Another when He was already in Jerusalem when His disciples asked Him what shall be the sign of His coming and the end of age. In this parable He dealt with the Jews who do not want Him to be their King and with His disciples about the good, faithful and worthy servants. In the story He gave them talents (money) according to their abilities so that when He returned He shall gain from them. How did the story come about? A question is posed for us: How do we use the gifts and the abilities the Lord has given us? Have we been using it productively? When the King comes again can He say to us, “Well done thou good and faithful servant. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.” And the people with whom God has displayed His goodness, patience and kindness what shall their end should they reject the King in their lifetime?
Body:
I. The Master
1. King (Verses 25:31,34) Lk 19:12
2. Kingdom (Verse 34) Lk 19:12, 15
3. Shall return (Verses 31-33, 24:42) Lk 19:12
4. Accounting (Verse 19) Lk 19:15
II. The Servants
1. Talents
a. Different measures (Verse 25:15) Lk 19:13
2. Abilities
a. According to our sphere (Verse 15) Lk 19:13
3. Fruit
a. Multiply (Verses 16-17) Lk 19:16, 18
b. Barren (Verses 18, 24-25) Lk 19:20-21 Rev 2:26, 3:2
4. Reward
a. Faithful servants
Enter the Kingdom (Verses 20-23, 34-40) Lk 19:16-19
b. Wicked lazy servants
Condemned (Verses 24-30, 41-46) Lk 19:20-27
III. The World
1. Israel
a. Rejected the King Lk 19:11, 14
b. Condemned Lk 19:26-27
c. Jesus wept for them Mt 23:37-39 Lk 19:41-44
d. Saved at the end Mt 24:14 Lk 21:20-24 Rom 11:11-12, 25-29
2. People
a. Separated and Condemned Mt 25:31-33 Lk 19:26-2
Conclusion:
Time passes by. Life in the world goes on. People eat and drink and get drunk and were not saved. Deceived and being deceived. The people of the Lord serve their Master. When Jesus our King comes again and at Judgment Day He shall sit on His Glorious Throne and gather all nations. He shall separate the sheep from the goats and His good and faithful servants from the lazy and wicked servants. Judgment Day will come and all men shall be rewarded according to what they have done and according to what was written. God has given us the gifts and abilities. We are to bear fruit and multiply. We have to do His work and His good works. Time is ticking by and passing away. Can we hear now from our King these words, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.” Or these words, “You wicked, lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I did not sow and gather where I scattered no seed.” He commanded and equipped us with His abilities and according to our sphere. Let us serve Him bountifully and bear much fruit. For in due time we shall reap our reward. To him who lives, follows and works in and through the Spirit, glory, honor and life everlasting.
Let God use you wherever and whoever you are. Don’t hide your light.
Title: Jesus the Servant
Context: Book of Mark
Key Words: Follow, preaching, healing, casting out the demons, serve, teaching, suffer
Key Verse:
MK 1:17 And Jesus said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.”
MK 1:38 He *said to them, “Let us go somewhere else to the towns nearby, so that I may preach there also; for that is what I came for.”
MK 1:39 And He went into their synagogues throughout all Galilee, preaching and casting out the demons.
MK 8:6 And He *directed the people to sit down on the ground; and taking the seven loaves, He gave thanks and broke them, and started giving them to His disciples to serve to them, and they served them to the people.
MK 10:45 “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
Introduction:
Mark began his book with these words, “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” When Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist at the River Jordan the Holy Spirit descended upon Him and the Father spoke, “You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased.” God the Father was pleased with the Son and He loved Him. Jesus said that He came to do the will of the Father and has a work to finish. He obeyed unto death and God glorified the Son. Jesus said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” He left heaven’s glory to become like us in human form and offered His body as a sacrifice to God and brought us to God. He said, “Not My will but Your will be done.”
Body:
I. The Presentation of the Servant
1. The Son of God (Verses 1:1, 11)
a. Whose Son Is the Christ? (Verses 12:35-40, 14:61-64)
2. Baptizer of the Holy Spirit (Verses 1:8, 10)
3. Baptized (Verses 1:9-11)
4. The Lord
a. Prophesied Coming Lord (Verses 1:2-7)
b. Lord of the Sabbath (Verses 2:23-3:5)
c. The Transfiguration (Verses 9:1-13)
5. Forgives sins
a. Paralytic forgiven (Verses 2:5-11)
6. Power of the Spirit
a. Filled with the Spirit (Verses 1:12-13)
b. Jesus and Beelzebub (Verses 3:20-30)
II. The Ministry of the Servant
1. Praying
a. Alone with God (Verses 1:35)
2. Healing of the sick
a. Crowds Healed (Verses 1:29-45, 3:7-12, 6:54-56)
b. The Paralytic Healed (Verses 2:1-13)
c. A Dead Girl and a Sick Woman (Verses 5:21-43)
d. Dumb and deaf healed (Verses 7:31-37)
e. The Healing of a Blind Man at Bethsaida (Verses 8:22-26)
f. Blind Bartimaeus Receives His Sight (Verses 10:46-52)
3. Casting out demons
a. Unclean spirits (Verses 1:23-28, 38)
b. The Healing of a Demon-possessed Man (Verses 5:1-20)
c. The Syrophoenician Woman’s daughter (Verses 7:24-30)
4. Miracles
a. Jesus Calms the Storm (Verses 4:35-41)
b. Jesus Walks on the Water (Verses 6:45-51)
c. Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand (Verses 6:30-44)
d. Four Thousand Fed (Verses 8:1-26)
5. Preaching the Gospel
a. Jesus Preaches in Galilee (Verses 1:14-15)
6. Calling of Servants
a. Apostles (Verses 1:16-20, 2:14-15, 3:13-19)
b. Jesus Sends Out the Twelve (Verses 6:7-12)
c. Confession of Christ (Verses 8:27-33)
d. Servant’s Self-denial (Verses 8:34-38)
e. Servant’s Prayer and Faith (Verses 9:14-29)
f. Whoever Is Not Against Us Is for Us (Verses 9:38-41)
7. Teaching the Word
a. With Authority (Verses 1:21-22)
b. Jesus’ Mother and Brothers (Verses 3:31-35)
c. Parable of the Sower and Soils (Verses 4:1-12)
Explanation (Verses 4:13-20)
d. A Lamp on a Stand (Verses 4:21-25)
e. The Parable of the Growing Seed (Verses 4:26-29)
f. The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Verses 4:30-34)
g. A Prophet without Honor (Verses 6:1-6)
h. Followers of Tradition (Verses 7:1-13)
i. The Heart of Man (Verses 7:14-23)
j. Who Is the Greatest? (Verses 9:33-37)
k. Causing to Sin (Verses 9:42-50)
l. Divorce (Verses 10:1-12)
m. Children belongs to the Kingdom of God (Verses 10:13-16)
n. The Rich Young Man (Verses 10:17-31)
o. The Request of James and John (Verses 10:35-45)
p. The Withered Fig Tree (Verses 11:20-25)
q. The Parable of the Tenants (Verses 12:1-12)
r. Paying Taxes to Caesar (Verses 12:13-17)
s. Marriage at the Resurrection (Verses 12:18-27)
t. The Greatest Commandment (Verses 12:28-34)
u. The Widow’s Offering (Verses 12:41-44)
w. Signs of the End of the Age (Verses 13:1-23)
x. The Return of Christ (Verses 13:24-31)
y. Watch (Verses 13:32-37)
8. Oppositions
a. Plot to kill Jesus (Verses 3:6, 14:1-2)
b. Jesus Questioned About Fasting (Verses2:18-22)
c. John the Baptist Beheaded (Verses 6:14-29)
d. The Yeast of the Pharisees and Herod (Verses 8:14-21)
e. The Triumphal Entry (Verses 11:1-11)
f. Jesus Clears the Temple (Verses 11:12-19)
g. The Authority of Jesus Questioned (Verses 11:27-33)
III. The Finished Work of the Servant
1. His Suffering and Death
a. Death and Resurrection Foretold (Verses 9:30-37)
b. Jesus Again Predicts His Death (Verses 10:32-34)
c. Anointed at Bethany (Verses 14:3-9)
d. Judas conspired with the chief priest (Verses 14:10-11)
e. The Lord’s Supper (Verses 14:12-26)
f. Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial (Verses 14:27-31)
g. Gethsemane (Verses 14:32-42)
h. Jesus Arrested (Verses 14:43-52)
i. Before the Sanhedrin (Verses 14:53-65)
j. Peter Disowns Jesus (Verses 14:66-72)
k. Jesus Before Pilate (Verse 15:1-15)
l. The Soldiers Mock Jesus (Verses 15:16-20)
m. The Crucifixion (Verses 15:21-32)
n. The Death of Jesus (Verses 15:33-41)
o. The Burial of Jesus (Verses 15:42-47)
2. His Resurrection
a. He has Risen (Verses 16:1-13)
3. Great Commission
a. The Disciples Commissioned (Verses 16:14-20)
Conclusion:
Our Lord Jesus Christ is God’s Servant. He was prophesied to be the Anointed One and filled by the Spirit to set free people from captives, from their sins, from their sicknesses and diseases. At the cross all our sorrows and sins were laid upon Him. He suffered affliction for our sake. He came and set people free. He healed and released many from unclean spirits. He taught and preached the Word of God. He fed thousands. Jesus said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” When the Christ took the human form He gave His all. He thought not of Himself but what is for our own good. He gave His life and died so we can live. Though He is the Son of God He learned obedience to the Father. He served, suffered and died for us. He left an example for us that we too share in His sufferings as we serve God. Not returning evil for evil but doing the will of God. He has chosen His apostles, made them fishers of men and commanded to preach the gospel to all the world. Therefore let us continue the work of God. Let us serve as Jesus served. Let us serve rather than be served upon.
Title: Kingdom of God
Context: Mark 1:1-45
Key Words: Beginning of the gospel, kingdom of God, preach
Key Verse:
MK 1:15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”
Introduction:
What is the Kingdom of God? Where it is? Has it arrived 2,000 years ago? How do we enter into it? If it’s here how do we see it? What’s in the Kingdom? Our Lord God has promised to send us a Savior and He sent His Son our Lord Jesus Christ. He established the Kingdom of God on earth and its advancing and its spreading and its growing. If we believers have entered the Kingdom what’s happening therein? And what should we be doing?
Body:
I. The Assurance
1. Initiation
a. God (Verses 1:1-2, 14-15) Is 42:1 Mal 3:1
2. Preparation
a. His Messenger (Verses 1:3-8) Is 40:3
3. Confirmation
a. Son of God (Verses 1:9-13) Ps 2:7 Mt 17:1-5
II. The Assembling
1. His Calling (Verses 1:16-20) Act 9:15
a. Servants (Verse 17) Act 13:47
2. His Teaching (Verse 1:21) Lk 5:1
a. With authority (Verses 22)
b. With power (Verses 23-27)
III. The Advancing
1. Salvation & Healing (Verses 1:15, 28-34, 2:5) Is 61:1 1Pet 2:24
a. People are sick (Verses 32, 34) Lk 5:15 Mt 12:43-45 Jn 8:34-36
b. Caused by demons (Verses 23-26,32,34) Lk 6:18, 8:2
2. Power
a. Word (Verses 1:15, 22) Ps 107:20-21 Act 14:3
b. Spirit of God (Verse 12) Mt 12:28-29
c. Intimacy and Prayer (Verses 11-13, 35) Mt 17:18-21
3. Preaching
a. Spread (Verses 1:28, 33, 37-39) 2Thess 3:1
b. Testimony (Verses 40-45) Mt 10:18 Act 1:8
Conclusion:
Glory to God. His Kingdom is in our midst. The Kingdom of God is joy, peace and righteousness in the Holy Spirit. It is God working in our lives. People are being delivered and saved from the power of darkness unto the power of God. Our Lord Jesus our King and Lord is in command. In His name, we His servants are moving forward preaching the gospel in the power of His Spirit. Healing and delivering people who are oppressed by the devil. We conquer. We dominate. We advance His Kingdom and His Word.
Title: Just Believe
Context: Mark 5:21-43
Key Words: your faith has healed you, don’t be afraid, believe,
Key Verses:
Mk 5:27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak,
Mk 5:28 because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.”
Mk 5:29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.
Mk 5:34 He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”
Mk 5:36 Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
Introduction:
What makes our prayers answered? What makes miracles? What pleases God? What moves mountains? Faith. Jesus said, “Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’”Without faith it is impossible to please God. We have two stories here. A child who died and a woman was bleeding for twelve years. The woman believed and was healed. Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Don’t be afraid, just believe.” Here we have two different environments and how Jesus dealt with them.
Body:
I. Jarius
1. His need (Verse 5:23)
2. His worship (Verse 5:22)
3. His pleading (Verse 5:23)
4. His confession (Verse 5:23)
5. The child died (Verse 5:35)
6. The child resurrected (Verses 5:41-42)
II. The Woman
1. Her sickness (Verse 5:25)
2. Hopeless (Verse 5:26)
3. She heard (Verse 5:27)
4. Believed and acted (Verses 5:27-28)
5. Healed instantly (Verse 5:29)
III. Jesus’ Response
1. To Jarius
a. He went (Verse 5:24)
b. Jesus’ command (Verses 5:35-36)
c. His confession (Verse 5:39)
d. Chose His companion (Verses 5:37, 40-42)
2. To the Woman
a. Looked for the woman (Verses 5:30-32)
b. Advised the woman (Verses 5:33-34)
Conclusion:
For without faith it is impossible to please God. We don’t receive because we don’t ask. We don’t receive because we don’t believe Him. Jesus was about to heal the daughter of Jarius, a ruler of the synagogue, and on His way she died. He commanded Jarius, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” Many disbelieved and laughed at Him but Jesus put them all out and went in with James, John and Peter and the child’s parents, He raised the child. And the woman who was sick and bleeding for twelve years had spent all she had but the doctors can’t do anything. But when she heard about Jesus, she believed. And she acted, and thought if she could touch His garments she could be healed. And she was indeed healed. Jesus looked for her and when she came out, He said, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” Yes, it is God who heals. It is God who answers prayers. But do you want Him to be pleased and be glorified and your prayers answered? If you think it’s over don’t be afraid. Just believe. Like the woman she believed in her heart and in her thoughts. And she acted that faith. And God moved. He who comes to God must believe that He is and He rewards them who diligently seek Him.
Title: Jesus Son of Man
Context: Book of Luke
Key Words: Son of Man, Lord, Savior, heals, forgives, casts out demons, teaches
Key Verses:
Lk 5:24 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins. . . .” He said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.”
Lk 6:5 Then Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”
Lk 18:31 Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, “We are going up to
Jerusalem, and everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of
Man will be fulfilled.
Lk 19:10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”
Lk 22:67 “If you are the Christ,’” they said, “tell us.”
Jesus answered, “If I tell you, you will not believe me,
Lk 22:68 and if I asked you, you would not answer.
Lk 22:69 But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God.”
Lk 22:70 They all asked, “Are you then the Son of God?”
He replied, “You are right in saying I am.”
Lk 24:7 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ”
Introduction:
Jesus said that He came down from Heaven. What He heard and seen from the Father He has made known to us. He was with the Father from the beginning even before time. God foresaw everything in the future. He ordained the coming of Christ to be the Savior of the world. Christ was in the form of God and existed as the Son of God took the human form and became like us. Everything was prophesied- His virgin birth and from the clan of Judah where which He shall come from. And the angel said, “You shall call His Name Jesus.” Jesus the Son of the Most High, the Son of Man, the Son of God.
Body:
I. The Son of Man
1. The Humanity of Jesus
a. Luke Writes an Orderly Report (Verses 1:1-4)
b. Genealogy of Jesus (Verses 3:23-38)
c. Birth of John the Baptist Foretold (Verses 1:5-25)
d. Jesus’ Birth Foretold (Verses 1:26-38)
e. Mary Visits Elizabeth (Verses 1:39-45)
f. Mary’s Song (Verses 1:46-56)
g. John the Baptist Is Born (Verses 1:57-66)
h. Zacharias’ Prophecy (Verses 1:67-80)
i. Jesus’ Birth in Bethlehem (Verses 2:1-7)
j. Joseph and Mary Take Jesus to the Temple (Verses 2:21-38)
k. Return to Nazareth (Verses 2:39-40)
l. The Boy Jesus at the Temple (Verses 2:41-52)
2. The Lord
a. Angels Appear to the Shepherds (Verses 2:8-20)
b. John the Baptist Prepares the Way (Verses 3:1-20)
c. Jesus Is Baptized (Verses 3:21-22)
d. The Temptation of Jesus (Verses 4:1-13)
e. Lord of the Sabbath (Verses 6:1-11)
f. Jesus and John the Baptist (Verses 7:18-35)
g. Jesus Forgives a Sinful Woman (Verses 7:36-50)
h. Jesus Calms the Storm (Verses 8:22-25)
i. Peter’s Confession (Verses 9:18-27)
j. The Transfiguration (Verses 9:28-36)
k. Jesus and Beelzebub (Verses 11:14-28)
l. The Sign of Jonah (Verses 11:29-32)
m. Second Coming Foretold (Verses 17:20-37)
n. Triumphal Entry of the King (Verses 19:28-44)
o. Traders Driven from the Temple (Verses 19:45-48)
p. Jesus’ Authority Questioned (Verses 20:1-8)
q. Whose Son Is the Christ? (Verses 20:41-47)
II. The Ministry of the Son of Man
1. Rejection
a. Jesus Rejected at Nazareth (Verses 4:14-30)
b. Samaritan Opposition (Verses 9:51-56)
c. Jesus’ Sorrow for Jerusalem (Verses 13:31-35)
2. Calls Servants
a. The Calling of the First Disciples (Verses 5:1-11)
b. The Calling of Levi (Verses 5:27-32)
c. The Twelve Apostles (Verses 6:12-16)
d. Jesus Sends Out the Twelve (Verses 9:1-9)
e. Jesus Sends Out the Seventy-two (Verses 10:1-24)
3. Casts out demons
a. Jesus Drives Out an Evil Spirit (Verses 4:31-37)
b. The Healing of a Demon-possessed Man (Verses 8:26-39)
4. Heals
a. Jesus Heals Many (Verses 4:38-44)
b. The Man With Leprosy (Verses 5:12-16)
c. Jesus Heals a Paralytic (Verses 5:17-26)
d. Healed Many (Verses 6:17-19)
e. Jesus Raises a Widow’s Son (Verses 7:11-17)
f. A Dead Girl and a Sick Woman (Verses 8:40-56)
g. Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand (Verses 9:10-17)
h. The Healing of a Boy With an Evil Spirit (Verses 9:37-45)
i. A Crippled Woman Healed on the Sabbath (Verses 13:10-17)
j. Jesus Heals on the Sabbath (Verses 14:1-6)
k. Ten Healed of Leprosy (Verses 17:11-19)
l. Bartimaeus Receives Sight (Verses 18:35-40)
5. Saves
a. Zaccheus Converted (Verses 19:1-10)
III. The Teachings of the Son of Man
1. Jesus Questioned About Fasting (Verses 5:33-39)
2. Blessings and Woes (Verses 6:20-26)
3. Love for Enemies (Verses 6:27-36)
4. Judging Others (Verses 6:37-42)
5. A Tree and Its Fruit (Verses 6:43-45)
6. The Wise and Foolish Builders (Verses 6:46-49)
7. The Faith of the Centurion (Verses 7:1-10)
8. The Parable of the Sower (Verses 8:1-15)
9. A Lamp on a Stand (Verses 8:16-18)
10. Jesus’ Mother and Brothers (Verses 8:19-21)
11. Who Will Be the Greatest? (Verses 9:46-50)
12. The Cost of Following Jesus (Verses 9:57-62)
13. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Verses 10:25-37)
14. Martha and Mary (Verses 10:38-42)
15. Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer (Verses 11:1-13)
16. The Lamp of the Body (Verses 11:33-36)
17. Woes upon the Pharisees (Verses 11:37-54)
18. Warnings and Encouragements (Verses 12:1-12)
19. The Parable of the Rich Fool (Verses 12:13-21)
20. Do Not Worry (Verses 12:22-34)
21. Watchfulness (Verses 12:35-48)
22. Not Peace but Division (Verses 12:29-53)
23. Interpreting the Times (Verses 12:54-59)
24. Repent or Perish (Verses 13:1-9)
25. The Parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast (Verses 13:18-21)
26. The Narrow Door (Verses 13:22-30)
27. Parable of the Guests (Verses 14:7-15)
28. Parable of the Dinner (Verses 14:16-24)
29. Discipleship Tested (Verses 14:25-35)
30. The Lost Sheep (Verses 15:1-7)
31. The Lost Coin (Verses 15:8-10)
32. The Prodigal Son (Verses 15:11-32)
33. The Unrighteous Steward (Verses 16:1-18)
34. The Rich Man and Lazarus (Verses 16:19-31)
35. Sin, Faith, Duty (Verses 17:1-10)
36. Parables on Prayer (Verses 18:1-8)
37. The Pharisee and the Publican (Verses 18:9-17)
38. The Rich Young Ruler (Verses 18.18-34)
39 Parable of Money Usage (Verses 19:11-27)
40. Parable of the Vine-growers (Verses 20:9-18)
41. Tribute to Caesar (Verses 20:19-26)
42. The Resurrection and Marriage (Verses 20:27-40)
43. The Widow’s Offering (Verses 21:1-4)
44. Signs of the End of the Age (Verses 21:5-38)
45. Prayer and Temptation (Verses 22:39-46)
IV. The Offering of the Son of Man
1. The Betrayal and Denial
a. Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus (Verses 22:1-6)
b. The Last Supper (Verses 22:7-38)
c. Jesus Arrested (Verses 22:47-53)
d. Peter Disowns Jesus (Verses 22:54-62)
2. The Mockery
a. The Guards Mock Jesus (Verses 22:63-65)
b. Jesus before the Sanhedrin (Verses 22:66-71)
c. Jesus before Pilate (Verses 23:1-7)
d. Jesus before Herod (Verses 23:8-12)
e. Pilate Seeks Jesus’ Release (Verses 23:13-25)
3. The Crucifixion and Death
a. Simon Bears the Cross (Verses 23: 26-32)
b. Jesus is Crucified (Verses 23:33-43)
c. Jesus’ Death (Verses 23:44-49)
d. Jesus Is Buried (Verses 23:50-56)
4. The Resurrection
a. Jesus has Risen (Verses 24:1-12)
b. On the Road to Emmaus (Verses 24:13-35)
c. Other Appearances (Verses 24:36-49)
d. The Ascension (Verses 24:50-53)
Conclusion:
Jesus is called the Son of Man. He was born of a virgin. He is the Son of the Most High. His father was not human and God gave Him a body like us to fulfill God’s plan for man’s redemption. He condemned sin in the flesh. He who knew no sin became a sin for us. He was cursed on our behalf. God needed a holy, without blemish and perfect offering for our ransom. And Christ, the Son of God alone fitted that requirement. He is the Son of God the Life and Source of it and the Spirit of Christ can never die. God can not die so the Son of God took a human body. That body was offered sacrificed and was put to death and the Christ resurrected His body conquering and destroying death. Death has no power over Him nor can it hold Him. The blood was shed for the forgiveness of our sins. How great is the ransom God made for our sins. He loved the world and sent and gave His Son to be the Savior of the world. Christ was manifested and He took away the sins of the world and that whosoever shall believe in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Look unto the Son of Man, the Son of God, the Lord of glory. He has the power to forgive sins. He is the Author of life and Giver of it. He alone is the Son of Man, the Savior of the world.
Title: Sermon on the Mount
Context: Luke 6:12-49 with Matthew 5-7:29
Key Words: People, disciples, heal, teach, blessed
Key Verses:
Lk 6:20 Looking at his disciples, he said:
“Blessed are …
MT 5:48 “Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Introduction:
There is no greater teacher than our Lord Jesus Christ. In Him encompasses all wisdom and knowledge. Being God’s Son through whom the world was made, spoke in the hearing of all the people and His disciples. This is the Sermon on the Mount. His first sermon after He had called His Twelve Disciples who would later make and teach disciples also. Let us have an in-depth study in the Lord’s message and learn from them. It’s the greatest sermon ever preached. A Sermon with all authority and power.
Body:
I. The Good Teacher
1. Prays (Verses Lk 6:12) Mk 1:35
2. Chooses and delegates (Verses Lk 6:13-16, 40 Mt 4:18-22)
3. Compassion (Verses Lk 6:17-18 Mt 4:25-5:1)
4. Heals (Verses Lk 6:18-19 Mt 4:23-24)
5. With authority (Verses Lk 7:1 Mt 7:28-29)
II. The Disciples of the Kingdom
1. Blessed (Verses Lk 6:20-23 Mt 5:2-12) 1Pet 3:14, 4:14
2. The tree and its fruit (Verses Lk 6:43-45 Mt 7:15-23, 12:33)
3. Salt and Light (Verses Mt 5:13-16) Mk 9:50 Lk 11:33-36
4. Fulfills the Law (Verses Mt 5:17-20) Lk 16:17
5. Good works (Verses Mt 6:1-4, 5:16) Eph 2:10
6. Pray (Verses 6:5-15) Lk 18:1-8
7. Fast (Verses 16-18) Is 58:5-11
8. Build treasures in heaven (Verses 19-24) Lk 12:31-34, 16:13
9. Do not worry (Verses 25-34) Heb 13:5-6 Ps 37:25, 55:22
10. Ask, seek and knock (Verses Mt 7:7-12) Mk 11:24 Jn 14:13-14, 16:24
Js 1:5-6 1Jn 3:22, 5:14
III. The Disciples and the World
1. Love your enemies (Verses Lk 6:27-36 Mt 5:43-48) Rom 12:14
2. Woe (Verses Lk 6:24-26) Js 5:1-5
3. Do not judge (Verses Lk 6:37-42 Mt 7:1-6) Mk 4:23-25
Rom 2:1 1Cor 4:5
4. Do not condemn (Verse Lk 6:37) Jn 8:3-11 Rom 14:1-6
5. Forgive (Verses LK 6:37 Mt 6:14-15) Mk 11:25-26
6. Do not Murder (Verses Mt 5:21-26) 1Jn 3:14-15
7. No commit Adultery (Verses 27-30) Lk 16:18 Mk 10:11-12
8. Not Divorce (Verses 31-32, 19:7-9) Mk 10:11-12
9. Not Swear (Verses 33-37) Js 5:12
10. Not eye for an eye (Verses 38-42) Rom 12:17
11. Narrow and wide gates (Verses Mt 7:13-14, 21-23) Lk 13:24-30
12. The wise and foolish builder (Verses Lk 6:46-49 Mt 7:24-27)
Conclusion:
We are God’s children. We are the sons of God. We are children of light and not darkness. Our Father in heaven is perfect and Jesus taught us to be perfect like the Father. We walk as He walked on earth. In His sermon on the mount He showed us our difference from the world- in thoughts, in words and in deeds. Love God with all your heart, strength, mind and body. And love our neighbors as ourselves. Treat others as we would want others to treat us. Think others highly above ourselves. There is a denial of self for the Kingdom of God, for His glory, honor and praise. We should die so we can bear fruit and live. Whoever shall be last shall be the first. Love and bless your enemies. Do good and be peaceable to all men. Build up treasures in heaven and not on earth. God is faithful. He shall not forsake us. Ask and you shall receive that your joy may be full.
Title: Be Ready 24/7
Context: Luke 12:35-48
Key Words: readiness, keep, faithful, sensible, doing, beat, get drunk, unbelievers, required
Key Verses:
LK 12:35 “Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps lit.
LK 12:42 And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and sensible steward, whom his master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their rations at the proper time?
LK 12:43 “Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes.
LK 12:44 “Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions.
Introduction:
Jesus spoke a parable to His disciples about a master who was away from a wedding feast and his servants who were eager to open the door when he returns. The master too was ready to see his servants and reward each one for everything they have done while He was
away. Peter asked Jesus if this parable was for them or for someone else. The Lord answered, “Who then is the wise and sensible servant who when His master comes finds him doing and He shall put him in charge of all his possessions?” What are the things a good and sensible servant should have until the Lord comes again?
Body:
I. The Parable
1. The Master was away (Verse 12:36)
a. Ready to reward (Verses 37) Col 3:24 Heb 10:35 2Jn 1:8
Rev 11:18, 22:12
2. His Slaves waiting (Verse 12:36)
a. Alert (Verses 37-38) Mt 24:42, 25:13
b. Watch (Verses 38-39) Mk 13:33
c. House kept (Verse 39) Mt 24:43
II. The Lesson
1. The Faithful Servant
a. Ready (Verse 12:40) Mt 24:44
b. Faithful (Verse 42) Mt 24:45 1Cor 4:2
c. Sensible (Verse 42) Eph 1:18 Col 1:9 1Pet 4:1-2
d. Doing (Verse 43) Col 1:10 1Thess 1:3
2. The Unfaithful Servant
a. Negligent (Verse 12:45) Js 1:22-25 1Pet 1:4-11
b. Cruel (Verse 45) Rom 12:17 1Jn 3:14-18
c. Pleasure (Verse 45) 1Jn 2:15-17
3. The Reward
a. The Faithful
Put in charge (Verses 12:42, 44) Mt 25:21 2Tim 2:11-12
b. The Unfaithful
Condemned with unbelievers (Verse 46) Mt 25:24-30 Rev 3:3, 16:15
c. Other Servants
Judged accordingly (Verses 47-48) Js 4:17 1Cor 3:12-17
III. The Application
1. Dressed in Readiness (Verse 12:35) Eph 6:14 1Pet 1:13-16
a. Faithful and Sensible (Verse 42) Rom 12:2 Rev 3:3-5
1Cor 9:27 1Jn 1:7
2. Keep Lamps lighted (Verse 12:35) Jn 9:4
b. Doing (Verse 42) Jn 15:1-8 1Cor 15:58
Conclusion:
What do you think of the coming again of the Lord? Are you ready? What if He appears now in the heavens do you think you shall be welcomed? What would you wish to be doing when He comes again? Shall He find you in His will doing? Or shall He find you among the world with its negligence, cruelty and wanton pleasure? Jesus said we should be ready and be watchful at all times, every hour and everyday. A faithful, sensible and wise servant is he who does His will and keeps His commandments. He has unwavering faith. Has firm and resolute allegiance to God’s word and obeys it no matter what. He bears good fruit. He walks and lives in the Spirit. He walks in the Light and washed by the blood of the Lamb. He lives by and through faith. He gives testimony of the goodness of the Lord and the testimony of Jesus. He is peaceable to all men. He shows love for his brethren. God is glorified in him, in his words and deeds. Then when our Master Jesus comes again He shall take us with Him and be with Him forever. We shall live and reign with Him. Therefore be alert and watch for we do not know the hour and the day He shall come lest He comes to you as a thief in the night. Keep your clothes clean and your lamps burning. Be ready 24/7.
