Pastor Larry dela Cruz

100+ Sermons
The Old and New Testament

FOREWORD

Nothing is more glorious and precious when we are preaching and teaching the
Word of God. God's Word is powerful. It reaches into our innermost heart and deepest soul. It moves us into faith in God. His counsel and will for us are revealed in His written Words. His promises, love, mercy, salvation and blessings -- all are in His Book. This book 100 + Sermons is an outline of the some of the chosen and relevant chapters in the Old Testament and all of the books of the New Testament. We can teach from the book and from the chapters of the books of the Bible. This is a good material for preaching and teaching in series. Its a Three Part Outline. You can preach from Part 1 in the first meeting and continue in Part II until Part III as you expound, elaborate and give insights from the Scriptures quoted therein. This is an expository outline of the Bible and for expository preaching.

Jesus said, Man shall not live by bread alone but by every Word that comes from the mouth of God. - Mt 4:4 "Sanctify them with Your Truth. Your Word is Truth." - Jn 17:17

The apostles have preached from Scripture so do we from their writings as well. 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

Please visit my Website for free download eBooks. pastorlarrdelacruz.weebly.com

CONTENTS
Acts of the Apostles Assurance Believe God, Believe Jesus Better Covenant Be Ready 24/7 Birth Of Jesus Born of God Bread of Life Creation (The Fall) Called to Serve Contending for the Faith Children of God Chosen Christ Factor Christ Son of God Christ the Savior of the World Christian Walk Church at Work Daniel and His God (His Kingdom Shall Never End) David and His God (The Leadership) Dont Overlook These Dont Play with Sin Everything Right Faith Faith in Christ Faith Plus Godliness Faith That Works Faith Unshackled False Teachers Among Us Giving to the Saints God and Abraham (The Promise) God and His Prophets God and His People God and His Prophets God and Isaac (The Everlasting Covenant) God and Jacob (God Caused It) God and Joshua (Success Gods Way) God and Moses (The Deliverance) Gods Righteousness Gods True Servants Good Evil He Has Risen! Healthy Church Hear and Obey Heavenly His First Coming Holy Calling 100 131 88 194 67 41 231 80 7 98 235 229 211 186 69 76 166 152 29 24 206 125 175 198 144 218 205 170 220 136 9 32 35 32 11 13 21 17 104 138 172 96 168 44 187 72 208

House in Order Its a Relationship Israel Shall Be Saved Joseph and His God (The Dreamer) Jesus and His Disciples Jesus our King Jesus Son of Man Jesus the Servant Just Believe Kingdom of God Knowledge of God Last Things Learning from Christ Life, Love and Light Light of the World Living for God Made Alive Made Complete Message to the Churches Model Church No Condemnation No Other Gospel One and United On Track Parable of the Sower Parable of the Talents Partakers If Paul and His Gospel Perilous and Glorious Times Perfected it All Position Your Mind Power from on High Pressing On Forward Progress and Joy in Faith Reminder Revelation Righteousness and Faith Royal Priesthood Holy Nation Run with Endurance Sacrifice and Death of Jesus Second Coming Sermon on the Mount Slaves of Righteousness Son of God Sovereign Son Spiritual Instructions Spiritually Alive Suffered for All Temptation of Jesus Tested Faith The Glorious Gospel The Good Shepherd

184 133 115 15 94 37 61 55 59 58 164 237 154 223 82 214 148 162 245 167 113 140 120 146 45 50 191 142 182 197 150 103 160 156 215 244 109 212 199 52 47 65 111 78 190 128 151 27 43 203 107 87

The Good Fight The Law The Life of God The Servant Leader The Spirit of Truth The Truth Shall Set You Free The Vine and the Branches To Live is Christ Unashamed Workman Walking in Truth We are One Wisdom from Above Works of Righteousness Writing Relevant Sermons You Know Him You Must Be Born Again

174 19 225 177 90 85 92 158 180 233 123 201 117 247 227 73

Title: Creation (The Fall) Context: Genesis 1-3 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 make a provision for mans 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. Gods Image a. In His image and likeness b. Rule c. Blessed, fruitful and multiply 2. Life a. Dust from ground

(Verses 1:26-27, 31) Eph 4:24 (Verses 1:26, 28) (Verses 28, 3:2 (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 b. The Lie and the truth 2. The Fall a. Disobedience b. Sin 3. The Judgment a. Serpent Enmity between the seeds Redemption for man b. Woman Pain in childbearing Serve the husband c. Man Ground is cursed Toil for food Go back to dust d. Cast out from the Garden Clothed them Not touch the Tree of Life

(Verse 3:1) Rev 20:2 (Verses 2-5, 13) Rev 12:9 (Verse 6) Rom 5:12 (Verses 7-13) (Verse 15) Rev 12:13-17, 20:4-10 (Verse 15) Jn 12:31, 14:30 Col 2:15 (Verse 16) (Verse 16) Tit 2:4-5 (Verse 17) (Verses 17-19) (Verse 19) (Verse 21) (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 (The Promise) Context: Genesis 12-26 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.
GE 26:2

The LORD appeared to him and said, Do not go down to Egypt; stay in the land of which I shall tell you. GE 26:3 Sojourn in this land and I will be with you and bless you, for to you and to your descendants I will give all these lands, and I will establish the oath which I swore to your father Abraham. GE 26:4 I will multiply your descendants as the stars of heaven, and will give your descendants all these lands; and by your descendants all the nations of the earth shall be blessed; GE 26:5 because Abraham obeyed Me and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes and My laws. GE 26:6 So Isaac lived in Gerar. 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 Gods 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 b. Get out c. Into d. Gives the vision

(Verses Gen 12:1, 13:14, 15:1, 18:1-2) (Verse Gen 12:1) (Verses Gen 12:1, 15:7) (Verses Gen 15:12-21)

2. Gods covenant a. Between Him and Abraham b. Great nation c. Blesses to be a blessing d. Multiplies 3. God covers a. Protection b. Gives land c. Recovers d. Our shield e. Sustains f. Fulfills II. Abraham with God 1. Believed God 2. Obeyed 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Worshiped Him in everyplace Enriched along the way Paid tithes, God his Provider Walked blamelessly Kept the covenant Abraham not perfect Faith tested

(Verses Gen 12:1-3, 17:1-8) (Verse Gen 12:2) (Verse Gen 12:2) (Verses Gen 13:14-16) (Verses Gen 12:17-18, 19:13-16, 29) (Verses Gen 13:15,17) (Verses Gen 14:10-16) (Verse Gen 15:1) (Verses Gen 15:2-5) (Verses Gen 17:15-16, 21:2) (Verses Gen 12:4, 15:5-6) (Rom 4:3 Gal 3:6 Js 2:23) (Verses Gen 12:4, 6, 9, 13:3, 26:5) (Gen 26:5 Heb 11:8) (Verses Gen 12:7-8, 13:4,18, 21:33) (Verses Gen 13:2, 5-6, 24:1) (Verses Gen 14:18-20, 21-24) (Verse Gen 17:1) (Verses Gen 17:9-12, 26-27) (Verses Gen 12:11-1, 20:1-7, 11-13) (Verses Gen 22:1-14) Heb 11:17-19 Js 2:22-23 (Verses Gen 22:15-18, 26:1-5)

10. Obedience rewarded III. Promised Fulfilled 1. The Promised Gospel 2. Christ the seed of Abraham

(Verses Rom 1:1-4 Gal 3:8) (Verses Gen 22:15-18, 49:10 Gal 3:16-18 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 to God. God promised. God sustained. God finished.

10

Title: God and Isaac (The Everlasting Covenant) Context: Gen 17-18, 21-22, 24-27 Key Verses: GE 17:19 But God said, No, but Sarah your wife will bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac; and I will establish My covenant with him for an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him.
GE 22:15 GE 22:16

Then the angel of the LORD called to Abraham a second time from heaven, 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.
GE 26:3

Sojourn in this land and I will be with you and bless you, for to you and to your descendants I will give all these lands, and I will establish the oath which I swore to your father Abraham. GE 26:4 I will multiply your descendants as the stars of heaven , and will give your descendants all these lands; and by your descendants all the nations of the earth shall be blessed; GE 26:5 because Abraham obeyed Me and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes and My laws.
GE 26:24

The LORD appeared to him the same night and said, I am the God of your father Abraham; Do not fear, for I am with you. I will bless you, and multiply your descendants, For the sake of My servant Abraham. GE 26:25 So he built an altar there and called upon the name of the LORD, and pitched his tent there; and there Isaacs servants dug a well. Introduction: Who do not know Abraham? Many people from different races and religions do know and hear about Abraham. Many men are named after him. God said He shall multiply his descendants, he shall be great and through him all nations shall be blessed. Abraham had an only son named Isaac. Isaac as a young boy did know and realize the calling of his father and how God made a covenant with him. He grew and became a man like his father. He feared, obeyed and listened to God. Let us take a look back in history into the life of Isaac with his father Abraham. What is the everlasting covenant that God established with his father and him? How it was achieved? How did Isaac walk with God? Body: I. The Covenant 1. God appeared and commanded Abraham a. Walk blamelessly (Verse 17:1) 2. Covenant with Abraham his father a. Father of many nations (Verses 17:4-6)

11

b. Unto Abrahams children 3. The Covenant a. Throughout all generations b. Everlasting covenant c. Be their God, His People forgiven d. Through the Seed (Christ) II. The Fulfillment 1. The Promise to Sarah a. Have a son b. Mother of many nations and kings c. Nothing is too hard for the Lord 2. Called Isaac a. Establish covenant with him b. Everlasting covenant c. Birth of Isaac 3. Abraham Tested a. Offer Isaac b. Abraham obeyed c. Abraham believed d. Abraham rewarded III. The Descendants 1. Isaacs family a. Wife taken from Abrahams relative b. God opened Rebekahs womb c. Jacob and Esau 2. Isaacs spirituality a. Meditated b. Prayed c. Listened to Gods voice d. Worshiped 3. Isaacs blessings a. The Lord blessed him b. Greatly enriched and powerful c. Was feared because of God in him d. Blessed Jacob

(Verse 7) (Verse 17:7) (Verses 7-8) (Verses 7-8) Jer 31:31-34, 32:38-40 (Verses 22:15-18) Mt 26:28 Gal 3:16-18

(Verses 17:15-16) (Verse 16) (Verses 18:10-14) (Verses 17:18-19) (Verse 19) (Verses 21:1-3) (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 22:1-2) 3-6, 9-12) 7-8, 13-14) 15-18, 26:24)

(Verses 24:2-4) (Verse 25:21) (Verses 22-26) (Verse 24:63) (Verse 25:21) (Verses 26:1-6) (Verses 26:23-25) (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 26:12, 22) 13-17) 26:26-29) 27:20-29, 25:23)

Conclusion: Thousands of years ago God appeared to a man named Abraham. He called him out of his country to a land God promised and where he shall be blessed, made great and many families of the earth shall be blessed. He had a son named Isaac through whom also the everlasting covenant was made that through their seed all nations shall be blessed. The everlasting covenant is that God shall be their God and their sins shall be remembered no more. This promise is also for the whole world and the nations of the earth be blessed. God appeared to Isaac. God was with him and He blessed him. He was a spiritual man because as a young boy he saw and heard God talking to his father and God also talked to him. Isaac meditated, prayed, listened and worshiped God. God has greatly enriched and made him powerful that even king Abimelech of the Philistines feared him because God was with him. Now we are living and experiencing what God promised to Abrahams family. We have become Abrahams descendants and through Christ we were accepted by God, He became our God and we His children blessed, forgiven and saved- the everlasting covenant.

12

Title: God and Jacob (God Caused It) Context: Gen 25, 27-35, 46-50 Key Verses: GE 25:23 The LORD said to her, Two nations are in your womb; And two peoples will be separated from your body; And one people shall be stronger than the other; And the older shall serve the younger.
GE 27:19

Jacob said to his father, I am Esau your firstborn; I have done as you told me. Get up, please, sit and eat of my game, that you may bless me. GE 27:20 Isaac said to his son, How is it that you have it so quickly, my son? And he said, Because the LORD your God caused it to happen to me.
GE 28:12

He had a dream, and behold, a ladder was set on the earth with its top reaching to heaven; and behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. GE 28:13 And behold, the LORD stood above it and said, I am the LORD, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie, I will give it to you and to your descendants. GE 28:14 Your descendants will also be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south; and in you and in your descendants shall all the families of the earth be blessed. GE 28:15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.
GE 32:28

He said, Your name shall no longer be Jacob, but Israel; for you have striven with God and with men and have prevailed. GE 32:29 Then Jacob asked him and said, Please tell me your name. But he said, Why is it that you ask my name? And he blessed him there. GE 32:30 So Jacob named the place Peniel, for he said, I have seen God face to face, yet my life has been preserved.
GE 50:20

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. Introduction: God called Abraham, Isaac and Jacob into the Land where they shall be formed as a great nation. Jacob who was later named Israel because he has struggled with God and men and has prevailed. We can see how God moved in Jacobs life as he was guided in every step so as to be in the place where God wanted him to be to fulfill His calling and purpose. Jacob has twelve sons who became the twelve tribes of Israel. They said Jacob was a deceiver as his name was interpreted as such but it was God watching, looking and was with him to fulfill His promise to Abraham. Let us take a look how God caused things to happen in the life of Jacob. Body: I. Jacobs Purpose 1. Prophesied to lead a. Spoken by God

(Verse 25:23)

13

2. Manifested a. Held on b. Peaceful 3. Gave all for it a. Traded all b. Followed God II. Jacobs Preservation 1. Sent Away a. Fled from Esau b. Got a wife 2. God confirmed a. Gave a word b. Jacob committed 3. God prospered a. Enriched b. God watched c. Angels protected d. Prayed and prevailed III. Jacobs People 1. Jacobs family 2. Returned to Canaan 3. Lived in Bethel 4. Jacob to Israel 5. Sons of Israel 6. A nation in Egypt 7. Israel prophesied 8. Israel buried

(Verses 25:22, 24-26) (Verse 25:27) (Verses 25:29-34) (Verses 27:1-29)

(Verses 27:41-45) (Verses 28:1-7) (Verses 28:10-15, 31:3, 24) (Verses 28:16-22) (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 30:25-43) 31:37-42) 32:1-2) 32:9-12, 24-30) 29:1-30:24) 31:1-21, 32:1-33:20) 35:1-7) 35:9-15) 35:23-29) 46:1-7, 50:15-21) 49:1-33) 50:12-14)

Conclusion: The Bible described God as the One who causes and does things to happen according to His good purpose and will. He is able to build a nation from one man. He is able also to tear down a nation and causes its downfall. From Abraham came Isaac and Jacob. Jacob brought the twelve tribes of the nation Israel. God saw the future. God saw all the stumbling blocks and hindrances Jacob may pass through but He was with him. Jacob got the birth right which Esau despised. He was blessed by Isaac instead of the elder Esau. He was spared from Esaus anger. He was sent away to his grandfathers relatives to get a wife and build his family. He became richer than Laban his uncle though Laban gave him less of his rightful wages. He had more flocks. God prospered him. He saw angels. He met and talked with God wrestled with Him and prevailed and was blessed. Other people around them feared Jacob when they passed by because God was with them. God spoke to him and confirmed the promise that he and his descendants shall dwell the land and be blessed. Jacob made a commitment that the God of his fathers shall be his God. He removed the foreign gods in their midst. He worshiped God alone. They were brought into Egypt where Joseph his son became the second man to rule and were preserved from the great famine and extinction. God made them stronger in Egypt and made them a nation. At his death Jacob prophesied the future of his children and from Judah kings shall come and from whom the Christ in human was brought forth. The coming of Christ is the reason for all these God building up a people for Him from whom His Son shall come forth and reign and sit on the throne and rule forever. And the Son the seed of Abraham through whom all nations shall be blessed, know God, forgiven and be saved.

14

Title: Joseph and His God (The Dreamer) Context: Genesis 37-50 Key Verses: GE 39:2 The LORD was with Joseph, so he became a successful man. And he was in the house of his master, the Egyptian. GE 39:3 Now his master saw that the LORD was with him and how the LORD caused all that he did to prosper in his hand. GE 39:4 So Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal servant; and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he owned he put in his charge.
GE 39:9

There is no one greater in this house than I, and he has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do this great evil and sin against God?
GE 40:8

Then they said to him, We have had a dream and there is no one to interpret i t. Then Joseph said to them, Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell it to me, please.
GE 41:38

Then Pharaoh said to his servants, Can we find a man like this, in whom is a divine spirit? GE 41:39 So Pharaoh said to Joseph, Since God has informed you of all this, there is no one so discerning and wise as you are. GE 41:40 You shall be over my house, and according to your command all my people shall do homage; only in the throne I will be greater than you.
GE 45:7

God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant in the earth, and to keep you alive by a great deliverance. GE 45:8 Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and He has made me a father to Pharaoh and lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt.
GE 50:20

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. Introduction: Joseph is familiar to many as Joseph the dreamer. He was the youngest of the twelve sons of Jacob or Israel. God promised Abraham that his descendants shall possess the land and shall be multiplied. Remember it is God who promised and there may be trials along the way but God is still in control. He shall make sure what He promised shall be fulfilled and His word comes to pass. He has chosen men also through whom these shall be fulfilled and Joseph was one of them. Let us learn from the life of Joseph and what made him successful in Egypt. Body: I. The Vision 1. Josephs Dream a. His brethren to give reverence b. Family bowed to him 2. The Conflict a. Angered others b. Disbelieved

(Verses 37:6-7) (Verse 9) (Verse 37:8) (Verse 10)

15

c. Kept in mind 3. The Evil Plot a. Thwarted the Vision b. Sold to Egypt II. The Hand of God 1. The Lord was with him a. Became successful 2. The Lord caused to prosper a. Everything he did b. In favor and in charge 3. Faithfulness to God a. Tempted to sin b. Refused and not sin against God c. Jailed d. God with him III. The Fulfillment 1. The Restoration a. The opportunity b. Used his gift from God c. Restored to power 2. Its Happening a. Remembrance to God b. Famine and supply c. His brothers honored him 3. Gods Provision a. God was behind it all b. Promise reminded c. Gods people preserved

(Verse 11) (Verses 37:18-36) (Verses 28, 36)

(Verses 39:1-2) (Verses 39:3) (Verses 4-6) (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 39:7) 8-10) 11-20) 21-23)

(Verses 40:1-7) (Verses 40:8-23, 41:1-37) (Verses 41:38-49) (Verses 41:50-52) (Verses 53-57) (Verses 42:1-45:28) (Verses 45:7-8) (Verses 46:1-7) (Verses 46:8-47:12, 27-28, 50:20-21)

Conclusion: The life of Joseph was really filled with emotions. Sometimes we can see this in the movies but it did happen to Joseph. It seems everything was scripted and tailored. God was moving with the characters in his life. As a young boy he was sold as a slave. Taken away from his father and family. Was imprisoned for a wrong he did not commit. He was at last together with his brethren who sold him and with his father and brother Benjamin. He saved them from the great famine that came to the earth. He was a godly person. He did not hate his brothers for what they have done to him. He did not question God for the miseries that fell upon him. He stood his ground. He refused the temptation from Potiphars wife. In prison his relationship with God did not change. God was with Joseph all those times. Wherever and whatever his condition was God prospered him. He found favor with all the people around him specially those who rule. It was God who was behind him and was with him. He had a dream. He understood the dream and the vision. He was Jacobs favorit e son and no wonder because he was a man of faith and vision. He became the ruler of Egypt and Pharaoh gave everything to him except the throne and he ruled Egypt with Gods wisdom. His whole household from his father Jacob were preserved in Egypt. God delivered them from the great famine and prospered them in Egypt through Joseph. God fulfilled the dream. God fulfilled the vision. God was with Joseph. God is there to fulfill His promise to you. His word for you. God is with you. God is with us.

16

Title: God and Moses (The Deliverance) Context: Exodus 2-15 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.
EX 6:1

Then the LORD said to Moses, Now you shall see what I will do to Pharaoh; for under compulsion he will let them go, and under compulsion he will drive them out of his land. EX 6:2 God spoke further to Moses and said to him, I am the LORD; EX 6:3 and I appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as God Almighty, but by My name, LORD, I did not make Myself known to them. EX 6:4 I also established My covenant with them, to give them the land of Canaan, the land in which they sojourned. EX 6:5 Furthermore I have heard the groaning of the sons of Israel, because the Egyptians are holding them in bondage, and I have remembered My covenant.
EX 14:13

But Moses said to the people, Do not fear! Stand by and see the salvation of the LORD which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you will never see them again forever. EX 14:14 The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent. 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 oppressed the Israelites and gave them to hard labor. They suffered and cried to 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 Gods 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. Knew 2. God 3. Kept His Covenant 4. Power a. Staff to snakes b. Water into blood c. Frogs into the land d. Plague of gnats e. Swarm of insects

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

2:2-25, 3:7-9) 3:5, 13-16, 9:13-17, 10:1-3) 6:3-5) 6:1-4, 6-8, 8:18-19) 7:10-12) 7:19-21) 8:5-6) 8:16-17) 8:22-24)

17

f. Pestilence on livestock g. Plague of boils h. Plague of hail i. Plague of locust j. Darkness over the land k. All firstborn killed 5. Worshiped and served II. Moses the Servant 1. Preserved 2. Called 3. Equipped With His leaders 4. Spoke for God 5. Danger of disobedience 6. Not doubt III. God and the Israelites 1. Welfare 2. Oppressed 3. Opposition a. Pharaoh not listened b. Pharaoh hardened c. Pharaoh unrepentant 4. Protected 5.

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

9:1-6) 9:9-11) 9:22-26) 10:12-15) 10:21-23) 12:29-30) 3:18, 5:1,3, 7:16, 8:1) 2:1-11) 3:2, 6-9, 3:10) 4:1-9, 17) 4:27-31) 4:10-16, 6:12, 29-30, 7:1-2) 4:24-26) 5:20-23, 14:15-16)

(Verses 3:16-17, 21-22, 11:2-3) (Verses 2:2-25, 3:7-9)

6. 7. 8.

(Verses 3:19-20, 7:14, 8:15) (Verses 4:21, 23, 5:2, 7:3, 14:4, 17, 7:3) (Verses 9:27-28, 34-35) (Verses 9:4, 26, 10:22-23, 11:5, 12-13, 13:21-22, 14:13-14, 19-20) 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) Doubted (Verses 6:9, 14:11-12) Delivered (Verses 12:33-41, 51, 14:13-14, 24-31) 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 every man 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.

18

Title: The Law Context: Exodus 20 with Deut 5 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. In the presence of the people God spoke and they heard Him speak 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

19

Do not bear false witness 10th Commandment Do not covet III. The Good Law 1. Purpose a. Not curse b. Love c. Fear Him and not sin

(Verses 16) Deut 5:20 (Verses 17) Deut 5:21

(Verses 20:5) Deut 30:19 (Verses 6) (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. Cannot justify us Hab 2:4 Gal 2:16 3:11 b. Righteousness not through it Rom 1:17 Gal 2:21 c. Cannot make us perfect Heb 7:11,19, 22, 8:7-12 d. Cannot 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 Gods 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 work 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 its 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.

20

Title: God and Joshua (Success Gods Way) Context: Book of Joshua 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.
JOS 5:15

The captain of the LORD'S host said to Joshua, Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy. And Joshua did so. JOS 6:1 Now Jericho was tightly shut because of the sons of Israel; no one went out and no one came in. JOS 6:2 The LORD said to Joshua, See, I have given Jericho into your hand, with its king and the valiant warriors. JOS 6:3 You shall march around the city, all the men of war circling the city once. You shall do so for six days.
JOS 23:3

And you have seen all that the LORD your God has done to all these nations because of you, for the LORD your God is He who has been fighting for you. JOS 23:4 See, I have apportioned to you these nations which remain as an inheritance for your tribes, with all the nations which I have cut off, from the Jordan even to the Great Sea toward the setting of the sun. JOS 23:5 The LORD your God, He will thrust them out from before you and drive them from before you; and you will possess their land, just as the LORD your God promised you. 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 had 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 . Lets see how Joshua journeyed to victory and how they managed the struggles completely. Body: I. The Word 1. The Promise a. God assured b. Gods protection 2. The Command a. He speaks we listen b. Be courageous

(Verses 1:1-4) 1Cor 1:20 (Verses 5, 9) 2Thess 3:3 (Verses 1:1-2, 3:7-9, 4:15-17) (Verses 6-7, 9) Act 23:11

21

c. Obey the Word d. Succeed II. The Application 1. The Preparation a. Cast the Vision b. Equip c. Delegate 2. The Plan a. Survey b. Assured protection c. God moving 3. The Execution a. Set out b. God ahead c. Consecrate d. Exalted e. God moves f. Remember His goodness g. Obey and miracles happen

(Verse 7-8) Jn 15:3-11, 7,11 (Verse 8) Deut 28

(Verses 1:10-11) (Verse 11) (Verses 12-18) (Verses 2:1-2) (Verses 3-22, 10-11) (Verses 23-24) (Verses 3:1-2) (Verses 3-4, 6) (Verse 5) (Verses 7, 14, 6:27) (Verses 5-17) (Verses 4:1-13, 19-24) (Verses 3:11-13, 4:15-18)

III. The Victory 1. The LORDs Battle a. Consecrate again (Verses 5:2-8) b. Celebrate Passover (Verses 9-12) c. The LORDs 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 Gods 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 headaches or succeed with peace of

22

mind and without fear and trouble? In the Book of Joshua we can read Gods 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 by every word that comes from the mouth of God. Success Gods 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 LORDs treasuries. Disobedience and sinfulness bring defeat to us. God commanded that those who sinned were 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 Gods 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 LORDs army - our Lord Jesus shall go ahead for us. If we obey blessings, if we live in sin defeat is at the door.