Title: Christ Son of God
Context: Book of John
Key Words: God, Son of God, Life, Light, Witness, Spirit, Father, eternal life
Key Verses:
JN 1:30 “This is He on behalf of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.’
JN 1:31 “I did not recognize Him, but so that He might be manifested to Israel, I came baptizing in water.”
JN 1:32 John testified saying, “I have seen the Spirit descending as a dove out of heaven, and He remained upon Him.
JN 1:33 “I did not recognize Him, but He who sent me to baptize in water said to me, ‘He upon whom you see the Spirit descending and remaining upon Him, this is the One who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.’
JN 1:34 “I myself have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God.”
JN 1:49 Nathanael answered Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel.”
JN 3:18 “He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
JN 5:25 “Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.
JN 11:27 She *said to Him, “Yes, Lord; I have believed that You are the Christ, the Son of God, even He who comes into the world.”
JN 19:7 The Jews answered him, “We have a law, and by that law He ought to die because He made Himself out to be the Son of God.”
JN 20:31 but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.
Introduction:
John was one of the three inner circle of Jesus whom Paul called pillars of the church with James and John. When He transfigured in the mountain He showed Himself among the three. John is very closed to the Lord and with whom Jesus asked to take care of Mary His mother at the cross. John also received the revelation from Jesus the things to come which he wrote in the Book of Revelation. John wrote this book and he centered on the divine personality of the Son of God. He is the Life, the Light and the Bread from heaven that gives life to men. Jesus confirmed His Deity among the Jews who continued to disbelieve in Him. Christ is the Son of God who came and dwelt among us.
Body:
I. Deity of the Son
1. Origin
a. In the Beginning with God (Verses 1:1-2)
2. Nature
a. God (Verses 1:1)
b. Holy One (Verses 6:66-71)
3. Creator (Verses 1:3, 10)
4. Life (Verses 1:4, 5:21, 26, 39-40)
5. Light (Verses 1:4-9, 8:12, 12:46)
II. Evidence of the Son
1. His Coming
a. Bring Life and Light (Verses 1:4-18, 3:14-21)
b. Life Through the Son (Verses 5:16-30)
c. Jesus the Bread of Life (Verses 6:25-59, 33, 48)
2. His Ministry
a. Jesus’ Public Ministry, First Converts (Verses 1:35-51)
b. First Passover—Cleansing the Temple (Verses 2:13-25)
c. Jesus Talks With a Samaritan Woman (Verses 4:1-26)
d. The Disciples Rejoin Jesus (Verses 4:27-38)
e. Many Samaritans Believe (Verses 4:39-45)
f. Jesus Goes to the Feast of Tabernacles (Verses 7:1-13)
g. Jesus Anointed at Bethany (Verses 12:1-11)
h. The Triumphal Entry (Verses 12:12-19)
i. Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet (Verses 13:1-17)
j. Jesus Prays for His Disciples (Verses 17:6-19)
k. Jesus Prays for All Believers (Verses 17:20-26)
3. His Claims
a. Jesus’ Equality with God (Verses 5:18-32)
b. Is Jesus the Christ? (Verses 7:25-44)
c. Unbelief of the Jewish Leaders (Verses 7:45-8:11)
d. The Validity of Jesus’ Testimony (Verses 8:12-30)
e. The Claims of Jesus About Himself (Verses 8:48-59)
f. The Unbelief of the Jews (Verses 10:22-42)
g. The Jews Continue in Their Unbelief (Verses 12:37-50)
h. Jesus Prays for Himself (Verses 17:1-5)
4. His Witnesses
a. The Witness John (Verses 1:6-8, 19-34, 3:22-36, 5:33-35)
b. Witness of Works (Verses 5:36)
c. Witness of the Father (Verses 5:37-38)
d. Witness of the Scripture (Verses 5:39-47)
5. His Works
a. Miracle at Cana (Verses 2:12)
b. Healing a Nobleman’s Son (Verses 4:46-54)
c. The Healing at Bethesda (Verses 5:1-17)
d. Five Thousand Fed (Verses 6:1-14)
e. Jesus Walks on the Water (Verses 6:15-25)
f. Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind (Verses 9:1-12)
g. The Pharisees Investigate the Healing (Verses 9:13-34)
h. The Death and Resurrection of Lazarus (Verses 11:1-44)
6. His Teachings
a. The New Birth (Verses 3:1-21)
b. Words to the People, Bread of Life (Verses 6:26-40)
c. Words to the Jews (Verses 6:41-58)
d. Words to the Disciples (Verses 6:59-65)
e. Jesus Teaches at the Feast (Verses 7:14-34)
f. The Children of Abraham (Verses 8:31-41)
g. The Children of the Devil (Verses 8:42-47)
h. Spiritual Blindness (Verses 9:35-41)
i. The Shepherd and His Flock (Verses 10:1-21)
j. Jesus Comforts His Disciples (Verses 14:1-4)
k. Jesus the Way to the Father (Verses 14:5-14)
l. Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit (Verses 14:15-31)
m. The Vine and the Branches (Verses 15:1-17)
n. The World Hates the Disciples (Verses 15:18-16:4)
o. The Work of the Holy Spirit (Verses 16:5-16)
p. The Disciples’ Grief Will Turn to Joy (Verses 16:17-33)
III. Completion by the Son
1. Suffering
a. The Plot to Kill Jesus (Verses 11:45-57)
b. Jesus Predicts His Death (Verses 12:20-36)
c. Jesus Predicts His Betrayal (Verses 13:18-30)
d. Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial (Verses 13:31-38)
e. Jesus Arrested (Verses 18:1-11)
f. Jesus Taken to Annas (Verses 18:12-14)
g. Peter’s First Denial (Verses 18:15-18)
h. The High Priest Questions Jesus (Verses 18:19-24)
i. Peter’s Second and Third Denials (Verses 18:25-27)
j. Jesus Before Pilate (Verses 18:28-40)
2. Crucifixion and Death
a. Jesus Sentenced to Be Crucified (Verses 19:1-16)
b. The Crucifixion (Verses 19:17-27)
c. The Death of Jesus (Verses 19:28-37)
d. The Burial of Jesus (Verses 19:38-42)
3. Resurrection
a. The Empty Tomb (Verses 20:1-9)
b. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene (Verses 20:10-18)
c. Jesus Appears to His Disciples (Verses 20:19-23)
d. Jesus Appears to Thomas (Verses 20:24-31)
e. Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish (Verses 21:1-14)
f. Jesus Reinstates Peter (Verses 21:15-25)
Conclusion:
Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He said among the Jews who disbelieved Him, “Unless you believe that I claim to be you shall die from your sins.” To the blind man He healed He said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man? It is He who is speaking to you.” The man worshiped Him. Thomas doubted Christ has risen from the dead and when Jesus appeared to him Thomas touched the wounds from His side and hands. And Thomas replied, “My Lord and My God.” Jesus said that the time is coming and has begun that the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God and shall live. Jesus is indeed the Son of God. He is the Christ, the Lord who was with the Father in the beginning and through whom all things were made, seen and unseen, principalities, powers and dominions. He is the Life and the Light of the world. He took the human form so He could be offered and pay for the sins of the world whom the Father loved so that through Him the world might be saved. He is the Life the eternal life and the Giver of it. Look unto the Son and you shall have life and shall not live in darkness. He that believes in Him has everlasting life. Believe.
Title: You Must Be Born Again
Context: John 3:1-21
Key Words: teacher, truth, you must be born again, see the kingdom of God, Spirit gives birth, God so loved the world, the world might be saved through Him, whoever believes is not condemned
Key Verses:
Jn 3:3 In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.’”
Jn 3:14 Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up,
Jn 3:15 that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
Jn 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Jn 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Jn 3:18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.
Introduction:
One night Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council came to Jesus. The Lord said to him, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.’” He did not understand how a man can be born again when he is old. Jesus explained to him in detail how a man is born of the Spirit. Jesus said, “I tell you the truth” three times and these show the importance of His statements that a man really should be born again. It involves man’s salvation and deliverance from condemnation. How then man can be born again?
Body:
I. The Inquiry for New Birth
1. From a religious leader (Verses 3:1-4, 9) 1Cor 1:20
2. Was seeking (Verse 3:2) Jn 7:50-52, 19:38-40
3. Human reasoning (Verse 3:4) 1Cor 1:22
4. Spiritually unknowledgeable (Verses 3:10-12) 1Cor 2:9-10
II. The Answer for New Birth
1. The Urgency (Verses 3:3, 5) Mk 8:36
2. Spiritual Birth (Verses 3:6-8) Jn 1:13
3. The Son of God was given (Verses 3:13-16) Rom 5:8-11
4. For the world (Verse 3:17) Jn 6:51
III. The Process for New Birth
1. Spiritual regeneration (Verses 3:5-6) Tit 3:5
2. Through the Son of God (Verses 3:13-15) Jn 1:12-13 1Pet 1:3
3. Faith in the Son of God (Verses 3:16, 18) Rom 3:21-26, 10:9-13
4. Through the gospel (Verse 3:16) Gal 3:1-2 Rom 1:16-17,10:14-17
1Pet 1:23-25 Js 1:18
5. The Verdict
a. Those who are saved (Verses 3:15, 17, 21) Jn 3:36 Rom 10:12-13
b. Those who are condemned (Verses 3:18-20) Heb 3:19-4:6
Conclusion:
Jesus said, “Except a man be born again he can not see the kingdom of God.” Being born again is a must for all human beings to enter heaven. No one has entered heaven without being born again. Why? Because flesh and blood can not inherit the kingdom of God nor does the perishable inherit imperishable. We are of the flesh and the sinful nature has corrupted us and we are spiritually condemned that is why we abide in death. Only God can save us. Jesus said, “The flesh gives birth to the flesh and the Spirit gives birth to the spirit. Therefore it is a spiritual birth and work of the Spirit. Jesus continued His discussion with Nicodemus a Pharisee and in detail showed him how God worked for our salvation. God gave the Son of God to die so that the world might have eternal life and be saved through Him. Whoever believes in Him shall not be condemned but have eternal life and whoever disbelieves is condemned already because they believe not the Son of God. Therefore to enter the Kingdom of God, to be saved, to have eternal life is through the Son of God. To be born again is to receive the Son of God. He that believes in Him through the gospel shall be given new birth by the Spirit of God. Faith in Christ who died on the cross for our redemption justifies us and God transfers us into His kingdom. He who works evil hates the Light and does not come to the Light but he who lives by the truth comes to the Light and God enables him.
Title: Son of God
Context: John 5:1-47
Key Words: Working, doing, Son of God, believes, witness
Key Verses:
JN 5:22 “For not even the Father judges anyone, but He has given all judgment to the Son,
JN 5:23 so that all will honor the Son even as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.
Introduction:
Some believe in the historical Jesus. Some say He is just a prophet or one of the prophets, a wise man and a religious teacher. Others say He is man and not God and even say He is a small god. He was created by the Father. But what does the title “Son of God” really mean? To Jews what is the implication during their times when one calls God his Father? What was Jesus’ response? How did He show them He is the Son Of God? If God is His Father is He therefore God like His Father? Apostle John has written the testimonies of the Lord Jesus. Let’s read.
Body:
I. The Evidence
1. Heals (Verses 5:6-9) Mt 4:23
2. Forgives (Verse 14) Mk 2:7-10
3. Authority (Verses 9-11, 16-18) Mt 12:6,8 Jn 3:35
II. The Son of God
1. Equal with God (Verses 5:17-18) Jn 10:30-33, 36, 14:9
2. Same with God
a. Works (Verses 19-20) Jn 10:24-25
b. Gives life (Verses 21, 24-26) Jn 1:4, 2:19-21, 6:40
c. Judgment (Verses 22, 24, 27)
d. Honor (Verse 23) Jn 15:23-25, 17:5
Heb 1:5-6 Phil 2:9-11
3. Coming Judge (Verses 27-30) Rev 19:11-16 Mt 25:31-34,41
III. The Witness
1. The Father (Verses 5:32, 37-38, 14:10)
Mt 17:1-5 Heb 1:8-10
2. John the Baptist (Verses 33-35) Jn 1:15 Mt 3:1-3, 11-12
3. Works (Verse 36) Jn 10:25, 37-38, 1:1-3
4. The Scriptures (Verse 39) Lk 24:27, 44-45 Ps 2, 110:1
5. The Prophets (Verses 45-47) Lk 18:31 Jn 8:56-59
Conclusion:
In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His disciples whom they say whose Son is the Christ and in chapter 22 the same question He asked the Pharisees. His disciples believed He is the Son of the Living God. The Pharisees and the world say He is the son (descendant) of David, one of the prophets, and man. Jesus replied, “If He is the son of David, why then in the spirit called Him Lord? And saying, “The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?” John the Baptist whom the Jews believed to be a real prophet testified about Jesus, “He who comes from above is above all, he who is of the earth is from the earth and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. What He has seen and heard, of that He testifies; and no one receives His testimony.” Jesus declared, He is the Son of God whom the dead shall hear and will live. He called God His Father making Him equal with God. What He sees the Father does He does in the same manner. The Father gives life the Son gives also. Judgment is given unto the Son so all shall honor the Son as they honor God. The Father loves the Son. The Son is the coming Judge. He is the Son of God, the Only One. The Father testified of Him when John baptized Him, “And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” The works shown by Jesus testified He is the Son of God- people are healed and demons cast out, the dead are raised. He knew no sin, was blameless and wickedness was not found in Him. The prophets and the Scriptures testified of the Son of God and they knew Him. He was before them. He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God who came down from Heaven, took the human form and testified to us what He has seen and heard. In Him was Life. He is the Christ, Son of God sent to be the Savior of the World.
Title: Bread of Life
Context: John 6:25-71
Key Words: eternal life, work of God, believe in the one He has sent, bread from heaven, words are spirit and life
Key Verses:
Jn 6:27 Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.”
Jn 6:28 Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
Jn 6:29 Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
Jn 6:40 For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.”
Jn 6:48 I am the bread of life.
Introduction:
Jesus just fed five thousand from five loaves of bread and two small fish. He knew they wanted to make Him their King because of the miracle. He withdrew from them to the mountain. The next day they found Him on the other side of the lake. Jesus knowing their hearts, told them that they were seeking for Him because He fed them. He said, “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” Jesus is the bread from God that gives life. How can one eat that bread? How can one work the work of God that endures to eternal life?
Body:
I. Man’s Bread
1. Food for the flesh
a. worked for it (Verses 6:25-26) Lk 12:16-20
2. Earthly things
a. food that spoils (Verses 6:27) Mt 6:19-20
II. God’s Bread
1. Food for the soul
a. Endures to eternal life (Verse 6:27) Mt 4:4, 6:33
2. Eternal life
a. The Son gives (Verse 6:27) Jn 3:36
b. Not lose but raise on the last day (Verses 38-39) 1Jn 3:2 Col 3:4
c. Lives forever (Verses 47-51) Jn 5:24, 11:25-26
3. Jesus the Bread of Life
a. Gives life to the world (Verses 6:32-33) Jn 3:17, 12:47
b. Received by those who come to Him (Verses 34-35, 37) Rom 10:9-13
c. Not by those who disbelieved Him (Verses 36-37, 41-43) Jn 2:24-25, 13:11
d. Drawn by the Father to the Son (Verses 37, 44, 64-65)
e. Everyone who hears and believes (Verses 45, 47) Jn 3:18 Rom 10:11-13
f. His words are spirit and life (Verse 63) 1Cor 1:18 Rom 10:15-17
III. Work of God
1. Believe in the Son (Verses 6:28-29) Rom 3:21-26 1Jn 3:23
2. Behold, look unto the Son (Verse 6:40) Jn 8:12, 10:27
a. Gives eternal life (Verses 58, 66-68) Jn 10:28
b. Lord from Heaven (Verses 59-62, 69) Jn 8:23-24
3. Eat and drink the Son (Verses 6:50-58)
a. Believe Him, His ransom (Verses 40, 50-51) Heb 10:5, 10:10
b. Partake in the Lord’s Table (Verses 53-56) Mt 26:26-28
4. Not lose but raised up on the last day
a. Cleave, trust and rely (Verses 38-40)
b. hear and follow Jn 10:27-30
Conclusion:
Jesus is the bread from heaven. He is the bread that the Father gave to the world so that the world might have life in Him. He is the life of the world. He is our only source of true life. This is the eternal life Jesus gives. It is given to everyone who listens to the Father and believes the Son. Jesus said let us not work for food that spoils but work for food that endures to eternal life. The work of God is that we believe in Him whom He has sent. The words of Jesus are spirit and life. Those who believe Him shall have everlasting life. They shall not die but live forever. He gave Himself to die on the cross. He that eats His flesh and drinks His blood abides in Him and shall live forever. Eating and drinking Him is accepting His ransom on the cross. We behold and look upon Him. It is the Lord from heaven who came down and gave Himself as sacrifice for sins. We remember Him in the Lord’s table as we break the bread and drink from the cup declaring His death until He comes again. He is the Bread of God whom we eat and live forever. He is the bread of life.
Title: Light of the World
Context: John 8:12-59
Key Words: Light of the world, follows, testimony, heard from the Father, continue in my word, believe I claim to be, Father glorifies
Key Verses:
JN 8:12 Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”
JN 8:14 Jesus answered and said to them, “Even if I testify about Myself, My testimony is true, for I know where I came from and where I am going; but you do not know where I come from or where I am going.
JN 8:23 And He was saying to them, “You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world.
JN 8:24 “Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”
JN 8:31 So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine;
JN 8:32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
JN 8:45 “But because I speak the truth, you do not believe Me.
JN 8:46 “Which one of you convicts Me of sin? If I speak truth, why do you not believe Me?
JN 8:47 “He who is of God hears the words of God; for this reason you do not hear them, because you are not of God.”
Introduction:
The Jews were divided when Jesus spoke to them. There were some who believed Him and others were hostile to Him. The unbelieving Jews kept on testing the words of Jesus. They were proud that God was their Father and they were Abraham’s descendants. They accused Jesus was as liar and has a demon. They dishonored Him. But Jesus responded if God was their Father they would believe Him that He proceeded and came from God and if they are Abraham’s children they would believe Him as Abraham believed. Jesus said, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” He is the Light that gives life to the world. The Light is made known. There are those who follow the Light and there are those who are not of the Light and do not follow the Light. Are you of the Light and are following the Light?
Body:
I. Knowing the Light
1. Light of the world (Verse 8:12)
2. Testimony is true
a. He knew where He came from (Verses 13-14)
b. Not judge alone (Verses 15-17)
c. God the Father testified (Verses18)
d. Spoke what He heard from God (Verses 26-27, 38)
e. Spoke the truth (Verse 45)
f. Knew the Father (Verse 8:55)
3. From Heaven above
a. Where He’s gone (Verse 21)
b. From above (Verse 23)
c. Not of this world (Verse 23)
4. Son of God
a. He claimed (Verses 24-25)
b. Acted not alone (Verses 28-29)
c. Not sin (Verse 46)
d. Honored His Father (Verses 49-50)
e. The Father glorifies the Son (Verse 54)
f. Existed before Abraham (Verses 56-59)
II. Following the Light
1. Follow the Light (Verse 8:12)
2. Not walk in darkness (Verse 12)
3. Believe in Him (Verses 28-30)
4. Continue in His word (Verse 31)
5. Will know the truth (Verse 32)
6. The truth sets free (Verse 32)
7. The Son sets free from sin (Verses 34-36)
8. God is their Father (Verse 42)
9. Love Jesus (Verse 42)
10. Of God (Verse 47)
11. Hear God’s word (Verse 47)
12. Keep His words (Verse 51)
13. Never see death (spiritual) (Verse 51)
III. Rejecting the Light
1. Not believe Jesus’ testimony (Verses 8:13, 45)
2. Not know God the Father (Verses 19, 27)
3. Not know and not believe Jesus (Verses 19, 25)
4. Will die in their sin (Verses 21, 24)
5. Can’t enter heaven (Verse 21)
6. Of this world (Verse 23)
7. Slave to sin (Verses 33-34)
8. Hate Jesus (Verses 37, 40-41, 59)
9. His word has no place in them (Verse 37)
10. Can not hear His word (Verse 43)
11. Of the devil (Verse 44)
12. Do the desires of the devil (Verse 44)
13. Murderer (Verse 44)
14. Do not understand the truth (Verse 44)
15. Speak lies (Verse 44)
16. Not of God (Verse 47)
17. Dishonor Jesus (Verses 48-49)
Conclusion:
Jesus is the Light of the world. Why? He has spoken the truth. He has testified to the world what He has seen and heard from the Father when He was with Him in heaven. God is His Father who sent Him to the world and told us the truth about God. He came down from Heaven where He is from. He is not of this world. He came to this world to bring life and light to the world. He came that the world may know God and know Him. He came to bring God’s word to us. He came to set people free from slavery from their sins that they would no longer walk in darkness but have the Light of life. They that are of God listen to the Son of God and follow Him. They listen, follow and keep His words. They shall never face spiritual death. They love and honor the Son. They that are not of God hate the Light. They believe not the words of Jesus. They do not know God the Father. They shall die in their sin if they will not believe who Jesus claimed Himself to be. That God is His Father. That He came down from heaven and was sent by His Father to bring Light to the world and that the world might be saved through Him. He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.
Title: The Good Shepherd
Context: John 10:1-21, 24-30
Key Words: Door, Shepherd, Sheep,
Key Verse:
JN 10:11 “ I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.
Introduction:
God has promised His people Israel that He shall send them a Shepherd that shall tend and care for them. When Jesus came the Jews who are supposed to be His sheep did not recognize their Him. Who are the sheep? What does it take really to be a sheep? How does our Lord Jesus shepherd His flock? What does the Shepherd give His sheep?
Body:
I. The Door
1. No other Door (verses 1-2,7)
2. Entering the Door (verses 3-5, 24-26) Eph 3:6
II. The Shepherd
1. The Shepherd’s Care (verse 9, 11-13, 28-29) Isa 40:11
2. The Shepherd’s Life (verses 10-13,15, 17-18) Heb 13:20
III. The Sheep
1. The Sheep Knows (verses 4-5, 14, 19)
2. The Sheep Follows (verses 4-5, 16, 20-21, 27)
Conclusion:
The Lord Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd. He came to bring ransom for His sheep. He gave His life so that they may have life and abundance of it. He cares and feeds them into greener pasture. The sheep knows, hears and follows the Great Shepherd and He knows them. They love each other. And He gives them eternal life and shall never perish.
1PET 5:4 Then when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that never fades away.
Title: Acts of the Apostles
Context: Book of Acts
Key Words: Holy Spirit, power, resurrection, Jesus Christ, teach, preach, heal, life, freed, persecution, apostles, disciples, Kingdom, God, spread, church, people, journey
Key Verses:
AC 1:8 but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth
AC 16:30 and after he brought them out, he said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
AC 16:31 They said, “ Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
AC 18:5 But when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul began devoting himself completely to the word, solemnly testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ.
AC 26:17 rescuing you from the Jewish people and from the Gentiles, to whom I am sending you,
AC 26:18 to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.’
AC 28:31 preaching the kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered
Introduction:
Luke was a companion of Paul and met the other apostles. He wrote the Book of Acts from the day Jesus was taken up into heaven, to the giving of the Holy Spirit, the preaching of the good news of salvation both to the Jews and the Gentiles. He recorded the acts of the apostles and how God was with them confirming the word- the gospel with signs and wonders, healing the sick and casting out of demons. The word of God spread was established and many disciples were made. Jesus Christ and the kingdom of God were preached.
Body:
I. The Power
1. Promised
a. Baptism of the Holy Spirit (Verses 1:4-5) Lk 24:48-49 Jn 7:37-39
b. Witnesses (Verse 1:8) Jn 14:26, 15:26
2. Fulfillment
a. The Waiting (Verses 1:12-15) Lk 24:49
b. The Baptism (Verses 2:1-4) Act 11:15-16, 4:27-31
3. Manifestation
a. Power of God (Verses 10:38, 14:3, 15:12)
b. In Jesus’ Name (Verses 3:6-9, 4:7-8, 30)
c. Signs and wonders (Verses 2:43, 5:12, 6:8, 8:6-7, 13) Rom 15:19
d. Ministry gifts (Verses 2:28, 8:20, 10:45) 1Cor 12:4-11
e. Healing (Verses 4:10, 14, 22, 33, 5:16, 8:7, 28:8)
II. The Message
1. The Content
a. The gospel (Verses 8:25, 40, 14:21, 15:7) Mk 1:15
b. The Son of God (Verses 9:20-22) Mt 26:63-65 Rom 1:4
c. The Christ (Verses 8:5, 35, 18:5) Jn 4:25,42 Lk 24:44-47
d. Crucifixion (Verses 2:36, 4:10) 1Cor 1:23
e. Resurrection (Verses 2:22-24, 30-32, 4:2,33, 17:18, 25:19,
26:6-8) Rom 6:5 1Cor 15:12-23
f. Salvation (Verses 11:14, 13:26, 47, 28:28)
Rom 1:16-17, 10:9-13 2Cor 6:2
In Christ (Verses 4:11-12, 15:11, 13:38-39, 16:30-31)
Lk 24:44-47
g. Repentance (Verses 2:38, 20:20-21) Mk 1:15 Lk 13:3
2. The Kingdom of God
a. Preached (Verses 1:3, 8:12, 19:8, 28:23, 31) Rom 14:17
1Cor 4:20, 6:9-10
III. The Work
1. Peter
a. With the disciples (Verses 1:13, 12:11-12)
b. Preached the gospel (Verses 2:38, 10:34-44, 47-48, 15:7-9)
c. Prayed together (Verses 3:1, 10:9, 12:5, 12, 1-17) 1Pet 5:6-7
d. Healing and its fruit (Verses 3:6-12, 18-20,26, 5:15-16, 9:32-42)
e. Filled with the Spirit (Verses 4:8)
f. Was with Jesus (Verses 4:13)
g. Not Deny Christ (Verses 4:18-20, 5:27-32)
h. Condemned unrepentant sinner (Verses 5:1-11)
i. Journeyed (Verses 9:32)
j. Gentiles saved (Verses 10:1-48, 34-36, 45, 11:1, 15:7-9)
k. Holy Spirit given (Verses 10:46-48, 11:15-18) Jn 7:37-39
2. Paul
a. Former life (Verses 7:58-8:3, 9:1-2)
b. His conversion (Verses 9:3-17, 22:14-21, 26:13-15)
c. His ministry (Verses 9:20-22, 13:46-49, 26:16-18)
Gal 2:8-9 1Tim 2:7 Tim 4:17
d. Preached the Christ (Verses 9:22, 16:30-31, 17:1-3, 18:5, 20:20-21
28:23, 31)
e. Worked together (Verses 11:22-30, 12:25-3:5, 15:35, 16:3)
f. Guided by the Holy Spirit (Verses 13:1-4, 16:6-10, 21:11)
g. Filled with the Holy Spirit (Verses 13:9)
h. Resistance (Verses 13:45, 50, 14:19, 16:19-24, 17:13)
i. Healed (Verses 14:9-10, 19:11, 28:7-10)
j. Settled doctrinal issues (Verses 15:1-11, 23-29, 16:4-5)
k. Cared for the churches (Verses 15:36, 41, 20:28-38)
l. Heart for the lost (Verses 17:16-34)
m. The Lord with him (Verses 18:6-11, 23:10-11)
n. Holy Spirit given (Verses 19:2-7)
n. Worked hard (Verses 20:7, 20:20-27) Phil 3:14
o. Die for the Lord Jesus (Verses 21:13,27-31, 22:30, 23:10,12-16,21-22)
Gal 2:20 Phil 1:21
p. Spoke to rulers (Verses 24:24-25, 26:13-29)
3. Disciples
a. Scattered and preached (Verses 8:4, 11:19-21)
b. Qualifications (Verses 6:1-7)
c. Stephen (Verses 6:8-10, 7:51-60)
d. Philip (Verses 8:5-8, 12, 25-40)
e. Barnabas (Verses 4:6-7, 9:24-28, 11:20-27, 12:24-25, 13:2-5, 42-43, 14:11-15, 20-21, 15:1-2, 35) 1Cor 9:6 Gal 2:1, 9
f. Silas (Verses 15:32, 40, 17:4, 10)
g. Apollos (Verses 18:24-28, 19:1) 1Cor 3:5-6
IV. The Fruit
1. Made Disciples (Verses 2:47, 6:1, 13:43, 14:21, 26:16-18)
Mt 28:19
2. The Word of God spread (Verses 6:7, 13:49) 2Thess 3:1
3. Salvation and praise (Verses 2:47, 18:8)
4. Love for the brethren (Verses 4:34-37) Rom 12:10 Eph 5:2
5. Church strengthened (Verses 9:31, 14:22, 16:5) 1Cor 12:4-11
Conclusion:
Is the gospel the words of men? It’s not. The gospel came from God revealed to His prophets and spoken by the apostles. God promised the good news long time ago to Abraham and the prophets and He thus fulfilled in Christ 2,000 years ago that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, the Savior of the world. God gave the Holy Spirit to the early disciples and was given to us today as well. After we have been baptized of the Spirit and received the Spirit with the Spirit we become His powerful witnesses and given spiritual gifts for His work. Indeed it’s the work of the Lord. As God moved in the early days and by His Spirit and in the name of Jesus the gospel was preached with power and so it is today. We need more signs and wonders, we need more healings and we need the gospel preached in the power of the Spirit. Many are lost. Many are deceived by the enemy. Wickedness and godlessness have increased. We need God. We need His Spirit. As God commanded the apostles Paul and Barnabas and the others He has commanded us to preach the good news and bring salvation unto the ends of the earth and make disciples. The Acts of the apostles never ended in chapter 28 of the bible. The work of the Lord continued through the centuries unto our days and shall be until the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let us preach the gospel and the Kingdom of God. Keep the love of the brethren and care for the church. Giving praise and glory to God.