23

Title: David and His God (The Leadership) Context: 1 Samuel 17-30 1Chron 11-17 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.
1SA 23:2

So David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and attack these Philistines? And the LORD said to David, Go and attack the Philistines and deliver Keilah.
2SA 5:10 2SA 5:11

David became greater and greater, for the LORD God of hosts was with him. Then Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David with cedar trees and carpenters and stonemasons; and they built a house for David. 2SA 5:12 And David realized that the LORD had established him as king over Israel, and that He had exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel.
1CH 17:11

When your days are fulfilled that you must go to be with your fathers, that I will set up one of your descendants after you, who will be of your sons; and I will establish his kingdom. 1CH 17:12 He shall build for Me a house, and I will establish his throne forever. 1CH 17:13 I will be his father and he shall be My son; and I will not take My lovingkindness away from him, as I took it from him who was before you. 1CH 17:14 But I will settle him in My house and in My kingdom forever, and his throne shall be established forever. 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 the 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 and lead for God? Body: I. David the Young Lad 1. Dealing with Opposition a) Big b Fearful 2. What they heard a) Boasting b) Lies

(Verses 1Sam 17:1-4) Num 13:32-33 (Verses 5-7) 2Kngs 6:15-18 (Verses 8-11) Ps 20:7 (Verses 23-24) Eph 6:16

24

3. What David had a) He is faithful b) Knows their position c) Unfazed within d) Courage e) Confidence in the LORD 4. The experience a) What the LORD has done b) Not mans way c) For all

(Verses 12-20, 22) Ps 25:18, 20-21 (Verses 23, 26) Ps 1 (Verses 28-30, 33) (Verses 32) Ps 31:24 Josh 1:5-7 (Verses 37) Ps 46:1, 50:15 (Verses 34-37) Ps 77:11-12 (Verses 38-39) Ps 86:11 Ps 7:1, 31:1, 115:9, 124:8

II. David the Warrior 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. Confront head on (Verses 48-50) Ps 18:31-38 6. Victorious spirit shared (Verses 51-53) Ps 20:5-8 III. David the King 1. Always inquires the Lord a. Every major decision 2. Not touch the Lords anointed a. The Lord departed from Saul 3. Kept from revenge 4. Provision of settlement 5. He strengthened in God 6. Made King of all Israel a. Jerusalem his city 7. God was with Him a. Became greater and greater b. Had mighty men 8. Worshiper a. Moved the Ark of the Covenant b. Assigned Levites 9. God made a covenant a. Kingdom endured forever 10. Humbled before God 11. Triumphs 12. Sinned Rebuked 13. Words to Solomon

1Sam 22:3-5, 23:2,4,9-13, 30:7-8 2Sam 2:1, 5:19-25 1Sam 24:15-22 1Sam 28:15-19 1Sam 25:32-38, 39 1Sam 27:6 1Sam 30:3-6 2Sam 5:1-4, 5 1Chron 11:1-3 1Chron 11:4, 7 2Sam 5:10, 12 1Chron 11:9 1Chron 11:10-47 2Sam 6:12-18, 1Chron 16:37-43 1Chron 15:1-28 1Chron 16:1-7 2Sam 7:8-11, 12-16 1Chron 17:1-10,11-14 2Sam7:18-29 2Sam 8:1-18 2Sam 11:1-27 12:1-15, 16-23 1King 2:1-4

Conclusion: David was a great warrior of the LORD during his time. At a young age while tending the flock he stopped the mouth of a lion and the paws of a bear. He had a great faith and unwavering confidence in the LORD. He knew the LORD who delivered him from all his adversaries. It was said that David was the man after Gods heart. He honored the LORD. He knew where he stood in the LORD. He walked with integrity and faith. He always inquired the Lord and did not act until he heard from God. He consulted the prophet Nathan and sought Gods guidance. He was after His will. He honored and feared God. God has

25

anointed him as King for He knew his heart. God was with him and he became greater and greater. He worshiped the Lord and loved His presence. When God made him greater he was more humbled. He was a true friend and honors his words. He did sin but rose from his failure. David was no different from us and we have the same faithful and almighty God who shows Himself great to those who honors Him and stands uprightly. God was faithful to him. He was on his side all the time. 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 that we cannot conquer. Let not the boasting and lies of the world put us down for the battle is the LORDs not ours. Let God move first and we follow His guidance.

26

Title: Suffered for All Context: Isaiah 53 with Psalms 22 Key Verses: ISA 53:3 He was despised and forsaken of men, A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; And like one from whom men hide their face He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. ISA 53:4 Surely our griefs He Himself bore, And our sorrows He carried; Yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, Smitten of God, and afflicted. ISA 53:5 But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed. 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 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 prophecy 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 a. Salvation proclaimed b. Justification for believers 2. Destined to suffer a. Lords will and plan 3. Destined to die a. With wicked men b. Buried in a rich mans tomb 4. Exalted

(Verse 53:1) (Verses 52:7, 10) Ps 22:27-29 Rom 10:15-18 Lk 22:47 (Verse 53:11) Ps 22:25-26, 30-31 Rom 10:9-13, 3:21-26 (Verse 53:2) Heb 9:25-26 (Verse 10) Rev 13:8 (Verse 12) Mk 9:31 Mt 26:31-32 Lk 22:44-46 (Verse 9, 12) Mk 15:27-28 Lk 22:37 (Verse 9) Mt 27:57-60 (Verse 12) Phil 2:8-11 Rom 14:11

27

II. Perfect Redemption 1. His suffering a. Despised and forsaken (Verse 53:3) Ps 22:1-2, 6-7, 9-11 b. Bore our grief and pains (Verse 4) Mt 8:14-17 c. Punished by God (Verse 4) d. Oppressed and afflicted (Verse 7) Ps 22:6-7, 12-13 e. Like a sheep for slaughter (Verse 7) Ps 22:14-15 f. 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 peoples 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 a. All have gone astray b. Turned on his own way c. Our sins upon Him d. Life through Him 2. Suffered for His people a. Killed for their sins b. See His people c. Justify many d. Bear their iniquities (Verse 53:6) Jn 1:29, 4:42, 1Tim 4:10 1Jn 2:2, 4:14 (Verse 53:6) Rom 3:9-10, 5:12 Gal 3:22 (Verse 6) Rom 3:11 (Verse 6, 12) Rom 5:8-10 1Pet 2:24, 3:18 2Cor 5:21 1Cor 15:21-22 Rom 5:15-19 Act 20:28 Eph 5:25 (Verse 53:8) Mt 1:21 Mk 9:31 (Verse 10) Ps 22:22-25 Tit 2:14 (Verse 11) Ps 22:26 Rom 10:9-13,16 Jn 3:14-2, 10:16,26, 17:6-9 (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 Jesus, life and justification came to many. He was obedient until 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 these to whoever shall believe shall be forgiven and be saved. 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 to the Lord what He has done. Glory be to God.

28

Title: Daniel and His God (His Kingdom Shall Never End) Context: Book of Daniel Key Verses: DA 1:17 As for these four youths, God gave them knowledge and intelligence in every branch of literature and wisdom; Daniel even understood all kinds of visions and dreams.
DA 2:28

However, there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will take place in the latter days. This was your dream and the visions in your mind while on your bed. DA 2:29 As for you, O king, while on your bed your thoughts turned to what would take place in the future; and He who reveals mysteries has made known to you what will take place.
DA 7:13

I kept looking in the night visions, And behold, with the clouds of heaven One like a Son of Man was coming, And He came up to the Ancient of Days And was presented before Him. DA 7:14 And to Him was given dominion, Glory and a kingdom, That all the peoples, nations and men of every language Might serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion Which will not pass away; And His kingdom is one Which will not be destroyed.
DA 9:24

Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place. DA 9:25 So you are to know and discern that from the issuing of a decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince there will be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; it will be built again, with plaza and moat, even in times of distress.
DA 10:14

Now I have come to give you an understanding of what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision pertains to the days yet future. Introduction: Daniel was one of the Lords great prophets who received revelations from the Lo rd the Kingdoms that shall arise from the earth. This was from the time Israel was taken away by Babylon as prophesied by Jeremiah because they have broken the covenant, sinned and worshiped other gods which the Lord has warned them many times. Daniel and his three friends were chosen to give advice, wisdom and counsel to the kings in those days. God granted them favor for they stood for God, honored God and not defiled themselves. Body: I. Daniels Influence 1. Israel besieged a. Babylon conquered (Verses 1:1-2) b. Choice Men brought to Babylon (Verses 3-7)

29

c. God granted favor (Verse 9) d. Aborted killing of wise men (Verses 2:1-24) 2. Promoted a. Ruler of Babylon (Verses 2:46-48) b. With his Jew companions (Verse 2:49) c. Ruler of Medes (Verses 6:1-3) d. And Persia (Verse 6:28) 3. Stood for God a. Not defiled themselves (Verses 1:8-16, 6:4-5) b. His friends refused worship of image (Verses 3:1-7, 8-18) Protected from fiery furnace (Verses 3:19-27) Fourth man- Son of God (Verse 3:25) c. Daniel prayed to God alone (Verses 6:7-10) Daniel delivered from lions den (Verses 6:11-24) d. God honored and they prospered (Verses 3:28-4:3, 6:25-28) II. Daniels Wisdom 1. From God a. Knowledge and intelligence b. Dreams and visions b. Consulted by the King 2. Purpose of revelations a. Secret revealed to Daniel b. Gods revelation for latter days c. Israel and future events 3. Seal the Book a. Time of distress b. Gods people delivered c. The wicked condemned

(Verses 1:17, 5:11) (Verse 17) (Verses 18-21) (Verses 2:19-27) (Verses 28-30) (Verse 10:14) (Verses 12:1, 5-13) (Verses 1-3, 13) (Verse 2)

III. Daniels Prophecies 1. Kings Dream- Great Statue (Verses 2:31-35) Interpretation a. Babylon- First Kingdom (Verses 2:36-38) b. Medo-Persia- Second (Verse 39) c. Greece- Third (Verse 39) d. Rome- Fourth (Verses 40-43) e. The Divine Kingdom God will set up a Kingdom (Verse 2:44) Destroy other all kingdoms (Verses 44-45) 2. Visions of the Kings a. King Nebuchadnezzars vision A Tree that grew larger and stronger (Verses 4:4-18) His kingdom taken until God is acknowledged (Verses 19-27) Fulfilled and restored (Verses 4:28-37) b. King Belshazzars vision Hand writing on the wall (Verses 5:1-12) Not found worthy by God (Verses 13-27) Kingdom given to the Medes (Verses 28-31) 3. Daniels Visions a. Vision of Four Beast (Verses 7:1-7) Ancient of Days reigns (Verses 8-12)

30

Son of Man presented (Verse 13) Dominion forever (Verse 14) Vision interpreted (Verses 15-28) b. Vision of the Ram and Goat (Verses 8:1-8) Little horn (Verses 9-14) Vision interpreted (Verses 15-19) Rams identity- Kings of Media and Persia (Verses 20) The Goat- Greece (Verses 8:21-27) c. Coming of the Messiah Daniels prayer for Israel (Verses 9:1-19) Angel Gabriels answer (Verses 20-23) Seventy weeks and the Messiah (Verses 9:24-27) d. Vision of a glorious man (Verses 10:1-21) Conflicts to come (Verses 11:1-45) Times of the End (Verses 12:1-13) Conclusion: There are many prophets in the world today. Jesus said that false prophets shall arise in the last days. Since the time of Jesus many have risen after him- denying the true God and His Christ. Many religions were born through these prophets since the beginning. Yahweh said to Moses if a prophet comes in Gods name and prophesies and if his prophecy did not come true, he must not be feared. The Bible is a book of prophecies. It has spoken concerning people, persons, places, events, kings, kingdoms, and the most important the Messiah who came 2,000 years ago, His death, crucifixion and resurrection and His coming again. Daniel was filled with Gods wisdom, knowledge and interpreted dreams and visions and because of this he was made ruler and reigned with the kings of Babylon, Medes and Persia which he prophesied shall arise. In his writing five kingdoms shall come into the earth. After Persia came Greece and Rome. History was on Daniels side for the One who knows the distant past and the near future was with him. He prophesied the coming of the Messiah and His being killed. The last kingdom that shall come to the earth that shall restore worship and offerings in the Temple of Jerusalem but shall break the covenant and the Antichrist shall sit in the Temple and proclaim himself as God. But the Son of Man, the Son of God, His Christthe Messiah shall come and destroy the Beast, his false prophet and his kingdom. He shall have the dominion and His Kingdom shall be no end. The saints with Him shall arise and reign with their King forever and ever. Glory be to God the Highest.

31

Title: God and His Prophets Context: Books of the Prophets Key Verses: PS 49:1 Hear this, all peoples; Give ear, all inhabitants of the world, PS 49:2 Both low and high, Rich and poor together. PS 49:3 My mouth will speak wisdom, And the meditation of my heart will be understanding.
ISA 34:1

Draw near, O nations, to hear; and listen, O peoples! Let the earth and all it contains hear, and the world and all that springs from it.
ISA 7:14

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel.
ISA 9:6

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. ISA 9:7 There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, On the throne of David and over his kingdom, To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness From then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.
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.
ISA 66:16

For the LORD will execute judgment by fire And by His sword on all flesh, And those slain by the LORD will be many. ISA 66:18 For I know their works and their thoughts; the time is coming to gather all nations and tongues. And they shall come and see My glory.
ISA 66:22

For just as the new heavens and the new earth Which I make will endure before Me, declares the LORD, So your offspring and your name will endure. ISA 66:23 And it shall be from new moon to new moon And from sabbath to sabbath, All mankind will come to bow down before Me, says the LORD Introduction: Prophets were sent by God for a purpose and a message. Through various times and ages man is called to acknowledge God and repent from his sins. The message of mans salvation and deliverance were proclaimed. God sent many prophets to Israel to guide and correct them. If they obey comes the blessing and if they rebel comes the curse. The prophets also

32

prophesied the coming of the Son of Man, the Son of God, the Holy One of God, the Savior of the world. God called all people and all humanity to seek Him and they shall find Him. Body: I. Concerning Israel 1. Sinned and rebelled against the LORD and judgment came

2. Broke the covenant by their sins 3. Israel regathered and restored to Yahweh

Rom 10:21 Ps 89:30-32, 106:32-43 2Kngs17:7-8,9-23 Is 1:2-4, 2:6-11, 3:8, 5:18-23.24-25 Jer 2:29, 4:22, 5:3,9, 6:19,27-30, 11:6-11,17, 12:7-13, 14:1012, 19:3, 15, 21:10, 13-14, 30:12-15, 23-24 Ezek 2:3-5, 12:1 Dan 9:8-14 Hos 9:7, 15-17 Ams 8:2-3, 9:8-10 Ps 78:10,37 Jer 11:1-8, 15:6, 22:9, 31:32 Mal. 2:10 Hos. 6:7 Jer. 5:18, 8:20, 16:14-15, 24:5-7, 30:8-11, 31:10, 51:5 Is. 62,11:11-16 Ezek. 11:14-20,20:33-34,41, 34:11-16, 37:21-28 Hos 2:16-20,3:3-5 Joel 2:18-27 Ams 9:11-15 Zech 8:7-8, 13:7-9 Rom 11:1-10, 25-27 Rev 7:4-8

II. Concerning Christ 1. The Messiah 2. God is our Salvation 3. New Covenant

Is 7:14, 9:2, 6-7 Mic 5:2 (Mt 1:23, 2:1) Is 12:2, 33:6 Jer 31:31-34 Ezek 11:19-20 Is 44:1-5 Joel 2:28-29, 32 4. Atonement, Forgiveness Ezek 16:59-63, 36:33 Dan 9:24, 12:10 Is 53:10-11 Zech 3:8-9 5. Everlasting Covenant 2 Sam 23:2, 5 Is 51:6, 55:3, 61:8 Jer 37:40, 50:5 Ezek 16:60, 37:26 Ps 105:7-10 6. The Righteous Branch Jer 33:15-18, 23:5-6 Zech 3:8-10, 6:12-13 Is 11:1-5, 53:2 7. The LORD is our Righteousness Jer 33:16, 23:5-6 8. Root of Jesse Is 11:1-5, 10, 18:3 (Banner) Ps 80:15,17,19 9. Ruler of Israel Mic 5:2 10. Lion of the Tribe of Judah Gen 49:8-10 Heb 7:14 Rev. 5:5 11. The LORD, Our God Is 40:1-5 Jn 1:23 12. Cornerstone Is 28:16,18 13. Servant of the LORD Is 42:1-6, 49:1-3, 5-6, 8:12, 61:1-3 14. Suffering & Glory Is 52:13 to 53:12 Ps 22, 40:6-7 15. Prophets testify Act 3:18, 10:43 1Pet 1:10-11 Lk 1:77 16. Good News Is 52:7 Rom 10:15 17. Salvation for all Ps 107:1-3 Is 55:1-5, 56:3, 6-7, 65:1 Hos 1:10, 2:23 Zech 2:10-111, 8:20-23 Mt 12:18-21, 21:42-44 Act 11:18 Rom 9:23-26, 10:19,20, 15:9-12 Tit 2:11 1Pet 2:9-10

33

III. Concerning Man Words from God Earth Listen The Fall of Man 1. Forgotten and rejected God 2. Sinned & Rebelled 3. Judged

Ex 7:1-2 Josh 1:1 Is 1:2 Jer 1:7 Ps 49:1-3 Is 34:1, 24:5-6 Jer 22:29 Is 17:7-10, 26:10 Jn 1:10, 17:25 Rom 1:18-32, 2:4-5 Gen 6:11-12 Is 24:5-6, 59:1-8, 12-14 Deut 9:4 Ps 96:13 119:155, Is 1:28, 13:11-13, 24:1-6, 26:21, 29:20, 66:4, 15-16 Jer 1:10, 25:13, 30-33 Zeph 1:2-3, 6,17-18 2Thess 1:5-10 2Pet 3:10-13

The Calling and Invitation 1. Repent from evil

Jon 3:6-10 Jer 8:6-7 Ezek 14:6, 18:30 Is 55:7 2. Turn to God Jer 3:12 Zech 1:3-4 Is 55:1-3, 6-7, 45:22 Mal 3:7 3. Seek the Lord Zeph 2:3 Is 55:1-3,6 2Chrn 14:4 Jn 6:27-29, 40 4. Acknowledge the LORD Hos 6:3, 6, 5:4 5. Rend your Heart Joel 2:12-13 6. Wash the evil in heart Jer 4:14 Is 1:16 7. Obey Jer 28:20 Deut 11:27-28 8. Uphold the word & carry them out Deut 27:26 Ezek 3:10 Rev. 1:3 9. Seek good not evil Ams 5:14 10. Sow righteousness Hos 10:12 11. Call & He will answer Jer 33:3 12. He will heal Hos 14:4 Jer 3:22 13. Hope in the LORD Jer 14:8, 23, 17:3 Ps 130:7, 71:5 14. Trust Him alone Is 12:2, 2:22, 26:3-4 Mic 7:5-7 Nah1:7

Conclusion: Why should man rebel against his Creator? God knows what is best for us. He knows what is best for you and me. He has spoken for thousands of years. Those who hear God, who fear God and revere Him experience His love, His care and His Fatherhood. We are finite and are limited in all our ways. We have become weak and frail because of our sins. God saw all these before He made the world and has ordained Christ to die for our sins. When Adam the first man fell God prophesied and promised the Seed who was Christ who came and was born of a virgin to save us from the dominion and penalty of sin and from the god of this world Satan who enslaves people and destroys their lives. The Father promised a Kingdom reigned and ruled by His Son and many sons of glory shall be brought forth. He promised an everlasting covenant which was enacted by the Son of God through His death and blood and has resurrected from the dead. His covenant was He shall be our God, we shall be His people after His will and heart, whose sins were forgiven and remembered no more. From the world, people from all nations, races and tongues come to Jesus and with Him when He comes again shall reign with Him forever and ever. And we shall be with God forever and ever. Time passes by and when a man is still alive he still has hope, he still can repent, he still can come to God who calls him. He can be forgiven and have eternal life for whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved.

34

Title: God and His People Context: Book of Malachi Key Verses: MAL 1:2 I have loved you, says the LORD. But you say, How have You loved us? Was not Esau Jacobs 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 MAL 3:7

For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed. 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 for 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 b. Not change 2. Corrects a. Reverence to God b. Gods favor c. Service to God d. On wickedness e. On blessings 3. Judges a. Curses b. Straight path c. Cut off II. Israel 1. Sin of the priests a. Defiled the sanctuary b. Corrupted the priesthood c. Taught falsely 2. Sin of the people a. Dealt treacherously b. Worshiped other gods c. Divorce their wives d. Not kept His statutes

(Verses 1:1-5) Ezek 11:17 (Verse 3:6) Ps 33:11 (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 1:6-8, 12) Rom 1:21 1:9, 2:13) Jn 15:7, 16 1:13, 3:13-14) Jb 21:14-15 2:17, 3:15) Is 5:20 3:10-12) Am 5:21-24

(Verses 1:14, 2:1-3, 3:8-9) Dt 28:15 (Verses 2:4-7) Zech 1:3-4 (Verse 2:12) Heb 10:28-31

(Verses 1:6-14) Lev 1:2, 10 (Verse 2:8) 2Kin 23:4-5 (Verse 2:9) Jer 5:31 (Verse 2:10) Jer 6:13 (Verse 2:11) Ex 20:1-5 (Verses 2:14-16) Ex 20:14 (Verse 3:7) Ps 78:10

35

e. Rob God 3. Those who feared a. Fellowshipped b. He heard c. Remembered d. Spared 4. Final admonition a. Remember the Covenant b. Restored on the last day III. The Son of God 1. Coming foretold 2. Purifies 3. Judges a. Wicked destroyed b. Righteous reign

(Verses 3:8-9) Lev 27:30 (Verse 3:16) Ps 84:4,10 Heb 10:24-25 (Verse 3:16) 1Pet 3:12 (Verse 3:16) (Verses 3:17-18) (Verse 4:4) Rev 14:12 (Verses 4:5-6) Rom 11:11, 25-27 (Verse 3:1) Mk 1:1-3 Mt 11:10 (Verses 3:2-4) Jer 23:5-6 (Verse 3:5) Rev 11:18, 22:12 (Verses 4:1) 2Thess 1:7-9 (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 this they were judged. History has shown 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 into 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.

36

Title: Jesus our King Context: Book of Matthew 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 donkeys colt.
Mt 25:31

The Son of Man will come in all his glory. All the angels wil l 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 His 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)

37

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 Centurions Faith (Verses 8:5-13) 7. Peters 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 Baptists 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. Gods 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)

38

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)

39

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 Peters 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. Peters 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 2. The Sign of Jonah 3. Greater than Jonah and Solomon 4. Peters Confession of Christ 5. The Transfiguration 6. The Triumphal Entry at Jerusalem 7. Cleansing the Temple 8. Authority Challenged 9. Whose Son Is the Christ? 10. Signs of Christs Return 11. Perilous Times 12. The Glorious Return 13. Parable of the Fig Tree 14. Be Ready for His Coming 15. The Judgment 16. Jesus Anointed at Bethany 17. The Lords Supper 18. Jesus Is Risen! 19. The Great Commission (Verses 12:8-13) (Verses 12:38-40) (Verses 12:41-42) (Verses 16:13-20) (Verses 17:1-13) (Verses 21:1-11) (Verses 21:12-17) (Verses 21:23-27) (Verses 22:41-46) (Verses 24:1-14) (Verses 24:15-28) (Verses 24:29-31) (Verses 24:32-41) (Verses 24:42-51) (Verses 25:31-46) (Verses 26:6-13) (Verses 27:17-30) (Verses 28:1-15) (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 to 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 Davids 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.

40

Title: Birth Of Jesus Context: Matthew 1:18-2:12 and Luke 1:26-38, 2:1-32 Key Verses: MT 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.
MT 1:21

She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. MT 1:22 Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet: MT 1:23 BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL, which translated means, GOD WITH US.
MT 2:2

Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.
MT 2:6

AND YOU, BETHLEHEM, LAND OF JUDAH, ARE BY NO MEANS LEAST AMONG THE LEADERS OF JUDAH; FOR OUT OF YOU SHALL COME FORTH A RULER WHO WILL SHEPHERD MY PEOPLE ISRAEL.
LK 1:30 LK 1:31

The angel said to her, Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. LK 1:32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; LK 1:33 and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end. LK 1:34 Mary said to the angel, How can this be, since I am a virgin? LK 1:35 The angel answered and said to her, The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God.
LK 2:10

But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; LK 2:11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
LK 2:30 LK 2:31

For my eyes have seen Your salvation, Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples, LK 2:32 A LIGHT OF REVELATION TO THE GENTILES, And the glory of Your people Israel. Introduction: The birth of the Lord Jesus Christ is the only one of its kind in the world and there shall never be one again. It was prophesied by Isaiah that a virgin shall have a child. He shall be born in Bethlehem and from the tribe of Judah and from the descendants of David. Mary bore a Son through the Holy Spirit. The angel declared, In the town of David a Savior is born who is Christ the Lord. The magi came and offered gifts and worshiped the Child. Hebrews said when the firstborn was brought into the world the angels of God worshiped

41

Him. The Savior has come. The Savior became man like us so that we can become sons of God. He came to earth so that we can come to heaven. Body: I. The Announcement 1. From the Angels a. Josephs dream Mt 1:18-25 b. Angel Gabriel to Mary Lk 1:26-38 c. Angels to the shepherds Lk 2:8-20 2. From Gods messengers a. Isaiah (Virgin birth) Mt 1:23 Lk 1:35 - Is 7:14, 9:6-7 b. Micah (In Bethlehem, of Judah) Mt 2:5-6 Lk 2:4-7- Mic 5:2, Jn 7:42 c. Abraham (The Seed) Lk 1:55, 73- Gen 22:16-18 d. David (To all generations) Lk 1:50- Ps 103:17 e. John the Baptist Lk 1:13-19, 41-45, 67, 76-77 (Prepare the Way of the Lord) Mal 3:1 Is 40:3 II. The Child 1. Named Jesus 2. Son of the Most High 3. Son of God 4. Savior 5. Christ, the Lord Mt 1:21, Lk 1:32Lk 1:35Lk 2:11Lk 2:1125 Lk 1:31 Jn 5:25-26 Jn 20:31 John 4:25-26, 42 Mt 22:41-46

III. The Purpose 1. Worshiped Mt 2:1-2, 7-12, Lk 24:52 Heb 1:5-6 2. Save His People from their sins Mt 1:21- Jn 1:29 Heb 9:26 4. Salvation and light to the Gentiles Lk 2:29-32- Is 49:6 Act 26:23 5. Rule Lk 1:32- Is 9:7, 2Sam 7:12-17 Dan 2:44, 7:13-14 Conclusion: But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Yes, what a fulfillment of Gods promise through the prophets that He shall send His Servant, His Righteous Branch- the Son of the Most High, the Son of God and save us from our sins. Through Him all nations shall be blessed. Salvation and forgiveness shall be for all the people. 2,000 years ago Christ the Lord went down from heaven to earth, took the human form and became like us. The Savior was born. There is no other Name under Heaven given to man by which we shall be saved other than the name of Jesus. Jesus in Hebrew is Yahushua or Yeshua which is Yahweh is Salvation. God is our salvation. Jesus the Son of God is our salvation. He shall come again and fulfill the prophecy that He shall rule and His Kingdom shall be of no end and shall not be destroyed. Saints the future is for us. Gods Kingdom is the future and we are in the Kingdom of His Son. We shall reign with Him and be with the King forever and ever. Jesus is our King and He is our Lord. Let us serve and worship King Jesus. His Kingdom comes. His glory comes and He shall be glorified with us in His coming.

42

Title: Temptation of Jesus Context: Matthew 3:13-4:11 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 a. Our conversion 2. Son of God a. Becoming His children

(Verses 3:13-16) Mt 28:19 (Verses 3:17) 17:5 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 2. It is written 3. Rebuke Satan 4. Worship and serve God alone (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 4:4) 1Jn 2:14 4:7) 1Cor 4:6 4:10) Mt 16:23 Js 4:6-8 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 the 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.

43

Title: Hear and Obey Context: Matthew 7:13-29 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 cannot produce bad fruits and bad trees cannot produce good fruits. He warned the people of false prophets in sheeps 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 b. Bad Fruit c. Not Act II. Hear 1. Does His Will a. Hears b. Acts c. Good Fruit III. Their End 1. Goats a. Fall b. Into the Fire c. Not Enter the Kingdom 2. Sheep a. Not Fall b. Enter the Kingdom

(Verses 15) Mt 12:34-35 Jn 10:26 (Verses 17-18, 20, 23) Mt 12:33 (Verse 26) Lk 6:46 Js 1:23-24

(Verses 24) Jn 10:27 (Verses 24) Jn 10:27 Js 1:25 (Verses 18) Lk 8:8 Jn 15:8,16

(Verses 26-27) Js 1:26, 3:6 (Verses 19) Mt 3:10 (Verses 21, 13) Mt 25:41-46 (Verses 24-25) Jn 10:28-30 (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 Noahs time. No living thing survived in the earth except eight souls, Noah and his f amily 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 voi ce 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.

44

Title: Parable of the Sower Context: Matthew 13:1-23 with Luke 8:1-21 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 an understanding of the mysteries of the Kingdom but those who disbelieve though they hear they cannot understand. He talked about a sower who have sown seeds and fell on different grounds. The seed represents 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 a. Planters b. Supporters 2. The Field a. Cities to villages II. The Seed 1. The Message a. Good News of the Kingdom b. Word of God 2. The Recipients a. Disciples b. Crowd c. Disbelievers 3. The Right Response a. Hear and understand b. Honest and good heart c. Hear and do it 4. The Snatcher a. Devil takes away b. Not believe and be saved

(Verse 13:3) Lk 8:1-3 Lk 8:1, 16 Lk 8:2-3 Lk 8:1, 4

(Verse 13:19) Lk 8:1 Lk 8:11 (Verses 13:10-12, 16-17) (Verse 13:2) Lk 8:4 (Verses 13-15) (Verses 13:9, 15, 23) Lk 8:8, 17-18 Lk 8:15 Lk 8:21 Lk 8:12 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)

45

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 did 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 Gods 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 Gods word and put it into practice. Jesus summoned the people and said, He that has an ear let him hear and understand.

46

Title: Second Coming Context: Matthew 24-25:46 with Mark 13 and Luke 21 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 into 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 prophetswill deceive (Verses 11) h. Wickedness increased (Verses 12) i. Love grow cold (Verses 12) j. Gospel preached to 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 b. Visible Appearing

(Verses 1Thess 4:15, 5:2, 2Thess 2:1-2) (Verses 24:23, 26-28) Lk 17:23-24

47

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 to Everlasting life (Verses 25:34, 46) Rev 20:6 d. The Wicked to Everlasting punishment (Verses 25:41, 46) Rev 20:13-15 III. The Saints 1. The Wise Saints a. Alert and ready b. Faithful and sensible c. Doing Love Righteous d. Will reign with Him 2. The Evil Slaves a. Not ready b. Not love c. Sin with the world d. Condemned with unbelievers 3. The Parable a. Ten Virgins

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

24:42-44) 45) 46) 25:35-40) 25:37) 24:47, 25:21-23,34) Lk 12:43-44 24:48) 49) 49) 24:50-51, 25:10-13,26,30) 25:41-45)

(Verses 25:1-13)

48

Saved Condemned Admonish b. Talents Saved Condemned

(Verse 10) (Verses 11-12) (Verse 13) (Verses 25:14-30) (Verses 21, 23) (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.

49

Title: Parable of the Talents Context: Matthew 25:14-46 with Luke 19:11-27 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 2. Kingdom 3. Shall return 4. Accounting II. The Servants 1. Talents a. Different measures 2. Abilities a. According to our sphere

(Verses 25:31,34) Lk 19:12 (Verse 34) Lk 19:12, 15 (Verses 31-33, 24:42) Lk 19:12 (Verse 19) Lk 19:15

(Verse 25:15) Lk 19:13 (Verse 15) Lk 19:13

50

3. Fruit a. Multiply b. Barren 4. Reward a. Faithful servants Enter the Kingdom b. Wicked lazy servants Condemned III. The World 1. Israel a. Rejected the King b. Condemned c. Jesus wept for them d. Saved at the end 2. People a. Separated and Condemned

(Verses 16-17) Lk 19:16, 18 (Verses 18, 24-25) Lk 19:20-21 Rev 2:26, 3:2 (Verses 20-23, 34-40) Lk 19:16-19 (Verses 24-30, 41-46) Lk 19:20-27

Lk 19:11, 14 Lk 19:26-27 Mt 23:37-39 Lk 19:41-44 Mt 24:14 Lk 21:20-24 Rom 11:11-12, 25-29 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 on 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. Dont hide your light.

51

Title: Sacrifice and Death of Jesus Context: Matthew 26:20-27:66 Mark 14:12-15-47 Luke 22:14-23:56 John 18:1-19:42 Key Verses: MT 26:1 When Jesus had finished all these words, He said to His disciples, MT 26:2 You know that after two days the Passover is coming, and the Son of Man is to be handed over for crucifixion.
LK 22:17

And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He said, Take this and share it among yourselves; LK 22:18 for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine from now on until the kingdom of God comes. LK 22:19 And when He had taken some bread and given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.
MT 26:28

for this is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of

sins.
MT 26:56

But all this has taken place to fulfill the Scriptures of the prophets. Then all the disciples left Him and fled.
MT 26:63

But Jesus kept silent. And the high priest said to Him, I adjure You by the living God, that You tell us whether You are the Christ, the Son of God. MT 26:64 Jesus *said to him, You have said it yourself; nevertheless I tell you, hereafter you will see THE SON OF MAN SITTING AT THE RIGHT HAND OF POWER, and COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF HEAVEN.
JN 19:16 JN 19:17

So he then handed Him over to them to be crucified. They took Jesus, therefore, and He went out, bearing His own cross, to the place called the Place of a Skull, which is called in Hebrew, Golgotha. JN 19:18 There they crucified Him, and with Him two other men, one on either side, and Jesus in between.
JN 19:30

Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, It is finished! And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit. Introduction: Was Jesus really crucified? Was it prophesied in the Scriptures? Today and for thousands of years there are those who doubted that Jesus did really die and was crucified. A major world religion in their book the quran even declared that it was not Jesus who was crucified but another man because God saved Him. Is this true? Denial of Jesus death and resurrection is not of and from God. Christ came to do the will of His Father and that is to finish the work of salvation on the cross- the forgiveness of our sins. He took away the sin of the world by the sacrifice of Himself. When Peter refused that Jesus be killed He answered him, Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on Gods interests, but mans. Mt 16:23. Jesus said that the Scriptures must be fulfilled. Let us make a study of the events and the prophecies that were fulfilled in Christs sacrifice and death.

52

Body: I. His Death Predicted 1. Jesus Taught it a. He shall be killed 2. At their Meetings a. At the Last Supper Confirmed the betrayal Bood of the Covenant b. At Mount Olives They shall be scattered Peter to deny thrice 3. It was written a. By the prophets b. Bruised in His heel c. His crucifixion

Mt 16:21,20:17-19,26:1 Mk 8:31, 9:30-37, Mk 10:32-34 Lk 9:22 Jn 2:19-22, 12:20-36 Mt 26:20-25 Mk 14:16-21 Lk 22:21-23 Jn 13:21-27- Ps 41:9 Mt 26:26-28 Mk 14:22-24 Lk 22:19-20 Mt 26:30-31 Mk 14:27- Zech 13:7 Mt 26:31-35 Mk 14:27-31 Jn 13:38 Lk 24:44-47 Gen 3:15 Is 53 Ps 22

II. Events Before His Death 1. The Plot to kill Jesus Mt 12:14, 26:1-5 Jn 11:47-57 2. Anointed at Bethany Mt 26:6-13 Mk 14:3-9 a. For His burial Mt 26:12 Mk 14:8 3. Judas conspired with the chief priest Mt 26:14-16 Mk 14:10-11 Lk 22:1-6 4. Last Supper Mt 26:20-25 Mk 14:17-25 Lk 22:14-38 a. Lords Table instituted Mt 26:26-27 Mk 14:22-23 Lk 22:17-19 b. Blood of the Covenant Mt 26:28 Mk 12:24 Lk 22:20 c. Forgiveness of sins Mt 26:28 Mk 14:24 Lk 22:20 5. At Mount Olives Mt 26:30-35 Mk 14:26-31 Lk 22:39 6. Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane Mt 26:36-46 Mk14:32-42 Lk 22:40-46 a. Fathers will be done Mt 26:39 Mk 14:36 Lk 22:42 7. Jesus betrayal and arrest Mt 26:47-56 Mk 14:43-52 Lk 22:47-53 Jn 18:1-11 a. Scriptures fulfilled Mt 26:54, 24 8. Jesus taken to Annas Lk 22:54 Jn 18:12-14,19-24 9. Jesus is mocked by men Lk 22:63-65- Ps 35:19 10. Peters First Denial Jn 18:15-18 11. Jesus before Caiaphas Mt 26:57-68 Mk 14:53-65 Lk 22:66-71 a. The Christ, the Son of God Mt 26:63-65 Lk 22:67-70 Sited at the right hand of power 12. Peters denials Mt 26:59-75 Mk 14:66-72 Lk 22:54-62 Jn 18:25-27 13. Judas remorse Mt 27:1-10 14. Jesus before Pilate Mt 27:11-26 Mk 15:1-15 Lk 23:1-7 Jn 18:28-40 a. Jesus the King and His Kingdom Jn 18:36-37 15. Jesus before Herod Lk 23:8-12 16. Pilate seeks Jesus release Lk 23:13-25 a. Not guilty but judged Mt 27:13-27 Lk 23:23-25- Is 53:7-8

53

III. His Suffering and Death 1. Jesus sentenced to be crucified 2. Jesus is mocked by soldiers 3. Simon bore the Cross 4. The Crucifixion

Jn 19:1-15, 16 Mt 27:26 Mk 15:15 Mt 27:27-32 Mk 15:16-20 Lk 23:26-32 Mt 27:33-49 Mk 15:21-32 Lk 23:33-43 Jn 19:17-27 a. Father forgive them Lk 23:33-34 b. Wine mixed with gall Mt 27:34 Mk 15:23- Ps 69:21 c. Soldiers divided His garments Mt 27:35 Mk 15:24- Ps 22:18 d. Mother left to Johns care Jn 19:25-27 d. Let God rescue Him Mt 27:43- Ps 22:8 e. Numbered with the criminals Mt 27:44 Mk 15:27-28 Lk 22:37- Is 53:12 f. Criminal with Him in Paradise Lk 23:39-43 g. God forsook Him Mt 27:46 Mk 15:34- Ps 22:1 5. His Death Mt 27:50-56 Mk 15:33-41 Lk 23:44-49 Jn 19:28-37 a. He thirst Mt 27:48 Mk 15:36 Jn 19:28-29- Ps 69:21 b. It is finished Jn 19:30 b. Committed His Spirit to God Lk 23:46 c. Breath His last Mt 27:50 Mk 15:34 Lk 23:46 Jn 19:30 d. Centurion saved Mt 27:54 Mk 15:39 Lk 23:47 e. Legs not broken Jn 19:32-33,35-36- Ps 22:17, 34:20 f. Pierced on the side Jn 19:34,37- Zech 12:10 6. Jesus Is Buried Mt 27:57-66 Mk 15:42-47 Lk 23:50-56 Jn 19:38-42 a. With a richman at death Mt 27:57-60 Mk 15:43 Lk 23:50-53 On his tomb Jn 19:38-39- Is 53:9

Conclusion: The probability of fulfillment of all the prophecies considering the events, the words spoken, the places and the people centered on one man is next to impossible. The chance that all these can happen to one man even once in a million of years is improbable. Even in a happenstance one prophecy may still lack but all the prophecies on Christs death were fulfilled on the dot on Christ. The events that transpired 2,000 years ago showed the fulfillment of the Scriptures. These belie all skeptics that Christ was never crucified nor experienced death. Indeed, Gods infinite plan even before the foundati on of the worldsending His Son into the world to take away the sin of the world by the sacrifice of Himself was fulfilled. From the announcement and open declaration of Jesus to His disciples that He shall be handed to the chief priests and the Jews to be killed and rise on the third day, to His betrayal by Judas, to His disciples being scattered, even to the dividing of His garments, to the drinking of sour wine, to the crucifixion with the thieves, to the very last words that uttered from His mouth, to His legs not being broken, to the piercing of His side and with a rich man at His burial- all these were fulfilled in Christ. Glory to God. We had a sure and fulfilled prophecy. Jesus said at the Last Supper that His body was broken for us and His blood was poured for us. He made the blood of the covenant for the forgiveness of our sins. On the cross he uttered seeing all were fulfilled as written, It is finished and He gave up His spirit and breathed His last. Saints, God loved the world and specially loved us. Now that we have received Gods love let us share and proclaim to the entire world as He commanded- preach the gospel to all men. Whoever shall believe shall be saved and whoever shall believe not shall be condemned because they believe not the Son of God.

54

Title: Jesus the Servant Context: Book of Mark 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 until 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 heavens 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 a. Whose Son Is the Christ? 2. Baptizer of the Holy Spirit 3. Baptized 4. The Lord a. Prophesied Coming Lord b. Lord of the Sabbath c. The Transfiguration 5. Forgives sins a. Paralytic forgiven 6. Power of the Spirit a. Filled with the Spirit b. Jesus and Beelzebub II. The Ministry of the Servant 1. Praying a. Alone with God 2. Healing of the sick a. Crowds Healed

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

1:1, 11) 12:35-40, 14:61-64) 1:8, 10) 1:9-11)

(Verses 1:2-7) (Verses 2:23-3:5) (Verses 9:1-13) (Verses 2:5-11) (Verses 1:12-13) (Verses 3:20-30)

(Verses 1:35) (Verses 1:29-45, 3:7-12, 6:54-56)

55

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 Womans 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. Servants Self-denial (Verses 8:34-38) e. Servants 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 Widows 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)

56

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 Lords Supper (Verses 14:12-26) f. Jesus Predicts Peters 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 Gods 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.

57

Title: Kingdom of God Context: Mark 1:1-45 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 its here how do we see it? Whats 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 whats happening therein? And what should we be doing? Body: I. The Assurance 1. Initiation a. God 2. Preparation a. His Messenger 3. Confirmation a. Son of God II. The Assembling 1. His Calling a. Servants 2. His Teaching a. With authority b. With power III. The Advancing 1. Salvation & Healing a. People are sick b. Caused by demons 2. Power a. Word b. Spirit of God c. Intimacy and Prayer 3. Preaching a. Spread b. Testimony

(Verses 1:1-2, 14-15) Is 42:1 Mal 3:1 (Verses 1:3-8) Is 40:3 (Verses 1:9-13) Ps 2:7 Mt 17:1-5 (Verses 1:16-20) Act 9:15 (Verse 17) Act 13:47 (Verse 1:21) Lk 5:1 (Verses 22) (Verses 23-27) (Verses 1:15, 28-34, 2:5) Is 61:1 1Pet 2:24 (Verses 32, 34) Lk 5:15 Mt 12:43-45 Jn 8:34-36 (Verses 23-26,32,34) Lk 6:18, 8:2 (Verses 1:15, 22) Ps 107:20-21 Act 14:3 (Verse 12) Mt 12:28-29 (Verses 11-13, 35) Mt 17:18-21 (Verses 1:28, 33, 37-39) 2Thess 3:1 (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 into 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.

58

Title: Just Believe Context: Mark 5:21-43 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, Dont 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, Dont be afraid, just believe. Here we have two different environments and how Jesus dealt with them. Body: I. Jarius 1. His need 2. His worship 3. His pleading 4. His confession 5. The child died 6. The child resurrected II. The Woman 1. Her sickness 2. Hopeless 3. She heard 4. Believed and acted 5. Healed instantly III. Jesus Response 1. To Jarius a. He went b. Jesus command c. His confession d. Chose His companion 2. To the Woman a. Looked for the woman b. Advised the woman

(Verse 5:23) (Verse 5:22) (Verse 5:23) (Verse 5:23) (Verse 5:35) (Verses 5:41-42) (Verse 5:25) (Verse 5:26) (Verse 5:27) (Verses 5:27-28) (Verse 5:29)

(Verse 5:24) (Verses 5:35-36) (Verse 5:39) (Verses 5:37, 40-42) (Verses 5:30-32) (Verses 5:33-34)

59

Conclusion: For without faith it is impossible to please God. We dont receive because we dont ask. We dont receive because we dont 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, Dont 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 childs parents, He raised the child. And the woman who was sick and bleeding for twelve years had spent all she had but the doctors cant 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 its over dont 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.

60

Title: Jesus Son of Man Context: Book of Luke 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 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. Marys 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)

61

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. Peters 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 Widows 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 2. Blessings and Woes 3. Love for Enemies 4. Judging Others 5. A Tree and Its Fruit 6. The Wise and Foolish Builders (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 5:33-39) 6:20-26) 6:27-36) 6:37-42) 6:43-45) 6:46-49)

62

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 Widows 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 b. The Last Supper c. Jesus Arrested d. Peter Disowns Jesus 2. The Mockery a. The Guards Mock Jesus b. Jesus before the Sanhedrin c. Jesus before Pilate d. Jesus before Herod e. Pilate Seeks Jesus Release

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

22:1-6) 22:7-38) 22:47-53) 22:54-62) 22:63-65) 22:66-71) 23:1-7) 23:8-12) 23:13-25)

63

3. The Crucifixion and Death a. Simon Bears the Cross b. Jesus is Crucified c. Jesus Death d. Jesus Is Buried 4. The Resurrection a. Jesus has Risen b. On the Road to Emmaus c. Other Appearances d. The Ascension

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

23: 26-32) 23:33-43) 23:44-49) 23:50-56) 24:1-12) 24:13-35) 24:36-49) 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 Gods plan for mans 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 cannot 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.

64

Title: Sermon on the Mount Context: Luke 6:12-49 with Matthew 5-7:29 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 Gods 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 Lords message and learn from them. Its the greatest sermon ever preached. A Sermon with all authority and power. Body: I. The Good Teacher 1. Prays 2. Chooses and delegates 3. Compassion 4. Heals 5. With authority II. The Disciples of the Kingdom 1. Blessed 2. The tree and its fruit 3. Salt and Light 4. Fulfills the Law 5. Good works 6. Pray 7. Fast 8. Build treasures in heaven 9. Do not worry 10. Ask, seek and knock III. The Disciples and the World 1. Love your enemies 2. Woe 3. Do not judge 4. Do not condemn 5. Forgive 6. Do not Murder 7. No commit Adultery 8. Not Divorce 9. Not Swear 10. Not eye for an eye 11. Narrow and wide gates

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

Lk Lk Lk Lk Lk

6:12) Mk 1:35 6:13-16, 40 Mt 4:18-22) 6:17-18 Mt 4:25-5:1) 6:18-19 Mt 4:23-24) 7:1 Mt 7:28-29)

(Verses Lk 6:20-23 Mt 5:2-12) 1Pet 3:14, 4:14 (Verses Lk 6:43-45 Mt 7:15-23, 12:33) (Verses Mt 5:13-16) Mk 9:50 Lk 11:33-36 (Verses Mt 5:17-20) Lk 16:17 (Verses Mt 6:1-4, 5:16) Eph 2:10 (Verses 6:5-15) Lk 18:1-8 (Verses 16-18) Is 58:5-11 (Verses 19-24) Lk 12:31-34, 16:13 (Verses 25-34) Heb 13:5-6 Ps 37:25, 55:22 (Verses Mt 7:7-12) Mk 11:24 Jn 14:13-14, 16:24 Js 1:5-6 1Jn 3:22, 5:14 (Verses Lk 6:27-36 Mt 5:43-48) Rom 12:14 (Verses Lk 6:24-26) Js 5:1-5 (Verses Lk 6:37-42 Mt 7:1-6) Mk 4:23-25 Rom 2:1 1Cor 4:5 (Verse Lk 6:37) Jn 8:3-11 Rom 14:1-6 (Verses LK 6:37 Mt 6:14-15) Mk 11:25-26 (Verses Mt 5:21-26) 1Jn 3:14-15 (Verses 27-30) Lk 16:18 Mk 10:11-12 (Verses 31-32, 19:7-9) Mk 10:11-12 (Verses 33-37) Js 5:12 (Verses 38-42) Rom 12:17 (Verses Mt 7:13-14, 21-23) Lk 13:24-30

65

12. The wise and foolish builder

(Verses Lk 6:46-49 Mt 7:24-27)

Conclusion: We are Gods children. We are the sons of God. We are child ren 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 with 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.