Title: Power from on High
Context: Acts 1-2:47
Key Words: promise, gathering, filling
Key Verse:
AC 1:4-5 Gathering them together, He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for what the Father had promised, “Which,” He said, “you heard of from Me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
AC 1:8 but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”
Introduction:
The Book of Acts was written by Luke a physician and the writer of the gospel of Luke. He made a careful investigation of the ministry of Jesus of what He did and taught from the beginning unto the day He was taken up into heaven. He devoted it to Theophilus (lover of God) believed to be a Roman Officer of high rank who was a believer. Luke gathered the accounts in an orderly manner directly from the apostles and he was a companion of Paul. After Jesus was taken to heaven the Apostles waited for the promised baptism of the Holy Spirit. Why do we need to be baptized with the Holy Spirit? What are the results of being filled with the Spirit of God?
Body:
I. The Promise
1. Baptism of the Holy Spirit (Verses 1:4-5) Lk 24:48-49 Jn 7:37-39
2. Witnesses (Verse 8) Jn 14:26, 15:26
3. Left (Verses 9-11) Jn 16:7
II. The Obedience
1. Gathering (Verses 1:12-15) Lk 24:49
2. The Word (Verses 16) Act 2:16
3. Appointing (Verses 17-26) Act 6:2-7
III. The Fulfillment
1. The Filling (Verses 2:1-4) Act 11:15-16, 4:27-31
2. The Message (Verses 23-24,29-36,38)
Act 4:33, 13:32-33, 38-39
3. The Outcome
a. Salvation (Verses 2:37-41, 47) Act 16:25, 30-31
b. Fellowship (Verses 42-47) Act 4:31-32
Conclusion:
Our God is faithful. He has not left us as orphans. After Jesus was taken up into heaven He sent the Holy Spirit unto us. We can and are filled with the Spirit of God. God in us. Jesus baptizes every believer with the Holy Spirit. Waiting and praying. After being filled you shall receive power and gifts of the Holy Spirit. You shall be His witnesses from the nearest of your domain to the farthest you can reach. You shall speak the good news of salvation. There were not only 12 apostles who waited. There were 120 men and women who were in the Upper Room and waited, filled and later spoke of His salvation.
Title: God’s Righteousness
Context: Book of Romans
Key Words: Gospel, salvation, wicked, unbelief, all have sinned, law, faith in Christ, justified, reconciled, Spirit of God, flesh, live, no condemnation, victory, Israel, word of Christ, living sacrifice, glorify God
Key Verse:
RO 3:21 But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets,
RO 3:22 even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction;
RO 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
RO 3:24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;
RO 3:25 whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed;
RO 3:26 for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
Introduction:
Rome at the time of Paul was the dominant world power then. It has militarily, commercially and intellectually flourished into a great city. The church in Rome was predominantly Gentiles. Paul’s letter to the Roman church was a clear cut manifesto who we are in Christ. He discussed the importance of the gospel, God’s revelation to man through creation, man’s disobedience and falling short of His glory and thereby justification through faith in Christ. We have our benefits from Christ such as no condemnation, freedom from sin and being filled by His Spirit. It was followed by our obligation to walk righteously, presenting ourselves as a living sacrifice unto the Lord. He also talked about Israel and their acceptance of the Lord in the last days. He ended encouraging brotherly love and departing from wickedness.
Body:
I. The Gospel
1. Is Promised
a. Through His prophets (Verses 1:1-2) Gen 3:15, 22:18
b. About the Son (Verses 1:3-4) Act 13:23
2. Is Preached (Verses 1:5, 9, 14-15) 1Cor 9:16
3. Is the Power of God
a. For salvation to believers (Verse 1:16) 1Cor 1:17-18
b. Righteousness revealed (Verse 1:17)
4. Relation to man
a. Righteousness not through the Law (Verses 10:1-3)
b. It is Christ (Verses 10:4-7)
c. Word of faith in us (Verses 10:8-13)
d. Brings faith in Christ (Verses 10:14-17)
5. Salvation
a. Those who Believed (Verses 1:5-6, 10:14-17, 3:21-26)
Saved (Verses 1:16-17, 10:8-13) Jn 3:16, 5:24
b. Those who Disbelieved (Verses 1:18-23, 2:2-4)
Depraved (Verses 1:24-31)
Condemned (Verse 1:32, 2:5) Jn 3:18
c. Avoid
Unbelief (Verses 1:19, 21, 28, 11:17-22)
Unrighteousness (Verses 1:18-32, 2:6-11)
Disobedience (Verses 2:4-5, 6:14-18, 21, 8:12-13)
II. Man
1. The Gentiles
a. Reject unto depravation (Verses 1:18-32, 2:1-5)
b. Seek unto life (Verses 2:6-16)
c. Become His people (Verses 10:20, 15:9-12)
2. The Jews
a. Also a breaker of the Law (Verses 2:17-25)
b. Spiritual Jew (Verses 2:26-29, 9:6-8)
c. Were given the Law (Verses 3:1-2, 9:4)
d. Purpose of the Law (Verses 3:19-20, 7:7-13)
e. Came Christ in the flesh (Verse 9:5)
f. Pursued the Law (Verses 9:30-33, 10:1-4)
g. Disbelieved the gospel (Verses 10:18-21)
h. Remnant for Israel (Verses 11:1-6)
i. Rest hardened because of unbelief (Verses 10:20-21, 11:1-10)
j. Partial hardening for the Gentiles to come (Verses 11:11-24, 25-31)
k. Promise given to forefathers (Verse 15:8)
3. Humanity
a. All have sinned (Verses 3:9-18, 5:12)
b. Death passed to all Verses 5:17, 21)
c. Condemned (Verse 5:18)
d. Slave to sin (Verses 7:14-23)
e. God who calls (Verses 9:9-29)
f. Mercy for all (Verse 11:32)
4. The Saints
a. Live by faith (Verse 1:17)
b. Redeemed (Verses 5:9-10)
c. Grace to eternal life (Verses 5:20-21)
d. Not live in sin (Verses 6:1-16)
e. Live righteously (Verses 6:17-23)
f. Result is eternal life (Verses 6:22-23)
g. Joined to Christ (Verses 7:4, 6, 24-25)
h. No condemnation (Verses 8:1-3)
i. Walk in the Spirit (Verses 8:2, 4-11, 14, 26-27)
j. Not abuse grace (Verses 8:12-13)
k. Sons of God (Verses 8:14-25)
l. Elected and loved (Verses 8:28-39)
III. Righteousness and Justification
1. Not through Law (Verses 3:19-20)
2. Through faith in Christ
a. Righteousness of God (Verses 3:21, 26)
b. Witnessed by the prophets (Verses 3:21, 4:1-9,13-16)
c. Through faith (Verses 3:22, 4:16-25)
d. Law of faith (Verses 3:27-31)
e. Justified by faith (Verse 5:1)
f. Receive God’s grace (Verse 5:2)
3. Because all have sinned (Verses 3:22-23, 12)
a. Through Adam all have sinned (Verses 5:14-19)
b. Through Christ all can be saved (Verses 5:15-19)
c. Grace abounded more (Verses 5:20-21)
4. Through Christ
a. Redemption in Christ (Verses 3:23-24)
b. Delivered for our transgression (Verse 4:25)
c. Raised for our justification (Verse 4:25)
d. Died for the ungodly (Verses 5:6-7, 10)
e. God’s love for us (Verse 5:8)
f. Justified by His blood (Verse 5:9)
g. Saved from the wrath of God (Verse 5:9)
h. Reconciled to God through His death (Verses 5:10-11)
i. Saved by His life (Verse 5:10)
j. Eternal life (Verses 6:18-23)
k. Condemned sin in the flesh (Verses 8:3-4)
5. Fruit is Righteousness (Verses 6:17-20)
a. Living sacrifice (Verses 12:1-2)
b. Ministry service for the body of Christ (Verses 12:3-8)
c. Love for each other
Devoted and honor above (Verses 12:9-10)
Share to their needs (Verse 12:13)
Love as yourself (Verses 13:8-10)
Accept one another (Verse 15:7)
d. Abhor evil (Verse 12:9)
e. Serving the Lord (Verse 12:11)
f. Hope (Verse 12:12)
g. Persevere (Verse 12:12)
h. Pray (Verse 12:12)
i. Bless not curse (Verse 12:14)
j. Rejoice and weep with others (Verse 12:15)
k. Same mind (Verses 12:16, 15:5-6)
l. Be humble (Verse 12:16)
m. Not pay back evil (Verse 12:17)
n. Respect others (Verse 12:18)
o. Peace with all men (Verse 12:18)
p. Not take revenge (Verse 12:19)
q. Overcome evil with good (Verses 12:20-21)
r. Subject to authorities (Verses 13:1-7)
s. Owe nothing (Verse 13:8)
t. Awake (Verse 13:11)
u. Lay aside darkness (Verse 13:12)
v. Put on the armor of light (Verse 13:12)
w. Behave properly (Verse 13:13)
x. Put on the Lord Jesus (Verse 13:14)
y. Strengthen not judge (Verses 14:1-23)
(He will judge) (Verses 14:4, 10-13)
z. Please others (Verses 15:1-3)
Conclusion:
Rome was the dominant power during the old times. Many nations they have conquered and many people have become their slaves. We are in the Kingdom of God and God has come in our lives and His Spirit has conquered our hearts. The Lord Jesus has become our King. Jesus said, “Repent for the Kingdom of God has come.” Yes, we believed the gospel of God. It is the power of God for salvation to all who shall believe. The gospel says, “Jesus came and was delivered for our sins and was raised for our justification.” All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. No righteousness from ourselves or from obedience of the Law can justify us before God. Jesus paid for the price. The just for the unjust. From Adam all shall die because all have sinned and from the second Adam, Christ, the free gift of eternal life abounded to all. The righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith. God has shut all men into disobedience so that through faith in Christ by grace all shall be made alive and justified. Israel had a partial hardening for us to come to God. Having received therefore this great mercy from God, justification by grace through faith in Christ and having freed from sin we become slaves to righteousness. We live a life of faith and obedience. The Spirit sets us free from the works and deeds of darkness. We are to offer our bodies a living sacrifice to God holy, blameless and acceptable. We continue loving one another. Please our neighbors. Serve the Lord and give glory to God. For in Christ we died and with Him we shall live.
Title: Glorious Gospel
Context: Romans 1:1-32
Key Words: gospel, faith, impart, ungodliness
Key Verse:
RO 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
RO 1:17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”
Introduction:
Paul was eager to come to the church at Rome when they heard they have received the gospel of God. And their faith was gone unto all the world. He wanted to share more about their new faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Rome was the dominant world power in those days and knowledge and commerce have developed. Paul wanted to share with them the sinfulness of man, the righteousness of God and the blessing that comes from the gospel and faith in Christ.
Body:
I. The Gospel
1. Is Promised (Verses 1-4) Gen 3:15, 22:18 Act 13:23
2. Is Preached (Verses 5, 9, 14-15) 1Cor 9:16
3. Is the Power of God (Verses 16-17) 1Cor 1:17-18
II. The Gifts
1. Are Imparted (Verse 11, 15:29) 1Thess 3:10
2. To be Encouraged (Verse 12) 1Thess 3:2, 5:11
3. To Bear Fruit (Verse 13) Jn 12:24, 15:4-5, 8
III. The Gentiles
1. Those who Believed (Verses 5-6, 10:14-17, 3:21-26)
a. Saved (Verses 16-17, 10:8-13) Jn 3:16, 5:24
2. Those who Disbelieved (Verses 18-23, 2:2-4)
a. Depraved (Verses 24-31)
b. Condemned (Verse 32, 2:5) Jn 3:18
Conclusion:
Therefore our brethren, let us give glory and honor to our great God and Savior our Lord Jesus Christ and to our Father who has fulfilled His promise - the gospel, the good news to deliver us and bring salvation unto man. We were made righteous through His Son who was delivered and raised for us. And by faith and through faith the righteousness of God was revealed. We who have believed and are called were justified through faith in Him. And we are to encourage one another, build up and bear fruit. Those who believed the gospel are saved and the wicked who suppress the truth with their wickedness are depraved and condemned.
Title: Righteousness and Faith
Context: Romans 2-5
Key Words: None is righteous, all have sinned, righteousness of God, justified, faith in Jesus, believed, Christ died, grace of God, gift of righteousness, made righteous,
Key Verses:
RO 3:21 But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets,
RO 3:22 even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction;
RO 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
RO 3:24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;
RO 3:25 whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed;
RO 3:26 for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
RO 4:9 Is this blessing then on the circumcised, or on the uncircumcised also? For we say, “FAITH WAS CREDITED TO ABRAHAM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS.”
RO 5:6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.
Introduction:
The book of Romans is a book of God’s righteousness and justification. Chapters 1 and 2 showed us man has sinned. Chapters 3 to 5 righteousness and justification through faith in Christ. Chapters 6 to 8 we are no more salves to sin but have become slaves to God and righteousness. Chapters 9 to 11 how God elects and saves Israel and the Gentiles. Chapters 12 to 16 our service and walk before God. Chapters 3 to 5 maybe the core chapters of the book. These chapters showed us who we are now and how we have become who we are now. When we are all sinners God He sent His Son on the cross and condemned sin in the flesh so that He shall be our righteousness before God through faith in Christ. We shall study in detail how Paul presented them according to the Scriptures.
Body:
I. Righteousness of God
1. All have sinned
a. Jews and Gentiles (Verses 2:17-24, 3:1-9)
b. All the world (Verses 3:10-20, 23, 5:12) Gal 3:22
Ps 14:3, 53:3
c. Judged (Verses 2:1-16, 25-29)
2. We are made righteous
a. Righteousness of God revealed (Verses 3:21, 1:17) Phil 3:9
b. Faith in Christ (Verses 3:22-23)
3. By God’s Grace
a. Redemption in Christ (Verses 3:24, 25) Eph 1:7
b. He justifies (Verses 24, 26)
c. Through faith in Christ (Verses 25-26) Gal 2:16
d. Demonstrated His righteousness (Verse 25, 1:16-17)
e. Not through the Law (Verses 27-31) Gal 3:21-26
II. Abraham’s Righteousness
1. Not justified by works
a. Not boast (Verses 4:1-2)
2. Justified by faith
a. He believed God (Verses 4:3-5)
b. God’s favor (Verse 4) Gen 15:6
c. His faith credited (Verses 3, 5)
d. Made righteous (Verses 5,9)
e. Forgiveness (Verses 6-8) Ps 32:1
3. Our Example
a. Our father of faith (Verses 4:10-12) Gal 3:18
b. Righteousness through faith (Verses 13-15)
c. So it would be grace (Verses 16-19)
d. Not waiver on God’s promise (Verse 20)
e. He was able to perform (Verse 21)
f. Credited as righteousness (Verse 22)
g. Same for us in Christ (Verses 23-25)
III. Righteousness in Christ
1. Justification by faith
a. Faith in Christ (Verse 5:1)
b. Peace with God (Verse 1) Eph 2:13
2. Receive grace by faith
a. Entrance through faith (Verse 5:2) Eph 3:6
b. Exult in tribulations (Verses 3-5)
3. Righteousness brought by Christ
a. While we were sinners (Verses 5:6-8, 12) 1Pet 3:18
b. Through His blood, death and resurrection (Verses 9-11) Col 1:20
c. In Adam we die (Verses 12-14, 17) 1Cor 15:47-50
d. In Christ a free gift (Verses 15-16) Rom 6:18-23
e. Made righteous (Verses 17-21) 1Cor 1:30
Conclusion:
What makes you right before God? Is it your good works? Is it your goodness? Or is it because you have a religion or because you attend a church? To be righteous in God is meant to be accepted by God without guilt in our part. It is to be without sin before a holy God. But the Word of God has declared all have sinned and fall short of His glory that is why in God’s standard no one is righteous before Him. If that would be the Bible’s criteria then no one shall be saved. Yes, no one. Jesus said, “With man it’s impossible but not with God.” God demonstrated His righteousness before us in that while we are sinners and helpless Christ died for our sins. The Just for the unjust. His blood, His suffering and His death obtained that righteousness that we do not have so that in Him we shall be made righteous before God. This free gift of righteousness is given to those who shall believe in the Son of God. The righteousness of God which is revealed by faith and through faith that He is the Just and the justifier of him who has faith in Jesus. For it was Jesus who died and was raised. We are reconciled to God through His death and through His life we are justified. And he who has faith in Christ his faith is credited to him as righteousness- the righteousness of God through faith in Him. We enter and receive this grace through faith in His Son. For without faith it is impossible to please God. Believe His Son, His words, His forgiveness and salvation. Abraham believed and his faith did not waiver in His promises therefore He was able to perform and His faith was credited to Him as righteousness. All it takes is faith. Faith in the Son who died for your righteousness.
Title: Slaves of Righteousness
Context: Romans 6-8
Key Words: dead to sin, alive to God, slaves of righteousness, made alive in the spirit, give life to mortal bodies, freed from the Law, no condemnation in Christ
Key Verses:
RO 6:8 Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him,
RO 6:9 knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him.
RO 6:10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.
RO 6:11 Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
RO 6:18 and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.
RO 6:21 Therefore what benefit were you then deriving from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the outcome of those things is death.
RO 6:22 But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.
RO 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
RO 7:4 Therefore, my brethren, you also were made to die to the Law through the body of Christ, so that you might be joined to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God.
RO 8:1 Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
RO 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.
Introduction:
Romans 1 to 5 show us man is under sin and falls short of God’s glory and righteousness. How Christ on our behalf obtained that righteousness on the cross for us through His shed blood, death and resurrection. So that through faith in Him we shall be credited His righteousness. Now that we are made righteous before God Paul explicitly outlined what believers should know and do after receiving the grace of God through Christ. We have died from sin, freed from sin, freed from the Law and become slaves of God and righteousness. Sin has no more power over us. Christ has set us free from sin and its dominion so that the righteousness of God may be seen in us and the Law fulfilled in us. We were joined to Christ and the Spirit of God dwells in us. We are made alive in Him.
Body:
I. Slaves of God
1. Alive to God
a. Died to sin (Verses 6:1-2) Gal 2:20
b. Died with Christ (Verses 3-5) Gal 3:27
c. No longer slaves to sin (Verses 6-11) Col 2:11-12
2. Servants of Righteousness
a. Instruments of righteousness (Verses 6:12-13) 1Pet 4:1-2
b. Sin shall not master over you (Verses 14-15) Gen 4:6-7
c. Slaves for obedience (Verses 16-17) 1Pet 1:2
d. Slaves of righteousness (Verses 18-20) 1Jn 2:29
e. End is eternal life (Verses 21-23) Rev 19:8, 22:11-12
II. Slaves of Christ
1. United to Christ
a. No longer under the Law (Verses 7:1-3) Gal 3:24-25
b. Joined with Him through death (Verse 4) Gal 3:27
c. To bear fruit for God (Verses 4-5)
d. Through the Spirit (Verse 6, 2:29) 2Cor 3:6
e. Law can’t free us (Verses 7-13, 4:15)
2. Freed by Christ
a. Our sinful nature (Verses 7:14-15) Gal 5:17
b. Law is good (Verses 12, 16) 1Tim 1:8
c. Bodies want to sin (Verses 17-20) Gen 6:5, 8:21
d. Desire to do good (Verses 21-23) Eccl 7:20
e. Christ sets free (Verses 24-25, 8:3-4) Jn 8:34-36
III. Slaves of the Spirit
1. Spirit gives life
a. Sets free from sin and death (Verses 8:1-2) Jn 7:37-39, 4:14
b. Made possible by Christ (Verses 3-4) Col 2:13
c. Walk according to the Spirit (Verses 4-9) Col 3:1 Gal 5:1, 5, 22-25
d. Made alive (Verses 10-11) Eph 2:1, 5
2. Live in the Spirit
a. Not condemned (Verses 8:12-13, 1-2)
b. Sons of God (Verses 14-16) Gal 4:6
3. Our Future glory
a. Revelation of the sons of God (Verses 8:17-23) Phil 3:20 1Pet 4:13
b. Persevere in the Spirit (Verses 24-27) Gal 5:16-17
c. Glorification (Verses 28-30) Eph 1:4-6
d. Christ love for us (Verses 31, 34-39) Heb 7:25
e. Our salvation (Verses 6:21-23, 8:12-13)
Conclusion:
The problem of man is sin. And the solution is righteousness. Sin brings trouble to every person who does it. You hurt somebody they shall pay back. You speak against they shall retaliate. You steal, lie, murder your conscience haunts you. You shall not have peace. All men have sinned and death came to all men. And we are all accountable to the Almighty. Even though man wants to do good, evil is present with him. Who then shall save us from sin, its dominion and penalty? Who shall deliver us from this body of sin? But thanks be to God through our Lord Jesus Christ we were set free from sin and sinning. We are no longer in bondage of sin but have become slaves of God- slaves of righteousness. This was made possible when God sent His Son on the cross to die and condemn sin in the flesh so that the requirement of the Law may be fulfilled in us and we walk in the Spirit. His righteousness applied to us and to our lives through the Spirit. Our dead spirit was made alive and our mortal bodies given life by the same Spirit that raised Jesus. We have died with Christ and joined to Him. We are dead to sin but alive to righteousness. God moving in us through His Spirit- giving us life and eternal life. The gift of righteousness is given to us. We become servants of righteousness. Through faith in Christ we were made righteous. Therefore let us walk according to the Spirit as sons of God and not according to the flesh for the glory that shall be revealed for us in Christ is beyond imaginable.
Title: No Condemnation
Context: Romans 8:1-39
Key Words: No condemnation, Spirit of life, flesh, mind set, sons of God, justified, conquer, love of God
Key Verses:
RO 8:1 Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
RO 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.
RO 8:3 For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh,
RO 8:4 so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
RO 8:37 But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.
RO 8:38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers,
RO 8:39 nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Introduction:
Paul discussed in chapter 6 and 7 that the sin should no longer reign in the lives of the believers. For we have received the grace and mercy of God. The members of our bodies were slaves to unrighteousness and sin and the end is death. But now were set free by our Lord Jesus Christ through His death and resurrection. Now that we become slaves unto righteousness we come unto obedience to sanctification and the result is eternal life. (6:16-22). We are no longer under the Law of Moses but under the Law of the Spirit. In Chapter 8 Paul said, “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.” The Spirit of the Lord has a major role in the sanctification of our lives. There is no condemnation for those who live according and are led by the Spirit. Therefore the remedy to sin is sanctification through obedience tot the Spirit. Let us see how Paul presented the role of the Spirit and our Lord Jesus Christ in our lives.
Body:
I. Spirit of Life
1. Sets us free
a. From sin and death (Verses 8:1-2)
b. Made possible by Christ (Verses 3-4)
c. Walk according to the Spirit (Verses 4-9)
2. Christ in you
a. Our spirits made alive (Verses 8:10)
b. Our bodies given life (Verse 11)
3. Live in the Spirit
a. Not condemned (Verses 8:12-13)
b. Sons of God (Verse 14)
c. Witness of the Spirit (Verses 15-16)
II. The Glory of Life
1. Glory to be revealed (Verses 8:17-18)
2. Revelation of the sons of God (Verses 19-22)
3. Redemption of our bodies (Verse 23)
III. The Victory of Life
1. Hope and perseverance (Verses 8:24-25)
2. Spirit intercedes for us (Verses 26-27)
3. Work for good that love God (Verse 28)
4. Predestined (Verses 29-30)
5. Gives us all things (Verse 31)
6. Christ intercedes for us (Verse 34)
7. Overwhelmingly conquer through Him (Verse 37)
8. Nothing separates us (Verses 35-39)
Conclusion:
The salvation of the Lord is really amazing. It is deliverance from the power and the law of sin and death. We live unrighteous lives before but now we live righteous lives. The Law can not be fulfilled in our strength but God sent His Son and condemned sin in the flesh so that the righteousness of God maybe fulfilled in us through the Spirit. Our spirits were made alive because of righteousness in Christ and our mortal bodies given life through the Spirit. The Spirit of God and Christ in us sets us free from sin and death. If we live according to the Spirit we shall live. The Spirit witnesses with our spirits that we are the children of God. He intercedes for us and helps us in our prayers. As we journey in this earth He enables us unto the day of our revelation as the sons of God. And we shall be given immortal bodies. We overwhelmingly conquer through Christ who loved us and gave Himself for us. He who is at the right hand of the Father interceding for us. God is for us and with us. He gives us all things and nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus. Glory to God.
Title: Israel Shall Be Saved
Context: Romans 9-11
Key Words: Promise, choice, mercy, hardens, Israel, Gentiles, word of faith, saved, Christ, branches, Israel saved
Key Verses:
RO 9:14 What shall we say then? There is no injustice with God, is there? May it never be!
RO 9:15 For He says to Moses, “I WILL HAVE MERCY ON WHOM I HAVE MERCY, AND I WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON WHOM I HAVE COMPASSION.”
RO 9:16 So then it does not depend on the man who wills or the man who runs, but on God who has mercy.
RO 10:8 But what does it say? “THE WORD IS NEAR YOU, in your mouth and in your heart”—that is, the word of faith which we are preaching,
RO 10:9 that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;
RO 10:10 for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.
RO 11:25 For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery—so that you will not be wise in your own estimation—that a partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in;
RO 11:26 and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written,
“THE DELIVERER WILL COME FROM ZION,
HE WILL REMOVE UNGODLINESS FROM JACOB.”
Introduction:
Paul was a Hebrew and a former leader of the Jewish religion. He was a Pharisee and has served his people and the Law with all his might to the extent he persecuted the church and put to death Jewish Christians who worshiped Jesus, until the Lord Jesus appeared to him and was converted. He was ignorant of the truth then but now that he is in truth, he wished that he was instead cursed for the sake of his Israelite brethren. Israel pursued God’s righteousness through the Law and was rejected but the Gentiles have attained it by faith. But God’s election still stands. God made a promise to Abraham and that His descendants would be children of the promise and that promise was Christ. Israel shall be saved and their unbelief was only temporary so that all of the Gentiles who are called shall come in. Israel has rejected the good news of salvation in Christ which we have received by faith. Let us see Paul’s discussion on God’s calling, Israel and the Gentiles.
Body:
I. God’s Election
1. Not all shall be saved
a. Abraham’s descendants (Verses 9:1-7)
b. Children of the Promise (Verses 8-9)
c. God chooses (Verses 10-13)
2. Him who calls
a. To whom compassion is given (Verses 9:14-23)
b. Pursued by faith (Verses 24-30)
c. Not those who disobeyed (Verses 31-33)
II. Word of Faith- the Promise
1. Not own righteousness
a. Not according to knowledge (Verses 10:1-3)
b. According to Christ (Verses 4-5)
2. Word in you
a. In your heart (Verses 10:6-8)
b. In your lips (Verses 9-12)
c. Be saved (Verse 13)
3. Preached to all
a. Christ made known (Verses 10:14-16)
b. Brings faith in Him (Verse 17)
c. Israel rejected (Verses 18-21)
III. Israel be Saved
1. God reserved
a. Remnant (Verses 11:1-6)
b. Chosen obtained it (Verse 7)
c. Rest hardened (Verses 7-10)
2. Israel’s transgression
a. Our salvation (Verses 11:11-13)
b. Some Israelites saved (Verse 14)
3. Broken off, Grafted in
a. Israel out due to unbelief (Verses 11:15-20)
b. Gentiles in due to faith (Verse 20)
c. Warning of unbelief (Verses 21-24)
4. Israel be saved
a. Partial hardening (Verses 11:25)
b. Prophesied restoration (Verses 26-27)
c. God’s mercy (Verses 28-36)
Conclusion:
We are in the age where the Gentiles are being called and saved, for there is a partial hardening of Israel. God calling many people from the Gentile nations unto the Kingdom of God through the gospel. God made a promise to Abraham that he shall blessed with many children. These were the children of the promise. Not all Israel are of Israel but only those who are children of the Promise. God’s Promise to Abraham was through his seed who is Christ according to Paul, many nations shall be blessed. Therefore all who shall believed Christ who is the promise of God shall be saved. Israel pursued righteousness through the Law and was rejected and we the Gentiles have obtained the Promise through faith in Christ. God said, “I shall have mercy on whom I shall have mercy and shall have compassion on whom I shall have compassion.” They were rejected because they disbelieve the Promise made to Abraham that Christ came to be the Savior of the world and that through Him all that shall call upon His name shall be saved. And Paul warned that if Israel was broken off as branches which also holds the root of the tree and the Gentiles who were grafted in as branches, God is able also to break us off should be follow Israel in unbelief. Therefore, let us hold unto the righteousness that is in Christ Jesus through faith in Him. God has shut all in disobedience so that He may show mercy upon all. Israel at the end shall be saved after all His people from the Gentiles have come in.
Title: Works of Righteousness
Context: Romans 12-16
Key Words: Living sacrifice, serve, love, accept, persevere, avoid evil, peace with all men
Key Verses:
RO 12:1 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.
RO 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
RO 13:10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
RO 14:10 But you, why do you judge your brother? Or you again, why do you regard your brother with contempt? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.
RO 15:2 Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification.
Introduction:
Paul in his last chapters in the book of Romans showed us the life, character and works of righteousness of the believers. God’s righteousness was revealed from faith to faith- that is faith n Christ. No one is righteous before God except he that has faith in Christ. His faith is credited to him as righteousness, for it was Christ who died and resurrected and paid for our sins. We are justified through faith in Him. The gift of righteousness was given to us through Christ. He condemned sin in the flesh so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Through His Spirit our spirit are made alive and our mortal bodies given life. We are no longer servants of sin but servants of God- servants of righteousness. Through the Spirit of God we mortify the deeds of the flesh. Paul delineated what should be our life and service to God, to the brethren and the people.