66

Title: Be Ready 24/7 Context: Luke 12:35-48 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 a. Ready to reward 2. His Slaves waiting a. Alert b. Watch c. House kept II. The Lesson 1. The Faithful Servant a. Ready b. Faithful c. Sensible d. Doing 2. The Unfaithful Servant a. Negligent b. Cruel c. Pleasure

(Verse 12:36) (Verses 37) Col 3:24 Heb 10:35 2Jn 1:8 Rev 11:18, 22:12 (Verse 12:36) (Verses 37-38) Mt 24:42, 25:13 (Verses 38-39) Mk 13:33 (Verse 39) Mt 24:43 (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse 12:40) Mt 24:44 42) Mt 24:45 1Cor 4:2 42) Eph 1:18 Col 1:9 1Pet 4:1-2 43) Col 1:10 1Thess 1:3

(Verse 12:45) Js 1:22-25 1Pet 1:4-11 (Verse 45) Rom 12:17 1Jn 3:14-18 (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 a. Faithful and Sensible (Verse 12:35) Eph 6:14 1Pet 1:13-16 (Verse 42) Rom 12:2 Rev 3:3-5

67

2. Keep Lamps lighted b. Doing

1Cor 9:27 1Jn 1:7 (Verse 12:35) Jn 9:4 (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 every day. 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 Gods 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.

68

Title: Christ Son of God Context: Book of John 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 on the mountain He showed Himself among the three. John is very close with 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 2. Nature a. God b. Holy One 3. Creator 4. Life

(Verses 1:1-2) (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 1:1) 6:66-71) 1:3, 10) 1:4, 5:21, 26, 39-40)

69

5. Light II. Evidence of the Son 1. His Coming a. Bring Life and Light b. Life Through the Son c. Jesus the Bread of Life

(Verses 1:4-9, 8:12, 12:46)

(Verses 1:4-18, 3:14-21) (Verses 5:16-30) (Verses 6:25-59, 33, 48)

2. His Ministry a. Jesus Public Ministry, First Converts (Verses 1:35-51) b. First PassoverCleansing 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 Noblemans 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)

70

h. Spiritual Blindness i. The Shepherd and His Flock j. Jesus Comforts His Disciples k. Jesus the Way to the Father l. Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit m. The Vine and the Branches n. The World Hates the Disciples o. The Work of the Holy Spirit p. The Disciples Grief Will Turn to

(Verses 9:35-41) (Verses 10:1-21) (Verses 14:1-4) (Verses 14:5-14) (Verses 14:15-31) (Verses 15:1-17) (Verses 15:18-16:4) (Verses 16:5-16) Joy (Verses 16:17-33)

III. Completion by the Son 1. Suffering a. The Plot to Kill Jesus (Verses 11:47-57) b. Jesus Predicts His Death (Verses 12:20-36) c. Jesus Predicts His Betrayal (Verses 13:18-30) d. Jesus Predicts Peters Denial (Verses 13:31-38) e. Jesus Arrested (Verses 18:1-11) f. Jesus Taken to Annas (Verses 18:12-14) g. Peters First Denial (Verses 18:15-18) h. The High Priest Questions Jesus (Verses 18:19-24) i. Peters 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.

71

Title: His First Coming Context: John 1 Key Verses: JN 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. JN 1:2 He was in the beginning with God. JN 1:3 All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. Word was God JN 1:4 In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.
JN 1:12

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, JN 1:13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. JN 1:14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. JN 1:15 John * testified about Him and cried out, saying, This was He of whom I said, He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.
JN 1:29

The next day he *saw Jesus coming to him and *said, Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
JN 1:49

Nathanael answered Him, Rabbi, You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel.

Introduction: Johns writing focused on the Person of our Lord Jesus Christ. We can learn from him the origin of Jesus, who was He before time, why did He come and who sent Him, His purpose and mission. God loved the world which He has made. In His time through the revelation of the prophets He promised the Seed to Abraham through whom all the world shall be blessed. Jesus is the Life and the Light of the world declared by John. In the beginning of his writing we can see that Jesus was not a mere man but the Son of God full of glory, honor and power. Who is Jesus? Why was He sent into the world? Why did He come? Body: I. The Beginning 1. The Word a. With God b. Was God 2. Through Him a. All things came b. Nothing was made w/o Him 3. He is a. The Life b. The Light II. His Coming 1. The Witness a. Sent by God b. To testify c. All might believe

(Verses 1:1-2, 18) Jn 17:5 (Verse 1) 1Jn 1:1-2 (Verse 1:3) Col 1:16 Heb 1:2, 10 (Verse 3) Prov 8:22-30, 30:4 (Verse 1:4) Jn 14:6 (Verses 4-5) Jn 8:12

(Verse 1:6) Mk 11:29-33 (Verses 7-8) Jn 3:26-35 (Verse 7) Jn 3:36

72

d. Prepared the Lords coming 2. The Truth a. Life and True Light b. He made the world c. Took human form d. He existed before e. Grace and truth revealed 3. Be Received a. Others did not b. Those who receive Given the right to become His Given new birth

(Verses 19-23) Mt 3:1-3 (Verses 1:4-5, 9) Jn 14:6 (Verse 10) Col 1:16 (Verse 14) Phil 2:6-9 (Verse 15) Jn 8:58 (Verses 16-18) Rom 3:21-26 (Verses 1:10-11, 5) Jn 5:40 children (Verse 12) Gal 3:26 (Verse 13) Js 1:18 1Pet 1:23

III. His Dwelling 1. The Revelation a. The Christ (Verses 1:19-21, 41) Jn 4:25, 42 b. The Lord (Verse 23) Mt 3:3, 12:6-8 c. Above all (Verses 24-27, 30) Jn 5:22-23 2. The Lamb of God a. Jesus (Verses 1:35-36) Heb 10:5, 10-12 b. Takes away the sin of the world (Verses 28-29) Heb 9:26 1Jn 3:5 3. The Son of God a. The Spirit descended (Verses 31-32) Mt 3:16 b. The Father testified (Verse 33) Mt 3:17 Heb 1:5-6 c. Baptizes with the Spirit (Verse 33) Jn 7:38-39 d. The Son of God (Verses 34, 49-51) Jn 5:17, 25 Conclusion: The Son of God manifested in the flesh. God in the flesh. This is the revelation of all revelations. This is what man has to know that the Son of God came and dwelt among us and lived among men 2,000 years ago. He came with a purpose. He came on a mission. John the Baptist cried out when he saw Jesus coming, Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 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. He is from God. He is Gods sent. He is Gods provision and ransom for ou r sins and the whole world. He is the Lamb of God offered for the sin of the world once and for all. He is Gods Son. He is not anybody but He is Somebody. He was in the beginning with God His Father. The Father knew the Son and the Son knew the Father. All things were made through the Son and nothing came into being without Him. He was the Life and the Light. From the Father are all things and through the Son are all things. He came into the world that He made but the world did not know Him. He came to His own but they did not receive Him. But whoever receives Him God gives the power to become Gods children and to be born and brought int o His Kingdom. They receive the Life- the eternal life which the Son came for. They are in the Light for God is Light and in Him there is no darkness. The Son of God came. The Son of God manifested. This is what all should know and all should understand so that they shall be saved that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world whom He has made through His Son. He first came to establish all righteousness and He shall come again to take all who are His and shall judge the living and the dead.

73

Title: You Must Be Born Again Context: John 3:1-21 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 Jn 3:15

Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 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 Gods 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 mans salvation and deliverance from condemnation. How then man can be born again? Body: I. The Inquiry for New Birth 1. From a religious leader 2. Was seeking 3. Human reasoning 4. Spiritually unknowledgeable II. The Answer for New Birth 1. The Urgency 2. Spiritual Birth 3. The Son of God was given 4. For the world III. The Process for New Birth 1. Spiritual regeneration 2. Through the Son of God 3. Faith in the Son of God 4. Through the gospel 5. The Verdict a. Those who are saved b. Those who are condemned

(Verses 3:1-4, 9) 1Cor 1:20 (Verse 3:2) Jn 7:50-52, 19:38-40 (Verse 3:4) 1Cor 1:22 (Verses 3:10-12) 1Cor 2:9-10 (Verses 3:3, 5) Mk 8:36 (Verses 3:6-8) Jn 1:13 (Verses 3:13-16) Rom 5:8-11 (Verse 3:17) Jn 6:51 (Verses 3:5-6) Tit 3:5 (Verses 3:13-15) Jn 1:12-13 1Pet 1:3 (Verses 3:16, 18) Rom 3:21-26, 10:9-13 (Verse 3:16) Gal 3:1-2 Rom 1:16-17,10:14-17 1Pet 1:23-25 Js 1:18 (Verses 3:15, 17, 21) Jn 3:36 Rom 10:12-13 (Verses 3:18-20) Heb 3:19-4:6

74

Conclusion: Jesus said, Except a man be born again he cannot 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 cannot 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.

75

Title: Christ the Savior of the World Context: John 4:1-45 Key Verses: JN 4:1 Therefore when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John, worship in spirit and truth,
JN 4:10

Jesus answered and said to her, If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, Give Me a drink, you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.
JN 4:23

But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. JN 4:24 God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. JN 4:25 The woman *said to Him, I know that Messiah is coming (He who is called Christ); when that One comes, He will declare all things to us. JN 4:26 Jesus *said to her, I who speak to you am He.
JN 4:42

and they were saying to the woman, It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves and know that this One is indeed the Savior of the world. Introduction: When Jesus knew that the Pharisees heard that He was making more disciples than John and He went out of Jerusalem into Samaria and Galilee. He mingled with the non-Jews and spoke the word and healed the sick. He had a conversation with a Samaritan woman and revealed Himself to her. Jesus was the Messiah who is called the Christ. When we say the Messiah or the Christ what does it mean? Who He is? What is His mission and work? Body: I. The Christ Works 1. Makes Disciples a. Baptizes them b. Through His Servants 2. Went Out a. To other places b. Reaches II. The Christ gives the Spirit 1. Must be known a. If you only knew b. Ask 2. Living Water a. Shall never thirst b. Brings to eternal life c. Be truthful 3. Worship in Truth a. The Father seeks b. God is spirit

(Verse 4:1) Mt 28:19 (Verse 2) Jn 17:20 (Verses 4:3-6) Lk 4:43 (Verses 7-9) Lk 14:16-24

(Verse 4:10) Jn 7:38-39 (Verse 10) Act 19:1-6 (Verses 4:14) Gal 5:22-23 (Verse 14) Rom 8:1-2 Gal 6:8 (Verses 15-18) Mt 9:27 (Verses 4:19-23) 2Chrn 16:9 (Verse 24) Phil 3:3

76

III. The Christ Savior of the World 1. The Messiah a. Comes b. Will declare all 2. Jesus Christ a. He is the Messiah b. Do the Fathers will c. Accomplish His work 3. Savior of the world a. He is the Savior of the world b. Ripe for harvest c. Sowers and reapers d. For eternal life e. Many believed

(Verse 4:25) Mt 3:1-3 (Verse 25) Jn 8:26, 38 (Verse 4:26) Jn 3:14-16, 12:32 (Verses 31-34) Heb 10:5 (Verse 34) Jn 1:29 Heb 9:26 (Verse 4:42) 1Jn 2:2, 4:10, 14 (Verse 35) Lk 10:2 (Verses 36-38) 1Cor 3:5-9 (Verse 36) Jn 17:20 1Tim 1:16 (Verses 39-42, 43-45) Rom 10:13-18

Conclusion: John wrote in 1Jn 5:1 he that believes Jesus is the Christ is born of God. Confessing He is the Christ is the evidence one is born again. But what do we mean when we say Jesus is the Christ? Who is the Christ? What is His work and what did He accomplish. Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman and asked for a drink. And He told her if she only knew who was asking her for a water to drink and that He has the living water she would ask for it. He gives the gift of God the Holy Spirit that shall flow into us life springing up into everlasting life. The Christ gives the Spirit of God. And Jesus continued to ask her questions and the woman answered Him truthfully. And the Lord said to her that God is a spirit and they that worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth and the day shall come that they shall worship God neither in their mountain nor in Jerusalem. The Christ reveals to us the true worship of God in spirit and truth. All who shall receive the Spirit shall truly worship God. The Samaritans knew that the Messiah shall come and shall declare all things. Jesus was in the beginning with God His Father and came down from heaven to earth. What He heard from the Father He declared into us. He was sent by God to earth for a mission. He has a work which He has to accomplish. He did this on the cross. He took away the sin of the world by the sacrifice of Himself. He brings eternal life and He is the eternal life. He stayed with the Samaritans who were non-Jews and stayed there for two days and many believed on Him. They confessed the Christ is the one who shall come into the world and is the Savior of the world. Jesus said to His disciples that the field is great and the harvest is ripe. The sowers and the reapers shall rejoice together with the fruits- the salvation of many people. Jesus was sent by the Father so that the world might be saved through Him. Jesus is the Christ the Savior of the world. He gives the Spirit and saves the people from their sins.

77

Title: Son of God Context: John 5:1-47 Key Verses: JN 5:19 Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner. JN 5:20 For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will marvel. JN 5:21 For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son also gives life to whom He wishes. 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. JN 5:24 Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life. 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. Lets read. Body: I. The Evidence 1. Heals 2. Forgives 3. Authority II. The Son of God 1. Equal with God 2. Same with God a. Works b. Gives life c. Judgment d. Honor 3. Coming Judge III. The Witness 1. The Father 2. 3. 4. 5. John the Baptist Works The Scriptures The Prophets

(Verses 5:6-9) Mt 4:23 (Verse 14) Mk 2:7-10 (Verses 9-11, 16-18) Mt 12:6,8 Jn 3:35 (Verses 5:17-18) Jn 10:30-33, 36, 14:9 (Verses 19-20) Jn 10:24-25 (Verses 21, 24-26) Jn 1:4, 2:19-21, 6:40 (Verses 22, 24, 27) (Verse 23) Jn 15:23-25, 17:5 Heb 1:5-6 Phil 2:9-11 (Verses 27-30) Rev 19:11-16 Mt 25:31-34,41 (Verses 5:32, 37-38, 14:10) Mt 17:1-5 Heb 1:8-10 (Verses 33-35) Jn 1:15 Mt 3:1-3, 11-12 (Verse 36) Jn 10:25, 37-38, 1:1-3 (Verse 39) Lk 24:27, 44-45 Ps 2, 110:1 (Verses 45-47) Lk 18:31 Jn 8:56-59 \

78

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 was 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.

79

Title: Bread of Life Context: John 6:25-71 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 Fathers 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 knew their hearts and 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. Mans Bread 1. Food for the flesh a. worked for it 2. Earthly things a. food that spoils

(Verses 6:25-26) Lk 12:16-20 (Verses 6:27) Mt 6:19-20

II. Gods 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 2. Behold, look unto the Son a. Gives eternal life b. Lord from Heaven (Verses 6:28-29) Rom 3:21-26 1Jn 3:23 (Verse 6:40) Jn 8:12, 10:27 (Verses 58, 66-68) Jn 10:28 (Verses 59-62, 69) Jn 8:23-24

80

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 Lords 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 Lords 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.

81

Title: Light of the World Context: John 8:12-59 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 JN 8:46

But because I speak the truth, you do not believe Me. 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 Abrahams descendants. They accused Jesus was a 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 Abrahams 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 Hes gone (Verse 21) b. From above (Verse 23)

82

c. Not of this world 4. Son of God a. He claimed b. Acted not alone c. Not sin d. Honored His Father e. The Father glorifies the Son f. Existed before Abraham II. Following the Light 1. Follow the Light 2. Not walk in darkness 3. Believe in Him 4. Continue in His word 5. Will know the truth 6. The truth sets free 7. The Son sets free from sin 8. God is their Father 9. Love Jesus 10. Of God 11. Hear Gods word 12. Keep His words 13. Never see death (spiritual) III. Rejecting the Light 1. Not believe Jesus testimony 2. Not know God the Father 3. Not know and not believe Jesus 4. Will die in their sin 5. Cant enter heaven 6. Of this world 7. Slave to sin 8. Hate Jesus 9. His word has no place in them 10. Cannot hear His word 11. Of the devil 12. Do the desires of the devil 13. Murderer 14. Do not understand the truth 15. Speak lies 16. Not of God 17. Dishonor Jesus

(Verse 23) (Verses 24-25) (Verses 28-29) (Verse 46) (Verses 49-50) (Verse 54) (Verses 56-59) (Verse 8:12) (Verse 12) (Verses 28-30) (Verse 31) (Verse 32) (Verse 32) (Verses 34-36) (Verse 42) (Verse 42) (Verse 47) (Verse 47) (Verse 51) (Verse 51) (Verses 8:13, 45) (Verses 19, 27) (Verses 19, 25) (Verses 21, 24) (Verse 21) (Verse 23) (Verses 33-34) (Verses 37, 40-41, 59) (Verse 37) (Verse 43) (Verse 44) (Verse 44) (Verse 44) (Verse 44) (Verse 44) (Verse 47) (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 Gods 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

83

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.

84

Title: The Truth Shall Set You Free Context: John 8:31-59 Key Verses: 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 8:34

Jesus answered them, Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. JN 8:35 The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son does remain forever. JN 8:36 So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.
JN 8:42

Jesus said to them, If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and have come from God, for I have not even come on My own initiative, but He sent Me. JN 8:43 Why do you not understand what I am saying? It is because you cannot hear My word.
JN 8:47

He who is of God hears the words of God; for this reason you do not h ear them, because you are not of God.
JN 8:51

Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he will never see death. Jesus said to them, Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was born, I am.

JN 8:58

Introduction: Freedom. What does make us free? Nobody wants to be a slave to anyone or anything. Slavery can be seen in two contexts. You can be a slave to sin or a slave to righteousness. The latter is far more commendable. But how can one really be free? And man is a slave to what? Jesus had a discussion with the Jews. There were two groups who listened to Himthe believers and unbelievers. Let us hear from the Lord how one truly can be free. Body: I. Hindrance to Freedom 1. Denial of being slaves 2. Commit sin 3. Hold to own religion 4. Disbelief to the Son of God 5. His word no part in us 6. Believe false spirit 7. Not of God 8. Dishonor the Son II. How We are Freed 1. Become His disciples a. Become sons of God 2. Continue in His word a. We shall know the truth b. We shall be set free

(Verse 8:33) 1Jn 5:19 (Verse 8:34) Eph 2:1-3 (Verse 8:33) Rom 10:1-3 (Verse 8:37) Jn 5:39-40 (Verses 8:37, 43) Jn 17:17 (Verses 8:38-41, 44) 1Tim 4:1 (Verse 8:47) Eph 2:12 (Verses 8:48-49) Jn 5:22-23, 43 (Verse 8:31) Act 14:21 (Verses 34-35) Gal 3:26 (Verse 31) 2Jn 9 (Verse 32) Jn 17:17 (Verse 32) Jn 6:63, 68

85

3. Jesus sets us free 4. Listen to Jesus revelation a. He came from God b. He speaks the truth c. He was sinless d. Not seek His own glory e. The Father glorifies the Son f. He knows the Father g. He existed before Abraham III. Now that We Believed 1. We are His disciples 2. Continue in His word 3. Know the truth and set free 4. Freed from sinning 5. God our Father 6. Of God 7. Will never taste death

(Verse 8:36) 1Jn 5:18-20 (Verses 8:38, 40) Mt 17:5 (Verse 42) Jn 3:13, 31, 16:27-31 (Verse 45) Jn 3:32-36, 18:37 (Verse 46) Mk 1:24 (Verse 50, 29) Jn 13:31-32 (Verse 54) Phil 2:6-11 (Verse 55) Jn 7:28-29 (Verses 56-59) Jn 1:15 (Verse 8:31) 1Jn 1:1-3 (Verse 8:31) Rev 14:12 (Verse 8:32) Rom 3:21-26 (Verses 8:34-36) Rom 6:16-23 (Verse 8:42) Jn 1:12-13 (Verse 8:47) Lk 10:16 1Jn 4:6 (Verse 8:51) Jn 3:36

Conclusion: The Truth shall set us free. People fight for freedom. Who wants to be a slave? Nobody. But not many thought of being set free from sin? From works of darkness? From wickedness? If we read Gods words we are told that man is a slave of sin. Gods words expose who we are in Gods sight. The world is under the power of the evil one- the sons of disobedience and the children of wrath. It is sad to see the world without hope and remains to be without hope. But Jesus our Hope came. The Deliverer came. The Savior came. You have no excuse o man! To be set free is to know the truth. And what is the truth? Jesus said, I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. Jesus is the embodiment of the truth. He speaks the truth. He is the truth. He came down sent by the Father to tell us the truth. He revealed to us the truth that God desires all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. Whoever believes in Him for eternal life and that the Fathers has sent Him to be the Savior of the world and that He came down from heaven to earth shall be set free. He is the Son of God. He existed before Abraham and all the prophets. They wrote and knew Him through the Spirit of Christ in them. Jesus said, If the Son sets you free you shall be free indeed. If you continue in my word you are my disciples indeed. If anyone continues My word He shall never taste death. Being His disciple does not begin and end in believing but in continuing in His word. Believe in the Son of God who tells us the truth and is the truth and let His word be part of us until He comes again.

86

Title: The Good Shepherd Context: John 10:1-21, 24-30 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 2. Entering the Door II. The Shepherd 1. The Shepherds Care 2. The Shepherds Life III. The Sheep 1. The Sheep Knows 2. The Sheep Follows 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

(Verses 1-2,7) (Verses 3-5, 24-26) Eph 3:6 (Verse 9, 11-13, 28-29) Isa 40:11 (Verses 10-13,15, 17-18) Heb 13:20 (Verses 4-5, 14, 19) (Verses 4-5, 16, 20-21, 27)

Then when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that never fades away.

87

Title: Believe God, Believe Jesus Context: John 14:1-15 Key Verses: JN 14:1 Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me, I am the way, and the truth, and the life, have seen Him, the works that I do, he will do also, Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do
JN 14:6

Jesus *said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
JN 14:7

If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him.
JN 14:12

Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father. JN 14:13 Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. JN 14:14 If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it. JN 14:15 If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. Introduction: Do you believe that God exists? How can we know God who we cannot see? Jesus said, Believe in God, believe also in Me. The Son of God came and represented God the Father in heaven and explained to us everything things that we should know- life hereafter. In His discussion with His disciples Jesus showed important aspects in knowing God through Him. Let us follow the discussion. Body: I. Knowing the Way 1. Be settled a. Not troubled body and soul 2. God and His Son a. The Son believed 3. Home in heaven a. Revealed b. Prepared c. Be with Him d. Jesus is the Way II. Knowing the Father 1. Knowing Jesus a. Is knowing God b. Have seen God 2. They are One a. In the Father and in the Son b. The Fathers words c. The Fathers works

(Verse 14:1, 27) Mt 6:30-32 Heb 9:27 (Verse 14:1) Jn 7:28, 12:44 (Verse 14:2) Jn 12:49-50 (Verse 3) 1Pet 1:4, 9 (Verse 3) Phil 1:21-23, 3:20 (Verses 4-6) Act 4:12

(Verse 14:7) Heb 1:2-3 (Verses 7-9) Jn 1:1-2, 6:46 (Verses 14:10) Jn 10:30-33, 38 (Verse 10) Jn 12:49 (Verse 11) Jn 5:19-20

88

III. Knowing the Power 1. By believing Him a. We do His works 2. Jesus goes to the Father a. For us 3. He acts a. Whatever we ask in His Name b. He will do it c. The Father is glorified d. We keep His commandments

(Verse 14:12) Act 26:18 (Verse 14:12) Heb 7:25 (Verses 14:13-14) Mt 7:7-8 Jn 16:23 (Verse 13) Jn 16:23-24 (Verse 13) Jn 13:31-32 (Verse 15) Jn 15:7, 16

Conclusion: Jesus said, Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in Me. This teaching echoes to all human beings. Man in his dismal condition looked up into the heavens and searched for the Almighty. They have named and made gods for themselves. But Jesus said to His disciples to believe in God is to believe also in Him. To know God is through His Son. The Son of God is the exact representation of the Father. He is the expressed image and likeness of God. He is like His Father- Divine. Jesus knew God because He was with God before time existed. He conversed with Him. He worked with Him. And God sent His Son to reveal us Gods desire. Jesus said, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life and no man comes to the Father but through Me. God accepts us through His Son. The Son has prepared for us a home in Heaven and when He returns we shall be with Him. Whoever has known the Son has known and seen God for the Father is in Jesus and He is in the Father. Jesus spoke the words of His Father. God was working in Him. They are one in all things. They agree in all things. Jesus gives us His disciples especial privileges- that we shall do the works He has done and anything we ask in His Name He shall do it. He shall go to the Father on our behalf and grant our prayers so that the Father shall be glorified in the Son. Therefore as we keep His commandments because we love Him let us come to God in full assurance of our faith and in His Name let us work His works and rejoice in Gods answers to our prayers. Again, it was Jesus who said, Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in Me. Jesus Christ is Gods answer to man. He is Gods answer to us. Glory be to His Name.

89

Title: The Spirit of Truth Context: John 14:16-31, 16:5-15 Key Verses: JN 14:16 I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; JN 14:17 that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.
JN 14:21

He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him.
JN 14:26

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.
JN 16:8

And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment; JN 16:9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me; JN 16:10 and concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you no longer see Me; JN 16:11 and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged. Introduction: When Jesus was about to leave and to be sacrificed He told the disciples that they shall not be left alone. After He leaves He will send the Comforter, the Helper, the Spirit of truth to them. They should not be afraid because God the Father and He are with them. The Holy Spirit shall come and guide them so that He may be with them forever. Who is the Holy Spirit? What is His work in us? Let us hear from the Lord as He discussed with the disciples. Body: I. The Helper 1. Given a. From God (Verse 14:16) 2Cor 1:21-22 b. Another Helper (Verse 16) Jn 7:37-39 b. Be with us forever (Verse 16) Eph 4:30 2. Spirit of Truth a. We know Him (Verse 14:17) Gal 3:1-2 b. Christ with us (Verses 18, 28) Gal 4:6 c. Experience Him (Verses 19-20) 1Jn 1:3 3. Revelation a. Keeping His commandments (Verse 14:21) Jn 15:9-11 b. Love Him by keeping His words (Verses 23-25) 1Jn 2:5 c. He discloses and God abides (Verses 21, 23) 2Cor 6:14-18 II. The Teacher 1. The Holy Spirit a. Will teach all things b. Put in remembrance 2. Peace a. Christ leaves peace b. Do not fear

(Verse 14:26) 1Jn 2:20, 27 (Verse 26) Jn 2:22 (Verse 14:27) Col 3:15 (Verse 27) Jn 14:1

90

c. Rejoice 3. The World a. Does not know Him b. Does not give peace c. Ruled by the Devil d. Jesus obeys the Father III. The Speaker 1. From God a. Sent by Jesus 2. He Convicts a. The world on sin b. Righteousness c. Judgment 3. He Guides a. Into all the truth b. Glorifies Jesus c. Discloses from Jesus

(Verses 28-29) Lk 10:20 (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse 14:17) Jn 1:10 27) 1Jn 2:17 30) 1Jn 5:19 31) Jn 8:29

(Verses 16:5-7) Jn 14:26 (Verses 16:8, 9) Act 7:51 (Verses 8, 10) Jn 3:16, 14:6 (Verses 8, 11) Lk 10:17-18 (Verses 16:13) Lk 12:11-12 (Verse 14) 1Cor 12:3 (Verse 15) Jn 17:10

Conclusion: There are two spirits in our world today- the Spirit of truth who is the Holy Spirit and the spirit of the antichrist. The Spirit of God glorifies Jesus as the Son of God. He is our Helper. He is our Teacher. He is our Comforter. He guides us into all the truth. He reveals Christ to us. He reveals the Father to us. Jesus was finally taken up into heaven on the 40th day after His resurrection from the dead. He made a promise that He shall send the Holy Spirit from God and that He may be with us forever. He is the one who baptizes us with the Spirit. What a consolation. What a solace. God with us, in us and abides in us. He never left us as orphans. When Jesus sends and baptizes us with the Spirit He dwells in us. Wherever the Spirit of the Lord is Christ is present. The world does not know Him and does not receive Him. The Spirit convicts the world concerning sin, righteousness and judgment. They are convicted of sin because they do not believe Jesus. Concerning righteousness because Jesus is with God the Father- He is the Son of God, the Righteous and Holy One. Concerning judgment because Satan has been judged was rendered powerless and was defeated on the cross. The Holy Spirit speaks the truth in us. Leads us into the truth. He moves us into obedience in Christ. And he that loves the Lord, keeps His commandments and His words is loved by God and Jesus discloses Himself to him. They will come and make their abode in us. Let us therefore be at peace with God and rejoice that we have received the Spirit and Jesus has come into us. Glory to God.

91

Title: The Vine and the Branches Context: John 15:1-11 Key Verses: JN 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.
JN 15:8

My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. JN 15:9 Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. JN 15:10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Fathers commandments and abide in His love. Introduction: Jesus is the Vine and we are the branches. The branches as long as they are connected to the vine have life. Nutrients come from the ground through the roots to the vine then to the branches and they bear fruits. Jesus allegorized our relationship with Him as one whole tree. He once said, A good tree bears good fruit. He was saying these words because the time for Him to leave them was near and He wanted that His disciples not to stumble but remain in Him. Troubles, persecutions and temptations from the world shall come their way and we too experience the same. He said, Without Me you can do nothing. How can we abide in Christ? What did Jesus teach His disciples? Lets hear from our Lord as John wrote it. Body: I. The Vine 1. Jesus a. The Vine 2. Father a. Vinedresser b. Takes and prunes c. Not abide is burned II. The Branches 1. The Disciples a. Cleansed by the word b. The branches 2. Abide in Him a. To bear fruit b. Apart we cannot 3. Abiding is a. Keeping His words b. Abiding in His love c. Keeping His commandments III. The Glory 1. When you abide a. Answered prayers 2. When we bear much fruit a. The Father is glorified

(Verses 15:1, 5) (Verse 15:1) (Verse 2) 1Cor 3:6 (Verse 6) Lk 12:43-46

(Verse 15:3) Jn 6:63, 68-69 (Verse 5) 1Cor 12:12-13 (Verse 15:4-5, 8, 16) Tit 2:14 (Verse 5) Eph 5:14 (Verse 15:7) Jn 14:23 (Verse 9) Jn 14:23-24 (Verse 10) Jn 14:15, 21

(Verse 15:7, 16) Mt 6:33, 7:7 1Jn 3:22 (Verse 15:8) Mt 5:16

92

b. Proved as His disciples (Verse 8) Jn 8:31 3. When we keep His commandments a. We abide in His love (Verse 15:10) 2Cor 6:14-18 b. His joy in us (Verse 11) Jn 14:23 Conclusion: We are Gods and we are in Him and He in us. Our Lord Jesus Christ taught His disciples to remain and abide in Him. At the Last Supper He told them that one of them shall betray Him. He informed them that His time was near and when He has done everything they shall receive the promise of the Father- the Holy Spirit. He showed also their relationship with one another that they should love one another as He loved them and the world shall hate them because of Him. Chapter 14 of John Jesus said he who loves Him is he that keeps His commandments and keeps His words. In the next chapter Jesus discussed that we should abide in Him to bear fruit for without Him we can do nothing. In chapter 16 He told them these so that they may be kept from stumbling. He is the Vine and we are the branches. When we abide in Him we bear fruit. Every branch that does not bear fruit is cut off and burned but every branch that bears fruit the Father trims and prunes so that it shall bear more fruit. Jesus said herein the Father is glorified that we bear much fruit and proving we are His disciples. And abiding in Christ is abiding in His words. Abiding in Christ is keeping His commandments. No one can abide in Him without obeying His commandments. If we do not walk according to His will we therefore are not abiding in Him. Jesus said that we should abide in Him and keep His commandments as He abided in the Father and kept His commandments. If we keep His commandments we abide in His love as He kept the Fathers commandments and abided in His love. Therefore if we keep His commandments and keep His words we abide in His love and abide in Him and bear much fruit. He said that if we love Him and keep His words God shall love us and the Father and the Son shall come to us and take their abode in us. When God is with us we bear fruit tenfold, thirty to hundredfold. And this is His assurance that because we abide in Him anything we ask He hears us and His joy shall be in us so that our joy may be full. Abide in His words and abide in Christ and abide in His love.

93

Title: Jesus and His Disciples Context: John 16:16-17:1-26 Key Verses: JN 16:16 A little while, and you will no longer see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me.
JN 16:27

for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came forth from the Father. JN 16:28 I came forth from the Father and have come into the world; I am leaving the world again and going to the Father.
JN 17:3

This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. JN 17:4 I glorified You on the earth, having accomplished the work which You have given Me to do. JN 17:5 Now, Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was. JN 17:6 I have manifested Your name to the men whom You gave Me out of the world; they were Yours and You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. JN 17:7 Now they have come to know that everything You have given Me is from You;
JN 17:17

Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.

Introduction: Before Jesus was crucified He spoke to His disciples at the Last Supper. He confirmed His love for them and the Fathers love for them because they have believed that He came from God. He shall be gone for a while and shall be with them again. Jesus has to finish the work that the Father has commanded Him to do- eternal life. He has to be sacrificed for the remission and atonement of sins. Jesus made a revelation to His disciples and assured them that they are under His and the Fathers care. Body: I. Sacrifice for the Disciples 1. Be gone for a while a. His Death b. His Resurrection 2. For our sake a. Sorrow for a while b. Joy 3. In that Day a. Ask anything b. He will give II. Love for the Disciples 1. Jesus Origin a. He came from God b. From Heaven to earth 2. Love manifested a. Loved Jesus b. Loved by God

(Verse 16:16) Mt 16:21 (Verse 17) Mt 16:21 (Verses 16:18-20) Mk 16:10 (Verses 21-22) Jn 20:20 (Verse 16:23) Jn 15:16 (Verses 23-24) Rom 8:32

(Verse 16:27) Jn 3:13, 31 (Verses 28-31) Jn 6:38 (Verse 16:27) Jn 14:15, 6:68 (Verse 27) Jn 14:21, 23

94

3. Peace in Christ a. He overcomes the world III. Glory for the Disciples 1. God glorified a. Of the Son Authority over all Gives eternal life Glorified in us b. Of the Father Jesus obeyed c. The same glory 2. God owns us a. Given to the Son b. We are Gods c. Kept His word d. Believed He came from God 3. God keeps us a. In His Name b. None shall perish c. From the evil one d. Sanctified and sent e. United and glorified f. His love in us

(Verses 16:32-33) 1Jn 4:4, 5:4

(Verses 17:1-2) Mt 28:18 (Verses 2-3) Jn 20:31 (Verse 10) Jn 15:8, 16 (Verse 17:4) Jn 8:29 (Verse 17:5) 1Cor 2:8 (Verse 17:6) Jn 10:29 (Verses 6, 9-10) 1Cor 6:20 (Verse 6) Jn 8:51 (Verses 7-8) Jn 1:1-2, 14 (Verses 17:11) (Verse 12) Jn 6:39-40 (Verses 13-16) Jn 10:10 (Verses 17-20) Tit 2:13-15 (Verses 21-23) Eph 5:26-27 (Verses 24-26) Jn 15:9

Conclusion: Are you Christs disciple? What makes a true disciple? A disciple is a believer and follower. A disciple follows the teachings of his master. He believes everything his teacher tells him. Jesus made disciples while He was on earth. Before He left them He assured them that the Father loves them because they loved Him and believed that He came from God. This belief is very crucial for a true disciple of Christ- believing that Jesus came from God His Father and came down from Heaven to earth. This we know the spirit of antichrist says John, whoever denies Jesus coming in the flesh is not of God. Jesus said to His disciples that He was going back to the Father and leaving the world and going back to the Father. Jesus glorified the Father when He accomplished the work He was commanded to finish. And God glorified the Son giving Him the authority and judgment to all flesh. He said the Father loved Him because He always does what pleases the Father. We as His disciples should make our goal to always please God. We keep His words. We keep His commandments. Jesus is glorified in us. And His promise as we obey, anything we ask in His Name He shall do it. Jesus gives us eternal life. We are kept in His Name, protected from the evil one and sanctified by the truth- His word. Therefore, saints let us make our ambition always to please God and be united in love. God sanctifies us and sends us into the world so that others may believe through our word. We are His disciples and we are to continue His work in the world, as the Father has sent Jesus so He has sent us into the world.

95

Title: He Has Risen! Context: John 20-21 Matthew 28 Mark 16 Luke 24 Key Verses: MK 16:6 And he said to them, Do not be amazed; you are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen; He is not here; behold, here is the place where they laid Him.
JN 20:17

Jesus said to her, Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.
JN 20:27

Then He *said to Thomas, Reach here with your finger, and see My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do not be unbelieving, but believing. JN 20:28 Thomas answered and said to Him, My Lord and my God! JN 20:29 Jesus *said to him, Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed.
MT 28:18

And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. MT 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, MT 28:20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age
LK 24:45 LK 24:46

Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and He said to them, Thus it is written, that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day, LK 24:47 and that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. LK 24:48 You are witnesses of these things. Introduction: The Scriptures were fulfilled concerning the event surrounding Christs death. The apostles and His disciples have witnessed all that Jesus said. Paul said, If Christ has not been raised we are the most pitied people in the world. We are still on our sins. The gospel writings, the writings of the apostles confirmed that Jesus did resurrect from the dead. Let us see the condition, Jesus appearances and His commandment on the day He has risen. Body: I. The Condition 1. The Day of Resurrection a. Third day He shall rise b. After Sabbath b. First day of the week 2. Empty Tomb a. Stone rolled away b. Body not in the tomb c. Angels appeared He has risen, Go and tell

Lk 24:6-7, 46 Jn 2:19-22 Mt 28:1 Mk 16:1 Jn 20:1 Mt 28:1 Mk 16:1-2 Lk 24:1 Mt 28:2 Jn 20:1 Mk 16:3-4 Lk 24:2 Lk 24:3 Jn 20:3-7 Jn 20:12-13 Mt 28:5-7 Mk 16:5-8 Lk 24:4-9

96

Doubt and unbelief Believed when He appeared 3. Guards witnessed it a. Fell dead b. Bribed not to tell c. The body cannot be stolen II. Jesus Appearances 1. Mary Magdalene 2. With the other Mary 2. With Joana and other women 3. Peter and John 4. Apostles 5. With other disciples 6. Appeared for 40 days

Mt 28:17 Mk 16:10-11, 14 Lk 24:10-11,36-38 Jn 20:24-25, 26-29 Mt 28:4 Mt 28:11-15 Mt 27:62-66 Jn 20:11-18 Mk 16:9-10 Mt 28:1, 7-10 Lk 24:10 Jn 20:2-9 Mk 16:2 Lk 24:12, 13-35 Mk 16:14 Lk 24:33, 36-43 Jn 20:19-23, 24-29, 21:1-2 Lk 24:9 Jn 20:30 Act 1:3, 9-11, 15

III. The Command 1. Fulfillment of the Scriptures Lk 24:36-49 2. Preach the good news into all Mt 28:18-20 Lk 24:46-48 3. Believe the Son of God for eternal life Jn 20:30-31 4. Feed His sheep Jn 21:15-17 5. Follow Jesus Jn 21:18-22 Conclusion: Fear not. Doubt not. Jesus has risen from the dead. What He has promised us He has fulfilled. He said at the beginning of His ministry to the Jews that disbelieved Him, Destroy this temple (referring to His body) and in three days I shall raise it up. Death has no power to the source of Life. Death has no power to the Life-Giver. Jesus said as the Father has life in Himself and gives to whom He wishes the Son also has life in Himself and gives to whom He wishes. The power of indestructible life is in Jesus. The apostles and His disciples were mourning and weeping on His death. The chief priests remembered Jesus said that He shall rise from the dead. They were thinking that His disciples might steal His body and the deception shall be greater than the first. So they asked Pilate and set a seal on the stone and placed guards on the tomb. But on the third day the angels of the Lord appeared and rolled the stone. The guards dropped dead. Mary and the other women, Peter and John came to the tomb. The other disciples in the beginning doubted that they have seen Jesus. When Jesus appeared in their midst their fear and doubt diminished. Jesus reprimanded them for their unbelief. Jesus appeared for forty days and did many convincing proofs that He has risen from the dead. He said all that were written in the Law of Moses and the prophets must be fulfilled that Christ shall suffer, be killed and rise from the dead and that repentance and forgiveness of sins shall be proclaimed in His Name. Yes, God commanded all men to repent for forgiveness because atonement was made on the cross by the Son of God. Jesus commanded all His disciples and the church to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey all that He has commanded. John said they were witnesses of all these things and it was true. They have written so that we may believe that Jesus is the Son of God and that by believing we shall have eternal life. Jesus has risen. He is alive and now seated at the right hand of God the Father and shall come again for us. Celebrate the Life. Celebrate Jesus the Son of God.

97

Title: Called to Serve Context: John 21 Key Verses: JN 21:1 After these things Jesus manifested Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and He manifested Himself in this way.
JN 21:6

And He said to them, Cast the net on the right-hand side of the boat and you will find a catch. So they cast, and then they were not able to haul it in because of the great number of fish.
JN 21:12

Jesus *said to them, Come and have breakfast. None of the disciples ventured to question Him, Who are You? knowing that it was the Lord.
JN 21:17

He *said to him the third time, Simon, son of John, do you love Me? Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, Do you love Me? And he said to Him, Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You. Jesus *said to him, Tend My sheep.
JN 21:21 JN 21:22

So Peter seeing him *said to Jesus, Lord, and what about this man? Jesus *said to him, If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me! Introduction: Jesus has just risen from the dead and has appeared to the disciples. Some were in doubt when He appeared. Peter and some went at night fishing but they have caught nothing until early morning. This time the Lord appeared again to them and had a conversation with Peter. After the Lords appearances until He was taken up into Heaven and the Holy Spirit was sent on the Day of Pentecost the apostles were never been the same again. Body: I. Our Priority Tested 1. Used to do a. Called others b. Work not blessed 2. God is watching a. Jesus on the beach b. He cares for His children 3. Gives direction a. Leads b. Blesses c. Provides II. Calling Reminded 1. Calls for a meeting a. Breakfast 2. Agenda of the day a. Love Him more than this b. Tend His lambs 3. Tall Order

(Verse 21:2) Mt 6:24 (Verse 3) 2Tim 4:10 Act 15:38 (Verse 21:4) Act 23:10-11 (Verse 5) Act 18:8-11 (Verse 21:6) Jn 10:27 (Verses 6-8) Prov 10:22 (Verses 9-11) Mt 6:33-34

(Verses 21:12-14) Mt 28:10, 16 (Verses 21:15) Mk 10:28-31 (Verse 15) 1Cor 15:58

98

a. If understood b. Shepherd His sheep c. Sink in III. To Follow Commanded 1. Now a. While still able b. He knows our end 2. Commanded a. Follow Him b. Not look at others c. Follow Him

(Verse 21:16) Jn 14:15 (Verse 16) Act 20:28 (Verse 17) Jn 15:8-10

(Verse 21:18) Mt 28:18-20 (Verse 19) 2Pet 1:12-15 2Tim 4:6-8 (Verse 21:19) Lk 6:40 (Verses 20-21) Lk 6:41 (Verse 22) Lk 6:46

Conclusion: Are you called into the ministry? Are you called to preach and teach? After the Lord has revealed Himself, moved you and trained you what are you doing now? The Lord appeared to Peter and the disciples the third time after His resurrection. In the beginning some doubted Him. This time Jesus knew what they are doing- back to work- fishing. All night they have caught nothing. Early in the morning Jesus was at the beach and said, Children, you do not have any fish, do you? He commanded them to cast their nets on the other side. They obeyed and caught a great catch. They realized it is the Lord. Jesus prepared a breakfast meeting with them. The agenda- do they love Him more than these. He asked Peter three times. This show the imperativeness of the inquiry- do they love Him more than what they used to do. The tall order of the day is Feed My sheep. Because of Jesus ministry many believed and many shall come in. The calling of the apostles were to spend their time doing the work of the Lord. God provides for our needs and knows our needs. He is the Source. He is the Owner and Possessor of the heavens and the earth. Our Commander said, Follow Me. That is His commandment. He wants His servants those who are called into the ministry to follow Him and feed His sheep. Peter loved the Lord and might be distracted with many things. He looked into his work. He asked about the other servants of the Lord. Jesus plainly said to him, Follow Me. Are you called full-time or if you are not called into full-time ministry Jesus our Lord has the same question and commandment, Do you love Me more than these? Follow Me.

99

Title: Acts of the Apostles Context: Book of Acts 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 AC 16:31

and after he brought them out, he said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? 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 b. Witnesses 2. Fulfillment a. The Waiting b. The Baptism 3. Manifestation a. Power of God b. In Jesus Name c. Signs and wonders d. Ministry gifts e. Healing

(Verses 1:4-5) Lk 24:48-49 Jn 7:37-39 (Verse 1:8) Jn 14:26, 15:26 (Verses 1:12-15) Lk 24:49 (Verses 2:1-4) Act 11:15-16, 4:27-31 (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 10:38, 14:3, 15:12) 3:6-9, 4:7-8, 30) 2:43, 5:12, 6:8, 8:6-7, 13) Rom 15:19 2:28, 8:20, 10:45) 1Cor 12:4-11 4:10, 14, 22, 33, 5:16, 8:7, 28:8)

100

II. The Message 1. The Content a. The gospel b. The Son of God c. The Christ d. Crucifixion e. Resurrection f. Salvation In Christ g. Repentance 2. The Kingdom of God a. Preached

(Verses 8:25, 40, 14:21, 15:7) Mk 1:15 (Verses 9:20-22) Mt 26:63-65 Rom 1:4 (Verses 8:5, 35, 18:5) Jn 4:25,42 Lk 24:44-47 (Verses 2:36, 4:10) 1Cor 1:23 (Verses 2:22-24, 30-32, 4:2,33, 17:18, 25:19, 26:6-8) Rom 6:5 1Cor 15:12-23 (Verses 11:14, 13:26, 47, 28:28) Rom 1:16-17, 10:9-13 2Cor 6:2 (Verses 4:11-12, 15:11, 13:38-39, 16:30-31) Lk 24:44-47 (Verses 2:38, 20:20-21) Mk 1:15 Lk 13:3 (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)

101

3. Disciples a. Scattered and preached b. Qualifications c. Stephen d. Philip e. Barnabas f. Silas g. Apollos IV. The Fruit 1. Made Disciples 2. 3. 4. 5. The Word of God spread Salvation and praise Love for the brethren Church strengthened

(Verses 8:4, 11:19-21) (Verses 6:1-7) (Verses 6:8-10, 7:51-60) (Verses 8:5-8, 12, 25-40) (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 (Verses 15:32, 40, 17:4, 10) (Verses 18:24-28, 19:1) 1Cor 3:5-6 (Verses 2:47, 6:1, 13:43, 14:21, 26:16-18) Mt 28:19 (Verses 6:7, 13:49) 2Thess 3:1 (Verses 2:47, 18:8) (Verses 4:34-37) Rom 12:10 Eph 5:2 (Verses 9:31, 14:22, 16:5) 1Cor 12:4-11

Conclusion: Is the gospel the words of men? Its 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 its 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 at chapter 28 of the bible. The work of the Lord continued through the centuries into 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.

102

Title: Power from on High Context: Acts 1-2:47 Key Verses: 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 until 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 2. Witnesses 3. Left II. The Obedience 1. Gathering 2. The Word 3. Appointing III. The Fulfillment 1. The Filling 2. The Message 3. The Outcome a. Salvation b. Fellowship

(Verses 1:4-5) Lk 24:48-49 Jn 7:37-39 (Verse 8) Jn 14:26, 15:26 (Verses 9-11) Jn 16:7 (Verses 1:12-15) Lk 24:49 (Verses 16) Act 2:16 (Verses 17-26) Act 6:2-7 (Verses 2:1-4) Act 11:15-16, 4:27-31 (Verses 23-24,29-36,38) Act 4:33, 13:32-33, 38-39 (Verses 2:37-41, 47) Act 16:25, 30-31 (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 into 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.

103

Title: Gods Righteousness Context: Book of Romans 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. Pauls letter to the Roman church was a clear cut manifesto who we are in Christ. He discussed the importance of the gospel, Gods revelation to man through creation, mans 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)

104

Unrighteousness Disobedience

(Verses 1:18-32, 2:6-11) (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 Gods grace (Verse 5:2) 3. Because all have sinned (Verses 3:22-23, 12) a. Through Adam all have sinned (Verses 5:14-19)

105

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. Gods 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)

106

Conclusion: Rome was the dominant world power during the earlier centuries. Many nations were conquered and many people were subjected to them. We are in the Kingdom of God and God has come into 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 to love one another. Please our neighbors. Serve the Lord and give glory to God. For in Christ we died and with Him we shall live.

107

Title: The Glorious Gospel Context: Romans 1 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 into 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 2. Is Preached 3. Is the Power of God II. The Gifts 1. Are Imparted 2. To be Encouraged 3. To Bear Fruit III. The Gentiles 1. Those who Believed a. Saved 2. Those who Disbelieved a. a. Depraved b. b. Condemned

(Verses 1-4) Gen 3:15, 22:18 Act 13:23 (Verses 5, 9, 14-15) 1Cor 9:16 (Verses 16-17) 1Cor 1:17-18 (Verse 11, 15:29) 1Thess 3:10 (Verse 12) 1Thess 3:2, 5:11 (Verse 13) Jn 12:24, 15:4-5, 8 (Verses 5-6, 10:14-17, 3:21-26) (Verses 16-17, 10:8-13) Jn 3:16, 5:24 (Verses 18-23, 2:2-4) (Verses 24-31) (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 by their wickedness are depraved and condemned.