Body:
I. Living for God
1. Living sacrifice
a. Offer your bodies to God (Verse 12:1)
b. Do not conform to this world (Verse 12:2)
c. Abhor evil (Verse 12:9)
d. Hope (Verse 12:12)
e. Persevere (Verse 12:12)
f. Pray (Verse 12:12)
g. Awake (Verse 13:11)
h. Lay aside darkness (Verse 13:12)
i. Put on the armor of light (Verse 13:12)
j. Behave properly (Verse 13:13)
k. Put on the Lord Jesus (Verse 13:14)
l. Full of goodness (Verse 15:14)
m. Obey God (Verse 16:19)
2. Obey Authorities
a. Submit (Verse 13:1-2)
b. God’s servants (Verses 13:3-5)
c. Pay taxes (Verses 13:6-7)
d. Respect and honor (Verse 13:7)
II. Working for God
1. In the Body of Christ
a. Not think highly of self (Verse 12:3)
b. Have different functions (Verse 12:4)
c. One Body (Verse 12:5)
d. Exercise your gifts (Verses 12:6-8)
e. Have same mind (Verse 12:16)
f. According to Scriptures (Verse 15:4)
g. According to Christ (Verse 15:5)
h. One voice glorify God (Verse 15:6)
i. teach one another (Verse 15:14)
j. Pray for God’s workers (Verses 15:30-33)
k. Support and honor workers (Verses 16:1-12)
l. Turn away from evil workers (Verses 16:17-18)
2. In service to God
a. On fire (Verse 12:11)
b. Fervent in the spirit (Verse 12:11)
c. Serving the Lord (Verse 12:11)
d. Glorify God for His mercy (Verses 15:8-11)
e. He rules over us (Verse 15:12)
f. We hope in Him (Verses 15:12-13)
g. Bring Gentiles into obedience (Verses 15:15-18)
h. In signs and wonders (Verse 15:19)
i. Preach the gospel (Verses 15:20-21, 16:25-27)
j. Crush Satan (Verse 16:20)
III. Loving for God
1. Love for the brethren
a. Devoted and honor above (Verses 12:9-10)
b. Share to their needs (Verse 12:13)
c. Love as yourself (Verses 13:8-10)
d. Accept one another (Verse 15:7)
c. Be humble (Verse 12:16)
d. Strengthen not judge (Verses 14:1-23)
He will judge (Verses 14:4, 10-13)
2. Love for others
a. Bless not curse (Verse 12:14)
b. Rejoice and weep with others (Verse 12:15)
c. Be humble (Verse 12:16)
d. Not pay back evil (Verse 12:17)
e. Respect what is right (Verse 12:17)
f. Respect others (Verse 12:18)
g. Peace with all men (Verse 12:18)
h. Not take revenge (Verse 12:19)
i. Overcome evil with good (Verses 12:20-21)
j. Owe nothing (Verse 13:8)
k. Do no wrong (Verses 1:10)
l. Please others (Verses 15:1-3)
Conclusion:
For we are saved by grace through faith in Christ and we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works. Jesus said, “The Father is glorified in this, that you bear much fruit.” We be perfect as our Father in heaven is perfect. Practice righteousness and be righteous as He is righteous. Others work for their salvation but we work out our salvation. We are already saved in Christ that is why we are working and bearing fruits of righteousness. His Spirit made our spirits alive and gave life to our bodies. Jesus has set us free from the bondage of sin. Righteousness. God is righteous and we are children of righteousness. Servants and slaves of righteousness. To be righteous is living for God, working for God and loving God. We offer ourselves as servants of righteousness. We walk as He walked. Speak as He has speaks. Think as He thinks. We work with Him and serve Him in His Kingdom with all fervor and fire- abounding in the work of the Lord. We love as He loved. Not thinking highly of ourselves but thinking others more important than ourselves. We love the brethren and honor one another. We respect what is right in the sight of all men. We are at peace with all men. We abhor evil and cling and do what is good. For we all shall stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ and He shall reward each one of us according to what we have done in our bodies and outside our bodies. Good and evil. As children of Righteousness, He who is the LORD our Righteousness, when He comes again, shall be like Him, perfect and holy bodies, sanctified and glorified. Glory be to God our Savior and to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Title: One and United
Context: Book of 1Corinthians
Key Words: Christ crucified, no division, Spirit, servants, imitators of Christ, order, resurrection
Key Verses:
1CO 1:18 For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
1CO 11:1 Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ.
1CO 15:20 But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep.
1CO 15:21 For since by a man came death, by a man also came the resurrection of the dead.
1CO 15:22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive.
Introduction:
The Corinthian Church was built and established by Paul. It was a growing church and many have to be learned by the members. As Paul’s customs he traveled and preached the word of God and appointed elders, brought and sent workers with him. After sometime when he left Corinth there were divisions, factions, immorality, immaturities and doctrinal issues. Influences from pagan idolatrous world and from philosophies and so called knowledge of men. Paul dealt also with Christian teachings and doctrines- the importance of Christ crucified and His resurrection. He really laid the foundation for a mature believer in faith, life and doctrine. Believers do not live as how the world lives. He talked about our heavenly call, walk and truth.
Body:
I. One Call
1. Sanctified in Christ (Verse 1:2) Act 15:9
2. Enriched in Him (Verse 1:5) Col 1:9
3. Awaits His coming (Verse 1:7) Phil 3:20
4. Confirm unto the end (Verse 1:8) 1Thess 5:23
5. Called unto fellowship with Jesus (Verse 1:9) 1Jn 1:3
6. Christ our righteousness (Verses 1:30-31, 6:11) Jer 23:6
7. Christ our foundation (Verse 3:11) Is 28:16 Mt 16:18
8. One Temple (Verses 3:16-17, 6:19-20, 12:12,20,27)
Eph 2:19 Heb 3:6 1Pet 2:5
9. We are Christ’s (Verse 3:23) Jn 10:27-30 Rom 14:7-8
10. He delivers (Verse 10:13) 2Pet 2:9
II. One Walk
1. No divisions (Verses 1:10-13, 11:17-19) Rom 12:16
Phil 2:2
2. No jealousy and strife (Verses 3:1-4) Js 3:14-16
3. Not judge (Verse 4:5) Mt 7:1 Rom 14:10-13
4. Not exceed to what is written (Verse 4:6) 1Tim 6:3-4 2Tim 3:16-17
3. No immorality in the church (Verses 5:1, 6:15-18) 1Thess 4:3-8
a. Cast out (Verses 5:2-8, 13, 16:22) Mt 15:17-18
1Tim 1:20
b. Not associate (Verses 5:9-11) 2Thess 3:14
4. No lawsuits among brethren (Verses 6:1-8) 1Thess 4:6 Jn 7:24
5. No unrighteous be saved (Verses 6:9-10) Gal 5:19 Eph 5:5
Rev 21:8, 22:15
6. Glorify God in your body (Verses 6:12-20, 10:31) 1Pet 1:18-19
7. Relationships (Verses 7:1-40) MK 5:32 Mt 19:9
1Pet 3:1
8. Not cause others to stumble (Verses 8:1-13, 10:23-32) Rom 14:15-16,21
9. Not sin like Israel before (Verses 10:1-12) Ex 32:6-7
10. Flee from idolatry (Verses 14-22) Deut 32:16-17
11. Imitate leaders and Christ (Verses 11:1-2)Phil 3:17 1Thess 1:6
12. Hair covering for women (Verses 11:2-16)
13. Respect the Lord’s Table (Verses 11:20-34) Mt 26:26-28
14. All done in love (Verses 13:1-13, 16:14) Mt 5:44-46, 22:39
1Jn 3:14-18
15. Be mature (Verses 14:20, 16:13)
16. Abound in the Lord’s work (Verse 15:58) Jn 15:8
17. Support brothers in need (Verses 16:1-3) Act 2:44-45
III. One Truth
1. Gospel of God
a. Power of God for salvation (Verses 1:17-18, 15:1-2) Rom 1:16-17
b. Wisdom of God (Verses 1:19-31, 2:1, 3:18-20) Rom 3:21-26
Gal 3:21-26
c. Christ crucified (Verses 1:18, 2:2, 15:1-4, 11) Lk 24:44-47
d. Churches planted (Verses 1:14-18, 4:15) Act 18:6-11
2. Revelation from the Spirit
a. So our faith be in God (Verses 2:4-5) 1Thess 2:13 2Thess 2:13-14
b. Wisdom from God (Verses 2:6-12) Gal 1:11-12 Rom 16:25
1Pet 1:10-12
c. Mind of Christ (Verses 2:13-16) Jn 14:26, 15:26
d. Power (Verse 4:20) Rom 1:4-5 2Pet 1:16
3. Servants in the Lord
a. One (Verses 3:4-8) Rom 12:4-8
b. God’s co-builders (Verses 3:9-10) Eph 4:11-15
c. Belongs to you (Verses 3:20-23, 12:28)
d. Servants of Christ and God (Verses 4:1-17) Col 1:25 Tit 1:7-9
e. Rights (Verses 9:1-14) Gal 6:6
f. Become like all men (Verses 9:15-23, 10:33)
g. Disciplined in walk (Verses 9:24-27) Eph 5:2, 8 Col 1:10
h. Labor in grace (Verses 15:10) Act 20:19-24
i. Honored (Verses 16:10-12, 15-18) Heb 13:17
4. God
a. One God, the Father (Verses 8:5-6) Eph 4:6 Jn 17:3
b. One Lord, Jesus Christ (Verse 8:6) Eph 4:5 2Pet 1:1-2
c. Creator (Verse 8:6) Mal 2:10 Jn 1:1-3 Col 1:15-17
d. Life (Verse 8:6) Jn 5:21-26 Rev 3:14
5. Spiritual Gifts
a. Jesus uplifted (Verses 12:1-3) Phil 2:9-11
b. From the Spirit of God (Verses 12:1-11) Act 1:5-8
c. To care for His body (Verses 12:12-26) Eph 4:11-15 Act 15:5-6
d. Given to the church (Verses 12:27-31) Rom 12:4-8
f. Prophecy and Tongues (Verses 14:1-19, 21-33)
6. Resurrection
a. Of Christ (Verses 15:12-19, 29-32, 45-49)
b. Our resurrection (Verses 15:20-23, 35-44, 50-57) 1Jn 3:2
Phil 3:20-21 1Thess 4:13-18
7. His Reign
a. Enemies under His feet (Verses 15:24-26) Phil 2:9-11 Mt 25:31
b. God all in all (Verses 15:27-28) Rom 14:10-12
Conclusion:
The church at Corinth is much resembled in our churches today. It was a Gentile or non-Jewish church. People from all nations merged into one body of Christ. We all face outward influences from the world. And sometimes these have crept into the lives of the people of God. The world mixed with the lives of the saints such as divisions, factions, jealousy, hatred, immoralities, false teachings and many more. But this is not we are called for. We have one calling, one body, one walk, one faith, one God and one Lord. We are washed, sanctified and justified in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and by His blood. Heaven awaits us. We await His coming- the resurrection and transformation from our earthly bodies into heavenly, glorified spiritual bodies. We are called to glorify God in our bodies for we have become the Temple of the Lord where the Spirit dwells in us. Therefore, whatever we do, in deeds and in words do all for the glory of God and building up of others. Pursue all things and do all in love and in honor of our God for His praise and glory. For faithful is He who has called us into fellowship to His Son and will confirm us unto the last day and present blameless and holy. And the end shall come. All shall stand before the God’s Judgment the righteous unto the new heaven and earth and the wicked unto everlasting punishment.
Title: We are One
Context: 1Corinthians 1-4
Key Words: God is faithful, no division, Christ the wisdom and power of God, Spirit, one in the Lord, servants, all things belong to you.
Key Verses:
1CO 1:10 Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.
1CO 1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness,
1CO 1:24 but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
1CO 2:10 For to us God revealed them through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things, even the depths of God.
1CO 3:9 For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.
1CO 4:1 Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
Introduction:
The church at Corinth was established by Paul in one of his missionary journeys. They have grown and have become an influence in their areas. But as the church grew issues and problems arose. For the church are composed of imperfect people formed into the image of Christ. As Paul moved out to plant more churches and visited other believers he has sent fellow servants to their church. Partiality, favoritism, doctrinal and sin issues arose. Some said, “I am of Paul” others said, “We are of Apollos”. Paul then wrote this first letter to correct them. What did Paul write concerning the believers and the servants of the Lord? What is their message? Who was working with them? Why should the church be one?
Body:
I. One Gospel
1. Established us
a. Sanctified in Christ (Verses 1:2-7) Act 15:9
b. Fellowship with the Son (Verses 8-9) 1Jn 1:3
2. No Division
a. Same mind (Verses 1:10) Rom 12:16 Phil 2:2
b. No quarrels (Verse 11) Js 4:2
c. No partiality (Verses 12-16) Js 2:1 1Jn 1:9-10
3. One Message
a. Sent to preach the gospel (Verse 1:17) Act 13:47-49
b. Message of the cross (Verses 18, 23-24) Rom 1:16-17
c. The perishing and wise reject (Verses 18-25) Jn 3:18-20
d. We are in Him (Verses 26-31) Eph 1:13
II. One Spirit
1. The Message
a. Christ crucified (Verses 2:1-3) 1Cor 15:1-4
b. Spirit and power in God (Verses 4-5) 1Thess 2:13 2Thess 2:13-14
2. The Wisdom
a. The world did not know (Verses 2:6-8) Jn 1:10,3:18-19
b. Revealed to those who love Him (Verse 9) Jn 14:21,23, 15:10
c. Through the Spirit (Verses 10-16) Jn 14:26, 15:26
III. One Servant
1. Act not men
a. Be spiritual men (Verses 3:1-2) Heb 5:11-14
b. No divisions (Verses 3-4) Js 3:14-16
2. Fellow workers
a. Through whom we believe (Verses 3:5) Rom 10:9-17
b. Planted, watered and God causes growth (Verse 6-7) Act 18:6-11
c. One and God’s fellow workers (Verses 8-9) Rom 12:4-8 Eph 4:11-15
d One foundation laid – Christ (Verses 11) Is 28:16 Mt 16:18
e. Labor rewarded (Verses 8-15) 2Cor 5:10 Rom 14:10-12
f. We are His temple (Verses 16-17) Eph 2:19 Heb 3:6 1Pet 2:5
g. Not to be wise as the world (Verses 18-20) Rom 12:2
h. All things belong to us (Verses 21-22) Eph 4:11-12
i. We belong to Christ (Verse 23) Jn 10:27-30 Rom 14:7-8
3. Servants
a. Consider as servants of God (Verses 4:1) Col 1:25 Tit 1:7-9
b. Trustworthy (Verse 2) 1Tim 3:2
c. The Lord examines (Verses 3-4) Rom 14:4 1Cor 11:32 Heb 12:5-11
d. Not judge (Verse 5) Mt 7:1 Rom 14:10-13
e. Not exceed to what is written (Verses 6-8) 1Tim 6:3-4 2Tim 3:16-17
f. They serve you (Verses 9-10) 2Cor 13:10
g. Suffer for you (Verses 11-15) 2Tim 2:3, 9
h. We imitate them (Verses 16-17, 11:1) Phil 3:17
i. Kingdom of God is of power (Verses 18-21) Rom 1:4-5 2Pet 1:16
Conclusion:
Are there quarrels in your church? Are there divisions among you? These are all signs that we are acting as natural men but not as spiritual men. Paul wrote to the saints at Corinth, they were filled with knowledge and they were spiritually sanctified in Christ through faith in Him and that they should have the same mind and judgment. Paul outlined to them in his letter why believers have to be one. Preachers and teachers of the word whom the Lord has sent preach one gospel- Christ crucified and through Him we are saved. The message of the cross is God’s power to us who are being saved but foolishness to those who are perishing. The Spirit of God reveals spiritual things to those who love God and we have received His Spirit through faith in Christ. God’s servants are His co-workers and fellow laborers in His Kingdom. They plant, water and God causes its growth. And we are God’s building. Each shall have their reward in the Lord and believers too being God’s temple shall be rewarded whatever they have done with their bodies good or bad. Paul said we consider the workers as servants of God and let us not pass judgment to anyone before the Lord comes for it is the Lord that examines, judges and disciplines each of us. So as to have the same mind and judgment Paul and Apollos applied to themselves that no one should exceed to what is written and not to be arrogant. The written word is our gauge and measure. God’s servants should be trustworthy. Paul said that we imitate him. He served God’s people. All things belong to us. And we belong to Christ. Therefore let us be one. We have one calling, one fellowship, many servants and many members of one body, one Lord, God and Savior.
Title: Don’t Play with Sin
Context: 1Corinthians 5-10
Key Words: immorality, lawsuits, glorify God in your body, marriage, not become stumbling block, become all things to all men, not crave evil things as they craved
Key Verses:
1CO 5:12 For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church?
1CO 5:13 But those who are outside, God judges. REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES.
1CO 6:9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals,
1CO 6:10 nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.
1CO 6:11 Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.
1CO 6:20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.
1CO 8:13 Therefore, if food causes my brother to stumble, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause my brother to stumble.
1CO 9:22 To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak; I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some.
1CO 9:23 I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it.
1CO 10:6 Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved.
1CO 10:7 Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written, “THE PEOPLE SAT DOWN TO EAT AND DRINK, AND STOOD UP TO PLAY.”
1CO 10:31 Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
1CO 10:32 Give no offense either to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God;
1CO 10:33 just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit but the profit of the many, so that they may be saved.
Introduction:
After Paul has discussed in the previous chapters that there should be no division and partiality among the brethren and that God’s servants are one whom God called to build up the body, he moved to sin issues in the next five chapters of his letter. The life and walk of every believer is important to God. Every believer is accountable to God and to each other. The sin issues that Corinth had are familiar with contemporary problems in our churches today. There are immoralities among some, lawsuits, stumbling blocks and idolatry (greed and sinning). But this should not be the case. Paul wrote to the Corinthians that those were their kind of life before Christ which God’s wrath falls upon children of disobedience but now they are washed and sanctified in the name of Jesus and by the Spirit of God. God do wants His children to live righteously. Sin has not to be dealt with complacency but with firmness and in truth. Let’s see how Paul dealt with these sin issues inside the church and how we too should deal with our churches today.
Body:
I. Sin
1. Immorality
a. Adultery, incest (Verses 5:1-2) Lev 18:8 Deut 27:20
Cast out (Verses 3-8, 12-13) 1Tim 1:20 Mt 18:17
Not associate (Verses 9-11) Eph 5:11 2Thess 3:14
b. Fornication
Body for the Lord (Verses 6:12-13) 1Thess 4:3-4
One spirit with the Lord (Verses 14-17) Gal 3:27
Temple of the Holy Spirit (Verses 18-19, 3:16) 2Cor 6:16 1Pet 2:5
Bought so glorify God (Verse 20) 1Pet 1:18
2. Against brethren
a. No lawsuits (Verses 6:1-7)
b. Not defraud (Verse 8)
c. Unrighteous will not inherit God’s kingdom (Verses 9-10) Gal 5:19-21
d. Saints are sanctified (Verse 11, 1:30)
3. Relationships
a. Right relationship (Verses 7:1-2, 7-9)
b. Husbands and wives (Verses 3-6, 10-16) 1Pet 3:7 Rom 7:2-3
c. Remain as you were called (Verses 17-31) Mt 19:12
e. Undistracted devotion to the Lord (Verses 32-40) 1Cor 15:58
II. Stumbling blocks
1. Eating
a. Sacrifice to idols
b. Only one God (Verses 8:1-8) Eph 4:4-6
c. Not cause of stumbling block (Verses 9-13) Rom 14:15-16,21
2. Our Liberty
a. Paul’s and servants liberty (Verses 9:1-11)
b. Not used some for the gospel (Verses 12-19)
c. All things for all men for salvation (Verses 20-23)
d. Disciplines his body too (Verses 24-28)
III. Learning from Israel
1. Example
a. Drank spiritually Christ (Verses 10:1-4) Ex 13:21 Ps 78:14
b. Most God was not pleased (Verse 5) Num 26:65
c. Not crave evil things (Verses 6-7) Ex 32:6
d. Destroyed (Verses 8-10, 3:17) Num 25:1-9 Heb 10:26-31
e. Example for us (Verses 11-13) Heb 12:4-17
2. Flee idolatry
a. Sin (Verses 10:7-8) 1Sam 15:23 Col 3:5
b. Flee (Verses 14-15) 1Jn 5:16-17, 21
c. Works of darkness (Verses 16-22) 2Cor 6:14-18
3. What is right
a. Edify others (Verses 10:23-30) Phil 2:4
b. Glorify God (Verse 31) Col 3:17
c. Give no offense (Verse 32) Rom 14:13
d. Please men for their salvation (Verse 33, 9:22)
Conclusion:
Before we were in Christ we used to live as the world lived without God and righteousness. Nowhere to go, no hope, no vision and all our goals were mundane and earthly. But now that we are in Christ are we still the same? Have we fully surrendered our lives and sins unto God? Are there some sin issues that we are dealing with and have not repented of? Are we playing with sin? Paul in his letter to the saints at Corinth 2,000 years ago, are as fresh and alive to our churches today. People from darkness were brought into the Light through the gospel. Our journey does not start and ends the day we got born again. As a child we need to become men- mature in the Lord. There were sin issues at Corinth, there were sin issues in the six churches to whom Jesus sent the messages through John at Revelation and there are sin issues in our churches today. These sins enumerated by Paul should not exist among us, “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.” Because “but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.” We are instructed to cast out the evil and so-called brethren and not even associate with them. Be not partakers of the evil deeds of this world. We are not to defraud our brethren and be the cause of stumbling blocks. Do not engage in immoralities for our bodies are the Lord’s. God said, “Be ye separate from them and you will be My children and I will be a Father to you.” Sin and living in sin is no trivial thing for God. It is because of sin the wrath of God falls on those who are disobedient. It is because of sin that cost the death of Christ. Let us not treat sin lightly. Israel drank from the same spiritual drink we have who is Christ. But to most of them God was not pleased and were destroyed. Harboring sin in our hearts is idolatry. Any sin that we do not forsake and not let Christ reign in our hearts is idolatry. Therefore brethren, as we were bought with a price- by His blood, let us glorify God in everything, in thoughts, in words and in deeds. Separate from the works of darkness and demons for we were joined into Christ. We are His people and His children.
Title: Spiritual Instructions
Context: 1Corinthians 11-16
Key Words: Christ is head, Lord’s suffer, spiritual gifts, love, prophesying, speaking in tongues, resurrection, collection for the saints
Key Verses:
1CO 11:1 Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ.
1CO 11:2 Now I praise you because you remember me in everything and hold firmly to the traditions, just as I delivered them to you.
1CO 11:3 But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ.
1CO 11:24 and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”
1CO 11:25 In the same way He took the cup also after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”
1CO 11:26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.
1CO 12:4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit.
1CO 12:5 And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord.
1CO 12:6 There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons.
1CO 12:7 But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
1CO 13:13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.
1CO 14:1 Pursue love, yet desire earnestly spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.
1CO 14:2 For one who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God; for no one understands, but in his spirit he speaks mysteries.
1CO 15:27 For HE HAS PUT ALL THINGS IN SUBJECTION UNDER HIS FEET. But when He says, “ All things are put in subjection,” it is evident that He is excepted who put all things in subjection to Him.
1CO 15:28 When all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself also will be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, so that God may be all in all.
1CO 16:1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so do you also.
1CO 16:2 On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come.
Introduction:
Paul nears the completion of his message in the church at Corinth. Chapters 1-4 dealt with unity of the brethren and servants of the Lord, chapters 5-10 dealt with sin issues and chapters 11-16 he now deals with spiritual instruction when believers gather together- Christ the head, proper commemoration of the Lord’s Table, love, use of spiritual gifts, importance of the gospel and our resurrection and giving to the poor saints. Let’s learn from Paul from his instructions for the same instructions are for our churches today.
Body:
I. Honoring Christ
1. Christ the Head
a. Imitate the apostles (Verses 11:1-2) Phil 3:17
b. Order (Verses 3, 7, 10) Eph 5:23
c. Natural and spiritual (Verses 4-15)
d. No divisions (Verses 16-19)
2. The Lord’s Suffer
a. Remembrance (Verses 11:23-26)
b. Received worthily (Verses 27-28)
c. Or be judged (Verses 29-34)
II. Working with the Spirit
1. Knowing the Spirit
a. Confesses Jesus is Lord (Verses 12:1-3) Phil 2:9-11
b. Spirit manifests gifts (Verses 4-11) Rom 12:6-8
2. In the Body of Christ
a. Many members (Verses 12:12-14) Rom 12:4-5
b. Needs each other (Verses 15-27) Eph 4:15-16
c. God appoints and gives (Verses 28-30) Eph 4:11
d. Desire (Verse 31) 1Tim 3:1
3. Manifestation
a. Practice with love (Verses 13:1-14:1) Eph 4:15
Give to poor saints (Verses 16:1-3) 2Cor 8:4, 9:1
b. Speaking in tongues
Speaking to God (Verses 14:2,4)
Interpret for church (Verses 5-19, 23)
Tongues sign for unbelievers (Verses 20-22)
c. Prophesying
Speaking to men for edification (Verses 3-4)
Conviction (Verses 24-25)
d. Each one for edification (Verses 26-32)
e. God of order (Verses 33, 36-40)
f. women not to lead to speak in church (Verses 34-35) 1Tim 2:12
III. Completion with God
1. Counsel of God
a. Saved through the gospel (Verses 15:1-11, 1:23) Rom 1:16-17
b. There is resurrection (Verses 12-19) Jn 5:25-29
c. Be not deceived (Verses 29-33) Is 22:13
d. Stop sinning (Verse 34) Jn 5:14, 8:11
e. Abound in the Lord’s work (Verse 58) Jn 15:8
2. Christ Resurrected
a. Order of resurrection (Verses 15:20-23) 1Thess 4:13-18
b. Our resurrection (Verses 35-49) Mt 24:29-41
c. Imperishable and immortal (Verses 50-57) 1Jn 3:2
3. The End
a. All be subjected to Christ (Verses 15:24-27) Ps 110:1 Heb 1:13
b. Son be subjected to the Father (Verse 28)
Conclusion: Paul said, “What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” All things are for us – for our building up as a body in Christ. The Spirit gave gifts to each members of the body so that which is lacking shall be filled up as one does his part. Paul also said, “So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.” God’s purpose is that we grow in the Spirit maturing to Christ-likeness. For He saved us by grace through faith in the gospel of Christ- His death and resurrection for the payment of our sins. And as we remember the Lord’s suffering and proclaiming His coming again through partaking of the bread and drinking from the cup in the Lord’s Suffer we are to be worthy in receiving them. For He shall come again and as we are edified and built together as a holy temple of the Lord that day shall come- that glorious triumphant day for the saints. His Second Coming and our resurrection. This perishable shall become imperishable and the mortal shall become immortal. For when the Son of God appears we shall see Him, all eyes shall see Him but only those who love His appearing and are waiting shall be changed and be like Him. Therefore having these promises set before us let us continue building each other up and abounding in the work of the Lord.
Title: Assurance
Context: Book of 2Corinthians
Key Words: Comfort, promises of God, love, Spirit gives life, glory to glory, Light, temporal and eternal, servants of God, giving, apostles, grace, made complete
Key Verses:
2CO 1:19 For the Son of God, Christ Jesus, who was preached among you by us—by me and Silvanus and Timothy—was not yes and no, but is yes in Him.
2CO 1:20 For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us.
2CO 1:21 Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God,
2CO 1:22 who also sealed us and gave us the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge.
2CO 13:11 Finally, brethren, rejoice, be made complete, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
Introduction:
In Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians he wrote about the believer’s one calling, walk and truth of the faith we have. He dealt also with those who have sinned in the church and the divisions among them. In his second letter he affirmed his love and service to the believers and that they rejoice, continue standing firm and be made complete. He shall be visiting them the third time being their father in the faith. He assured once again of the faith they have in Christ and that they have a God of mercy and comfort. Paul also mentioned His ministry work, purpose, hardships and joy. Titus has reported and assured that indeed they have obeyed and stood firm in the faith.