108

Title: Righteousness and Faith Context: Romans 2-5 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 Gods 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 slaves 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 may be 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 b. All the world

c. Judged 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 Gods 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

(Verses 2:17-24, 3:1-9) (Verses 3:10-20, 23, 5:12) Gal 3:22 Ps 14:3, 53:3 (Verses 2:1-16, 25-29)

109

II. Abrahams Righteousness 1. Not justified by works a. Not boast 2. Justified by faith a. He believed God b. Gods favor c. His faith credited d. Made righteous e. Forgiveness 3. Our Example a. Our father of faith b. Righteousness through faith c. So it would be grace d. Not waiver on Gods promise e. He was able to perform f. Credited as righteousness g. Same for us in Christ

(Verses 4:1-2) (Verses 4:3-5) (Verse 4) Gen 15:6 (Verses 3, 5) (Verses 5,9) (Verses 6-8) Ps 32:1 (Verses 4:10-12) Gal 3:18 (Verses 13-15) (Verses 16-19) (Verse 20) (Verse 21) (Verse 22) (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 on 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 Gods standard no one is righteous before Him. If that would be the Bibles criteria then no one shall be saved. Yes, no one. Jesus said, With man its 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 from 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 our righteousness.

110

Title: Slaves of Righteousness Context: Romans 6-8 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 RO 6:21

and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. 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 RO 8:2

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. Introduction: Romans 1 to 5 shows us man is under sin and falls short of Gods 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 b. Died with Christ c. No longer slaves to sin 2. Servants of Righteousness a. Instruments of righteousness b. Sin shall not master over you c. Slaves for obedience d. Slaves of righteousness e. End is eternal life

(Verses 6:1-2) Gal 2:20 (Verses 3-5) Gal 3:27 (Verses 6-11) Col 2:11-12 (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 6:12-13) 1Pet 4:1-2 14-15) Gen 4:6-7 16-17) 1Pet 1:2 18-20) 1Jn 2:29 21-23) Rev 19:8, 22:11-12

111

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 cant 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 b. Made possible by Christ c. Walk according to the Spirit d. Made alive 2. Live in the Spirit a. Not condemned b. Sons of God 3. Our Future glory a. Revelation of the sons of God b. Persevere in the Spirit c. Glorification d. Christ love for us e. Our salvation

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

8:1-2) Jn 7:37-39, 4:14 3-4) Col 2:13 4-9) Col 3:1 Gal 5:1, 5, 22-25 10-11) Eph 2:1, 5

(Verses 8:12-13, 1-2) (Verses 14-16) Gal 4:6 (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 8:17-23) Phil 3:20 1Pet 4:13 24-27) Gal 5:16-17 28-30) Eph 1:4-6 31, 34-39) Heb 7:25 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.

112

Title: No Condemnation Context: Romans 8 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 RO 8:38

But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. 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 have become slaves into righteousness we come into obedience to sanctification and the result is eternal life. (6:1622). 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 for sin is sanctification through obedience to 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 b. Made possible by Christ c. Walk according to the Spirit 2. Christ in you a. Our spirits made alive b. Our bodies given life 3. Live in the Spirit a. Not condemned b. Sons of God c. Witness of the Spirit II. The Glory of Life 1. Glory to be revealed 2. Revelation of the sons of God 3. Redemption of our bodies

(Verses 8:1-2) (Verses 3-4) (Verses 4-9) (Verses 8:10) (Verse 11) (Verses 8:12-13) (Verse 14) (Verses 15-16) (Verses 8:17-18) (Verses 19-22) (Verse 23)

113

III. The Victory of Life 1. Hope and perseverance 2. Spirit intercedes for us 3. Work for good that love God 4. Predestined 5. Gives us all things 6. Christ intercedes for us 7. Overwhelmingly conquer through 8. Nothing separates us

(Verses 8:24-25) (Verses 26-27) (Verse 28) (Verses 29-30) (Verse 31) (Verse 34) Him (Verse 37) (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 cannot be fulfilled in our strength but God sent His Son and condemned sin in the flesh so that the righteousness of God may be 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 until 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.

114

Title: Israel Shall Be Saved Context: Romans 9-11 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 mysteryso that you will not be wise in your own estimationthat 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 Gods righteousness through the Law and was rejected but the Gentiles have attained it by faith. But Gods 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 Pauls discussion on Gods calling, Israel and the Gentiles. Body: I. Gods Election 1. Not all shall be saved a. Abrahams descendants b. Children of the Promise c. God chooses 2. Him who calls a. To whom compassion is given b. Pursued by faith c. Not those who disobeyed II. Word of Faith- the Promise 1. Not own righteousness a. Not according to knowledge

(Verses 9:1-7) (Verses 8-9) (Verses 10-13) (Verses 9:14-23) (Verses 24-30) (Verses 31-33) (Verses 10:1-3)

115

b. According to Christ 2. Word in you a. In your heart b. In your lips c. Be saved 3. Preached to all a. Christ made known b. Brings faith in Him c. Israel rejected III. Israel be Saved 1. God reserved a. Remnant b. Chosen obtained it c. Rest hardened 2. Israels transgression a. Our salvation b. Some Israelites saved 3. Broken off, Grafted in a. Israel out due to unbelief b. Gentiles in due to faith c. Warning of unbelief 4. Israel be saved a. Partial hardening b. Prophesied restoration c. Gods mercy

(Verses 4-5) (Verses 10:6-8) (Verses 9-12) (Verse 13) (Verses 10:14-16) (Verse 17) (Verses 18-21)

(Verses 11:1-6) (Verse 7) (Verses 7-10) (Verses 11:11-13) (Verse 14) (Verses 11:15-20) (Verse 20) (Verses 21-24) (Verses 11:25) (Verses 26-27) (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 be 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. Gods Promise to Abraham was through his seed who is Christ according to Paul, many nations shall be blessed. Therefore all who shall believe 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 onto 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.

116

Title: Works of Righteousness Context: Romans 12-16 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. Gods righteousness revealed from faith to faith- that is faith in 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 spirits 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 b. Do not conform to this world c. Abhor evil d. Hope e. Persevere f. Pray g. Awake h. Lay aside darkness i. Put on the armor of light j. Behave properly k. Put on the Lord Jesus l. Full of goodness m. Obey God 2. Obey Authorities a. Submit b. Gods servants c. Pay taxes d. Respect and honor

(Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse

12:1) 12:2) 12:9) 12:12) 12:12) 12:12) 13:11) 13:12) 13:12) 13:13) 13:14) 15:14) 16:19)

(Verse 13:1-2) (Verses 13:3-5) (Verses 13:6-7) (Verse 13:7)

117

II. Working for God 1. In the Body of Christ a. Not think highly of self b. Have different functions c. One Body d. Exercise your gifts e. Have same mind f. According to Scriptures g. According to Christ h. One voice glorify God i. teach one another j. Pray for Gods workers k. Support and honor workers l. Turn away from evil workers 2. In service to God a. On fire b. Fervent in the spirit c. Serving the Lord d. Glorify God for His mercy e. He rules over us f. We hope in Him g. Bring Gentiles into obedience h. In signs and wonders i. Preach the gospel j. Crush Satan III. Loving for God 1. Love for the brethren a. Devoted and honor above b. Share to their needs c. Love as yourself d. Accept one another c. Be humble d. Strengthen not judge He will judge 2. Love for others a. Bless not curse b. Rejoice and weep with others c. Be humble d. Not pay back evil e. Respect what is right f. Respect others g. Peace with all men h. Not take revenge i. Overcome evil with good j. Owe nothing k. Do no wrong l. Please others

(Verse 12:3) (Verse 12:4) (Verse 12:5) (Verses 12:6-8) (Verse 12:16) (Verse 15:4) (Verse 15:5) (Verse 15:6) (Verse 15:14) (Verses 15:30-33) (Verses 16:1-12) (Verses 16:17-18) (Verse 12:11) (Verse 12:11) (Verse 12:11) (Verses 15:8-11) (Verse 15:12) (Verses 15:12-13) (Verses 15:15-18) (Verse 15:19) (Verses 15:20-21, 16:25-27) (Verse 16:20)

(Verses 12:9-10) (Verse 12:13) (Verses 13:8-10) (Verse 15:7) (Verse 12:16) (Verses 14:1-23) (Verses 14:4, 10-13) (Verse 12:14) (Verse 12:15) (Verse 12:16) (Verse 12:17) (Verse 12:17) (Verse 12:18) (Verse 12:18) (Verse 12:19) (Verses 12:20-21) (Verse 13:8) (Verses 1:10) (Verses 15:1-3)

118

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. 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 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.

119

Title: One and United Context: Book of 1Corinthians 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. But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are For since by a man came death, by a man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive.

1CO 15:20

asleep.
1CO 15:21 1CO 15:22

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 Pauls 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 the 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 Christs (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 2. 3. 4. 3. No jealousy and strife Not judge Not exceed to what is written No immorality in the church a. Cast out (Verses 1:10-13, 11:17-19) Rom 12:16 Phil 2:2 (Verses 3:1-4) Js 3:14-16 (Verse 4:5) Mt 7:1 Rom 14:10-13 (Verse 4:6) 1Tim 6:3-4 2Tim 3:16-17 (Verses 5:1, 6:15-18) 1Thess 4:3-8 (Verses 5:2-8, 13, 16:22) Mt 15:17-18 1Tim 1:20 (Verses 5:9-11) 2Thess 3:14 (Verses 6:1-8) 1Thess 4:6 Jn 7:24

b. Not associate 4. No lawsuits among brethren

120

5. No unrighteous be saved 6. Glorify God in your body 7. Relationships 8. Not cause others to stumble 9. Not sin like Israel before 10. Flee from idolatry 11. Imitate leaders and Christ 12. Hair covering for women 13. Respect the Lords Table 14. All done in love 15. Be mature 16. Abound in the Lords work 17. Support brothers in need III. One Truth 1. Gospel of God a. Power of God for salvation b. Wisdom of God c. Christ crucified d. Churches planted 2. Revelation from the Spirit a. So our faith be in God b. Wisdom from God c. Mind of Christ d. Power 3. Servants in the Lord a. One b. Gods co-builders c. Belongs to you d. Servants of Christ and God e. Rights f. Become like all men g. Disciplined in walk h. Labor in grace i. Honored 4. God a. One God, the Father b. One Lord, Jesus Christ c. Creator d. Life 5. Spiritual Gifts a. Jesus uplifted b. From the Spirit of God c. To care for His body d. Given to the church f. Prophecy and Tongues

(Verses 6:9-10) Gal 5:19 Eph 5:5 Rev 21:8, 22:15 (Verses 6:12-20, 10:31) 1Pet 1:18-19 (Verses 7:1-40) MK 5:32 Mt 19:9 1Pet 3:1 (Verses 8:1-13, 10:23-32) Rom 14:15-16,21 (Verses 10:1-12) Ex 32:6-7 (Verses 14-22) Deut 32:16-17 (Verses 11:1-2) Phil 3:17 1Thess 1:6 (Verses 11:2-16) (Verses 11:20-34) Mt 26:26-28 (Verses 13:1-13, 16:14) Mt 5:44-46, 22:39 1Jn 3:14-18 (Verses 14:20, 16:13) (Verse 15:58) Jn 15:8 (Verses 16:1-3) Act 2:44-45

(Verses 1:17-18, 15:1-2) Rom 1:16-17 (Verses 1:19-31, 2:1, 3:18-20) Rom 3:21-26 Gal 3:21-26 (Verses 1:18, 2:2, 15:1-4, 11) Lk 24:44-47 (Verses 1:14-18, 4:15) Act 18:6-11 (Verses 2:4-5) 1Thess 2:13 2Thess 2:13-14 (Verses 2:6-12) Gal 1:11-12 Rom 16:25 1Pet 1:10-12 (Verses 2:13-16) Jn 14:26, 15:26 (Verse 4:20) Rom 1:4-5 2Pet 1:16 (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 3:4-8) Rom 12:4-8 3:9-10) Eph 4:11-15 3:20-23, 12:28) 4:1-17) Col 1:25 Tit 1:7-9 9:1-14) Gal 6:6 9:15-23, 10:33) 9:24-27) Eph 5:2, 8 Col 1:10 15:10) Act 20:19-24 16:10-12, 15-18) Heb 13:17

(Verses 8:5-6) Eph 4:6 Jn 17:3 (Verse 8:6) Eph 4:5 2Pet 1:1-2 (Verse 8:6) Mal 2:10 Jn 1:1-3 Col 1:15-17 (Verse 8:6) Jn 5:21-26 Rev 3:14 (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 12:1-3) Phil 2:9-11 12:1-11) Act 1:5-8 12:12-26) Eph 4:11-15 Act 15:5-6 12:27-31) Rom 12:4-8 14:1-19, 21-33)

121

6. Resurrection a. Of Christ b. Our resurrection 7. His Reign a. Enemies under His feet b. God all in all

(Verses 15:12-19, 29-32, 45-49) (Verses 15:20-23, 35-44, 50-57) 1Jn 3:2 Phil 3:20-21 1Thess 4:13-18 (Verses 15:24-26) Phil 2:9-11 Mt 25:31 (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 nonJewish 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 of 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 with His Son and will confirm us into the last day and present blameless and holy. And the end shall come. All shall stand before the Gods Judgment the righteous into the new heaven and earth and the wicked into everlasting punishment.

122

Title: We are One Context: 1Corinthians 1-4 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 1CO 1:24

but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, 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 Gods fellow workers; you are Gods field, Gods 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 is 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 b. Fellowship with the Son 2. No Division a. Same mind b. No quarrels c. No partiality 3. One Message a. Sent to preach the gospel b. Message of the cross c. The perishing and wise reject d. We are in Him II. One Spirit 1. The Message a. Christ crucified b. Spirit and power in God 2. The Wisdom

(Verses 1:2-7) Act 15:9 (Verses 8-9) 1Jn 1:3 (Verses 1:10) Rom 12:16 Phil 2:2 (Verse 11) Js 4:2 (Verses 12-16) Js 2:1 1Jn 1:9-10 (Verse 1:17) Act 13:47-49 (Verses 18, 23-24) Rom 1:16-17 (Verses 18-25) Jn 3:18-20 (Verses 26-31) Eph 1:13

(Verses 2:1-3) 1Cor 15:1-4 (Verses 4-5) 1Thess 2:13 2Thess 2:13-14

123

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 as one 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 (Verse 3:5) Rom 10:9-17 b. Planted, watered and God causes growth (Verse 6-7) Act 18:6-11 c. One and Gods fellow workers (Verses 8-9) Rom 12:4-8 Eph 4:11-15 d One foundation laid Christ (Verse 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 (Verse 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 Gods 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. Gods servants are His co-workers and fellow laborers in His Kingdom. They plant, water and God causes its growth. And we are Gods building. Each shall have their reward in the Lord and believers too being Gods 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. Gods servants should be trustworthy. Paul said that we imitate him. He served Gods 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.

124

Title: Dont Play with Sin Context: 1Corinthians 5-10 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 1CO 10:32

Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 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 Gods 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 are 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 Gods 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 does want His children to live righteously. Sin has not to be dealt with complacency but with firmness and in truth. Lets see how Paul dealt with these sin issues inside the church and how we too should deal with our churches today.

125

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 Gods 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. Pauls 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 b. Most God was not pleased c. Not crave evil things d. Destroyed e. Example for us 2. Flee idolatry a. Sin b. Flee c. Works of darkness 3. What is right a. Edify others b. Glorify God c. Give no offense d. Please men for their salvation

(Verses 10:1-4) Ex 13:21 Ps 78:14 (Verse 5) Num 26:65 (Verses 6-7) Ex 32:6 (Verses 8-10, 3:17) Num 25:1-9 Heb 10:26-31 (Verses 11-13) Heb 12:4-17 (Verses 10:7-8) 1Sam 15:23 Col 3:5 (Verses 14-15) 1Jn 5:16-17, 21 (Verses 16-22) 2Cor 6:14-18 (Verses 10:23-30) Phil 2:4 (Verse 31) Col 3:17 (Verse 32) Rom 14:13 (Verse 33, 9:22)

126

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 in Corinth, there were sin issues in the six churches to whom Jesus sent the messages through John in 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 Lords. 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.

127

Title:

Spiritual Instructions

Context: 1Corinthians 11-16 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 Lords death until He comes.
1CO 12:4 1CO 12:5 1CO 12:6 1CO 12:7

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons. But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.

1CO 13:13

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 togetherChrist the head, proper commemoration of the Lords Table, love, use of spiritual gifts, importance of the gospel and our resurrection and giving to the poor saints. Lets learn from Paul from his instructions for the same instructions are for our churches today.

128

Body: I. Honoring Christ 1. Christ the Head a. Imitate the apostles b. Order c. Natural and spiritual d. No divisions 2. The Lords Supper a. Remembrance b. Received worthily c. Or be judged

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

11:1-2) Phil 3:17 3, 7, 10) Eph 5:23 4-15) 16-19)

(Verses 11:23-26) (Verses 27-28) (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 b. There is resurrection c. Be not deceived d. Stop sinning e. Abound in the Lords work 2. Christ Resurrected a. Order of resurrection b. Our resurrection c. Imperishable and immortal 3. The End a. All be subjected to Christ b. Son be subjected to the Father

(Verses 15:1-11, 1:23) Rom 1:16-17 (Verses 12-19) Jn 5:25-29 (Verses 29-33) Is 22:13 (Verse 34) Jn 5:14, 8:11 (Verse 58) Jn 15:8 (Verses 15:20-23) 1Thess 4:13-18 (Verses 35-49) Mt 24:29-41 (Verses 50-57) 1Jn 3:2 (Verses 15:24-27) Ps 110:1 Heb 1:13 (Verse 28)

129

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. Gods purpose is that we grow in the Spirit maturing to Christ-likeness. For He saved us by grace through faith in the gospel of ChristHis death and resurrection for the payment of our sins. And as we remember the Lords suffering and proclaiming His coming again through partaking of the bread and drinking from the cup in the Lords Supper 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.

130

Title: Assurance Context: Book of 2Corinthians Key Verses: 2CO 1:19 For the Son of God, Christ Jesus, who was preached among you by usby me and Silvanus and Timothywas 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 Pauls first letter to the Corinthians he wrote about the believers 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 2. Through Christ 3. Delivers us 4. His promises are yes in Christ 5. Establishes and anoints 6. Pledged the Holy Spirit 7. Spirits ministry is more glorious 8. The Lords Spirit sets free 9. Will raise us all 10. Gave His Son for us II. Believers Walk in Truth 1. Praise in the day of the Lord 2. Comfort others 3. Pray for servants 4. Stand firm 5. Letter read by all 6. Enlightened through Christ 7. Transformed daily to His image 8. Same spirit of faith 9. Look unto the eternal 10. The Lords, now and at death 11. Please Him, we are accountable 12. New creation

(Verse 1:3) (Verse 1:5) (Verses 1:8-10) (Verses 1:18-20) (Verse 1:21) (Verses 1:22, 5:5) (Verses 3:6-12) (Verse 3:17) (Verse 4:14) (Verse 5:21, 12:1-4) (Verse 1:14) (Verse 1:4) (Verse 1:11) (Verse 1:24) (Verses 3:1-4) (Verses 3:13-16) (Verses 3:17-18, 4:16) (Verse 4:13) (Verses 4:17-5:4) (Verses 5:5-8, 12:2-4) (Verses 5:9-10) (Verses 5:14-17)

131

13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21.

Reconciled to God (Verses 5:18-19) Saved (Verse 6:2) Not bound together with unbelievers (Verses 6:14-18) Purify and cleanse self (Verse 7:1) Godly repentance (Verses 7:8-10) Obey (Verses 7:14-16) Gives abundantly (Verses 8:1-7, 9, 14, 9:6-7) Supports the saints (Verses 9:1-15) Christ our strength (Verses 12:7-9) (Verse 1:12) (Verse 1:24) (Verse 2:4) (Verses 2:5-11, 12:21-13:2) (Verses 2:12-14, 6:1) (Verse 2:17, 11:7-12) (Verses 3:5-6) (Verses 4:1-2) (Verses 4:3-6) (Verses 4:7-12) (Verse 5:20) (Verses 6:3-10) (Verses 10:3-6) (Verses 10:12-18, 12:1-7) (Verses 11:1-4, 13-14, 12:1-4) (Verses 11:24-33, 10) (Verse 12:12) (Verses 10:8, 13:1-14) (Verses 10:5, 12:19-21)

III. Ministers Work 1. Live in holiness and godliness 2. Workers with joy 3. Love the brethren 4. Discipline and confirm love 5. God triumphs with the gospel 6. Not peddle the Word of God 7. God enables 8. Not distort the Word of God 9. Not preach self but Christ 10. Power in us from God 11. Ambassadors for Christ 12. Ministry not offended 13. War in the spirit 14. Not compare and boast self 15. No other gospel, secures faith 16. Servants persevere in labor 17. Signs and power 18. Authority To build up and not tear down Saints walking in truth

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 Gods 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 Lords and when we leave this temporal body we have an eternal building in heaven. And let us doubly honor the Lords servants who persevere everything for the gospel and for our souls sake. Imitating their example, wal k, 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.

132

Title: Its a Relationship Context: 2Corinthians 1-7 Key Verses: 2CO 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 2CO 1:4 who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
2CO 3:16 2CO 3:17

but whenever a person turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 2CO 3:18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.
2CO 4:17

For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, 2CO 4:18 while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
2CO 5:7 2CO 5:8

for we walk by faith, not by sight we are of good courage, I say, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord. 2CO 5:9 Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him.
2CO 6:16

Or what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, I WILL DWELL IN THEM AND WALK AMONG THEM; AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE. 2CO 6:17 Therefore, COME OUT FROM THEIR MIDST AND BE SEPARATE, says the Lord. AND DO NOT TOUCH WHAT IS UNCLEAN; And I will welcome you. 2CO 6:18 And I will be a father to you, And you shall be sons and daughters to Me,
2CO 7:9

I now rejoice, not that you were made sorrowful, but that you were made sorrowful to the point of repentance; for you were made sorrowful according to the will of God, so that you might not suffer loss in anything through us. 2CO 7:10 For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation, but the sorrow of the world produces death. Introduction: This is Pauls second letter to the church at Corinth. To recap his first letter, he admonished them to be united for we are one body, settle issues of sin, and gave spiritual instructions in honoring Christ our Lord, working the gifts of the Spirit with love, and Gods completion of His plan and our resurrection. Paul this time was joyful because Titus gave him a word that after his visit to the Corinthians they took heed of Pauls correction and have obeyed. This time he comforted them and assured our relationship with God. Reading Pauls letter really gives great assurance to us believers Gods love and inheritance for His people and on our

133

part our faith and obedience to the Father. Paul clearly showed the believers Gods work in us in the new covenant. We are in a relationship with God the Father. He gave and we return back His love. Lets take a look. Body: I. With the Father and Son 1. Father of mercies and comfort (Verse 1:3) 2. Through Christ (Verse 1:5) 3. Delivers us (Verses 1:8-10) 4. His promises are yes in Christ (Verses 1:18-20) 5. Enlightened through Christ (Verses 3:13-16) 6. Provided an eternal body from heaven (Verses 5:1-5) 7. The Lords, now and at death (Verses 5:5-8, 12:2-4) 8. New creation (Verses 5:14-17) 9. Reconciled to Himself (Verses 5:18-19) 10. Gave His Son for us (Verse 5:21) 11. Saved us (Verse 6:2) 12. Strengthens us (Verses 12:7-9) II. His Spirit Works 1. Establishes and anoints 2. Pledged the Holy Spirit 3. God triumphs with the gospel 4. God enables 5. Spirits ministry is more glorious 6. The Lords Spirit sets free 7. Transformed daily to His image (Verse 1:21) (Verses 1:22, 5:5) (Verses 2:12-14, 6:1) (Verses 3:5-7) (Verses 3:6-12) (Verse 3:17) (Verses 3:17-18, 4:16)

III. His Children 1. Comfort others (Verse 1:4) 2. Pray for servants (Verse 1:11) 3. Live in holiness and godliness (Verse 1:12) 4. Praise in the day of the Lord (Verse 1:14) 5. Stand firm (Verse 1:24) 6. Letter read by all (Verses 3:1-4) 7. Look unto the eternal (Verses 4:17-5:4) 8. Please Him, we are accountable (Verses 5:9-10) 9. Not bound together with unbelievers (Verses 6:14-18) 10. Purify and cleanse self (Verse 7:1) 11. Godly repentance (Verses 7:8-10) 12. Obey (Verses 7:14-16) Conclusion: Are you in a relationship? How do you care, nurture and preserve and not tarnish that relationship? Its a give and take and a two-way relationship. They say, It takes two to tango. God has first loved us and while we were all sinners and unrighteous Christ died for the sins of the world. This is the true grace of God. He loved the world and gave His Son. His love was proclaimed first by those who were with Him- His first apostles and disciples. Now His love has reached us 2,000 years after. We believed and loved Him though we have not seen Him and He has loved us with an everlasting love. He promised us eternal life through faith in His Son. Paul in his second letter to the Corinthians gave the believers the assurance that Gods promises are all yes in Christ. He has reconciled us to Himself

134

through His Son Jesus Christ. He enabled us. He has forgiven us. He has delivered us. He gave us His Holy Spirit as a pledge, an assurance and guarantee deposit. Our hope is not temporal but eternal. We have a building, a temple and a body from heaven that shall be given to us when He comes again. We can go on and on and on of the glory of the inheritance of the saints and the richness of His glory in Christ. We as His people and redeemed children, what are we called for while here on earth? God said and Paul wrote, And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain for He says, AT THE ACCEPTABLE TIME I LISTENED TO YOU, AND ON THE DAY OF SALVATION I HELPED YOU. Behold, now is THE ACCEPTABLE TIME, behold, now is THE DAY OF SALVATION.. Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness? Or what harmony has Christ with Belial, or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever? Or what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, I WILL DWELL IN THEM AND WALK AMONG THEM; AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE. Therefore, COME OUT FROM THEIR MIDST AND BE SEPARATE, says the Lord. AND DO NOT TOUCH WHAT IS UNCLEAN; And I will welcome you. And I will be a father to you, And you shall be sons and daughters to Me, Says the Lord Almighty. Therefore it is our goal to be pleasing to the Lord always and in all aspects of our lives. Jesus said that we abide in Him, we cannot bear fruit if we do not abide in Him and abiding is keeping His commandments. If we keep His commandments we abide in His love as He kept His Fathers commandments and abided in His love. We are in a relationship and as He renews us every day through His Spirit that dwells in us, we abide in Him and bear fruits.