Body:
I. God Comforts
1. Father of mercies and comfort (Verse 1:3)
2. In Christ (Verse 1:5)
3. Delivers us (Verses 1:8-9)
4. His promises are yes in Christ (Verses 1:18-20)
5. Establishes and anoints servants (Verse 1:21)
6. Pledged the Holy Spirit (Verses 1:22, 5:5)
7. Spirit’s ministry is more glorious (Verses 3:6-12)
8. The Lord’s Spirit sets free (Verse 3:17)
9. Will raise us all (Verse 4:14)
10. Gave His Son for us (Verse 5:21)
II. Believers Walk in Truth
1. Praise in the day of the Lord (Verse 1:14)
2. Comfort others (Verse 1:4
3. Stand firm (Verse 1:24)
4. Letter read by all (Verses 3:1-4)
5. Enlightened through Christ (Verses 3:13-16)
6. Transformed daily to His image (Verses 3:17-18, 4:16)
7. Same spirit of faith (Verse 4:13)
8. Look unto the eternal (Verses 4:17-5:4)
9. The Lord’s, now and at death (Verses 5:5-8, 12:2-4)
10. Please Him, we are accountable (Verses 5:9-10)
11. New creation (Verses 5:14-17)
12. Reconciled to God (Verses 5:18-19)
13. Saved (Verse 6:2)
14. Not bound together with unbelievers (Verses 6:14-18)
15. Purify and cleanse self (Verse 7:1)
16. Godly repentance (Verses 7:8-10)
17. Obey (Verses 7:14-16)
18. Gives abundantly (Verses 8:1-7, 9, 14, 9:6-7)
19. Supports the saints (Verses 9:1-15)
20. Christ our strength (Verses 12:7-9)
III. Ministers Work
1. Live in holiness and godliness (Verses 1:12)
2. Workers with joy (Verse 1:24)
3. Love the brethren (Verse 2:4)
4. Discipline and confirm (Verses 2:5-11, 12:21-13:2)
5. God triumphs with the gospel (Verses 2:12-14, 6:1)
6. Not peddle the Word of God (Verse 2:17)
7. God enables (Verses 3:5-7)
8. Not distort the Word of God (Verses 4:1-2)
9. Not preach self but Christ (Verses 4:3-6)
10. Power in us from God (Verses 4:7-12)
11. Ambassadors for Christ (Verse 5:20)
12. Ministry not offended (Verses 6:3-10)
13. War in the spirit (Verses 10:3-6)
14. Not compare and boast self (Verses 10:12-18, 12:1-7)
15. Secures faith in Christ (Verses 11:1-4, 13-14)
16. Servants persevere in labor (Verses 11:24-33, 10)
17. Signs and power (Verse 12:12)
18. Authority to build up
Not boast (Verse 10:8)
Saints walking in truth (Verses 12:19-21)
Not tear down (Verses 13:1-14)
Conclusion:
What a blessed assurance we have in the Lord. Great are His works in His saints. He is the God of all mercies and comfort. He comforts us so that we can comfort others with the same comfort He has comforted us. All His promises are yes and amen in Christ. He delivers us from evil. He has sealed us with His Holy Spirit and was given to us as a pledge securing His promised eternal life. The ministry of the new covenant is greater than the old. His Spirit in us changes us into His image who has called us from glory to glory and shall raise us. God has reconciled the world unto Himself through the Son and we were reconciled to God. Seeing all these promises we are to throw and leave behind all sins and infirmities that hinder our growth and maturity. May we be found fruitful and faithful in Him. Steadfast in love and faith. Obedient. Giving. We are God’s letter read by all men. We are a new creation moved by His love declaring His goodness, grace and mercy. We are made strong by Him who is in us. We all shall stand before God and shall give an account and receive our reward. Whether we live or die we are the Lord’s and when we leave this temporal body we have an eternal building in heaven. And let us doubly honor the Lord’s servants who persevere everything for the gospel and for our soul’s sake. Imitating their example, walk, life and faith. Finally, brethren, rejoice, be made complete, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
Title: No Other Gospel
Context: Book of Galatians
Key Words: gospel, accursed, Christ, faith, works, justified
Key Verse:
GAL 1:6 I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel;
GAL 1:7 which is really not another; only there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ.
GAL 1:8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed!
Introduction:
Paul wrote a letter to the churches of Galatia. A false gospel and an erroneous teaching entered the church and some believers were drawn into it. He made a stern warning of its consequences. What is another gospel? We can know what another gospel is should we know what is the true gospel. Jesus said, “Repent and believe the gospel.” And, “Preach the gospel to every creature. He that believed shall be saved and He that believed not shall be condemned.” Therefore through the gospel comes life and death and if one receives a false gospel his soul is in danger. Believers are not spared from hearing a false gospel even after they have received the only true gospel. Let us see from Scripture then what is the only gospel received by the apostles, that they preached and what the believers received, by which they were saved, held and stood upon.
Body:
I. What is the gospel?
1. About the Son of God
a. Grace (Verses 1:3, 6, 2:21, 5:5) Eph 2:8-9
Act 15:7-11
b. His death and resurrection (Verses 2:21, 3:1-2) Lk 24:44-46 Rom 1:1-4
1Cor 15:1-4
2. Forgiveness of our sins (Verses 1:4, 2:20) Mt 20:28 Lk 24:47
3. Preached by the apostles (Verse 2:7) Act 13:38, 47 1Cor 15:11
4. We are saved (Verse 3:13) Rom 1:16-17, 10:9-13
1Cor 1:18, 15:2
II. Reliability of the Gospel
1. Another condemned (Verses 1:6-9, 5:7-10) 1Cor 11:4
2. Given from God (Verses 1:11-12) Act 9:3-6 Eph 3:2-3
3. There is conversion (Verses 1:13-14, 22-24) Act 8:3, 9:1,
1Tm 1:12-16
4. There is authorization (Verses 1:15-16) Act 9:15-16, 26:14-18
Mt 28:19-20 Lk 24:44-47
5. The same Gospel (Verses 1:18-19, 2:1-2, 7-10) 2Pet 3:15-16
III. Justification through the Gospel
1. Not through the Law (Verses 2:16, 3:10, 19-25, 5:2-4, 7)
Rom 3:19-21 Act 13:38-39
2. Brings faith in Christ (Verses 2:20-21, 3:1-11, 22) Rom 3:22-26,
Rom 10:13-17 Eph 1:12-13
3. By Christ (Verses 3:1-2, 13-14, 26-29)
Heb 5:9, 7:11, 22, 25-28, 12:22
4. In the Spirit
a. Power (Verses 3:1-2, 14) Rom 15:19 1Cor 2:1-5
b. Led (Verses 5:18, 22-25, 6:7-8) Rom 8:12
5. Freed
a. From the Law (Verses 5:1, 6:13-15) Jn 8:31-32 Act 13:38-39
b. From sinning (Verses 5:13-17) Jn 8:34-36 Rom 6:18
1Pet 2:16 Rev 1:5
Conclusion:
The gospel of God is about the Son of God- His crucifixion, death and resurrection for the forgiveness of our sins. This is the only true gospel commanded to be preached unto all people, unto all nations until the end of age. By this gospel men repent from their sins and put their faith in the Son of God, saved by grace, forgiven and justified. The preaching of the gospel through the working and power of the Holy Spirit we are converted and regenerated. Salvation is worked through the gospel and not through doctrines, through teachings of commandments or through the obedience of the Law or through entering to any group. For in the message of the cross the Son of God is lifted up and men look up unto Him in faith for forgiveness and salvation. After God promised the good news to Abraham 430 years later the Law of God was added because of transgression. So shall we know good from evil. The Law was given so we can live by it until faith came in and we shall be justified by faith in Christ. Not faith in religion or set of doctrines made by man. Obedience to the Law can not save, justify or make us righteous before God for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Christ loved us, gave Himself for us for our forgiveness and redemption. He redeemed and set us free from sinning, through the Spirit and by His blood, and from the penalty of sin- hell. This is what the apostles teach and preach. This is what we preach and stand- by which therefore we are saved. Anyone who carries and preaches another gospel other than what the apostle preached is condemned and accursed.
Title: Paul and His Gospel
Context: Galatians 1-2
Key Words: gospel of God, about the Son, another gospel, accursed, revelation, apostleship
Key Verses:
GAL 1:6 I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel;
GAL 1:7 which is really not another; only there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ.
GAL 2:7 But on the contrary, seeing that I had been entrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised, just as Peter had been to the circumcised
GAL 2:8 (for He who effectually worked for Peter in his apostleship to the circumcised effectually worked for me also to the Gentiles),
GAL 2:9 and recognizing the grace that had been given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, so that we might go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised.
Introduction:
Paul wrote a letter to the Galatian believers because news came to him that some believers were troubled that unless they follow the Law of Moses they would not be saved. Here would be a mixture of Christ and the Law, or the Law without Christ, or the worse is another gospel. Paul made it clear in the first two chapters of the Book what the gospel is all about, who was its origin, who was preached was and its acceptance among all the apostles ahead of him. Paul confirmed his authority and ministry to the Gentiles and the gospel he preached. How did Paul present the gospel truth, its importance and the validity of his calling?
Body:
I. Authorization of Paul
1. From God
a. Sent from God (Verse 1:1) 1Tim 1:11-12
b. Recognized by churches (Verse 2) 2Pet 3:14-15
c. Redeemed (Verses 3-5) Tit 2:14
2. His calling
a. Former life (Verses 1:13-14) 1Tim 1:12-13
b. Called from the womb (Verse 15) Act 9:15
c. Revealed the Son (Verse 16) Act 9:1-6
3. With the apostles
a. Met them (Verses 1:17-19)
b. Given fellowship (Verse 2:9) 1Jn 1:1-4
II. Ministry of Paul
1. Peter
a. For the Jews (Verses 2:7-8) 2Pet 1:1
b. Pillars with James and John (Verse 9) Act 17:1-2
2. Paul
a. For the Gentiles (Verses 2:7-8) Gal 3:8
b. with Barnabas (Verses 9-10) Act 13:2
III. Gospel of Paul
1. No other gospel
a. Accursed (Verses 1:6-10, 5:1-8) 2Cor 11:4
2. Received
a. From Jesus Christ (Verses 1:11-13) Eph 3:1-3
b. Preached Him (Verses 16-24) 1Cor 15:1-4,11
3. Submitted to the apostles
a. Went to Jerusalem (Verses 2:1-2)
b. Not compromised (Verses 2-6) Act 15:1-2
4. Justification and Righteousness
a. Not through the Law (Verses 2:11-15) Act 15:24
b. Through faith in Christ (Verses 16-19) Act 15:7-9, 11
c. By faith in the Son of God (Verses 20-21, 3:21-26) Rom 2:21-26
Conclusion:
Paul was one of the greatest servants of God. They say he was a workaholic. He was always loaded with the Lord’s work but he seemed never got tired. Before his conversion, he was a Pharisee, leader among the Jews and was advancing more than his fellowmen and in the Law blameless. Paul persecuted the church of God so much that Jesus revealed Himself to him. Saul then was his name and was converted and regenerated. Christ manifested to him. He received the gospel message then directly from the Lord. Since then he preached Jesus to all the people especially to the Gentiles to whom he was sent. He knew the Law and was an expert of it. Salvation, justification and righteousness through faith in Christ were the clear message he received from the Lord. When he found that the Galatian believers were not walking according to the gospel for there were some who came in and taught them unless they follow the Law of Moses they shall not be saved. Paul rebuked them and wrote in Galatians 5, “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. Behold I, Paul, say to you that if you receive circumcision, Christ will be of no benefit to you. And I testify again to every man who receives circumcision, that he is under obligation to keep the whole Law. You have been severed from Christ, you who are seeking to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace… You were running well; who hindered you from obeying the truth? This persuasion did not come from Him who calls you.” And in Galatians 1, “I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel; which is really not another; only there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed!” Dear brethren be careful of the teachings that we hear and received. If anyone teaches salvation outside of Jesus Christ, he is accursed. And any believer who is persuaded and moved his faith outside Christ alone has fallen from grace. Therefore, Christ and Him crucified alone is the good news, the gospel of our salvation. He who died and gave Himself for us and we are saved, justified and made righteous through faith in Him.
Title: Our Faith in Christ
Context: Galatians 3:1-29
Key Words: faith, law, Spirit, Christ, justification, life, righteousness
Key Verses:
GAL 3:8 The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “ALL THE NATIONS WILL BE BLESSED IN YOU.”
GAL 3:9 So then those who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer.
GAL 3:10 For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM.”
GAL 3:22 But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.
GAL 3:26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.
Introduction:
After Paul outlined his calling unto apostleship and the veracity of his gospel message given and revealed by God to him, he continued giving insights to the Galatian believers the importance of faith in Christ and the real relation of the Law to us. They have begun in faith but it seemed some were persuaded to continue through the Law thinking that justification and righteousness shall be derived through it. He showed how God made a promise to Abraham before the Law was given. Faith and the Law. Why was the Law given? What was God’s promise to Abraham? And how that promise related to us the believers?
Body:
I. Gospel brings faith in Christ
1. Gospel preached
a. Christ crucified (Verse 3:1) 1Cor 1:18, 23-24
b. Spirit received (Verse 2) Act 15:7-9
2. God works in faith
a. Right path (Verses 3:3-4, 5:1-7)
b. Spirit provided (Verse 5) Jn 7:39
c. Miracles received (Verse 5) Lk 8:48
3. Righteousness through faith
a. Abraham got it (Verses 3:6) Gen 15:6 Rom 4:3
b. Believers got it (Verses 7-9) Gen 12:3, 22:18
c. Under the Law is cursed (Verses 10-13) Deut 27:26 Hab 2:4
Lev 18:5 Deut 21:23
II. Promise by faith in Christ
1. Blessing of Abraham
a. Made righteous (Verse 3:6) Rom 4:3-8
b. Justified (Verses 8-9) Rom 3:21-26
c. Redeemed from the curse (Verse 13) Col 2:14 2Cor 5:21
c. In Christ Jesus (Verse 14) Rom 3:26
2. Spirit of God given
a. Received through faith (Verses 3:1-2) Act 15:7-9
b. Receive the promise of the Spirit (Verse 14) Lk 24:49 Act 1:4-5,8
3. Promise ratified
a. To Abraham and his seed (Verses 15-17) Gen 3:15, 22:17-18
b. Inheritance through the promise (Verse 18) Rom 4:13-14
III. Law leads to faith in Christ
1. Intention of the Law
a. Because of sin (Verse 3:19) Ps 51:4-5
b. Until the seed comes (Verse 19) Jn 1:17
2. Law can not give
a. Life (Verses 3:20-21) Jn 14:6
b. Righteousness (Verse 21) Rom 3:21-26
3. All have sinned
a. All shut up (Verse 3:22) Rom 3:22-23
b. Kept in custody (Verse 23) Jn 1:17
c. Tutor to Christ (Verse 24) Mt 5:17
4. Faith in Christ
a. Justified (Verses 24-25, 5:1, 9)
b. Sons of God (Verse 26) Jn 1:11-13
c. Clothed Christ (Verse 27) Rom 6:3
d. Heirs (Verses 28-29) Rom 8:17 Tit 3:7
Conclusion:
Long time ago around 3,800 years back from today God made a promise to Abraham and to his seed that all nations shall be blessed. The blessing was made and ratified through a promise. The promise was received by faith by Abraham and God credited righteousness to him. What was that promise? Who was Abraham’s seed? The promise was all nations shall be blessed. And the blessing was through the seed. The seed of Abraham was Jesus Christ whose humanity came from Abraham’s descendants from the tribe of Judah, the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham. Abraham believed God and was made righteous. God has shut all in sin and disobedience so that He may show mercy to all and that the promise by faith in Christ may be given to those who believed. And that promise, that blessing is our justification, our being made righteous in God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 400 years Israel was in bondage in Egypt and through Moses they were set free. The Law was given. It was given because of transgression but not meant to impart eternal life nor righteousness for curse is he who does not continue in what the Law says. They were held in custody in the law until faith has come- until Christ has come. But when Christ came they pursued God’s righteousness through the Law and had unbelief in Christ. They were rejected. And we from all nations who were not His people became His people, who has no God in the world now knew God and known by God. We who had believed in Him- Jesus Christ, whom we have not seen nor touched, were justified and made righteous by faith in Christ. He who took our place on the cross. Who knew no sin became a sin for us and was cursed for us so that we shall be blessed and made righteous in God with Him. The promise fulfilled. The promise eternal life through faith in Him.
Title: On Track
Context: Galatians 3:26-6:18
Key Words: son, slave, bond, Law, free, Spirit of His Son, adopted son, freedom, Spirit
Key Verses:
GAL 4:6 Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, “ Abba! Father!”
GAL 4:7 Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.
GAL 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.
GAL 5:2 Behold I, Paul, say to you that if you receive circumcision, Christ will be of no benefit to you.
GAL 5:3 And I testify again to every man who receives circumcision, that he is under obligation to keep the whole Law.
GAL 5:4 You have been severed from Christ, you who are seeking to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.
Introduction:
Galatians shows us two spiritual conditions wherein one can fall in. Right teaching really has a lot to do with right living. They say, “garbage in garbage out.” The bible says, “As a man thinks so he is.” The believers at Galatia started right in faith, in the Spirit through the gospel but there were certain men from the Circumcision or Jewish group who have crept in and taught the believers unless you follow the Law you can not be saved. Some of the believers were persuaded by them. This alarmed Paul that is why he wrote them a letter and saying, “If any man preaches another gospel contrary to what you have received, let him be accursed?” They were out of the track from which God has called them. In these chapters, Paul corrected them and taught they were already free in Christ why again be enslaved by which one can not follow through the letter. No one can attain righteousness through keeping of the Law. Rather God is working through His Spirit in the believers through faith in Christ that works in love. How can one be on the right track? What were the errors the Galatians did? Is righteousness through keeping the Law or walking in the Spirit?
Body:
I. Knowing who you are
1. Sons of God
a. Through faith in Christ (Verses 3:26)
b. Clothe with Christ (Verse 27)
c. One n Christ (Verse 28)
2. Heirs of God
a. According to promise (Verses 3:29)
b. Under guardians (Verses 4:1-5)
c. Christ in us (Verses 6-7)
II. Knowing what were taught
1. Your Life
a. Former life without God (Verse 4:8)
b. Life now with God (Verse 9)
c. Not religious life (Verses 10-11)
d. Become like the apostles (Verses 12-20)
2. Two Covenants
a. Of the Law (Verses 4:21-25)
b. Of the Promise (Verses 23, 26-31)
3. No other gospel
a. Christ sets free (Verses 5:1)
b. Not under the Law (Verses 2-3)
c. Christ no benefit (Verse 2)
d. Severed from Christ (Verse 4)
e. Fallen from grace (Verses 4, 7)
4. The Rule
a. Righteousness in Christ (Verse 5:5)
b. Boast on the cross of Christ (Verses 6:11-14)
b. You’re a new creation (Verses 15-18)
III. Knowing how the Spirit works
1. By Faith
a. Through the Spirit (Verse 5:5)
b. Righteousness and hope (Verse 5)
c. Faith that works in love (Verses 6, 13-15)
d. Not hindered (Verses 7-12)
2. Living in the Spirit
a. Walk by the Spirit (Verse 5:16)
b. Contrary to the flesh (Verse 17)
c. Not under the Law (Verse 18)
d. Deeds of the flesh (Verses 19-21)
e. Fruit of the Spirit (Verses 22-26)
3. Doing good
a. Restore brothers (Verse 6:1)
b. Carry each other’s burden (Verse 2)
c. Be humble (Verses 3-5)
d. Share with God’s servants (Verse 6)
e. God is not mocked (Verses 7-8)
f. Do good to all (Verses 9-10)
Conclusion:
Teaching right doctrines results to right thoughts. Right thoughts results to right living. Right living spells our end- salvation or condemnation. It is very important for believers to know who they are in Christ- sons of God and heirs of God. To begin with God is not through do’s and don’ts but to be in Christ, being God’s children through faith in Christ. Knowing what God’s words tell us regarding the truth of God’s grace in Christ is of utmost importance. Some of the believers in Galatia were persuaded by some Jewish teachers that except one keeps the Law he can not be saved. Paul was alarmed and rebuked them by saying, “You are severed from Christ. Christ has not benefit in you, you who are trying to be justified through keeping the Law.” He also said, “I fear that my labor in you was wasted.” “How quickly you are deserting Him who called you into the grace of Christ for another gospel.” “He that preaches another gospel shall be accursed.” Paul continued and corrected them that our righteousness and justification were through faith in Christ who was accursed for us. And have been saved by grace through faith in Christ and through the Spirit we are made alive to bear fruits of righteousness and all goodness. Paul taught in his epistles that the gift of righteousness and bearing fruits of righteousness were given to us freely through Christ and by the Spirit we are set free from the law of sin and death. Therefore to be on track is knowing that we are saved in Christ and we are walking in righteousness through the Spirit.
Title: Made Alive
Context: Book of Ephesians
Key Words: Inheritance in the saints, spiritual blessings, knowledge, made alive, fullness of God, walk worthy, armor of God
Key Verse:
EPH 2:5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ
(by grace you have been saved),
EPH 2:6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,
Introduction:
Paul wrote another letter to a group of believers in Ephesus. These were non-Jewish believers. He explained to them the riches and glory that the believers have in Christ. He talked about the believer’s spiritual blessings, walk and armor in God’s kingdom. How do we apply them to us today? Knowing who we are, how we should walk and how we engage against the enemy and the wicked world spell victory in our relationship with God.
Body:
I. Spiritual Blessings
1. Got Inheritance
a. Spiritually blessed (Verse 1:3) 1Pet 1:3 2Pet 1:3-4
b. Destined (Verses 1:4-5, 11) Jn 15:16 2Tim 1:9-10
1Pet 1:3-5 IThess 5:9-10
c. Citizens of heaven (Verse 2:19) Heb 11:16, 12:28
d. Temple of the Lord (Verses 1:13-14, 2:20-21, 3:4-6)
2. Made Alive
a. Redeemed (Verses 1:7, 14) Col 1:14 Heb 9:14
b. Raised up (Verses 2:1-6) Col 3:1
c. Saved by grace (Verses 2:8-9) Act 15:11
a. For His praise and glory (Verses 1:6,12, 2:10, 3:21) Col 3:17
1Cor 10:31 Tit 2:14
3. Understand
a. Glory and inheritance (Verses 1:16-18, 3:8) 1Pet 1:2-5
b. Summed up in Christ (Verses 1:8-10, 21-22) 1Cor 15:22-28
Phil 2:9-10 Rom 14:1
c. Have peace with God (Verses 2:11-18, 14) Rom 5:1 Col 1:20-22
d. Eternal purpose in Christ (Verses 3:8-12) Rom 8:29-30
e. Filled with His fullness (Verses 3:14-21) Rom 8:38-39
II. Spiritual Walk
1. Worthy of the calling (Verses 4:1-2) Phil 1:27 Col 1:10
1Thess 2:12
2. United in the Spirit (Verses 4:3-6) 1Cor 8:6
3. Through the ministry gifts (Verses 4:7-16) 1Cor 12:4-14
4. Not as unbelievers walk (Verses 4:17-19) Col 3:5-7 1Pet 4:3
5. As Christ walked (Verses 4:20-31) Col 3:8-10
6. Imitators of God (Verses 5:1-21) Mt 5:43-48
7. Good Relationships (Verses 5:22-6:9) Col 3:18-25 1Pet 3:1-12
III. Spiritual Armor
1. Put on the full armor of God (Verses 6:10-13) Col 3:12
a. At war (Verses 6:12, 2:2) Jn 16:11
b. To resist and stand (Verse 6:13) Jn 12:31 Act 26:18
2. The Armory
a. Put on the belt of truth (Verse 6:14) Lk 12:35-36
b. Put on the breastplate of (Verse 6:14) 1Thess 5:8 1Pet 1:13
righteousness
c. Feet ready to share good news (Verses 6:15, 19-20) Rom 10:13-15
d. Take the shield of faith (Verse 6:16) 1Thess 5:8 Heb 11:6
e. Take the helmet of salvation (Verse 6:17) 1Thess 5:8 1Cor 15:1-2
f. Take the sword of the Spirit (Verse 6:17) Col 3:16 1Jn 2:14
g. All prayers (Verses 6:18-20) Lk 18:1 Col 4:2
1Thess 5:17
Conclusion:
Paul has outlined to the church in Ephesus God’s blue print of salvation in Christ- saved by grace, the glorious inheritance in Christ, the power in us, our walk in Christ and our spiritual warfare and weapon against the enemy. And that the saints may know the height, depth and width of the love of Christ and our inheritance with Him. After we have walked and stood for Him there is more. Later after sometime, John sent a letter to the Ephesians the Lord’s message to them. They have indeed worked hard, persevered, walked in righteousness, confounded false teachers all for His Name’s sake but they have lost their first love. Above all our steadfastness in the faith, hope, walk and warfare against all unrighteousness, we must put first our intimacy in Christ. When we have found Him as our Lord and Savior we spend time alone with Him, we listen to His voice and we obey. He has become our daily friend and companion. Being in Him does not merely meant working for Him and persevering but knowing Him in a personal and intimate relationship as our King, Lord, Savior, Friend and Brother. Therefore, as we know and stand who we are in Christ, our manner of walk and warfare against the enemy, Christ is the head and ahead of us and with us along the way close in our hearts and dwelling in us. Let not our foresight lose sight of Him.
Title: Position Your Mind
Context: Ephesians 1:1-23
Key Words: blessed, knowledge, power
Key Verse:
EPH 1:18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,
Introduction:
Knowledge. What we know do really set the course of our lives. In the physical world those who strive to know and learn from their experiences tend to be more successful. In the spiritual world it is the same. What you know about yourself, about your destiny and about your God can radically change your world view and your character. What should we know about and in Him and His spiritual blessings in and with us? Who are we in Christ? How do we connect with these truths?
Body:
I. What you are
1. Got Inheritance
a. Spiritually blessed (Verses 1:3) 1Pet 1:3 2Pet 1:3-4
b. Destined (Verses 4-5) Jn 15:16 2Tim 1:9-10
1Pet 1:3-5
e. Redeemed (Verses 7, 14) Col 1:14 Heb 9:14
II. What is your end
1. Got Vision
b. Got purpose (Verses 1:8-9, 11, 3:8-11)
c. Summed up in Christ (Verses 10, 21-22) 1Cor 15:22-28
Phil 2:9-10 Rom 14:11
d. His praise (Verses 6, 12, 22-23) Mt 3:17 Phil 2:11
III. What you have
1. Got God
a. His Spirit (Verses 1:13-14,19, 4:30) Rom 8:15
2Cor 1:22, 5:5
b. Christ (Verses 13, 19-20, 3:17) Col 1:27
c. His body (Verses 22-23) Rom 12:5 1Cor 12:27
Conclusion:
Since we are the body of Christ the extension of God’s love on earth let us step-up in the Kingdom of God. You are blessed with all spiritual blessings. God’s resources are our resources. Get hooked up in God. Get wisdom. Get the vision. Have the purpose. For the time when our Lord Jesus comes He who fills all things shall put all things under His feet. Victory and gain is our destiny. And we the church at His coming becomes the praise of His glory. Live the life in the power of His might.
Title: Spiritually Alive
Context: Ephesians 2:1-22
Key Words: made alive, raised, saved, created in Christ Jesus, brought near, reconciled
Key Verses:
EPH 2:5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ ( by grace you have been saved),
EPH 2:6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,
EPH 2:7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
EPH 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
Introduction:
In Chapter 1 Paul wanted the Ephesians to know the hope of their calling and the riches of the glory of the inheritance of the saints in Christ. In Him we have our redemption and the Holy Spirit dwells in us as a pledge- a guaranteeing deposit that we shall receive the promised eternal life. Paul continued in chapter 2 our great inheritance from the God through Christ. Who are we before and who are we now that we are in Christ?
Body:
I. Spiritually Raised
1. Formerly lived in sin (Verses 2:1-3) 1Cor 6:9-11 Tit 3:3 Eph 6:12
2. Received God’s grace (Verses 4, 7) Rom 5:8-11
3. Made us alive (Verses 5-6) Col 2:13
4. Seated with God (Verse 6) Heb 12:1-2
II. Spiritually Saved
1. Saved by grace (Verses 2:8-9) Act 15:11
2. Not of works (Verse 9) Tit 3:5
3. His workmanship (Verse 10) 2Cor 5:17 Tit 2:14
III. Spiritually Connected
1. Formerly without God (Verses 2:11-12) Hos 2:23 Rom 9:24-26
2. In Christ through His blood (Verse 13) 2Cor 5:19 Heb 9:12
3. Have peace with God (Verses 14-17) Rom 5:1 Col 1:20
4. Access to God (Verse 18, 3:12) Rom 5:2
5. God’s household (Verses 19-22) 1Cor 3:16, 6:19 2Cor 6:16
Conclusion:
Spiritually dead is the worse condition man can ever be. Man in his present condition because of his sins, is separated from Christ and is without God. Though he may believe there is a God or he may have a religion, his unforgiven sins made a separation from his God. This predicament spells death- condemnation and wrath from God which he can not escape but only through the grace of God. God did not leave man alone, while we were yet sinners Christ died for our sins. Through repentance and faith in Him we are made alive spiritually. We are saved from the bondage of sin and its penalty. We are raised up. We are seated with Him in the heavenly places. We are in Christ who brought us near to God through His blood. We are citizens of heaven. We are God’s family. We are spiritually alive.
Title: Church at Work
Context: Ephesians 3:1-4:16
Key Words: mystery of Christ, Gentiles members of the body, through the church made known, one body, one calling, work of the ministry
Key Verses:
EPH 3:6 to be specific, that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel,
EPH 3:10 so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places.
EPH 3:11 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord,
EPH 4:4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling;
EPH 4:5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism,
EPH 4:12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ;
Introduction:
Paul in chapters 1 and 2 established the saints’ position and condition in Christ, that we are redeemed, made alive and raised spiritually in Christ. What great inheritance and glory we have in Christ. He has saved us and with a purpose. He continued in chapter 3 depicting His calling and ministry to the Gentiles to make known God’s plan of salvation and the church’s role on the same. And that through the church the manifold wisdom of God made known to all rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms. We have access to God through faith in Christ and members of His body through the gospel. Paul showed the importance of knowing God’s upward calling. How did Paul explain to the Ephesians this plan of God?
Body:
I. Mystery Revealed
1. Concealed before (Verses 3:4-5) Rom 16:25
2. Now revealed (Verses 2-4, 5) Rom 16:26 1Pet 1:10-12
3. Gentiles members of the body (Verse 6) Heb 3:6
4. Paul sent (Verses 7-9) 1Tim 2:7
5. Church sent (Verses 10-12) 1Pet 1:12 Mt 28:18-20
II. Church Equipped
1. Her glory (Verses 3:13) Col 1:24
2. Strengthened (Verses 14-16, 6:10)
3. Christ dwelling (Verse 17) Jn 15:4-5
4. Rooted in love (Verse 17) Col 2:7
5. Comprehend His love (Verses 18-19) Rom 8:28-35
6. God works (Verse 20) Phil 4:13
III. Church Works
1. Walk worthy (Verses 4:1) Col 1:10
2. Loving one another (Verse 2) Col 3:12-13
3. United in the Spirit (Verse 3) 1Cor 12:12-13
4. One faith (Verses 4-6) 1Cor 8:6
5. Given gifts (Verses 7-11) 1Cor 12:4-6, 11
6. Perfecting the saints (Verse 12) 1Cor 12:7-10
7. For the work of ministry (Verse 12) 1Cor 15:58
8. To be Christ-like (Verse 13) 1Cor 11:1
9. Right doctrine (Verse 14) Tit 2:10-14
10. Grow in Him (Verse 15) 2Pet 3:18
11. Each part working (Verses 16, 2:21-22) 1Cor 12:5-7
Conclusion:
There is a saying, “No man is an island.” No man can live alone. In the same token, God has called us into one body in Christ and we are all members of one body. This is the mystery that was hidden before but was revealed to us through His holy prophets and apostles. That through the gospel of salvation in Christ, through faith in Him we are enjoined to Christ into one body. We have become His holy temple. And through us the plan of God be made known to all in this world and to rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms. Christ in us the mystery of God revealed and we in Him as one body. The church as His body we are given ministry gifts- the apostles, prophets, pastors, evangelists and teachers that shall equip us and perfect us for the work of the ministry until we all come unto the unity of faith and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ and grow in Him in all aspects, rooted and grounded in Him in love. We are a church at work. Church working within and without. Building ourselves in our most holy faith and making known to the world the wisdom and riches of God in Christ Jesus. To Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations now and forever. Amen.
Title: Learning from Christ
Context: Ephesians 4-6
Key Words: walk no longer as the Gentiles walk, learn Christ, new self, likeness of God, not participate in works of darkness, imitators of God, walk in love
Key Verses:
EPH 4:20 But you did not learn Christ in this way,
EPH 4:21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus,
EPH 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children;
EPH 5:2 and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.
EPH 6:10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.
EPH 6:11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
Introduction:
Paul in the last chapters of his letter to the believers of Ephesus, after showing their position and condition in Christ- made alive, forgiven, equipped as a church for works of the ministry, he reminded the saints as in all his letters, to walk in righteousness, in the Light, as Christ walked and in love. For it was for this purpose God also has called us- our sanctification. We are God’s children and His grace has taught us to deny all ungodliness. Paul at the end taught them how believers engage in spiritual battle for we wrestle not in flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of wickedness. Let’s see how one walks like Christ, imitates God and battles in the Spirit.
Body:
I. Walking like Christ
1. Not as unbelievers walk
a. Darkened and hardened (Verses 4:18) Col 3:5-7 1Pet 4:3
b. Callous (Verse 19) Rom 1:28-32
2. As Christ walked
a. As taught in Him (Verses 4:20-21) Jn 8:12
b. With renewed mind (Verses 22-23) Col 3:9
c. Righteousness and holiness (Verse 24) 3:10
d. Lay aside falsehood (Verse 25) Col 3:9
e. All goodness (Verses 26-32) Col 3:8 1Pet 2:1,3:8-9
II. Imitating God
1. Imitators of God
a. Walk in love (Verse 2) Jn 13:34, 15:12
b. In purity (Verses 3-7) Col 3:5
c. In the Light (Verses 9-14) 1Jn 1:5-7 1Thess 5:4-5
d. In His will (Verses 15-21) Rom 12:2 1Thess 4:3
2. Good Relationships
a. Husbands and wives (Verses 22-33) Col 3:18-19 1Pet 3:1-7
b. Children and parents (Verses 6:1-4) Col 3:20-21
c. Servants and masters (Verses 5-9) Col 3:22-4:1
III. Geared in the Spirit
1. Put on the full armor of God
a. At war (Verses 6:12, 2:2) Jn 16:11
b. To resist and stand (Verse 13) Jn 12:31 Act 26:18
2. The Armory
a. Put on the belt of truth (Verse 6:14) Lk 12:35-36
b. Put on the breastplate of (Verse 14) 1Thess 5:8 1Pet 1:13
righteousness
c. Feet ready to share good news (Verses 15, 19-20) Rom 10:13-15
d. Take the shield of faith (Verse 16) 1Thess 5:8 Heb 11:6
e. Take the helmet of salvation (Verse 17) 1Thess 5:8 1Cor 15:1-2
f. Take the sword of the Spirit (Verse 17) Col 3:16 1Jn 2:14
g. All prayers (Verses 18-20) Lk 18:1 Col 4:2
1Thess 5:17
Conclusion:
Walking in the Light. Walking in darkness. Walking in lies. Walking in truth. Which way do you walk? The word of God says, “Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you. Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” God has called us, raised us up in the Light and as children of Light we ought to walk in the Light and not in darkness. For the works of darkness and evil and wickedness, God abhors. Jesus said, I am the Light of the world, He who follows Me shall never walk in darkness.” We are taught in Christ to walk as He walked- following His footsteps. He walked in love and commanded us to love one another as He loved us by giving Himself for us and we are to give ourselves to one another. Real Christianity is Christ like. Is God like. For after He has saved, forgiven, raised and made us alive in the Spirit, His righteousness and holiness should be seen in us. We are taught so we walk. Let us walk the talk. For the wrath of God is over the sons of disobedience and we are sons of obedience-sons of righteousness. Learn from Christ. Put on the new self. Get rid of the old self. Be strong in the Spirit. Put on the armor of God.
Title: Progress and Joy in Faith
Context: Book of Philippians
Key Words: love, unity, knowledge, filled, Christ, joy, rejoice
Key Verses:
Phil 1:25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith,
Phil 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!
Introduction:
Paul was imprisoned because of preaching the gospel when he wrote this letter to the saints at Philippi. They all had their first love in the Lord like all the believers at Colossians and Ephesians. They were enthusiastic and grateful of the Lord. They loved the brethren and participated in the gospel truth. In doing so, Paul gave some instructions how believers should press on toward the mark- the glorious upward calling of our Lord Jesus Christ. We shall know how Paul looked and presented these to the Philippians and how we believers should apply them in our Christian walk.
Body:
I. Progress in Love
1. He shall perfect it (Verse 1:6) 1Cor 1:8 1Thess 5:23
2. In real knowledge (Verses 8-9) Eph 3:17-19
3. And discernment (Verse 9) Col 1:9-10
4. To be pure and blameless (Verse 10) 1Thess 3:12-13
II. Progress in Suffering
1. Suffer for the gospel (Verses 1:12-13, 28-30)
a. Bears fruit (Verses 13-14, 21-25) Act 8:1
b. Christ exalted (Verses 19-21, 2:17, 3:10) 2Tim 3:12
2. Walk
a. Worthy of the gospel (Verses 1:27, 3:18-19) Eph 4:1 Col 1:10
1Thess 2:12
b. One spirit and mind (Verses 27, 2:14-16) 2Cor 13:11
c. Striving together (Verses 7, 27, 2:17-18) 2Tm 1:8
III. Progress in Joy
1. Encourage in Christ
a. Console in love (Verse 2:1) 2Thess 2:16-17
b. Fellowship of the Spirit (Verse 1) Jn 7:38-39
c. Love (Verse 1) Jn 13:34 1Jn 3:23
2. United
a. One mind (Verses 2:2, 4:2) Rom 12:16
b. Same love (Verses 2) Jn 13:34 1Jn 3:14-18
c. One spirit and purpose (Verses 2, 3:16) Rom 15:5
3. Christ like
a. Humility (Verses 2:3-4) Rom 12:10 1Pet 5:5
b. Christ’s attitude (Verses 5-11) Jn 13:15 1Jn 2:6
c. Each welfare (Verses 19-30) 1Cor 10:24
4. Rejoice in the Lord
a. We are of God (Verses 3:1,3) Rom 2:29 Jn 4:24
b. Knowing Jesus as Lord (Verse 8) Jn 17:3
c. He is our righteousness (Verses 3:9) Rom 3:21-22 Gal 3:21-22
d. In knowing Christ (Verse 10) Rom 8:17 1Pet 4:13
e. Shall be resurrected (Verses 11, 20-21) Col 3:4 1Jn 3:2
f. Toward our upward calling (Verses 13-17, 18-19) 2Tim:4-8 2Pet 1:10-14
g. Our fruit (Verse 4:1) 1Thess 2:19
h. Connected to God (Verses 4-7) 1Pet 5:6-7
i. Mind of Christ (Verses 8-9) Rom 12:1-2
j. Giving to His work (Verses 3, 10-18) Heb 13:16 Gal 6:6
k. He supplies all our needs (Verse 19) Heb 13:5-6
Conclusion:
Rejoice in Lord always. Again, I say rejoice. Have you counted your blessings? There are many reasons why the saints have to rejoice in the Lord. It’s not rejoicing in the world but in the Lord. The reasons to rejoice- God loved us. We are brethren in the Lord and citizens of the kingdom. We love, unite, and strive together for the gospel. We suffer for Him and shall be glorified with Him. His Spirit is in us fellowshipping and giving joy and comfort. We are of God. Jesus is our Lord. He is our righteousness before God. We shall be resurrected when He comes and be with Him forever. God hears us. He listens to our prayers. He has given us a sound mind- the mind of Christ. He has supplied us all our needs as we support His work. We shall have a crown at the last day. His grace and peace are upon us. Glory be to Him forever.
Title: Made Complete
Context: Book of Colossians
Key Words: Faithful, transferred, walk in Him, raised us up, things above, died, new self
Key Verses:
COL 1:13 For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son,
COL 1:28 We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ.
COL 1:29 For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me.
COL 2:6 Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him,
COL 3:1 Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
COL 3:2 Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.
COL 3:3 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
Introduction:
Paul was very glad and excited of the believers at Colosse. He love all God’s children and wanted to share the faith and encourage them all the more with their new found faith and knowledge in the Lord Jesus Christ. He delineated and outlined to them who they were before and what they are now in Christ and who they are before God. He wanted them to move to a higher spiritual level and understanding and walk in the Lord. You are what you are and what you know and think who you are in Christ can move you into a fruitful and good relationship with God, with the brethren and with men.
Body:
I. Who we are
1. Our Beginning
a. Separated from Christ (Verse 1:21) Eph 2:12
b. Believed the gospel (Verse 1:5) Eph 1:13
2. Our Present
a. Faith in Christ (Verse 1:4, 2:5-6) Eph 1:15
b. Love for the saints (Verse 1:4) Eph 1:15
c. Love in the Spirit (Verse 1:8) Eph 4:2-3
d. Jesus as Lord and walk in Him (Verse 2:6) 1Pet 3:15
e. Built up in the word (Verse 2:7, 3:16) 1Jn 2:14
f. After Christ, not religion (Verses 2:8, 18-23) 1Cor 1:5 2Cor 11:3
Mt 15:19 Tit 1:14
3. Ministers’ Concern
a. Servants of God (Verses 1:7-8, 25, 28) Rom 15:16
b. Shepherds of the Flock
Concern for the saints (Verse 1:3, 4:12) 1Thess 1:2
c. Their goal for the saints
Filled with the Knowledge of His will (Verse 1:9)
Walk Worthy with power (Verses 1:10-11) Eph 4:1 Phil 1:27 IThess 2:12
Complete in Christ (Verses 1:23-25, 27-28, 2:10)
II. What God did to us
1. The Father
a. Qualified us (Verse 1:12) Eph 2:4-7, 8-10
b. Transferred us (Verse 1:13) Act 26:17-18
c. Raised us (Verse 2:12-13, 3:1)
d. Made alive (Verses 3:1, 2:13) Eph 2:5
e. Died (Verses 3:3) Rom 6:2-3 Gal 2:20
2. The Son
a. Our Redeemer (Verse 1:14, 20-22, 2:14) 1Pet 1:18-19
b. Above All (Verses 1:15-19, 2:9,15) Heb 1:2-3, Rev 3:14
c. Sets us free from our sins
And sinful nature (Verse 2:11) Jn 8:34-36 Rev 1:5
d. Hidden with Christ in God (Verses 3:3) Jn 10:27-31
e. Christ our life (Verses 3:4) Jn 11:25-26 1Jn 3:2
III. What we should do
1. Seek
a. Seek things above (Verses 3:1, 1:9, 2:8) 1Thess 5:5
b. Set minds above (Verses 3:2,10-11, 4:3-4) Eph 4:23-24 Phil 4:8
c. Not on earthly things (Verses 3:2, 5-7) Eph 4:22 Js 3:14-15
2. Keep Good Relation
a. With God (Verses 3:8, 15-17, 4:2) Rom 12:1-2, 13:12-14
b. With brethren (Verses 3:9, 12-16) Eph 4:32,3 1Jn 3:23, 4:21
c. With others (Verses 3:17, 4:5-6) Gal 6:9-10 Lk 10:29-37
d. With family (Verses 3:18-21) Eph 5:22-25, 6:1-4
e. With the work (Verses 3:22-25, 4:1) Eph 6:6-9
f. With church workers (Verses 4:7-18,1:7) Eph 6:21 2Tm 4:11
1Cor 16:10-11
Conclusion:
Jesus said, “Without Him we can not do anything”. Indeed without Christ we are nothing. But glory to God because of Christ we have became sons of God, His saints and His people. We were transferred to the Kingdom of His Son. We were made alive, raised and our life is hidden with Christ in God. He has set us free from our sins. Christ who is our life when He appears we shall be like Him and be with Him forever. Therefore with all these great spiritual blessings we have in Christ God wants that we should all be filled with all the knowledge of His will and with His power strengthening our inner man. Let us seek things above where Christ is. His will and His glory. Change our minds and renew ourselves from the old and the past for the new has come. We were made complete in Christ. Keep the love and God. Continue the love for the brethren. Love our neighbors as ourselves. Have a peace and good relationships with our families, workers. Honor those who serve the Lord.
Title: Knowledge of God
Context: Colossians 1-2
Key Words: Faithful, filled, built, transferred into the Kingdom of His Son,
Key Verse:
COL 1:13 For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son,
COL 1:28 We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ.
COL 1:29 For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me.
Introduction:
Paul was very glad when he heard the faithfulness of the believers at Colosse after they heard the word of truth- the gospel. He wrote a letter to them thanking God and informed them his concern as a minister. Since then he prayed for them. Indeed they were doing well but Paul wanted them to know something about being filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. What did Paul want the believers to know? Is it enough that we know that we have been forgiven? Was there any spiritual transformation that occurred since the day we believed Jesus? Why are there servants of the Lord? And as a believer what am I required to know? Paul’s messages to the Colossians were also his messages to the Ephesians and other believers.
Body:
I. The Brethren
1. Beginning
a. Separated from Christ (Verse 1:21) Eph 2:12
b. Believed the gospel (Verse 1:5) Eph 1:13
2. Obedience
a. Faith in Christ (Verse 1:4, 2:5-6) Eph 1:15
b. Love for the saints (Verse 1:4) Eph 1:15
c. Love in the Spirit (Verse 1:8) Eph 4:2-3
d. Built up in the word (Verse 2:7, 3:16) 1Jn 2:14
e. After Christ, not religion (Verses 2:8, 18-23) 1Cor 1:5 2Cor 11:3
Mt 15:19 Tit 1:14
II. Our God
1. The Father
a. Qualified us (Verse 1:12) Eph 2:4-7, 8-10
b. Transferred us (Verse 1:13) Act 26:17-18
c. Raised us (Verse 2:12-13, 3:1)
2. The Son
a. Our Redeemer (Verse 1:14, 20-22, 2:14) 1Pet 1:18-19
b. Above All (Verses 1:15-19, 2:9,15) Heb 1:2-3, Rev 3:14
c. Sets us free from our sins
and sinful nature (Verse 2:11) Jn 8:34-36 Rev 1:5
III. The Ministers
1. Servants of God
a. Planter (Verses 1:7-8, 25, 28) Rom 15:16
2. Shepherds of the Flock
a. Concern for the saints (Verse 1:3, 4:12) 1Thess 1:2
b. Filled with the Knowledge of His will (Verse 1:9)
c. Walk Worthy with power (Verses 1:10-11) Eph 4:1 Phil 1:27 IThess 2:12
d. Complete in Christ (Verses 1:23-25, 27-28, 2:10)
Conclusion:
Man to be really changed all areas of his life from within and outside should be changed. He should know what should fill his thoughts and his perceptions. He should choose wisely who he should be around with. The believer who has been forgiven and raised up spiritually should be filled with all the spiritual wisdom and understanding knowing what the will of the Lord is and pleases Him in all aspect. God loves the church whom Jesus died for. He rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of His Son. We are in His Kingdom and God desires that His saints be filled with will and walk worthy of our calling. The power is in us. We were set free from our sinful nature. He wants us to know the great inheritance we have in Christ. He wants us to know that we are children of the Light and we are in the Light. Church be filled with the knowledge of His will so that we all shall be blameless and holy before Him. Walk in faith and in His power.
Title: Christian Walk
Context: Colossians 3-4
Key Words: Raised up, things above, died, new self
Key Verse:
COL 3:1 Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
COL 3:2 Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.
COL 3:3 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
Introduction:
Paul’s letter to the Colossians talked about our being complete in Christ. We have been transferred into the Kingdom of His beloved Son (1:13). Paul was concerned that the saints be filled up with the true knowledge and will of God (1.9) so that we can walk worthily (1.10). As we have received Him as Lord we are to walk in Him (2.6). We are a new person in Christ. We are in Christ- washed, saved and forgiven. What is your new position in Christ? How’s your walk in the Lord? Are you in the right or wrong direction?
Body:
I. Raised Up
1. Made alive (Verses 3:1, 2:13) Eph 2:5
2. Died (Verses 3) Rom 6:2-3 Gal 2:20
3. Hidden in God (Verses 3) Jn 10:27-31
4. Christ our life (Verses 4) Jn 11:25-26 1Jn 3:2
II. Look Up
1. Seek things above (Verses 3:1, 1:9, 2:8) 1Thess 5:5
2. Set minds above (Verses 2,10-11, 4:3-4) Eph 4:23-24 Phil 4:8
3. Not on earthly things (Verses 2, 5-7) Eph 4:22 Js 3:14-15
III. Keep Up
1. You and God (Verses 3:8, 15-17, 4:2) Rom 12:1-2, 13:12-14
2. You and brethren (Verses 9, 12-16) Eph 4:32,3 1Jn 3:23, 4:21
3. You and others (Verses 17, 4:5-6) Gal 6:9-10 Lk 10:29-37
4. You and your family (Verses 18-21) Eph 5:22-25, 6:1-4
5. You and work relationships (Verses 22-25, 4:1) Eph 6:6-9
6. You and church workers (Verses 4:7-18,1:7) Eph 6:21 2Tm 4:11
1Cor 16:10-11
Conclusion:
Brethren since our conversion was from above, we should be grateful and thankful unto the Lord. He has qualified us to share in the light and the great inheritance of the saints. We were made complete in Christ accepted by God. Therefore let us walk the talk. Let our conversion be seen by all men. Let us throw and put aside all bitterness, strife, envy, malice, drunkenness, immorality and dirty words from our lips. Let the love of Christ, the peace and joy of the Holy Spirit reign in us. We have what is of God. We are of God and we are in God. Walk in the manner we are called. Walk as He walked. Let His Word, His praise, His songs and the peace of God dwell in us daily. Be on the right track and stay there.
Title: Model Church
Context: Book of Thessalonians
Key Words: work of faith, labor of love, steadfastness of hope, faith gone forth
Key Verses:
1TH 1:3 constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father,
1TH 1:7 so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.
Introduction:
Thessalonica was a great and populace city and was under the domain of Rome. In Act 17 Paul and Silas preached in the synagogue of the Jews there. A large number God-fearing Greeks and a number of leading women believed the apostles but the Jews resisted them. Paul wrote a letter to them and was grateful of the news he heard about them. The Thessalonians became a model church for the believers. They were their glory and crown. What were their qualities that made the apostles proud of them? What we can imitate?
Body:
I. Foundation of the church
1. Amidst persecutions (Verses 1Thess 1:6, 2:2, 14-18, 2Thess 3:5)
2. Received the Word (Verses 1Thess 2:2-4, 13, 2Thess 2:13-14)
3. In the Power of the Spirit (Verses 1Thess 1:5, 2Thess 2:13)
4. From the apostles (Verses 1Thess 2:1, 5-12)
a. Built (Verses 1Thess 3:1-2, 4:1-2, 5:12-13)
b. Prayed (Verse 1Thess 1:2)
II. Fruit of the church
1. Work of faith (Verses 1Thess 1:3, 2Thess 1:3)
a. Faith gone forth (Verses 1Thess 1:8, 2Thess 3:1)
2. Steadfastness of hope (Verses 1Thess 1:3, 3:5-6, 2Thess 1:4-5) Tit 1:2
3. Labor of love (Verses 1Thess 1:3, 4:9-10, 2Thess 1:3)
III. Firmness of the church
1. Word of God (Verses 1Thess 2:13, 2Thess 2:15) 1Jn 2:14
2. Faith in God (Verses 1Thess 3:5-8, 2Thess 1:3) 1Jn 5:4
3. Overcome Trials (Verses 1Thess 2:14, 4:2-8, 2Thess 1:4) 1Jn 4:4
4. Character (Verses 1Thess 4:1-5, 5:14-22)
5. Respect Ministers (Verses 1Thess 5:12-13) 1Tim 5:17 Heb13:17
6. Protected by God (Verses 1Thess 5:23-24, 2Thess 3:3)
7. Awaits His Coming (Verses 1Thess 1:8-9. 4:14-5:10,11,
2Thess 2:1-13)
Conclusion:
Paul wrote to the Corinthian church, “But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1Cor 13:13). They became a model to the churches because they have not only given themselves to living God turning from idols but had faith, hope and love. And they grew more. Amidst the troubles, they did not lose their faith in God. Their hope for eternal life was firm. They looked unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Their love for the brethren and care for each other bound them together as they stood together against all tests. They became imitators of the apostles as they were imitators of Christ. They have overcome. May the love of God, the steadfastness of Christ in us and our hope for the eternal life be unshaken and unmoved unto the day of His coming. For when He appears we shall be like Him and we shall be forever be with the Lord.
Title: The Good Fight
Context: Book of Timothy
Key Words: fight the good fight, faith, godliness, preach, word of God
Key Verse:
1TI 1:18 This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight the good fight,
1TI 1:19 keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.
Introduction:
Timothy had a Greek father and a Jewish mother named Eunice and grandmother Lois. They were from Lystra where Paul preached the gospel. From childhood he had known the Scriptures through his Jewish roots. He was well spoken by the brethren. Paul took Timothy with him in the mission. While at Ephesus he was given instructions by Paul how to fight the good fight of faith. As believers in the Lord we too should have a good fight by knowing the Word of God through Paul’s instructions.
Body:
I. Preach
1. Sound Doctrines
a. According to gospel truth (Verses 1:3, 7-11) 1Thess 2:3-5 Col 2:4-8
2. The Word (Verses 4:1-7, 2Tim 2:16-18, 4:1-4)
3. Faith and godliness (Verses 1:3-6, 4:7, 6:3-5, 20-21, 2Tim 2:23-26)
Tit 1:14, 3:7-11
4. With Integrity (Verses 1:5-6, 12, 4:7-8, 12, 2Tm 2:19-21)
5. The Gospel (Verses 2Tim 1:8-12, 4:5) Mt 28:19
II. Stand
1. Gospel Truth (Verse 1:13-17,15, 2:5, 4:9-11) Gal 1:6-9
2. Word (Verses 1:7-8, 4:13, 2Tm 2:15) 1Jn 2:14
3. Intercession (Verses 2:1-8) 2Pet 3:9
4. Order in the House (Verses 2:9-3:15, 5:1- 6:2) Tit 1:5-2:12
III. Keep
1. The Faith (Verses 1:19, 3:16) 1Cor 15:1-4 2Pet 1:1
2. With Good Conscience (Verses 1:19-20, 3:9) 2Cor 7:2 Rom 12:17-18
3. The Commandment (Verses 6:14, 2Tim 3:1-5) 1Jn 2:3-6
4. On Path (Verses 2Tim 3:10-11) 2Pet 1:10-15 Phil 3:13-15
5. Good Fight (Verses 1:18-19, 6:11-14, 2Tim 2:1-13, 4:6-8)
Conclusion:
Fighting a good fight of faith stems from the love, grace and faith from our Lord Jesus Christ. He made the ransom for our sins. Therefore we are to keep the faith, take hold of the eternal life, fight with a good heart, conscience and godliness. Men have strayed from the truth and evil comes from worse to worst. Keep away and reject evil men and godless talk and fruitless discussion. Preach from love that promotes faith and godliness. Brethren keep the faith. Follow His steps. Keep His commandment without stain or reproach. Love. Be at peace with all men. Fight the good fight of faith. Finish your course. Finish your race. Get your crown. Hold on your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Title: House in Order
Context: Book of Titus
Key Words: Hope, beyond reproach, good deeds
Key Verse:
TIT 1:5 For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you,
Introduction:
Titus was one of the servants of the Lord who worked with Apostle Paul. They have planted churches in many places. Crete was one of them. Paul left him there to set the house in order, appoint elders and teach the people of God the life they should live. There were scoffers and unbelievers on the side, how should God’s people respond? We were saved by grace, how should we live?
Body:
I. Our Faith
1. Chosen of God (Verse 1:1) 2Thess 2:13
2. Knowledge of truth (Verse 1) Col 1:5 1Tim 2:3-6
3. According to godliness (Verse 1) Eph 1:4 Col 1:22 1Tm 6:3
4. Hope of eternal life (Verses 1:2, 2:13) 1Cor 1:7 Phil 3:20
5. There is hope for all (Verses 2:11, 3:4) Jn 3:16-17 1Jn 2:2, 4:10
6. Saved by His grace (Verses 3:5-7) Rom 3:24, 5:20-21
II. Our Character
1. The Elders (Pastors)
a. Set order (Verse 1:5) 1Tim 3:15
b. Above reproach (Verses 1:6-8) 1Tim 3:1-7
c. Holding fast to the Word (Verses 1:9-14, 2:1)
d. Reprove and avoid (Verses 2:10-15, 3:9-11) 2Tim 2:23-26
1Tim 6:3-5
e. Care for each other (Verses 3:12-15)
2. Older Men
a. Dignified (Verse 2:2) 1Pet 3:7-9
3. Older Women
a. Revered (Verse 2:3) 1Tim 2:9-15 1Pet 3:1-6
4. Young women
a. Love family (Verses 2:4-5)
5. Young men
a. An example (Verses 2:6-8) 1Tm 4:12
6. Servants
a. Subjected (Verses 2:9-10) Eph 6:5-8 Col 3:22-24
1Tim 6:1-2
III. Our Deeds
1. Holy
a. Pure (Verses 1:15-16) Mt 7:17-18 Jn 15:4-5
2. Godly
a. Live righteously (Verse 2:11-12) 1Tim 6:11 1Jn 3:
3. Zealous
a. For good deeds (Verses 2:14-15) Eph 2:10 Jn 15:8
b. Engaged in good deeds (Verse 3:8) Gal 6:10
c. To meet needs (Verse 3:14) Rom 15:25-26
Conclusion:
God is a God of order. We are His people. We are His House- His holy Temple. The church as the pillar and support of truth should be built up in the Word, the truth and in godliness. God has placed leaders in His house to put things in order. To teach us His words, guide and guard our souls. The leaders should be beyond reproach. It is sin that causes the downfall of all men- small and great men. The people of God, our older men and women, our younger men and women should live pure lives according to the Word. We are saved by grace and God’s purpose is that we shall be a people zealous for good deeds meeting the needs in time. God’s pure doctrine is seen in our lives. We live it for a testimony for everyone and so that our God be praised in us. Live the life.
Title: Christ Factor
Context: Philemon
Key Words: faith, love, slave, brother, accept, debt, account
Key Verse:
PHM 1:15 For perhaps he was for this reason separated from you for a while, that you would have him back forever,
PHM 1:16 no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
PHM 1:17 If then you regard me a partner, accept him as you would me.
PHM 1:18 But if he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge that to my account;
Introduction:
This letter was written by Paul to a brother named Philemon. He had a slave named Onesimus who ran away from him and owed him something. Both believed through Paul and became workers then. Onesimus was from Colosse and had met Paul at Rome and was converted. Paul wrote to Philemon this letter and asked to receive back Onesimus as a brother and no longer a slave and should he owed something charge it to him. Relationships do change when we are changed. Christ is seen and reflected in us. We become as brothers in the Lord. What is that Christ factor that should be seen in us?
Body:
I. Fisher
1. Prisoner of the Lord (Verses 1:1)
2. Worker of the Lord (Verses 1:1)
3. Soldier of the Lord (Verses 1:2)
4. Intercedes in the Lord (Verses 1:4)
II. Follower
1. Faith toward the Lord (Verses 1:5)
2. Love toward all the saints (Verses 1:5, 7-9)
3. Shares truth in Christ (Verses 1:6)
III. Forgiver
1. Peace maker (Verses 1:10-15)
2. As a brother (Verses 1:16)
3. Carry’s burden (Verses 1:17-18)
4. Pays (Verses 1:19)
5. Obeys pardon (Verses 1:20-21)
6. Rejoice among others (Verses 1:22-25)
Conclusion:
Since we have been in Christ He should be seen in us in everything we do most specially among our brethren. If one has wronged us we must forgive as Christ has forgiven us. Paul summoned Philemon to forgive Onesimus who was once his slave and charge his debt to Paul’s account. Brotherly love is seen when we come to know Christ. Peace, love, obedience, forgiveness and care are of our highest concern. In the same way our Lord Jesus Christ interceded for us before God whom we owed and we are in debt because we have sinned. In our inability Christ took away that debt and paid it all. He carried that which we are not able to pay. Now God has accepted us in the Beloved no more slaves but brethren.
Title: Heavenly
Context: Book of Hebrews
Key Words: Son of God, worship, set free, better, mediator, High Priest, Savior, eternal redemption, takes away sin, sacrifice, endure, obey, faith\
Key Verses:
HEB 8:1 Now the main point in what has been said is this: we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
HEB 8:2 a minister in the sanctuary and in the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, not man.
HEB 8:6 But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, by as much as He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises.
HEB 9:11 But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things to come, He entered through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation;
HEB 9:12 and not through the blood of goats and calves, but through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.
HEB 9:26 Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.
HEB 12:1 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
HEB 12:2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
HEB 12:3 For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Introduction:
The book of Hebrews talks about things that are better. We have a better covenant, a better sacrifice, eternal redemption, forgiveness and salvation. We have a High Priest forever and Everlasting Savior. Having these great promises what are required from us? Having been forgiven, sanctified and saved.