135

Title: Giving to the Saints Context: 2Corinthians 8-9 Key Verses: 2CO 8:2 that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality. 2CO 8:3 For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave of their own accord,
2CO 8:9

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.
2CO 8:14

at this present time your abundance being a supply for their need, so that their abundance also may become a supply for your need, that there may be equality; 2CO 8:15 as it is written, HE WHO gathered MUCH DID NOT HAVE TOO MUCH, AND HE WHO gathered LITTLE HAD NO LACK.
2CO 9:6

Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 2CO 9:7 Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2CO 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed;
2CO 9:10

Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness; Introduction: Paul wrote to the Corinthians, But just as you abound in everything, in faith and utterance and knowledge and in all earnestness and in the love we inspired in you, see that you abound in this gracious work also. I am not speaking this as a command, but as proving through the earnestness of others the sincerity of your love also. The believers were enriched with the gifts of the Spirit and in the knowledge of the Lord. They kept the instructions of Paul. He desired that they continue their desire to help the poor saints in Macedonia who even though of their need they gave abundantly- first they gave themselves unto the Lord and then to the apostles. The sincerity of the love by the Corinthian believers is proven by their actions so Paul wanted them to prepare and set aside before they come. Today do our churches abide in this grace of giving to the saints? This is not tithing but offering for the poor saints. Lets hear from Paul Gods instruction on giving. Body: I. Grace of Giving 1. Others gave a. More than they could (Verses 8:1-3) Lk 21:1-4 b. Share in giving (Verse 4) Act 11:28-29 c. First gave themselves unto the Lord (Verse 5) 2. We give a. Complete the act (Verses 8:6, 10-11) Rom 15:26 b. As you abound in others (Verse 7) c. Prove the sincerity of our love (Verses 8, 24) Act 2:44-45

136

d. There be equality 3. The Lord gave a. Became poor for us b. God guides us to give c. Led by His servants II. Act of Giving 1. Ministry to the saints a. Giving to Gods people b. Always prepared to give c. Supplying the needs d. Bountiful thanksgiving e. Will glorify God 2. Giving a. Sowing bountifully b. Cheerfully 3. The Source a. God enables bountifully b. Supplier c. Enriches

(Verses 12-15) Ex 16:18 (Verse 8:9) (Verses 16-17) Deut 15:4-8 (Verses 18-23) Gal 2:9-10

(Verse 9:1) 1Cor 16:1-3 (Verses 2-5) (Verse 12) (Verse 12) (Verses 13-15) (Verse 9:6) Prov 11:24 (Verse 7) (Verses 9:8-9) Ps 112:9 (Verse 10) 1Cor 10:26 Ps 24:1 (Verse 11) Prov 10:22

Conclusion: Some say our faithfulness can be tested by giving. Money, money, money. We work hard for it and its not easy to give away. God tests us in our pockets. Jesus said we can only serve one master- God or mammon. Are we working for God or are we working for money? Gods economy works differently from the economics of the world. Businesses say production, sales, profit, and income. The Kingdom of God says give, share, give more, less profit, less income. The word of God is giving us a different mind set. Spiritual blessings start not from what we have but what is left for us because we gave out of love. He that sows sparingly shall reap sparingly. He that sows bountifully shall reap bountifully. Why? Because the Source of our ability to give is God who is able to enrich us so we can give more. And this produces thanksgiving, praise and glory to God. There shall be always saints that are in need. James wrote, What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, Go in peace, be warmed and be filled, and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself. John wrote, We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love abides in death. Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer; and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has the worlds goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. The first century churches have practiced this grace of giving to the saints. It is the will of God. It is the proof of sincerity of our love. Greediness, callousness and coldness are the signs of the end of times. May our churches not be affected by this spirit in the world. Lets do have this ministry of giving to the saints in need- to the poor saints. On the last day Jesus will say to many, Did you give me drink when I thirst? Food when I hunger? And clothing when Im naked? Whatever you do to the least of my brethren you do it to Me.

137

Title: Gods True Servants Context: 2Corinthians 1-6, 10-13 Key Verses: 2CO 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, 2CO 10:4 for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. 2CO 10:5 We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,
2CO 11:2

For I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy; for I betrothed you to one husband, so that to Christ I might present you as a pure virgin. 2CO 11:3 But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ. 2CO 11:4 For if one comes and preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted, you bear this beautifully.
2CO 11:23

Are they servants of Christ?I speak as if insaneI more so; in far more labors, in far more imprisonments, beaten times without number, often in danger of death.
2CO 12:7

Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment meto keep me from exalting myself! 2CO 12:8 Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. 2CO 12:9 And He has said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness. Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
2CO 12:12

The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with all perseverance, by signs and wonders and miracles.
2CO 13:9

For we rejoice when we ourselves are weak but you are strong; this we also pray for, that you be made complete. 2CO 13:10 For this reason I am writing these things while absent, so that when present I need not use severity, in accordance with the authority which the Lord gave me for building up and not for tearing down. Introduction: Paul in His second letter to the Corinthian believers he mentioned that it shall be the third time that he shall visit them. He has instructed them many things- unity, stop sinning, use of gifts and that they have a relationship with the Lord. In the last parts of his letters Paul established and described himself as Gods true servant. To Paul it was foolishness to compare oneself to another but he did prove his apostleship so they would understand Gods calling and work for there were false apostles and false servants of Christ in their midst. What are the walk, the way and the work of Gods true servants? Body: I. Walk of Gods Servants 1. God-like a. Live in holiness and godliness (Verse 1:12) Rom 12:1-2

138

2. From God a. God enables b. Power in us from God c. Grace is sufficient 3. Warfare a. War in the spirit b. Signs and power c. Christs strength II. Way of God Servants 1. The Gospel of Christ a. God triumphs with the gospel b. Not preach self but Christ c. No other gospel d. With the Lord anytime 2. The Word of God a. Not peddle the Word of God b. Not distort the Word of God III. Work of Gods Servants 1. Quality a. Workers with joy b. Love the brethren c. Discipline and confirm love d. Ministry not offended e. Not compare and boast self f. Servants persevere in labor 2. Purpose a. Reconciliation to God b. Secures faith in Christ c. To build up and not tear down d. Saints walking in truth e. Saints in the faith

(Verses 3:5-6) 1Cor 15:10 (Verses 4:6-12) Phil 4:13 (Verses 12:7-10) 1Cor 10:13 (Verses 10:3-6) Eph 6:10-13 (Verse 12:12) 1Cor 4:18-21 Act 1:8 Heb 2:4 (Verses 13:3-4) 1Cor 1:18, 23

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

2:12-14, 6:1) Act 28:31 4:3-6) 1Cor 1:23, 15:1-4, 11 11:4, 13-15) Gal 1:6-9 12:1-4) Phil 1:21-23

(Verse 2:17, 11:7-12) (Verses 4:1-2) Mt 15:1-9 2Jn 1:9-10

(Verse 1:24) 1Pet 5:2-3 (Verse 2:4) Jn 21:15-17 (Verses 2:5-11, 12:21-13:2) (Verses 6:3-10, 12:13-19) 1Cor 9:18-22 (Verses 10:12-18, 12:1-7) (Verses 11:24-33, 10) 1Cor 15:58 (Verse 5:18-20) Act 13:47 (Verses 11:1-4, 13-14) Gal 1:6-9, 3:1-3 (Verses 10:8, 13:1-14) Eph 4:11-13 (Verses 10:5, 12:19-21) 2Jn 1:1-10 (Verses 13:5-9) Gal 5:1-10

Conclusion: Are you a servant of God? Paul in his second letter to the Corinthians detailed what and who are Gods servants as against the false apostles of Christ. Gods workers have one walk, one way and one work. They walk and not wrestle through the power of the flesh but through the Spirit, in righteousness and in truth. They walk in holiness and godliness. God works with them in signs, wonders and miracles. Christ manifests in them. They have one way, the only gospel- Christ crucified. He died for the sins of the world and through whom we shall be saved through faith in Him. They do not peddle and do not distort the word of God. They speak the truth in Christ. They do not lord over your faith but works with you with joy. They love the brethren. They discipline and confirm love. They keep their ministry pure and not offended. They do not compare themselves but boast in the LORD. Gods servants persevere in labor. They do all things for Christ and all for His glory. They secure the faith of the saints, they build them up not tear down making sure that they walk in truth, complete, obey and are in faith.

139

Title: No Other Gospel Context: Book of Galatians 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 b. His death and resurrection 2. Forgiveness of our sins 3. Preached by the apostles 4. We are saved II. Reliability of the Gospel 1. Another condemned 2. Given from God 3. There is conversion 4. There is authorization 5. The same Gospel III. Justification through the Gospel 1. Not through the Law 2. Brings faith in Christ

(Verses 1:3, 6, 2:21, 5:5) Eph 2:8-9 Act 15:7-11 (Verses 2:21, 3:1-2) Lk 24:44-46 Rom 1:1-4 1Cor 15:1-4 (Verses 1:4, 2:20) Mt 20:28 Lk 24:47 (Verse 2:7) Act 13:38, 47 1Cor 15:11 (Verse 3:13) Rom 1:16-17, 10:9-13 1Cor 1:18, 15:2 (Verses 1:6-9, 5:7-10) 1Cor 11:4 (Verses 1:11-12) Act 9:3-6 Eph 3:2-3 (Verses 1:13-14, 22-24) Act 8:3, 9:1, 1Tm 1:12-16 (Verses 1:15-16) Act 9:15-16, 26:14-18 Mt 28:19-20 Lk 24:44-47 (Verses 1:18-19, 2:1-2, 7-10) 2Pet 3:15-16 (Verses 2:16, 3:10, 19-25, 5:2-4, 7) Rom 3:19-21 Act 13:38-39 (Verses 2:20-21, 3:1-11, 22) Rom 3:22-26, Rom 10:13-17 Eph 1:12-13

140

3. By Christ 4. In the Spirit a. Power b. Led 5. Freed a. From the Law b. From sinning

(Verses 3:1-2, 13-14, 26-29) Heb 5:9, 7:11, 22, 25-28, 12:22 (Verses 3:1-2, 14) Rom 15:19 1Cor 2:1-5 (Verses 5:18, 22-25, 6:7-8) Rom 8:12 (Verses 5:1, 6:13-15) Jn 8:31-32 Act 13:38-39 (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 into 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 cannot 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.

141

Title: Paul and His Gospel Context: Galatians 1-2 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 b. Recognized by churches c. Redeemed 2. His calling a. Former life b. Called from the womb c. Revealed the Son 3. With the apostles a. Met them b. Given fellowship II. Ministry of Paul 1. Peter a. For the Jews b. Pillars with James and John 2. Paul a. For the Gentiles b. with Barnabas

(Verse 1:1) 1Tim 1:11-12 (Verse 2) 2Pet 3:14-15 (Verses 3-5) Tit 2:14 (Verses 1:13-14) 1Tim 1:12-13 (Verse 15) Act 9:15 (Verse 16) Act 9:1-6 (Verses 1:17-19) (Verse 2:9) 1Jn 1:1-4

(Verses 2:7-8) 2Pet 1:1 (Verse 9) Act 17:1-2 (Verses 2:7-8) Gal 3:8 (Verses 9-10) Act 13:2

142

III. Gospel of Paul 1. No other gospel a. Accursed 2. Received a. From Jesus Christ b. Preached Him 3. Submitted to the apostles a. Went to Jerusalem b. Not compromised 4. Justification and Righteousness a. Not through the Law b. Through faith in Christ c. By faith in the Son of God

(Verses 1:6-10, 5:1-8) 2Cor 11:4 (Verses 1:11-13) Eph 3:1-3 (Verses 16-24) 1Cor 15:1-4,11 (Verses 2:1-2) (Verses 2-6) Act 15:1-2 (Verses 2:11-15) Act 15:24 (Verses 16-19) Act 15:7-9, 11 (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 Lords work but he seemed never got tired. Before his conversion, he was a Pharisee, a leader among the Jews and was advancing more than his fellow men 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 on 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.

143

Title: Faith in Christ Context: Galatians 3:1-29 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 Gods 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 b. Spirit received 2. God works in faith a. Right path b. Spirit provided c. Miracles received 3. Righteousness through faith a. Abraham got it b. Believers got it c. Under the Law is cursed

(Verse 3:1) 1Cor 1:18, 23-24 (Verse 2) Act 15:7-9 (Verses 3:3-4, 5:1-7) (Verse 5) Jn 7:39 (Verse 5) Lk 8:48 (Verses 3:6) Gen 15:6 Rom 4:3 (Verses 7-9) Gen 12:3, 22:18 (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

144

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 b. Until the seed comes 2. Law cannot give a. Life b. Righteousness 3. All have sinned a. All shut up b. Kept in custody c. Tutor to Christ 4. Faith in Christ a. Justified b. Sons of God c. Clothed Christ d. Heirs

(Verse 3:19) Ps 51:4-5 (Verse 19) Jn 1:17 (Verses 3:20-21) Jn 14:6 (Verse 21) Rom 3:21-26 (Verse 3:22) Rom 3:22-23 (Verse 23) Jn 1:17 (Verse 24) Mt 5:17 (Verses 24-25, 5:1, 9) (Verse 26) Jn 1:11-13 (Verse 27) Rom 6:3 (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 Abrahams 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 Abrahams 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 Gods 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.

145

Title: On Track Context: Galatians 3:26-6:18 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 cannot 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 cannot follow through the letter. No one can attain righteousness through the 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 b. Clothe with Christ c. One in Christ 2. Heirs of God a. According to promise b. Under guardians c. Christ in us II. Knowing what were taught 1. Your Life a. Former life without God b. Life now with God c. Not religious life d. Become like the apostles 2. Two Covenants a. Of the Law

(Verses 3:26) (Verse 27) (Verse 28) (Verses 3:29) (Verses 4:1-5) (Verses 6-7)

(Verse 4:8) (Verse 9) (Verses 10-11) (Verses 12-20) (Verses 4:21-25)

146

b. Of the Promise 3. No other gospel a. Christ sets free b. Not under the Law c. Christ no benefit d. Severed from Christ e. Fallen from grace 4. The Rule a. Righteousness in Christ b. Boast on the cross of Christ b. Youre a new creation III. Knowing how the Spirit works 1. By Faith a. Through the Spirit b. Righteousness and hope c. Faith that works in love d. Not hindered 2. Living in the Spirit a. Walk by the Spirit b. Contrary to the flesh c. Not under the Law d. Deeds of the flesh e. Fruit of the Spirit 3. Doing good a. Restore brothers b. Carry each others burden c. Be humble d. Share with Gods servants e. God is not mocked f. Do good to all

(Verses 23, 26-31) (Verses 5:1) (Verses 2-3) (Verse 2) (Verse 4) (Verses 4, 7) (Verse 5:5) (Verses 6:11-14) (Verses 15-18)

(Verse 5:5) (Verse 5) (Verses 6, 13-15) (Verses 7-12) (Verse 5:16) (Verse 17) (Verse 18) (Verses 19-21) (Verses 22-26) (Verse 6:1) (Verse 2) (Verses 3-5) (Verse 6) (Verses 7-8) (Verses 9-10)

Conclusion: Teaching right doctrines results to right thoughts. Right thoughts results to right living. Right living and gospel spell 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 dos and donts but to be in Christ, being Gods children through faith in Christ. Knowing what Gods words tell us regarding the truth of Gods 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 cannot be saved. Paul was alarmed and rebuked them by saying, You are severed from Christ. Christ has not benefit to 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.

147

Title: Made Alive Context: Book of Ephesians 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 believers spiritual blessings, walk and armor in Gods 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 b. Destined c. Citizens of heaven d. Temple of the Lord 2. Made Alive a. Redeemed b. Raised up c. Saved by grace a. For His praise and glory 3. Understand a. Glory and inheritance b. Summed up in Christ c. Have peace with God d. Eternal purpose in Christ e. Filled with His fullness II. Spiritual Walk 1. Worthy of the calling 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. United in the Spirit Through the ministry gifts Not as unbelievers walk As Christ walked Imitators of God Good Relationships

(Verse 1:3) 1Pet 1:3 2Pet 1:3-4 (Verses 1:4-5, 11) Jn 15:16 2Tim 1:9-10 1Pet 1:3-5 IThess 5:9-10 (Verse 2:19) Heb 11:16, 12:28 (Verses 1:13-14, 2:20-21, 3:4-6) (Verses 1:7, 14) Col 1:14 Heb 9:14 (Verses 2:1-6) Col 3:1 (Verses 2:8-9) Act 15:11 (Verses 1:6,12, 2:10, 3:21) Col 3:17 1Cor 10:31 Tit 2:14 (Verses 1:16-18, 3:8) 1Pet 1:2-5 (Verses 1:8-10, 21-22) 1Cor 15:22-28 Phil 2:9-10 Rom 14:1 (Verses 2:11-18, 14) Rom 5:1 Col 1:20-22 (Verses 3:8-12) Rom 8:29-30 (Verses 3:14-21) Rom 8:38-39 (Verses 4:1-2) Phil 1:27 Col 1:10 1Thess 2:12 (Verses 4:3-6) 1Cor 8:6 (Verses 4:7-16) 1Cor 12:4-14 (Verses 4:17-19) Col 3:5-7 1Pet 4:3 (Verses 4:20-31) Col 3:8-10 (Verses 5:1-21) Mt 5:43-48 (Verses 5:22-6:9) Col 3:18-25 1Pet 3:1-12

148

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 Gods blue print of salvation in Christ- saved by grace, the glorious inheritance in Christ, the power in us, our walk with 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 some time, John sent a letter to the Ephesians the Lords message to them. They have indeed worked hard, persevered, walked in righteousness, confounded false teachers all for His Names 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 becomes 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.

149

Title: Position Your Mind Context: Ephesians 1 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 b. Destined e. Redeemed II. What is your end 1. Got Vision b. Got purpose c. Summed up in Christ d. His praise III. What you have 1. Got God a. His Spirit b. Christ c. His body

(Verses 1:3) 1Pet 1:3 2Pet 1:3-4 (Verses 4-5) Jn 15:16 2Tim 1:9-10 1Pet 1:3-5 (Verses 7, 14) Col 1:14 Heb 9:14

(Verses 1:8-9, 11, 3:8-11) (Verses 10, 21-22) 1Cor 15:22-28 Phil 2:9-10 Rom 14:11 (Verses 6, 12, 22-23) Mt 3:17 Phil 2:11

(Verses 1:13-14,19, 4:30) Rom 8:15 2Cor 1:22, 5:5 (Verses 13, 19-20, 3:17) Col 1:27 (Verses 22-23) Rom 12:5 1Cor 12:27

Conclusion: Since we are the body of Christ the extension of Gods love on earth let us step-up in the Kingdom of God. You are blessed with all spiritual blessings. Gods 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.

150

Title: Spiritually Alive Context: Ephesians 2 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 2. Received Gods grace 3. Made us alive 4. Seated with God II. Spiritually Saved 1. Saved by grace 2. Not of works 3. His workmanship III. Spiritually Connected 1. Formerly without God 2. In Christ through His blood 3. Have peace with God 4. Access to God 5. Gods household

(Verses 2:1-3) 1Cor 6:9-11 Tit 3:3 Eph 6:12 (Verses 4, 7) Rom 5:8-11 (Verses 5-6) Col 2:13 (Verse 6) Heb 12:1-2 (Verses 2:8-9) Act 15:11 (Verse 9) Tit 3:5 (Verse 10) 2Cor 5:17 Tit 2:14 (Verses 2:11-12) Hos 2:23 Rom 9:24-26 (Verse 13) 2Cor 5:19 Heb 9:12 (Verses 14-17) Rom 5:1 Col 1:20 (Verse 18, 3:12) Rom 5:2 (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 of God which he cannot 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 Gods family. We are spiritually alive.

151

Title: Church at Work Context: Ephesians 3:1-4:16 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 Gods plan of salvation and the churchs 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 Gods upward calling. How did Paul explain to the Ephesians this plan of God? Body: I. Mystery Revealed 1. Concealed before 2. Now revealed 3. Gentiles members of the body 4. Paul sent 5. Church sent II. Church Equipped 1. Her glory 2. Strengthened 3. Christ dwelling 4. Rooted in love 5. Comprehend His love 6. God works III. Church Works 1. Walk worthy 2. Loving one another 3. United in the Spirit 4. One faith 5. Given gifts

(Verses 3:4-5) Rom 16:25 (Verses 2-4, 5) Rom 16:26 1Pet 1:10-12 (Verse 6) Heb 3:6 (Verses 7-9) 1Tim 2:7 (Verses 10-12) 1Pet 1:12 Mt 28:18-20 (Verses 3:13) Col 1:24 (Verses 14-16, 6:10) (Verse 17) Jn 15:4-5 (Verse 17) Col 2:7 (Verses 18-19) Rom 8:28-35 (Verse 20) Phil 4:13 (Verses 4:1) Col 1:10 (Verse 2) Col 3:12-13 (Verse 3) 1Cor 12:12-13 (Verses 4-6) 1Cor 8:6 (Verses 7-11) 1Cor 12:4-6, 11

152

6. Perfecting the saints 7. For the work of ministry 8. To be Christ-like 9. Right doctrine 10. Grow in Him 11. Each part working

(Verse 12) 1Cor 12:7-10 (Verse 12) 1Cor 15:58 (Verse 13) 1Cor 11:1 (Verse 14) Tit 2:10-14 (Verse 15) 2Pet 3:18 (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 the 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 into 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.

153

Title: Learning from Christ Context: Ephesians 4-6 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 EPH 5:2

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; 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 EPH 6:11

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. 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 Gods 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. Lets 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 b. Callous 2. As Christ walked a. As taught in Him b. With renewed mind c. Righteousness and holiness d. Lay aside falsehood e. All goodness II. Imitating God 1. Imitators of God a. Walk in love b. In purity c. In the Light d. In His will 2. Good Relationships a. Husbands and wives b. Children and parents c. Servants and masters

(Verses 4:18) Col 3:5-7 1Pet 4:3 (Verse 19) Rom 1:28-32 (Verses 4:20-21) Jn 8:12 (Verses 22-23) Col 3:9 (Verse 24) 3:10 (Verse 25) Col 3:9 (Verses 26-32) Col 3:8 1Pet 2:1,3:8-9

(Verse 2) Jn 13:34, 15:12 (Verses 3-7) Col 3:5 (Verses 9-14) 1Jn 1:5-7 1Thess 5:4-5 (Verses 15-21) Rom 12:2 1Thess 4:3 (Verses 22-33) Col 3:18-19 1Pet 3:1-7 (Verses 6:1-4) Col 3:20-21 (Verses 5-9) Col 3:22-4:1

154

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 obediencesons 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.