Body:
I. Son of God from Heaven
1. God’s Representative (Verse 1:3, 2:-4) Col 1:15
2. God’s Son (Verses 1:4-7, 4:14) Ps 2:7 Mt 3:17, 22:41-46
3. God’s Equal
a. God in Throne (Verses 1:8-9) Ps 45:6, 110:1
b. Lord the Creator (Verses 1:10-14) Ps 102:25 Col 1:16-17
c. The same forever (Verses 1:11-12, 13:8)
4. Savior
a. Made lower than the angels (Verse 2:9) Phil 2:7-8
b. Set us free (Verses 2:14-18) 2Tim 1:10 Jn 8:34-36 Rev 1:5
c. Gives grace (Verses 4:15-16)
d. Those who obey (Verses 5:9)
e. Draw to God through Him (Verses 7:25)
f. Those who await Him (Verses 9:28)
5. Apostle and High Priest (Verses 3:1, 4:14)
a. Better than Moses (Verses 3:2-6)
b. Priest forever (Verses 5:1-10, 6:19-20, 7:23-28)
c. Author and Perfecter (Verses 12:2)
d. Mediator of the New Covenant (Verses 12:24)
e. Great Shepherd (Verses 13:20-21)
II. Sacrifice from Heaven
1. Tasted death for everyone (Verse 2:9) Jn 1:29, 3:16-17 1Jn 2:2, 4:10
2. Perfected salvation (Verse 2:10) Jn 19:30 2Cor 5:19 Rom 3:25
3. God promised life (Verses 6:16-20, 7:21)
4. Not through Levitical priesthood (Verses 7:11-17)
5. Not through the Law (Verses 7:12, 18-19)
6. Better covenant (Verses 8:6-13)
7. Heavenly Tabernacle (Verses 9:8-12, 23-26, 10:19, 13:12-14)
8. Blood of Christ (Verses 9:12,14,18,22)
10. Divine Offering (Verses 9:12,14)
11. Took away our sins (Verses 10:1-4,11)
12. His body offered (Verses 10:5-10)
13. One sacrifice for all (Verses 10:10-12, 18)
14. Forgiveness of sins (Verses 10:17-18)
III. Our Calling from Heaven
1. Our Position
a. Made us His brethren (Verses 2:11-13) Ps 22:22
b. We are His House (Verses 3:6)
c. Partakers of Christ (Verses 3:14)
d. Entered His Rest (Verses 4:10)
e. Great mercy (Verses 7:25, 10:19-22)
f. People of God (Verses 8:10-11)
g. Sanctified (Verses 10:10)
h. Forgiven (Verses 10:17-18)
i. Have come the heaven (Verses 12:18-24)
j. Heavenly Kingdom (Verses 12:28, 13:14)
2. Our Appreciation
a. Take heed (Verses 2:1-4)
b. Hold firm our assurance and (Verses 3:6, 14, 4:14, 18-19,
hope 10:22-23,35)
c. Not harden heart (Verses 3:15, 4:7)
d. Not evil heart (Verses 3:7-13)
e. Believe (Verses 3:12-19, 4:2-3)
f. Not come short (Verses 4:1, 11, 12:12-17)
g. Obey (Verses 4:1-2, 11, 5:9)
h. Mature (Verses 5:11-6:2)
i. Not fall away (Verses 6:4-8)
j. Faith and patience (Verses 6:9-15)
k. Love and good deeds (Verses 10:24, 13:1-3)
l. Assemble and encourage (Verses 3:13, 10:25, 13:7, 17-18)
m. Not go on sinning willfully (Verses 3:12, 10:26)
n. Endure (Verses 10:36, 12:1-3)
o. Have faith (Verses 11:1,16,26,39-40,12:2, 13:5-6,9)
p. Lay aside sin (Verses 11:25-26, 12:1)
q. Be holy (Verses 12:14, 13:4)
q. Not refuse Him (Verses 12:25-28)
r. Offer acceptable worship (Verses 12:28, 13:15-16) Rom 12:1-2
3. Severer Judgment
a. Of those who shall fall away (Verses 3:12, 6:4-6, 10:26-31,12:25,28-29)
b. Better things for the faithful (Verses 6:9-12, 10:32-36)
c. Saved or damned (Verses 10:37-39) Gal 6:7-9 1Pet 1:4-5
d. God disciplines (Verses 12:4-11)
Conclusion:
By the offering of the body of Christ once and for all we have been perfected for all times. Jesus was once offered by the eternal Spirit in the heavenly tabernacle- in the Holy of Holiest, in Heaven where God is. The Father accepted the ultimate sacrifice of the Son who took away the sin of the world and obtained eternal redemption. God promised a new covenant. That He will put His Laws in our hearts and minds and our sins He will remember no more. The offerings in the Old Testament Law were made everyday and the priests were changed for they can never take away sins once and for all. But by one offering Christ put away the sin of the world and there remains no more sacrifice for sins. For Jesus after having been offered and perfected salvation sat at the right hand of God the Father. Everything was completed by the Son on the cross as He was sacrificed to the Father through the Spirit. God completed and finished the work of salvation for man in Christ. Those who believed and obeyed the good news are forgiven and saved. Therefore having these great heavenly blessings and inheritance we have in Him let us show our gratitude to God. Let us hold firm to our faith, to our confession and hope until the end. Let us not be like the people in the olden times who hardened their hearts, disbelieved and disobeyed God and were destroyed. Severer is the punishment should we fall away for God is a consuming fire. We can not treat in contempt the heavenly sacrifice that sanctified us. Let us show respect, reverence and awe to our God and Savior. Let us approach His Throne of grace humbled and repentant so we shall find mercy. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith who loved us and gave Himself for us. Continue in the love of God and love for the brethren. Let us throw aside all hindrances and every sin that entangles us. Let us go into maturity serving God. For He alone is worthy of praise, honor and glory. Forever and ever. Amen.
Title: Sovereign Son
Context: Hebrews 1-2:18
Key Words: Son, purification, brethren
Key Verse:
HEB 1:3 And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,
Introduction:
God in the olden times has spoken through His prophets but in the last days He has spoken to us through His Son. Christ, the Son of God came down from heaven and took the human form. The Father has revealed Himself through His Son. The Apostle wrote to the Hebrews the Jewish believers who have come to Christ. They had the Law. They had Moses. They had the Old Covenant. Who is the Son of God? What did the Son accomplish? Why is it important we should know all these things?
Body:
I. Superior
1. God’s Representative (Verse 1:3, 2:-4) Col 1:15
2. God’s Son (Verses 4-7) Ps 2:7 Mt 3:17, 22:41-46
3. God’s Equal
a. God in Throne (Verses 8-9) Ps 45:6, 110:1
b. Lord the Creator (Verses 10-14) Ps 102:25 Col 1:16-17
II. Suffered
1. Made Lower than the angels (Verse 2:9) Phil 2:7-8
2. Tasted Death for everyone (Verse 9) Jn 1:29, 3:16-17 1Jn 2:2, 4:10
3. Perfected Salvation (Verse 10) Jn 19:30 2Cor 5:19 Rom 3:25
III. Savior
1. Take Heed (Verses 2:1-4, 4:1-2, 11, 12:25-29)
2. Made us His Brethren (Verses 11-13) Ps 22:22
3. Set us Free (Verses 14-18) 2Tim 1:10 Jn 8:34-36 Rev 1:5
Conclusion:
Brethren, we have a holy calling and our salvation was perfected in Heaven through the Son of God. God the source of all things sanctified us through His Son. Jesus who was higher than the angels but made lower when He took the human form to die for our sins has purified us all and is now sited at the right hand of God the Father. It is finished. It is done. He has set us free from all the power of the enemy and from sin. Therefore, let us honor and take heed to all that we have heard giving Him glory and honor.
Title: Perfected it All
Context: Hebrews 10:1-39
Key Words: offering, priest, faith
Key Verse:
HEB 10:10 By this will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Introduction:
The writer of the Hebrews is knowledgeable in the Law of Moses. The Hebrew believers were Jews who came from their former religion Judaism were experiencing troubles and persecutions in their new found faith in Christ. The Apostle made clear the difference of the Old ways of Moses to the New way perfected by Christ. Everything was made perfect in and by Christ and the forgiveness of our sins was perfected once and for all. There remains no more sacrifice for sins. They were warned not to fall back unto sinning. Therefore for this surpassing grace of God they are encouraged to go on in the faith. To us believers what do we have in Christ now? Does God still hold us accountable for our sins?
Body:
I. Perfect Offering
1. Old Ineffective (Verses 10:1-4)
a. Can not take away sins (Verse 4, 11)
2. New Effective (Verses 5-10) Ps 40:6-8, Heb 9:11-12
a. Took away our sins (Verses 10-12, 17-18)
II. Perfect Priest
1. Blessing of the Priest (Verses 10:10-12,18)
a. Sanctified us (Verse 10-12, 14)
2. Come unto the Priest (Verses 19-23) Heb 12:22-24
a. We hold fast (Verses 23) Heb 12:1-2
III. Perfect Faith
1. Draw back (Verses 10:26-31) Deut 17:6
Heb 12:15, 25, 28-29
a. End is perdition (Verses 30-31, 39) Hab 2:4
2. Endure with confidence (Verses 23, 35-36) Heb 3:12-14, 6:11-12
a. End is salvation (Verse 39) Gal 6:7-9 1Pet 1:4-5
Conclusion:
God is a good God. He is perfect in all His ways. He is just and righteous in all His ways. Before the foundation of the world He has predestined to send His Son our Lord Jesus Christ to die on our behalf perfecting our salvation on the cross taking away all of our sins. We have come to God and were accepted by God through Him. He said, “I will remember your sins no more.” Therefore let us not throw away our confidence. Do not let sin overcome us but by faith we continue in Him and changed from glory to glory. Those who turned their backs God is not pleased. Condemnation for those who put the grace of God into shame but glory and honor for the blessed ones who hold their faith in Christ unto the end. In the last verse of chapter 10 like what the Apostle we say, “But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul.
Title: Faith
Context: Hebrews 11:1-40
Key Words: faith, obeyed, looking
Key Verse:
HEB 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.
Introduction:
The Apostle continued His discourse to the Jewish believers. In the previous chapters he depicted the supremacy of Christ over Moses and the angels, the better covenant and better offering than the old, the fulfillment of the grace of God made by Christ for our redemption. And he summoned them not to fall back but move forward and continue in faith. In this chapter the Apostle illustrated what real faith is. How did the great men in the history of Israel believe God and did work wonders? What were they really looking forward? Faith is belief, trust, confidence and certain. What does it teach us today?
Body:
I. Essence of Faith
1. Faith is
a. Sure of (Verses 11:1-2, 4-5, 4-10) 2Cor 1:20
2. Faith in
b. God (Verses 3, 6) Ps 33:6 Gal 3:6-7
II. Endurance of Faith
1. Faith manifested
a. Obeyed (Verses 11:17-19, 23-25, 27-28, 30-31)
Gen 26.5, 48:15
2. Faith saw
a. See the glory (Verses 10, 13-16, 26-27, 39-40)
3. Faith spoken
a. Professed (Verses 20-23) Gen 50:24
III. End of Faith
1. Faith standing
a. Rewarded (Verses 11:6, 6:13-15, 10:36)
2. Faith bearing fruit
a. Conquer (Verses 11:32-40) 1Sam 17:45-50
Conclusion:
Many great men of God because of their faith have done exploits for God. By faith they have conquered and overcame. How amazing is the word "faith”. It changes everything in us and outside of us. How important it is to God when we believe Him. When we believe Him, His Words, His Promises we can do things that we thought we can not do. If we believe we can be on situations we thought we can not be. We obey and endure all things because we believe Him. The Father is pleased and He rewards them that believe that He is. We believe and are not moved by any circumstances that come our way for we see future, a city with God and a kingdom that shall not be shaken. It shall remain forever and ever. Believe God. That is the power. The secret. Faith.
Title: Wisdom from Above
Context: Book of James
Key Words: testing of faith, endurance, wisdom, love your neighbor, faith, works, tongue,
peace, righteousness, humility, patience, blessed, pray for one another
Key Verse:
JAS 1:5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
JAS 3:17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.
JAS 3:18 And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
Introduction:
James the Lord’s brother who also led the church in Jerusalem wrote this epistle. He is indeed an apostle and a pastor. He showed us the true wisdom that comes from above from God who freely gives to His children. It’s not like the wisdom the world gives but the wisdom that is pure and brings fruit of righteousness. Wisdom that is of God. God wants us to be wise in dealing with this world and with our relationships with our brothers as well.
Body:
I. Why need Wisdom
1. There are trials (Verse 1:2)
2. There are temptations (Verse 1:13)
3. Sinful nature
a. lust (Verses 1:14-15, 4:1, 3)
b. anger (Verses 1:19-20, 4:2)
c. tongue (Verses 1:26, 3:1-12)
4. Evil (Verses 3:14-16)
II. Application of Wisdom
1. In us
a. Asked and received (Verses 1:5-8, 16-17)
b. Put aside sin (Verses 1:21, 4:17)
c. Put the Word of God (Verse 1:21)
d. Obey the Word of God (Verses 1:22-25)
e. Faith and works (Verses 2:14-26)
f. Good behavior (Verses 3:13-18)
g. Humble and submit to God (Verses 4:5-10)
h. Give God due respect (Verses 4:13-16, 5:12)
i. Be patient and endure (Verses 5:7-11)
2. Others
a. Riches (Verses 1:9-11, 5:1-6)
b. Needy (Verse 1:27)
c. Brethren
Impartiality and love (Verses 2:1-13)
Give (Verses 2:15-16)
Do not judge (Verses 4:11-12)
Pray and confess sins (Verses 5:13-16)
Return a sinning brother (Verses 5:19-20)
d. World (Verse 4:4)
III. Fruit of Wisdom
1. Perfect and complete (Verses 1:3-4)
2. Crown of life (Verse 1:12)
3. Best of us (Verse 1:18)
4. Blessed (Verses 1:25, 5:11)
5. Pure (Verse 3:17)
6. Righteousness (Verse 3:18)
7. Grace (Verse 4:6)
8. Answered prayers (Verses 5:16-18)
Conclusion:
Are you wise? The bible says show it by your good behavior. We understood wisdom as the accumulation of knowledge and learning from this world. But real wisdom is that is pure and brings forth goodness, righteousness and peace. He who sows goodness and peace is wise. True wisdom comes from heaven above from our Father who freely gives to us. Ask and you shall receive. We need wisdom because there are trials, temptations in our midst. We need wisdom so that with our faith we endure and we are made complete. The world and the lust of it and wicked and evil men abound. We are to be wise in dealing with them. Our good behavior should be seen by all men. Our faith should be working not sleeping. We say we love our brothers but not meet their needs we are not practicing the truth. There should be no impartiality, quarrels, jealousy among us. We must be doers of the word and not merely hearers. Let us humble before God and He shall exalt us. Let God arise and shine in our hearts. Acquire wisdom? Where? From God and His Word. And live it. The man who endures and does His will shall be blessed and receive the crown of life.
Title: Tested Faith
Context: James 1:1-27
Key Words: tested, tempted, doer
Key Verse:
JAS 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
Introduction:
There are several James mentioned in the bible. First was James the brother of John who was one of the apostles. He was beheaded by Herod and was the first martyr among the apostles. James who wrote this epistle was the Lord’s younger brother. He together with the other apostles heads the church at Jerusalem. Believers encounter various trials and temptations. The saints during their times do experienced hard persecution and trials. Apostle James wrote about Christian living, our relation with God, the brethren and the world. What should you do when your faith is tested? When it is under fire?
Body:
I. During Trails
1. Consider it joy (Verses 1:2) Mt 5:11
2. Endure (Verses 3-4) Rom 5:3-4
3. Ask wisdom (Verses5-7) Prov 2:6 Mk 11:24 Jn 16:24
4. Persevere (Verses 12) Rev 2:10
II. During Temptations
1. Not from God (Verses 1:13, 16-17)
a. Gave us new birth (Verses 18) 1Pet 1:23-25
aa. first and best (Verses 18) Mk 4:20 Jn 15:8, 16
2. Own lust (Verses 14-15)
III. Enduring Tests
1. Hear the word (Verses 1:19-20, 21)
2. Put aside sin (Verses 21) Col 3:8-10
3. Do the word (Verses 22-24, 26-27) Lk 11:28
Conclusion:
Apostle James said that after we have been tested and stood the test we shall have our reward. God blesses His children who live a life of obedience to His word. Blessings now and the crown of life in the hereafter. Brethren rejoice for trials for you shall see the deliverance of the Lord. It is an opportunity for you to endure and experience the faithfulness and greatness of our God. “Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.” (Js 1:12,25, 1Pet 1:7) No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. (1Cor 10:13, 2Pet 2:9)
Title: Holy Calling
Context: Book of 1 Peter
Key Words: chosen, faith, born again, sanctified, holy, Christ, suffering, love, obey, truth
Key Verses:
1PE 1:15 but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; 1PE 1:16 because it is written, “YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY.”
1PE 2:9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;
1PE 3:8 To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit;
1PE 3:9 not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.
1PE 3:10 For,
“THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS,
MUST KEEP HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT.
1PE 3:11 “HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD;
HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.
1PE 3:12 “FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS,
AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER,
BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL.”
Introduction:
Peter in this first letter to the saints made clearly the surety of our salvation in Christ and inheritance we have in heaven. We are aliens and travelers in this world. A chosen race, a holy nation, and a people for God’s own possession so we could give glory to Him who washed us through the precious blood of His Son and transferred us to His Kingdom of Light. He that called us is Holy so we are to be holy in all our behaviors. He wrote about our redemption, our Savior, and the things the saints have to keep, live and walk in Christ.
Body:
I. Our Holy Redemption
1. Our Position
a. Chosen (Verse 1:1)
b. Born again (Verses 1:3, 23-25)
c. Holy nation (Verse 2:9)
2. Our Condition
a. Sanctified by the Spirit (Verse 1:2)
b. Washed by the blood of the Lamb (Verse 1:2)
c. Inheritance reserved in heaven (Verse 1:4)
d. Protected through faith (Verse 1:5)
e. Saved (Verse 1:9)
f. Forgiven (Verse 2:10)
II. Our Holy Savior
1. His sacrifice
a. Predicted (Verses 1:10-12, 20-21, 4:6)
b. By His precious blood (Verses 1:18-19)
c. Bore our sins (Verse 2:24)
d. Died for all (Verse 3:18)
2. He is
a. Holy (Verses 1:16, 2:22-23)
b. The Corner Stone (Verses 2:4, 6-8)
c. Shepherd and Guardian (Verse 2:25)
d. Seated with the Father (Verse 3:22)
3. Blesses
a. The righteous (Verses 3:10-14)
b. Keep you (Verse 5:10)
III. Our Holy Commandment
1. Our Faith
a. Tried and tested (Verses 1:6-7)
b. Love and believe Him (Verse 1:8)
c. Suffer for His Name (Verses 5:12-19)
d. Stand firm (Verse 5:12)
2. Be prepared for action
a. Sober and self-controlled (Verse 1:13)
b. Fix hope on Christ (Verse 1:13)
c. Not previous evil desires (Verse 1:14)
d. Be holy in all our behavior (Verses 1:15, 2:11-12)
e. Fear of God (Verses 1:17, 2:17)
3. Obey the Truth
a. Love one another (Verses 1:22, 17)
b. Put aside evil (Verse 2:1)
c. Take the Word (Verses 2:2-3)
d. Offer spiritual sacrifices (Verses 2:4-5)
e. Submit to authorities (Verses 2:13-15, 17-18)
f. Do good (Verse 2:16)
g. Honor all people (Verse 2:17)
h. Suffer for right (Verses 2:19-21)
j. Live unto righteousness (Verse 2:24)
k. Wives be decent and submit (Verses 3:1-6)
l. Husbands respect your wives (Verse 3:7)
4. Summed up
a. All be harmonious (Verses 3:8-9)
b. Do good not evil (Verses 3:10-14, 4:1-5)
c. Make Jesus Lord in your hearts (Verse 3:15)
d. Be prepared to share (Verse 3:15)
e. Keep a good conscience (Verses 3:16-17, 21)
f. Love and serve the brethren (Verses 4:7-11)
g. Elders shepherd the flock (Verses 5:1-4)
h. Young men submit (Verse 5:5)
i. Humble before God and resist
the enemy (Verses 5:6-11)
Conclusion:
Great is our position and condition in Christ as a believer and a saint. We were chosen and became His children through new birth. We are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation and God’s possession. Sanctified by the Spirit and washed by the blood of the Lamb. Salvation reserved in heaven for us. We are saved and forgiven. And our great Savior Jesus Christ is holy, blameless, and sin was not found in Him. He is righteous and while on earth did only good. He offered and sacrificed Himself for the sins of the world once and for all and now seated at the right hand of God the Father. Who at the end shall judge the living and the dead. We too shall stand before His judgment seat. Though we were forgiven and assured of our salvation we shall be rewarded for everything we have done and endured for His Name. Therefore, let us give honor and glory to our Holy God who has called us unto a holy calling so we walk in it. Live it. Let us be holy in all our behavior, love one another, stand firm in the faith, resist evil and do good, return not evil for evil, insult for insult. Let our conversation and change be seen by all so that they will honor God our Savior who has called us in the Light. Be ready to share the faith we have received. Our Holy God has called us unto a holy life. Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God and honor the king.
Title: Chosen
Context: 1 Peter 1:1-25
Key Words: born again, salvation, faith, obedient, redeemed, word of God
Key Verse:
1PE 1:2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure.
Introduction:
Apostle Peter begun his address in this epistle with the words, “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure. Yes, the saints are God’s chosen people. He knew us before time. And because of this we have an inheritance reserved in heaven. In this study we can find out what happens to God’s chosen – you and me.
Body:
I. Given New Birth
1. Obtain an inheritance (Verse 1:3-4) Col 1:4-5
2. Saved (Verses 5, 9-10) Mk 16:16
II. Faith Tested
1. Obeyed (Verses 1:13-14, 22) Jn 8:47
2. Holy (Verses 15-17) 1Pet 2:5
III. Redeemed
1. By the Blood (Verses 1:18-21) 1Cor 6:20, Heb 9:12
2. Through the Word (Verses 12, 23-25) Js 1:18
Conclusion:
See the glories that are set before us. The great inheritance we have in God through Christ. What a glorious and wonderful promises God has given us. We are just passing by here on earth. We are aliens and not citizens of the world. We have a home and a kingdom not of this earth. Therefore as chosen people of God washed and redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus let us continue to live our lives worthy of His grace. As obedient children let us, continue purifying our lives. Let us not let the world stain our robes but rise us as children of Light. Shine.
Title: Reminder
Context: Book of 2 Peter
Key Words: Received a faith, add to faith, reminder, eyewitnesses, false teachers, coming of the Lord, new heaven and earth
Key Verse:
2PE 3:1 This is now, beloved, the second letter I am writing to you in which I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder,
2PE 3:2 that you should remember the words spoken beforehand by the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior spoken by your apostles.
Introduction:
Peter was one of the pillars of the church among James and John. The Lord has left a commandment to Peter and asked him thrice that if he do love Him he feed His sheep. Indeed, after the resurrection of Christ, Peter with the apostles led powerfully the Jews into Christ as Paul the Gentiles. In this letter, we’ll see the important reminders from Peter and the apostles for the saints and for us today.
Body:
I. The Faith
1. Same as the Apostles
a. Jesus, God and Savior (Verses 1:1-2) Jde 1:3 Jn 20:28-29 Tit 2:13
2. Add to your faith
a. Given divine power (Verses 1:3-4) Eph 3:16 2Pet 2:1
b. All righteousness (Verses 1:5-7) Js 1:21-22
c. To be fruitful (Verses 1:8-9) Js 1:2-25
d. Make sure and welcomed (Verses 1:10-11) 1Jn 2:28-29 Rev 3:3, 16:15
Lk 12:45-46 Jn 15:5-6
3. Sure faith
a. Continued reminder (Verses 1:13-15, 3:1-2, 16) 1Thess 4:1-2
Jude 1:17
b. Were eyewitnesses (Verses 1:16-21) Mt 17:1-9 1Cor 2:1-2
Act 26:13-18
II. The Faithless
1. False Teachers (Verse 2:1) Act 20:27-30 1Jn 2:18-19
2. Deny the Lord (Verse 2:1) 1Tim 4:1 Jude 1:4
3. Their works
a. Many deceived (Verse 2:2) Act 20:30 Mt 24:11
b. Way of the Truth maligned (Verses 2:2-3, 1Pet 2:8) Act 15:5-6,11
Gal 1:6-9, 5:1-10 Rom 9:31-33
c. Sinful (Verses 2:10-19, 20) Jde 1:15-16
4. Their end
a. Formerly believed (Verses 2:1, 20-22) Act 20:30
b. Destruction (Verses 2:3-6, 9) Jde 1:4, 14-15
5. Godly delivers (Verses 2:5-9) Jn 15:4-5
III. The Faithful Coming
1. Others mock (Verses 3:1-2) Jde 1:18-19
2. End of age (Verses 3:5-8) Heb 1:10-11 Mt 24:14
3. God’s patience (Verse 3:9) Rom 2:4 1Tim 2:4
4. Day of the Lord (Verses 3:10-12) 1Thess 5:1, 2Thess 2:1-8
5. New heaven and new earth (Verse 3:13) Is 65:17 Rev 21:1-2
6. Be holy and godly (Verses 3:11, 14) Jde 1:20-22
7. Be on guard and steadfast (Verses 3:17-18) Mt 24:43-44
Conclusion:
Peter nearing his departure in this world after a fruitful ministry wrote a letter as a reminder addressed to all the saints. He said, “Remember the words spoken by the prophets and the commandments by our Lord through His apostles.” The prophets declared the coming Servant of God, who shall be called “The LORD our Righteousness”, who shall deliver His people from their sins and to whom all our sins be laid upon for our ransom. We have received a faith like them- Jesus our God and Savior. The apostles were eyewitnesses of His majesty. They ate, walked and lived with Him. Having received Him we are to move forward not backward. Continue in faith in righteousness, goodness, love, perseverance bearing fruit so that when He comes again we shall not be put to shame and left out. False teachers shall arise from within us and outside us but their condemnation has been foretold. Others mock His coming again but God’s is patient wanting many to repent and come unto salvation. At the Day of the Lord- His coming we all shall be changed and have glorified bodies like Jesus and after reigning a thousand years we shall be with Him forever at the New Heaven and New Earth. Remember saints. Console one another with this and be steadfast in our faith and persevere in Christ. Let us live righteous and holy lives, blameless until His coming.
Title: Life, Love and Light
Context: Books of 1 John – 3 John
Key Words: Life, light, love, commandments, abide, brothers, Son of God, Father
Key Verses:
1JN 1:5 This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all.
1JN 1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth;
1JN 1:7 but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.
Introduction:
Apostle John wrote one of the books of the gospel. It was evident in his writings the Son of God manifested from heaven- His deity, purpose, commandment and God’s love for us. In his letters here again he stressed its importance for false teachings arose already in their times. Jesus left to the saints
a commandment to walk in the light, love one another, keep His words and abide in His teachings. As believers today we are not spared from false teachings about Christ for unto this day many false prophets arise. What are these truths the saints have to know, abide and stay?
Body:
I. The Life
1. Origin of the Life (Verse 1:1) Jn 1:1-2 Rev 3:14
2. The Life (Verses 1:1-2) Jn 1:4, 5:26 Rev 1:17-18
3. Coming of the Life (Verses 1:2-3) Jn 1:9, 14 Mt 3:1-3
4. Promised Life (Verses 2:24-27) Tit 1:2 Col 1:25-27
a. Since ancient times Gen 3:15, 22:18, 49:10 Ps 132:11 Is 7:14, 9:6
Jer 23:5-6 Act 13:32, 38-39
5. We have eternal life (Verses 5:11-13, 20) Jn 5:39, 20:31
II. The Love
1. Sent His Son (Verses 4:9-10, 14) Jn 3:16, 17:8
2. Shed Blood (Verse 1:7, 2:2) 1Pet 1:18-19
3. For Forgiveness (Verses 1:8-10, 2:12, 5:16-17) Mt 26:28
4. Our Mediator (Verses 2:1) 1Tim 2:4-6 Heb 7:24-26
5. Ransom (Verses 2:2, 4:10) Isa 53:6,10 1Tim 2:6
6. Perfected in us (Verses 2:5, 4:11-12, 17-21) Jn 15:12-13
7. Made us His children (Verses 3:1) Jn 1:12 Gal 3:26, 4:6
8. Shall be glorified (Verses 3:2-3) Rom 8:17, 23 Phil 3:21 Col 3:4
9. Took away our sins (Verses 3:4-5) Jn 1:29 2Cor 5:21
III. The Light
1. God is Light (Verse 1:5) Js 1:17
a. Jesus is the Light of the world Jn 1:4-5,9, 9:5, 12:46
2. Saints in the Light
a. Walk in the light (Verses 1:6) Jn 8:12, 12:35-36
Cleansed from all sin (Verses 1:7) Rev 1:5
b. Keep His commandments (Verses 2:3-4)
• Love God (Verses 5:2-3) Jn 14:15, 21
• Believe in Jesus (Verses 3:23) Jn 6:27-29
• Love one another (Verses 3:23) Jn 13:34-35, 15:12
c. Keep His words (Verses 2:5, 14, 24, 2Jn 1:8-11) Jn 8:31,14:23
d. Love the brethren (Verses 2:9-10, 3:11, 14-18, 4:19-21)
Eph 5:2
e. Abide in Him (Verses 3:6, 24) Jn 15:4-5, 10
• Not shamed (Verses 2:28) Jn 15:6 2Pet 1:9-11
f. Believe Jesus is the Christ (Verses 3:23, 5:1)
• Christ, Son of the Living God (Verses 4:13-15 2Jn 1:3) Mt 16:16, 26:63-65
Jn 6:68-69
• Only Savior (Verses 2:2, 4:14) Jn 4:25-26, 42 Act 4:12
• Has eternal life (Verses 5:4-13, 5:20) Jn 17:3
h. Answered prayers (Verses 3:22, 5:14-15) Jn 9:31,15:7
i. Know and walk in the truth (Verses 2Jn 1:1-11 3Jn 1:3-4, 4-8, 9-11)
3. Tests you are in Him
a. Not walk in darkness (Verses 1:6, 2:9-11) Jn 1:5, 3:19
b. Keep His commandments (Verses 2:3-4) Jn 14:15, 21
c. Keep His word (Verses 2:5) Jn 8:31, 14:24
d. Walk as He walked (Verses 2:6) Jn 13:15
e. Know the Father (Verses 2:13, 4:8) Tit 1:16
f. Overcome the evil one (Verses 2:13, 4:4) Js 4:7-8
g. Love not the world (Verses 2:15-17) Rom 12:2 Js 4:4
h. Practice righteousness (Verses 2:29, 3:7-10,12, 5:18-19)
i. Our hearts not condemn us (Verses 3:19-21, 5:9-12)
j. Love (Verses 4:7-8) Gal 5:22 1Thess 4:9
k. His Spirit in us (Verses 3:24, 4:13) Rom 8:14 2Cor 13:5
4. Against the Light
a. Antichrists (Verses 2:18-19, 4:1) Mt 24:4-5, 24
b. Deny Jesus as the Christ (Verses 2:20-22) 2Pet 2:1
• Deny the Son and (Verses 2:23-24) Jn 12:48-50
the Father Mt 10:40 Lk 10:16
c. Deny Jesus coming into the flesh (Verses 4:2-3, 5:5-8, 2Jn 1:7) Jn 1:1-3,14
Heb 10:5-12 Phil 2:5-11
• Came by water, blood, Spirit (Verses 5:5-8) Mt 3:13-17 Mt 26:28 1Cor 12:3
d. We overcome them (Verses 4:4-6, 5:4-5, 2Jn 1:7-11) Rom 16:17
Tit 3:10
Conclusion:
Life has come into the world and has come unto our lives- our Lord Jesus Christ. Who was at the beginning with God and was God and dwelt among us. The Father has sent His Son, took the human body and was offered as a ransom for the payment of our sins and of the whole world. Whoever shall repent and believe this truth shall be born of God, forgiven, saved and shall possess eternal life. As children of light we keep His commandments thereby we abide in Him. We walk in the Light as He is in the Light and His blood cleanses us from all sin. We practice righteousness because He is righteous. He came to destroy and take away sin and in Him was no sin who became a sin for us so He shall be our righteousness. And we were freed from our sins and not live in sin. His love is perfected in us because we love the brethren. We love because He first loved us while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. As sons of God, through our faith in Christ, we overcome the world and the evil one. We keep His words and His words abide in us. We know, keep and walk in the truth. No one can take away that truth from us and shall be with us forever. God promised us eternal life and that life abides in us and because we love the brethren. And this is the confidence that we have in Him, not only He has given us eternal life, He hears our prayers because we keep His commandments and do His will.
Title: The Life of God
Context: 1John 1:1-10
Key Words: Life, light, forgive
Key Verse:
1JN 1:2 and the life was manifested, and we have seen and testify and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was manifested to us.
Introduction:
Apostle John wrote one of the four gospels. The Deity of our Lord Jesus Christ and His mission to bring eternal life were evident in his writings. In his epistle in 1 John we can see the same themes. What does the Apostle John want the early believers in the First Century to really have a good grasped of the truth concerning the Son of God. There were false teachings that arose in their times that attacked the Person of the Son of God and His real Purpose. And in this light what is it to us? How should we respond to these everlasting truths.
Body:
I. The Life
1. Origin of the Life (verse 1) Jn 1:1-2
2. Coming of the Life (verses 2-3) Jn 1:14
II. The Light
1. God is Light (verse 5) Jn 1:9, 8:12
2. Saints in the Light (verses 6-7) Jn 3:20-21
III. The Love
1. His Shed Blood (verse 7) 1Pet 1:18-19
2. His Faithfulness (verses 8-10) Ps 32:5
Conclusion:
Our Lord Jesus Christ the eternal life was manifested. He came and showed us the Light. We have come to God through His Son and now we have fellowship with Him. And true knowledge of God is seen in our walking with Him in the light. His blood cleanses us from all of our sins. He is faithful all the time we come to Him to receive grace and mercy. As children of Light we are to walk in Him and for Him. Our world today may seem to darken everything but knowing you are in the Light and having that Life makes our joy complete.
Title: Contending for the Faith
Context: Book of Jude
Key Words: contend, ungodly, keep
Key Verse:
JUDE 1:3 Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints.
Introduction:
Jude also called Thaddaeus was on of the Apostles of the Lord and brother of Apostle James the son of Alphaeus. There was another James who was the brother of John were sons of Zebedee. These brothers were called by the Lord into the ministry. Apostle Jude’s letter to the church was very strong. He saw the ungodly and evil persons who have entered the church taking advantage of the saints. They are corrupt and immoral. Their destruction was foretold. They eat and feast with you. The apostle described and exposed their acts and condemnation and at the same time taught the saints how to contend for the faith. Move ahead of them, doing away with them and stand.
Body:
I. You Assert
1. We are Called (Verse 1:1) Rom 1:6-7 1Cor 1:9
2. Are Kept (Verse 1) 1Cor 1:8
3. We Contend (Verse 3) 1Tim 1:18, 6:12
II. They Corrupt
1. Ungodly persons (Verse 1:1)
a. Crept in (Verse 4) 2Pet 2:1
b. Immoral (Verses 4,18) 2Pet 2:14
c. Deny the Lord Jesus (Verse 4)
d. Rejects authority (Verse 8-10) 2Pet 2:10-12
e. Way of Cain (Verse 11) Gen 4:8 1Jn 3:12
f. Error of Balaam (Verse 11) Num 22:7 2Pet 2:15
g. Rebellion of Korah (Verses 11) Num 16:1-3 (Tit 3:8)
h. Lifeless (Verse 12) 2Pet 2:17
i. Fault finder (Verses 16,18)
j. Sweet talker (Verse 16) 2Pet 2:18
k. Cause division (Verse 19) Gal 5:20
l. Without the Spirit (Verse 19) Tit 1:16
2. Ungodly end
a. Destroyed (Verses 5,10,14-15) 2Pet 3:7
b. Eternal Punishment (Verses 6-7,13) 2Pet 2:3, 17 2Thess 1:8-9
III. Keep the Faith
1. Build up
a. In your holy faith (Verse 1:20) 2Tim 4:7
b. Pray in the Spirit (Verse 20) Eph 8:18 1Thess 5:17 1Cor 14:14-15
c. Abide in God’s love (Verse 21) Ps 37:27 Jn 15:4,9-10 1Jn 4:16
d. Look unto His coming (Verse 21) 1Cor 1:7, Tit 2:13
2. Save others
a. Have mercy (Verse 1:22) Rom 14:1
b. Snatch others from fire (Verse 23) Tit 1:10-11,13
3. Our Savior
a. Able to keep (Verse 1:24) 1Cor 1:8 Eph 5:27
b. Makes you stand (Verse 25) 2Pet 2:9 1Thess 5:23-24
c. Praised (Verse 25) Rom 11:36 Eph 3:21
Conclusion:
Glory and honor to our great God and Savior who has called us with a holy calling. Who has delivered and saved us from evil and works of darkness. He is able to keep us from falling. As His holy people purchased and redeemed by the precious blood of His Son, let us set aside and throw behind our backs and leave behind all that are filthy and unpleasing in His eyes. Let us contend for the faith. Let us pray in the Spirit. Let us abide in Him. Let us have mercy on others. Others we deliver from the fire through the gospel truth and power of the Spirit. Let us stop evil men from polluting our churches and our families. Stand and guard your grounds. Keep the faith. Fight a good fight. Speak the truth and expose the works of darkness for in due time we shall receive the crown of life the Lord has promised us. Look up unto His coming for the saints. Give glory to God.
Title: Last Things
Context: Book of Revelation
Key Words: Revelation, Jesus Christ, dominion, saints, heaven, earth, plagues, dragon, angels, saints, King of kings and Lord of lords, kingdom, war, lake of fire, Throne. new heaven and earth
Key Verses:
REV 1:5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood—
REV 1:6 and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father— to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
REV 1:7 BEHOLD, HE IS COMING WITH THE CLOUDS, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen.
REV 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
REV 5:13 And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying,
“To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever.”
REV 5:14 And the four living creatures kept saying, “Amen.” And the elders fell down and worshiped.
REV 20:11 Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and heaven fled away, and no place was found for them.
REV 20:12 And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds.
REV 20:13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead which were in them; and they were judged, every one of them according to their deeds.
REV 20:14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.
REV 20:15 And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.
REV 21:1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea.
REV 21:2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband.
REV 21:3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them,
REV 21:4 and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.”
REV 21:5 And He who sits on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” And He *said, “Write, for these words are faithful and true.”
Introduction:
John was at the island Patmos when he received this vision, prophecy and revelation from our Lord Jesus Christ and through His angel and wrote them in a book. It’s a revelation from God about the last things that shall happen in the last days. Before the vision a message was sent to the seven churches in Asia which are also a message for the churches today. There will be a great tribulation coming upon the earth that never has happened. And the gospel shall reach all the world. The kingdom of this world has become the kingdom of God. The Christ, the Son of God, the King of kings and Lord of lords coming with His angels with great power and might putting an end to evil, the wicked and Satan. And shall judge the whole world. He shall reign with His saints. There shall be a new heaven and earth. God dwelling among men and reigning forever.
Body:
I. Our Lord Jesus Christ Rev 1
1. The Revealer (Verse 1:1, 5,11,19) Heb1:1-2
2. Faithful witness (Verse 1:5) Jn 8:26, 15:15
3. Loves us (Verse 1:5, 5:9) Rom 5:6
4. Made us a Kingdom (Verse 1:6, 5:10) 1Pet 2:9
5. The Almighty (Verses 1:7-8,10,15-16, 19:15-16) Is 44:6
6. Conquering Savior (Verses 1:17-18, 3:7)
7. He is among us (Verse 2:1)
8. First and the Last, was Alive (Verse 2:8)
9. Has the sharp two-edged sword (Verse 2:12)
10. The Son of God (Verse 2:18)
11. Has the seven Spirits of God and seven stars (Verses 3:1, (1:20), 5:6)
12. Holy, True, has key of David, authority (Verse 3:7)
13. Amen, Faithful & True Witness, Beginning of God’s creation (Verse 3:14)
14. Lion from the Tribe of Judah (Verse 5:5)
15. Root of David (Verse 5:5)
16. The Word of God (Verse 19:13)
17. King of kings, Lord of lords (Verse 19:16)
II. The Church Rev 2-3
1. The Receiver
a. Bond servants (Verses 1:1,3, 2:11,17,29)
b. Messengers of the Churches (Verse 1:20) Jn 21:15-17 Heb 13:17
c. Seven Churches (Verses 1:4,11-12,20, Rev 2 and 3)
2. The Message
a. Praise Report (Verses 2:2-3, 7, 9, 13, 19, 3:4, 8)
b. Evil Report (Verses 2:4, 13, 14-15, 20, 3:1, 2, 15-16, 17)
c. Repent and overcome (Verses 2:5,16, 7, 10)
d. Do the deeds (Verse 2:5)
e. Do not fear, faithful until death (Verse 2:10)
f. Keep His Deeds (Verse 2:26)
g. Wake up and strengthen (Verse 3:2)
h. Remember and keep (Verse 3:3)
i. Learn from the Lord (Verses 3:18-19)
j. Hear and open the door (Verse 3:20)
3. Rewards for whoever overcomes (Verses 2:7,10-11, 17, 24-28,
3:4-5,9-12, 21)
4. Judgment if not repent
a. Trouble (Verses 2:5 (1:20), 16, 21-23, 3:3, 16)
b. Death (Verses 2:11, 3:5)
5. The Spirit speaks
a. To all churches (Verses 2:7,11,17,29, 3:6,13,22)
III. The Last Days Rev 4-20
1. Scene from Heaven
a. Throne of God (Verses 4:1-4)
b. Worshipped of the Father and the Son (Verses 4:5-11)
2. The Opening of the seals
a. Book with seven seals (Verses 5:1-4)
b. Lamb of God exalted (Verses 5:5-14)
3. The Tribulation Mt 24.15, 21 Is 24, 26.20-21
1st seal broken.
Rise of the Antichrist (Verse 6.2)
The Fourth Kingdom Dan 2.36-43, 44-45, 7.17-20, 23-25
Beast out of the Sea:
Antichrist given Satan’s powers (Verses 13.1-10,18)
Beast out of the earth:
False prophet and the image (Verses 13.11-17)
Abomination of desolation Mt 24.15, 21 Dan 9.27, 7.24-25, 8.9-14,
11.36-37
Temple and city defiled Dan 9.27 2Thess 2.3-4
1st Seal: Conquer (Verses 6.1-2)
2nd Seal: War (Verses 6.3-4)
3rd Seal: Famine (Verses 6.5-6)
4th Seal: Death ¼ of mankind is destroyed (Verses 6.7-8)
5th Seal: First Martyr’s (Verses 6.9-11)
6th Seal: Heaven & earthquake (Verses 6.12-17)
144,000 Jews and Multitudes sealed (Verses 7.1-9)
The saints protected (Verse 7:3)
Tribulation saints worship (Verses 7.10-17)
7th Seal: Silence in Heaven (Verse 8.1)
7 angels with 7 trumpets (Verse 8.2)
The angel and prayers of the saints lifter (Verses 8.3-5)
7 angels prepare to sound (Verse 8.6)
1st trumpet: hail, fire, blood (Verse 8.7)
2nd trumpet: sea into blood (Verses 8.8-9)
3rd trumpet: waters poisoned (Verses 8.10-11)
4th trumpet: planets darkened (Verse 8.12)
Angel announces 3 woes (Verse 8.13)
5th trumpet:
1st Woe: Locusts from hell released and lament men (Verses 9.1-12)
Believers, vegetation not hurt (Verse 9.4) Dan 12.1
6th trumpet:
2nd Woe: 200 million armies slay 1/3 of man (Verses 9.13-21)
But the rest of mankind didn’t repent (Verses 9.20-21)
2 witnesses appeared on earth (Verses 11.3-12)
and proclaimed the gospel Zech 4.3, 11, 14 (Mal 4.4-5 Mt 17.1-3, 11)
The woman, Israel who gave birth to the male child Jesus Christ (Verses 12.1-5)
She is kept for 1,260 days (Verse 12.6)
Eternal gospel preached into the earth (Verses 12.6-7)
War in heaven, Satan cast down (Verses 12.7-12)
Persecuted Israel but was delivered (Verses 12.13-16) Dan 7.21
Made war with the saints (Verse 12:17)
Fall of Babylon announced (Verse 14.8)
Doomed of worshippers of the beast (Verses 14.9-11)
Blessing of martyrs announced (Verses 14.12-13)
Wine press of the wrath of God (Verses 14.14-20)
blood flowed 200 miles and up to the horses bridles
7 angels with the last 7 plagues (Verses 15.1-8)
Angels with 7 bowls of wrath of God
1st Bowl: sores on men (Verse 16.2)
2nd Bowl: death on sea (Verse 16.3)
3rd Bowl: rivers into blood (Verse 16.4)
4th Bowl: sun scorched men not repent (Verses 16.8-9)
5th Bowl: into the Beast & his kingdom,
darkness & pain (Verses 16.10-11)
6th Bowl: Euphrates river dried up (Verse 16.12)
Way for the kings of the east
3 unclean spirits coming out from the dragon (Verses 16.13-16)
The beast and the false prophet gathering nations for war in Armageddon
7th Bowl: The Greatest Earthquake (Verses 16.17-21)
Cities, nations, islands fell
100 pounds of hailstones fell on men from heaven
Judgment of the Great Harlot- Babylon (Verses 17-18, 19.1-7)
The woman is the great city which reigns over the kings of the earth
which was carried by the Beast. She has killed many of the Lord’s saints.
IV. The Second Coming Rev 19-20
1. His Coming
The 7th Trumphet sounded:
Christ reign foreseen (Verses 10.7, 11.15-19) Mt 24.29-31
1Cor 15.52
The Lamb and the bride ready (Verses 19.7-10)
The Coming of Jesus Christ (Verses 19.11-16) Mt 24.30-31 Dan 7.13-14
Coming like as thief (Verses 16.15, 3.3) 1Thess 5.4-6 2Pet 3:10
2. Resurrection
Of all Saints(OT & NT, Tribulation)(Verses 7.9-14, 20.4-5, 6) Mt 24.31, 37
Lk 21.27-28 Mk 13.27 2Thess 2.1-8
1Thess 4.15-17, 5.1-10, 1Cor 15.52-53
1Jn 3.2 Col 3.4 Heb 9.28 Dan 12.13, 1-2
Union/ Marriage of the Lamb (Verses 19.7-9, 11-14)
and the Bride Mt 25:10 2Thess 2.1
The LORD comes with all His Saints (Verses 19:11-15) Zech 14.4 Jde 14
Mt 24.29-31 1Thess 3.13
Battle of Armageddon (Verses 16.16, 17.13-14, 19:17-21)
War with the Lamb & their defeat Dan 2:34-35, 7:22 Is 63.1-6
Destruction of the beast (antichrist) (Verses 19.20-21) 2Thess 2.3, 7-10
and the false prophet
Satan the dragon, old serpent bound (Verse 20.2)
The Lamb on Mount Zion (Verses 14.1-5) Zech 14.1-9 (Mt 25.31-46)
3. Christ Reigns
1,000 years reign on earth (Millennium) (Verses 20:4, 6, 3:21, 5:10)
Saints reign w/ Him (Verse 20.4) Dan 7.22, 27
Nations serve the LORD Mt 24:30 Lk 21:25-27
Is 66:18-24 Zech 14:9-21
Satan final revolt & end (Verses 20.7-10)
4. Great White Throne Judgment (Verses 20:11-15) Is 34.8 Rom 2.5-8, 14.10-12
Act 10.42, 17.31
Christ on His Glorious Throne (Verse 11.18) Mt 25.31-32, 33-46
16.24-27 Dan 12.2
Unbelievers/Wicked rose from the dead (Verses 20.5-6, 11-15)
Jb 14.1, 4-5, 12,14
Second Death (Spiritual/Eternal Damnation)
Condemned into the Lake of Fire (Verse 21.8) Mt 25.31, 41, 7.15, 23, 12.34-37,
41-42 1Cor 6.9-10
V. The New Heaven and New Earth Rev 21-22
New Heaven & Earth (Verses 21:1 to 22) 1Cor 15.24-28
2Pet 3.10-13,7 Is 34.4, 51.62 Is 65.17
1. The Character
a. Place for the holy city, the new Jerusalem (Verse 21.2)
coming from heaven
b. In the city is Tabernacle of God among men (Verse 21.3)
c. God will dwell among them (Verse 21.3)
d. They shall be His people (Verse 21.3)
e. No more tears (Verse 21.4)
f. No more death (Verse 21.4)
g. No more mourning, crying or pain (Verse 21.4)
h. No more sin (Verses 22.14-15)
i. All things are new (Verse 21.5) Is 35.4-10
j. All whose names written in the Lamb’s Book (Verses 21.27, 22.14-15)
of Life shall come into it
k. The Throne of God and of the Lamb in it (Verses 22.1, 3)
l. There will no longer be any curse (Verse 22.3) Zech 14.11
m. His bond-servants will serve Him (Verse 22.3)
n. They will see His Face and His Name will be (Verse 22.4)
on their forehead
o. They will reign forever & ever (Verses 22.6, 21.24,26) Dan 7.18
2. The Appearance of the Holy City
There will be a New City. Which is New (Verses 21.1-27)
Jerusalem in the New Earth
a. No more seas (Verse 21.1)
b. The holy city, the new Jerusalem and the (Verses 21.2-3, 10)
Tabernacle of God which is from heaven and comes down
c. She has the glory of God (Verse 21.11)
d. Her brilliance, costly stone of crystal – clear jasper (Verse 21.11)
e. Great high wall with twelve gates with twelve angels (Verses 21.12-13)
Three gates on each side north, south, east &
west written are the twelve tribes of Israel.
The wall has twelve foundation stones with twelve (Verse 21:14)
names of the apostles of the Lamb.
f. The city is laid out as a square. (Verse 21.16)
Measured 1,500 miles length, width & height are equal
Walls are 70 yards (200 ft thick) (Verse 21.17)
Material of the wall was jasper, (Verses 21.18-21)
the city was pure gold like clear glass.
Foundation stones were adorned with every kind of precious stone.
The twelve gates were twelve pearls.
The street of the city is pure gold, like transparent glass.
h. No temple in it, the Lord God Almighty (Verse 21.22)
& the Lamb are its Temple
i. No sun or moon to shine it and (Verses 21.23, 22.5)
the lamp is the Lamb Zech 14.6-7 Is 60.19-20
j. Nations walk by its light, kings of the earth (Verses 21.24, 26)
will bring their glory into it.
k. No more night, gates will never be closed (Verse 21.25)
l. There’s a river of water of life clear as (Verse 22.1) Zech 14.8
crystal coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb m. There is a tree of life, bearing twelve kinds (Verse 22.2)
of fruit, the leaves were for the healing of nations.
n. It is the Paradise of God (Verse 2.7)
3. The Existence
Eternal, Forever and Ever
a. The LORD/YAHWEH will be the Only One and (Verses 22:3-6, 13)
His Name the Only One Zech 14.9
b. The Throne of God and the Lamb forever and ever (Verses 22.1, 3)
Ps 9.7, 45.6
c. The LORD/ YAHWEH our God reigns (Verses 21.2,9-10,22-23,22.1, 3-5)
on His Throne forever and ever 1Cor 15.24-28 Is 9.6-7 Lk 1.33
Conclusion:
We are living in the last days and everyday people from all nations and all tongues are entering the Kingdom of God through the gospel. God patiently waits people to repent of their wicked ways and for all His saints to come into the fold. Great shall be His salvation in these last days. Our Lord Jesus revealed the last things to John and he wrote the vision in a book. The Spirit is saying to the churches those who sin are to repent and overcome for Jesus will come again to judge the living and the dead. There shall be a great tribulation that shall come upon the earth. The deception, wickedness and influence of Satan shall be heightened. The Antichrist and his false prophet shall arise and shall deceive many. He shall sit on the Temple of Jerusalem and proclaim himself as God. He shall show false signs and wonders. The LORD shall pour judgments on the earth for man’s wickedness but many shall not repent of their ways. One fourth of mankind shall be destroyed. 200 million armies will kill one third of man. Plagues, famines and destruction shall be worsened. And the people of the Kingdom shall stand and make war with Satan and his armies. They love not their life unto death. They shall keep the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus. They shall be protected from the wrath that shall fall upon the earth. Babylon, the great harlot and false religion shall fall. And the sign from Heaven shall appear with a great trump. The Son of God, the King of kings and the Lord of lords shall come and His saints gathered to Him and raised unto life. The Antichrist, the false prophet and their armies were destroyed at the Battle of Armageddon and the he and his false prophet throne into the Lake of Fire, the Second Death, the eternal damnation ad punishment. Satan bound for 1,000 years. The saints shall be rewarded and shall reign with Christ on earth a thousand years. At the end Satan shall be released and deceive many nations for final battle. And they shall be devoured by fire from Heaven and Satan cast into the Lake of Fire. Blessed are those the saints who had part on the First Resurrection for Death has no power over it. And Judgment Day comes and all the wicked dead shall be raised for condemnation. They shall have bodies and shall stand before God. They shall be judged by everything written on the Books. And whosoever’s name was not found in the Lamb’s Book of Life was thrown into the Lake of Fire. Heaven and Earth shall past away and be melted by intense heat and there shall be a new heaven and new earth. God coming down from Heaven and shall live with His people. There shall be no more pain, wicked, sorrow, sickness but only life and light, joy and happiness for God and the Lamb shall be there. The Great City Jerusalem shall have streets of gold and everything of the finest stones. And the God the Father and the Son, the Precious Lamb of God shall sit on the Throne and reign forever and ever. And His people with Him forever and ever.
Title: Revelation
Context: Revelation 1:1-20
Key Words: Revelation, Jesus Christ, churches
Key Verse:
REV 1:7 BEHOLD, HE IS COMING WITH THE CLOUDS, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen.
REV 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Introduction:
The Book of the Revelation is the last book of the bible. It is the revelation from God the things that would take place in the future. It covers the culmination of things- of the heavens and the earth, the battle between the good and evil and its end, the people of God against the Devil and the triumph of the saints, the coming of the King of kings and the new heaven and the earth. And God dwelling with His people. At the later years of John’s life the Lord appeared to him for this revelation for the churches. Seven churches were mentioned until chapter 3. God has a revelation for His people.
Body:
I. The Revelation
1. From God the Father (Verse 1:1) Heb1:1
2. Spoken by the Son (Verses 1,5,11,19) Heb1:2
3. Through His apostle (Verses 1-4,9) Lk 10:16
II. The Revealer
18. Faithful witness (Verse 1:5) Jn 8:26, 15:15
19. Loves us (Verse 5, 5:9) Rom 5:6
20. Made us a Kingdom (Verse 6, 5:10) 1Pet 2:9
21. The Almighty (Verses 7-8,10,15-16, 19:15-16) Is 44:6
22. Conquering Savior (Verses 17-18, 3:7)
III. The Receiver
a. Bond servants (Verses 1:1,3, 2:11,17,29)
b. Messengers of the Churches (Verse 20) Jn 21:15-17 Heb 13:17
c. Seven Churches (Verses 4,11-12,20, Rev 2 and 3)
Conclusion:
Everything is already destined. Our God never fails. He is coming as the Almighty One. The revelation to Apostle John showed us the certainty of the things God has spoken. We have a Savior who is faithful, who loved us and made us a kingdom. He spoke to the seven churches and He is speaking to all the churches. He is speaking to us. Let us hear saints. He is speaking to you. Know Him all the more. Serve Him all the more. He has a revelation. He has a message for you and for me. Stand saints. Hold your ground. Move onward. He is the coming King of kings and the Lord of lords.
Title: Message to the Churches
Context: Revelation 2-3:22
Key Words: churches, deeds, sin, repent, overcome
Key Verse:
REV 2:7 ‘ He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, …’
Introduction:
The Book of Revelation was written by Apostle John revealed to him by our Lord Jesus Christ. He showed him the things that have to come in the last days and at His Second Coming. Before the vision the Lord Jesus instructed him to send messages to the seven churches during his time. And the Holy Spirit says, “He who has an ear. Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’ Let’s hear the messages. It was for them as it is for us today. What does the Lord want His churches to know and do?
Body:
I. He Speaks
1. He is among us (Verse 2:1)
2. First and the Last, was Alive (Verse 8)
3. Has the sharp two-edged sword (Verse 12)
4. The Son of God (Verse 18)
5. Has the seven Spirits of God and seven stars (Verses 3:1, (1:20))
6. Holy, True, has key of David, authority (Verse 3:7)
7. Amen, Faithful & True Witness, Beginning of God’s creation (Verse 14)
8. The Spirit speaks (Verses 2:7,11,17,29, 3:6,13,22)
II. His Report
A. Praise
1. Toil and perseverance (Verses 2:2-3)
a. Not grown weary (Verse 3)
b. Not tolerate evil men (Verse 2)
c. Not tolerate false apostles, not Jews (Verses 2, 9)
2. Hate the deeds of Nicolaitans (Verse 7)
3. Endured tribulation and poverty (Verse 9)
4. Hold fast His Name and not deny His faith (Verse 13)
5. Deeds greater than the first (Verse 19)
6. Some not soil their garments and worthy (Verse 3:4)
7. Kept His word and not deny His Name (Verse 8)
B. Evil
1. Left first love (Verse 2:4)
2. Satan dwells (Verse 13)
3. Teachings of Balaam and Nicolaitans (Verses 14-15)
4. Tolerate acts of immorality (Verse 20)
5. Dead (Verse 3:1)
6. Deeds not complete (Verse 2)
7. Lukewarm (Verses 15-16)
8. Miserable, poor, blind, naked (Verse 17)
III. His Word
A. Repent (Verses 2:5,16)
1. Do the deeds (Verse 5)
2. Do not fear, faithful until death (Verse 10)
3. Keep His Deeds (Verse 26)
4. Wake up and strengthen (Verse 3:2)
5. Remember and keep (Verse 3)
6. Learn from the Lord (Verses 18-19)
7. Hear and open the door (Verse 20)
8. Dine with Him (Verse 20)
B. Overcome (Verses 2:7, 10)
1. Eat of the tree of life in God’s Paradise (Verse 7)
2. Have Crown of life (Verse 10)
3. Not hurt by second death (Verse 11)
4. Hidden manna, white stone and new name (Verse 17)
5. No burden (Verse 24)
6. Authority of the nations (Verses 25-27)
7. Given Morning Star (Verse 28)
8. Walk with Him in white (Verses 3:4-5)
9. Not erased in the book of life (Verse 5)
10. Confess his name before the Father (Verse 5)
11. Enemies bow and know you are loved (Verse 9)
12. Kept from tests (Verse 10)
13. Crown not taken (Verse 11)
14. Make Pillar in the Temple of God (Verse 12)
15. God and Jesus’ name written on Him (Verse 12)
16. Overcome and Sit with Him on His Throne (Verse 21)
C. Judgment
1. Remove lampstand (Verses 2:5(1:20))
2. Make war (Verse 16)
3. Bring sickness and death (Verses 21-23)
4. Come like a thief (Verse 3:3)
5. Spit out of His mouth (Verse 16)
Conclusion:
Our Lord Jesus Christ’s message to the seven churches in Revelation is also His message to our churches today. Let us listen to the Son of God who speaks from His Throne. He is indeed serious with our calling. In our churches and those who lead them, there are good things that the Lord are pleased with and some were not. There are those who overcome, not deny His Name and His faith, not tolerate false teachings and evil men, persevere, endure trials, temptations and tribulations and do good deeds. There are those who left their first love, tolerate sins and immoralities, hold to false teachings, lukewarm, dead, poor, blind and naked. The Lord disciplines and corrects those whom He loves. Those who repent and overcome shall have their reward. They shall be kept, receive the crown of life and shall rule with Him. Those who will not repent He shall come to them like a thief in the night, shall be denied before God, erased from the book of life and hurt by the second death. Let us therefore look unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. Let us hear and learn from Him. Let us keep His deeds, not deny Him and His Faith. Let Him rule over us.
For more Expository Sermon Outlines visit my Website for weekly updates of this book :
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