155

Title: Progress and Joy in Faith Context: Book of Philippians 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 of the Lord like all the believers in 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 2. In real knowledge 3. And discernment 4. To be pure and blameless II. Progress in Suffering 1. Suffer for the gospel a. Bears fruit b. Christ exalted 2. Walk a. Worthy of the gospel b. One spirit and mind c. Striving together III. Progress in Joy 1. Encourage in Christ a. Console in love b. Fellowship of the Spirit c. Love 2. United a. One mind b. Same love c. One spirit and purpose 3. Christ like a. Humility b. Christs attitude c. Joy in suffering for God d. Each welfare 4. Rejoice in the Lord a. We are of God b. Knowing Jesus as Lord

(Verse 1:6) 1Cor 1:8 1Thess 5:23 (Verses 8-9) Eph 3:17-19 (Verse 9) Col 1:9-10 (Verse 10) 1Thess 3:12-13 (Verses 1:12-13, 28-30) (Verses 13-14, 21-25) Act 8:1 (Verses 19-21, 2:17, 3:10) 2Tim 3:12 (Verses 1:27, 3:18-19) Eph 4:1 Col 1:10 1Thess 2:12 (Verses 27, 2:14-16) 2Cor 13:11 (Verses 7, 27) 2Tm 1:8

(Verse 2:1) 2Thess 2:16-17 (Verse 1) Jn 7:38-39 (Verse 1) Jn 13:34 1Jn 3:23 (Verses 2:2, 4:2) Rom 12:16 (Verses 2) Jn 13:34 1Jn 3:14-18 (Verses 2, 3:16) Rom 15:5 (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 2:3-4) Rom 12:10 1Pet 5:5 5-11) Jn 13:15 1Jn 2:6 17-18) 1Pet 4:12-16 19-30) 1Cor 10:24

(Verses 3:1,3) Rom 2:29 Jn 4:24 (Verse 8) Jn 17:3

156

c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k.

He is our righteousness In knowing Christ Shall be resurrected Toward our upward calling Our fruit Connected to God Mind of Christ Giving to His work He supplies all our needs

(Verses 3:9) Rom 3:21-22 Gal 3:21-22 (Verse 10) Rom 8:17 1Pet 4:13 (Verses 11, 20-21) Col 3:4 1Jn 3:2 (Verses 13-17, 18-19) 2Tim:4-8 2Pet 1:10-14 (Verse 4:1) 1Thess 2:19 (Verses 4-7) 1Pet 5:6-7 (Verses 8-9) Rom 12:1-2 (Verses 3, 10-18) Heb 13:16 Gal 6:6 (Verse 19) Heb 13:5-6

Conclusion: Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I say rejoice. Have you counted your blessings? There are many reasons why the saints have to rejoice in the Lord. Its 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 is upon us. Glory be to Him forever.

157

Title: To Live is Christ Context: Philippians 1-2 Key Verses: Phil 1:9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, Phil 1:10 so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; Phil 1:11 having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
Phil 1:21

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Phil 1:29

For to you it has been granted for Christs sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,
Phil 2:4

do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Phil 2:5 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, Introduction: The Lord Jesus called and placed Paul in the ministry of the gospel. He suffered a lot. He was stoned, beaten, ridiculed, chained, imprisoned, his life endangered, hungered, thirst but all these he rejoiced for the sake of the faith of Gods people and for the Gentiles to hear the good news of salvation. Paul did not lose heart in all of these but he was encouraged all the more by the grace of God in him knowing his calling, his journey and his end. He wrote to the Philippians while in prison. He said that join him in his sufferings and joy in Christ. For we are all partakers of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also suffer, endure and at the end reign with Him. Pauls attitude was of Christs and he admonished the saints to have the same attitude as Christ. Let Paul and the workers with him Timothy and Epaphroditus share with us how believers should accept trials of the faith with an attitude and joy. What does it mean to live is Christ? Body: I. Living in Gods grace 1. Servants a. Of Christ b. Pray with joy 2. His grace a. Will perfect His work b. Partakers of grace 3. Abound a. In the love of Christ b. Approve whats best c. Righteousness in Christ II. Living for Christs cause 1. The good news a. Participation in the gospel b. Suffer for the gospel

(Verses 1:1-2) 1Cor 4:1 (Verses 3-4) 1Thess 1:2 (Verse 1:6) 1Cor 15:10 (Verse 7) Rom 5:1-2 (Verses 1:8-9) 2Cor 5:14 (Verse 10) 2Pet 3:14 (Verse 11) Rom 6:18, 8:10-11

(Verse 1:5) Rom 1:8 Col 1:4-7 (Verses 12-14) 1Thess 3:2-4

158

2. Christ is preached a. By many b. Pray c. Christ is exalted in us

(Verses 1:15-18) Act 8:4 (Verse 19) 2Cor 1:8-11 (Verse 20) Gal 2:20

III. Living like Christ 1. While alive a. Live for Him (Verse 1:21) 1Cor 11:1 b. Fruitful labor (Verses 22, 24-26) 1Cor 15:58 c. Life worthy of the gospel (Verse 27) Eph 4:1 Col 1:10 d. Suffer for Him (Verses 29-30) Mk 8:31-38 1Pet 4:12-16 e. Encouraged in Christ (Verse 2:1) Jn 14:11-15,21, 15:7-11 f. United (Verse 2) 1Cor 1:10 g. Holding fast to the word (Verse 16) 1Jn 2:24-25 2. At death a. Gain (Verse 1:21) Jn 3:36, 5:24, 11:25-26 b. Die and be with Him (Verse 23) Lk 23:43 2Cor 12:2-6 c. Salvation (Verse 28) Rom 6:23 Heb 5:9 3. Christ-like a. Others interest (Verses 2:3-4) 1Cor 10:24 b. Christs attitude (Verses 5-11) Mt 26:38-46 Heb 10:5-10 c. Obeyed (Verses 12-13) Act 5:29 d. Lights in the world (Verses 14-15) Mt 5:14 e. Life poured as a sacrifice (Verses 17-18) 2Cor 7:14 f. Christ exemplified in their lives (Verses 19-30) 2Cor 4:10-11 Gal 6:17 Conclusion: To live is Christ. Are you in Christ? What does it mean to be in Christ? Is it only because we believed in Him so that we may have eternal life? Or we are called not only to believe in Him but also to suffer with Him. Paul wrote to Timothy if we endure we shall live with Him. To the Philippians, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain. But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me. We are to suffer for His names sake, for the sake of the truth , for the sake of righteousness and for the cause which Christ died for. To be in Christ is to live for Christ. We live by His grace. Grace that strengthens us. We live for His cause the good news of salvation offered to all men. He is preached. With that gospel we are persecuted. With His righteousness by which we walk we are maligned. We live like Christ. A life worthy of the gospel. We humble ourselves like Christ denying ourselves and our own interests looking for the interests of others. Christ gave Himself for the sins of the world by sacrificing Himself on the cross and we too ought to give our lives for whom Christ died for. In service to God and His people and lights to the world. To live is Christ. On that day when He shall call us home we shall gain because God has called and promised us- eternal life. We suffer when we endure trials and temptations and serve Christ but this momentary and temporary earthly journey is far beyond the glory that shall be revealed to the sons of God who awaits and obey Him. Rejoice therefore in sufferings and in glory with Him. To live is Christ.

159

Title: Pressing On Forward Context: Philippians 3-4 Key Verses: Phil 3:7 But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Phil 3:8 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, Phil 3:9 and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith,
Phil 3:14 Phil 3:15

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you; Phil 3:16 however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained. Phil 3:17 Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us.
Phil 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Phil 4:9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Introduction: The church at Philippi was one of those churches that gives joy to Paul. He said, Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved. They have extended their love to Paul even when he was not with them. They participated in the propagation of the gospel. They showed their concern for Paul by praying for him and his deliverance. They suffer with him. They send support and gifts to Paul. They were his joy and crown. His work and labor were not in vain. He was with them in their progress and joy in the faith. In last two chapters of his letter Paul encouraged them more and to press on toward the goal. The walk worthy of Gods calling. Pres sing is giving effort, strength and pull so that what we have desired to accomplish and what was called upon us to do we can finish and reach. How do saints press toward the goal? Our goal is to be Christ-like and walk in the pattern God has set before us. How do we press so that we too shall receive the crown that God has set before us? Body: I. Right Disposition 1. Countenance a. Rejoice b. Worship in the Spirit 2. Knowing Christ a. The power of His resurrection b. Fellowship of His sufferings 3. Heaven Bound a. Citizens of heaven b. Glorious body

(Verses 3:1, 4:4-5) (Verse 3) Rom 2:29 Jn 4:24 (Verse 3:10) Rom 6:18, 8:10-11 (Verses 10-11) 1Pet 4:13 Rom 8:17 (Verse 3:20) 1Pet 1:1, 4-5 (Verse 21) Col 3:4 1Jn 3:2

160

II. Right Direction 1. Right Doctrines a. Beware of evil workers (Verses 3:2-7) 2Jn 1:8-11 b. Righteousness through faith in Christ (Verses 8-9) Rom 3:21-22 Gal 3:21-22 2. Go Ahead a. Press on (Verses 3:12, 14-15) 2Pet 1:5-12 b. Forgetting the past reaching forward (Verse 13) Heb 12:1-3 3. Walk Uprightly a. Standard set (Verses 3:16-17) 1Cor 4:17 2Cor 1:12 b. Not as enemies of the cross of Christ (Verse 18) 2Cor 12:20-21 c. Not on earthly things (Verse 19) 1Jn 2:15-17 III. Right Dwelling 1. In the Lord a. Stand firm b. Harmony c. Supporting the work d. He supplies all our needs e. Rejoice 2. Interceding a. Have faith not worry b. Prayer and thanksgiving c. Gods peace will guard you 3. Good a. Dwell on whatever is good b. Practice apostles teachings

(Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse

4:1) Eph 6:10 2) 1Cor 1:10 3, 10-18) Heb 13:16 Gal 6:6 19) Heb 13:5-6 4) Ps 35:9 Jn 14:21, 15:7-11

(Verse 4:6) Lk 18:1-8 Mt 17:20 (Verse 6) 1Pet 5:6-7 (Verse 7) Ps 4:8 (Verse 4:8) Rom 12:1-2 (Verse 9) 1Thess 4:1-2

Conclusion: Do you have plans and goals in life? How do you achieve it? How do you press toward that goal? Attaining it is not finished in one day. There may be hindrances and obstructions along the way that may peril or derail and the worst that would end in a failure. The culpritmishandled, misjudgment and misdeed. An athlete practices often his craft and we as saints should practice righteousness everyday. Our salvation is free by grace through faith in Christ. After faith we obey. If our end is heaven and we are still on earth we have a journey which we can traverse in victory. We are called into victory so we should be pressing on as a victor. No champion has poor confidence, wrong direction, wrong attitude and wrong training. Paul said to the believers at Phili ppi, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you. How do we therefore reach and press toward our goal and high calling? Have the right disposition- rejoicing in the Lord, worshiping in the Spirit, sharing in the power and suffering of the Lord, knowing we are citizens of heaven and glorious bodies await for us. Have the right direction- right teachings, faith in Christ, forgetting the past and reaching forward, and walking uprightly. Have the right dwelling- standing firm in the Lord, having faith and no room for worry, praying and letting Gods peace settle our minds and hearts, thinking and dwelling to whatever is good, right, noble and excellent. Practice and do all these things and you are on your way to a victorious life and at the end shall receive the crown laid up for us. Press on forward. Press toward the goal.

161

Title: Made Complete Context: Book of Colossians 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 loves all Gods 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 with 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)

162

II. What God did to us 1. The Father a. Qualified us b. Transferred us c. Raised us d. Made alive e. Died 2. The Son a. Our Redeemer (Verse b. Above All c. Sets us free from our sins And sinful nature d. Hidden with Christ in God e. Christ our life III. What we should do 1. Seek a. Seek things above b. Set minds above c. Not on earthly things 2. Keep Good Relation a. With God b. With brethren c. With others d. With family e. With the work f. With church workers

(Verse 1:12) Eph 2:4-7, 8-10 (Verse 1:13) Act 26:17-18 (Verse 2:12-13, 3:1) (Verses 3:1, 2:13) Eph 2:5 (Verses 3:3) Rom 6:2-3 Gal 2:20 1:14, 20-22, 2:14) 1Pet 1:18-19 (Verses 1:15-19, 2:9,15) Heb 1:2-3, Rev 3:14 (Verse 2:11) Jn 8:34-36 Rev 1:5 (Verses 3:3) Jn 10:27-31 (Verses 3:4) Jn 11:25-26 1Jn 3:2

(Verses 3:1, 1:9, 2:8) 1Thess 5:5 (Verses 3:2,10-11, 4:3-4) Eph 4:23-24 Phil 4:8 (Verses 3:2, 5-7) Eph 4:22 Js 3:14-15 (Verses 3:8, 15-17, 4:2) Rom 12:1-2, 13:12-14 (Verses 3:9, 12-16) Eph 4:32,3 1Jn 3:23, 4:21 (Verses 3:17, 4:5-6) Gal 6:9-10 Lk 10:29-37 (Verses 3:18-21) Eph 5:22-25, 6:1-4 (Verses 3:22-25, 4:1) Eph 6:6-9 (Verses 4:7-18,1:7) Eph 6:21 2Tm 4:11 1Cor 16:10-11

Conclusion: Jesus said, Without Him we cannot do anything. Indeed without Christ we are nothing. But glory to God because of Christ we have become 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 peaceable and good relationship with our families and workers. Honor those who serve the Lord.

163

Title: Knowledge of God Context: Colossians 1-2 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? Pauls messages to the Colossians were also his messages to the Ephesians and other believers. Body: I. The Brethren 1. Beginning a. Separated from Christ b. Believed the gospel 2. Obedience a. Faith in Christ b. Love for the saints c. Love in the Spirit d. Built up in the word e. After Christ, not religion II. Our God 1. The Father a. Qualified us b. Transferred us c. Raised us 2. The Son a. Our Redeemer b. Above All c. Sets us free from our sins and sinful nature

(Verse 1:21) Eph 2:12 (Verse 1:5) Eph 1:13 (Verse 1:4, 2:5-6) Eph 1:15 (Verse 1:4) Eph 1:15 (Verse 1:8) Eph 4:2-3 (Verse 2:7, 3:16) 1Jn 2:14 (Verses 2:8, 18-23) 1Cor 1:5 2Cor 11:3 Mt 15:19 Tit 1:14

(Verse 1:12) Eph 2:4-7, 8-10 (Verse 1:13) Act 26:17-18 (Verse 2:12-13, 3:1) (Verse 1:14, 20-22, 2:14) 1Pet 1:18-19 (Verses 1:15-19, 2:9,15) Heb 1:2-3, Rev 3:14 (Verse 2:11) Jn 8:34-36 Rev 1:5

164

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 experienced real change what is within him should be dealt with- his innermost being, his soul, his heart and his spirit. It is Gods work of sanctification through the Spirit that we are changed. This happens at new birth after our faith in Christ through the gospel. We are made alive through the Spirit. Righteousness is imputed to us. Now that we are alive we should know what should fill our thoughts and our perceptions. We should choose wisely whom we should be 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 aspects. 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. We are made complete in Christ.

165

Title: Christian Walk Context: Colossians 3-4 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: Pauls 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 the 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? Hows your walk with the Lord? Are you in the right or wrong direction? Body: I. Raised Up 1. Made alive 2. Died 3. Hidden in God 4. Christ our life II. Look Up 1. Seek things above 2. Set minds above 3. Not on earthly things III. Keep Up 1. You and 2. You and 3. You and 4. You and 5. You and 6. You and God brethren others your family work relationships church workers

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

3:1, 2:13) Eph 2:5 3) Rom 6:2-3 Gal 2:20 3) Jn 10:27-31 4) Jn 11:25-26 1Jn 3:2

(Verses 3:1, 1:9, 2:8) 1Thess 5:5 (Verses 3:2,10-11, 4:3-4) Eph 4:23-24 Phil 4:8 (Verses 3:2, 5-7) Eph 4:22 Js 3:14-15 (Verses 3:8, 15-17, 4:2) Rom 12:1-2, 13:12-14 (Verses 3:9, 12-16) Eph 4:32,3 1Jn 3:23, 4:21 (Verses 3:17, 4:5-6) Gal 6:9-10 Lk 10:29-37 (Verses 3:18-21) Eph 5:22-25, 6:1-4 (Verses 3:22-25, 4:1) Eph 6:6-9 (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.

166

Title: Model Church Context: Book of Thessalonians 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 populous 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 for 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 2. Received the Word 3. In the Power of the Spirit 4. From the apostles a. Built b. Prayed II. Fruit of the church 1. Work of faith a. Faith gone forth 2. Steadfastness of hope 3. Labor of love III. Firmness of the church 1. Word of God 2. Faith in God 3. Overcome Trials 4. Character 5. Respect Ministers 6. Protected by God 7. Awaits His Coming

(Verses 1Thess 1:6, 2:2, 14-18, 2Thess 3:5) (Verses 1Thess 2:2-4, 13, 2Thess 2:13-14) (Verses 1Thess 1:5, 2Thess 2:13) (Verses 1Thess 2:1, 5-12) (Verses 1Thess 3:1-2, 4:1-2, 5:12-13) (Verse 1Thess 1:2) (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 1Thess 1Thess 1Thess 1Thess 1:3, 1:8, 1:3, 1:3, 2Thess 1:3) 2Thess 3:1) 3:5-6, 2Thess 1:4-5) Tit 1:2 4:9-10, 2Thess 1:3)

(Verses 1Thess 2:13, 2Thess 2:15) 1Jn 2:14 (Verses 1Thess 3:5-8, 2Thess 1:3) 1Jn 5:4 (Verses 1Thess 2:14, 4:2-8, 2Thess 1:4) 1Jn 4:4 (Verses 1Thess 4:1-5, 5:14-22) (Verses 1Thess 5:12-13) 1Tim 5:17 Heb13:17 (Verses 1Thess 5:23-24, 2Thess 3:3) (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). The Thessalonian church became a model of 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 into 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 until the day of His coming. For when He appears we shall be like Him and we shall be forever be with the Lord.

167

Title: Healthy Church Context: 1Thessalonians 1-2 Key Verses: 1TH 1:2 We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers; 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 1:8

For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God has gone forth, so that we have no need to say anything.
1TH 2:10

You are witnesses, and so is God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly we behaved toward you believers; 1TH 2:11 just as you know how we were exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children, 1TH 2:12 so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. 1TH 2:13 For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe. Introduction: The Church in Thessalonica was a model church. Paul praised God for their changed life as they turned serving the true living God from idols. Their conversion was made known in many places. The gospel of God sounded forth through them. What is a healthy church? What makes a healthy strong and established church? Are the leaders important? Do the members have a part in making a church bear much fruit? Body: I. Working Leaders 1. Leaders Known 2. Leaders Pray 3. Members Work Remembered 4. Know Gods Choice 5. Preach the Gospel in Power 6. Lead by Example II. Working Members 1. Work of Faith 2. Labor of Love 3. Steadfastness of Hope in Christ 4. Imitate their Leaders 5. Example to Other Churches 6. Evangelize 7. Serve the True Living God 8. Await the Son from Heaven

(Verse 1:1) Rom 16:1-15 (Verse 1:2) Eph 1:16 (Verse 1:3) Phil 1:4-5, 9-11 (Verse 1:4) Rom 8:29-30 (Verse 1:5) Rom 1:16-17 (Verses 1:6, 2:10) 1Cor 11:1 (Verse 1:3) Phil 1:5 Col 1:4-6 (Verse 1:3) Gal 5:13-14 1Pet 1:22 (Verse 1:3) Jn 6:66-69 (Verses 1:6, 2:14) Heb 13:7 (Verse 1:7) Act 2:41-47 (Verse 1:8) Mt 28:18-20 (Verse 1:9) Jer 10:10-11 (Verse 1:10) Heb 9:28

168

III. Work Prioritized 1. Gospel unhindered 2. Entrusted with the gospel truth 3. Care for the Flock 4. The Word

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

2:1-2) Act 5:27-32 2:3-6, 13) 1Cor 15:1-4,11 2:7-12) Jn 21:15-17 Act 20:28-30 2:13-20) Lk 5:1, 8:1-3,12

Conclusion: Is our church healthy? Is it alive? Or its about to die. In the Revelation 2 to 3 Jesus sent messages to the Church leaders. There are things which the Lord liked and disliked among the churches. He said to some, I found your deeds incomplete in My sight. To the others He said, You have not denied My Name but there is one thing that I am against you., to others, You say your rich but you are dead. What does it take to be a healthy church? How can we please God? The Thessalonian church was one of the churches that can give us examples how we can truly please our God and Savior. The leaders who planted and worked for them- Paul, Silvanus and Timothy constantly prayed for them, remembered their works, cared for them as a nursing mother and led them as a father to walk in a manner worthy of God who called the saints into His Kingdom and glory. In a healthy church we can see their work of faith- that is the gospel sounding off through out from them, their labor of love- the care and love for all the brethren are felt and experienced, the needs of the saints are met, their steadfastness of their hope in Christ- faith in Christ that is He alone is the Savior, unwavering faith in Christ, and the gospel truth, Christ died for the sins of the world, and whoever believes in Him shall be saved. Let nothing hinder this preaching of the gospel for God desires all men to be saved. Walk in faith and love and hope, for the Lord Jesus shall be coming again. Preach the Word. Work. Let us work His work.

169

Title: Faith Unshackled Context: 1Thessalonians 3-5 Key Verses: 1TH 3:2 and we sent Timothy, our brother and Gods fellow worker in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you as to your faith, 1TH 3:3 so that no one would be disturbed by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we have been destined for this.
1TH 3:5

For this reason, when I could endure it no longer, I also sent to find out about your faith, for fear that the tempter might have tempted you, and our labor would be in vain. 1TH 3:8 for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord.
1TH 4:1

Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that you excel still more.
1TH 4:14

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus.
1TH 5:6

so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober.

1TH 5:9

For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 1TH 5:10 who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we will live together with Him.
1TH 5:23

Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1TH 5:24 Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass. Introduction: The Thessalonian church was a model church because they gave first themselves unto the Lord and then to the apostles. They continued in faith, love and hope. In the last three chapters of Pauls first letter he expressed his concern to them that they stand firm in the Lord and not be tempted by the Tempter to cause their fall. The devil is working and trying to woo away Gods children from the Kingdom. How does one stand in the faith? How can our faith be unshackled? What should we add to our faith to really stand in the Lord? Body: I. Faith Plus 1. The Word a. Be Strengthened and Encouraged (Verses 3:1-2) Rom 1:10-11 2. Welcome Afflictions a. Destined for this (Verses 3:3-4) Act 14:22 b. Stand in faith (Verses 5-8) 1Cor 16:13 3. Add to faith a. Whats lacking (Verses 3:9-10) 2Pet 1:5-12 b. Increase in love (Verses 11-12, 4:9-12) Jn 15:12 c. Holiness (Verses 3:13-4:8) Eph 5:27

170

II. Faith Onward 1. At the Day of the Lord a. Saints to rise b. Always will be with the Lord 2. His Coming Again a. Not as a thief in the night b. Be Alert and Sober c. Obtain Salvation

(Verses 4:13-16) Mt 24:29-31 (Verses 17-18) Phil 3:20-21 (Verses 5:1-5) Rev 16:15 (Verses 6-8) Mt 24:42-44 (Verses 9-11) Heb 5:9

III. Faith Walked 1. Appreciate Gods Servants (Verses 5:12-13) Heb 13:7 2. Live in Peace (Verse 13) 2Thess 3:16 Col 3:15 3. Strengthened each one (Verse 14) Rom 14:19 4. Return good to evil (Verse 15) Rom 12:17 5. Seek Good (Verse 15) Rom 12:17 6. Rejoice always (Verse 16) Phil 4:4 7. Pray without ceasing (Verses 17, 25) Lk 18:1 8. In everything give thanks (Verse 18) Col 4:2 9. Do not quench the Spirit (Verse 19) Jn 14:26 Gal 5:22-25 10. Do not despise prophetic utterances (Verse 20) 1Cor 14:3, 39 11. But examine everything carefully (Verse 21) 1Jn 4:1 12. Hold fast to that which is good (Verse 21) Rom 12:21 13. Abstain from every form of evil (Verse 22) Eph 5:11 14. God sanctifies and preserves (Verses 23-24) 1Cor 1:8 15. Unity among brethren (Verses 26-28) Col 4:16 Conclusion: After we have believed and had faith in Christ whats next? Trusting the Lord from the heart for our salvation through the gospel is the beginning. We shall pass through the fire for our sanctification, strengthening and perfection. Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. After we have received the Lord we are called to walk according to His calling. Afflictions, troubles, tests and temptations are the hurdles that we should overcome triumphantly. These troubles should not weigh us down and cause us to lose faith but they are rather instruments for us to stand firm and prove our faith in God. If we live and die for Him we shall reign with Him. A soldier not trained in battle can easily retreat but the soldier well informed and equipped stands until the end. Paul wrote to the saints of Thessalonica, and we sent Timothy, our brother and Gods fellow worker in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you as to your faith, so that no one would be disturbed by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we have been destined for this. For this reason, when I could endure it no longer, I also sent to find out about your faith, for fear that the tempter might have tempted you, and our labor would be in vain. for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord. We are in a battle and let not our faith be shackled by the things around us- seen and unseen. Add to our faith obedience, holiness and love. Accept everything in faith. Stand in faith. Let the words of Christ strengthen us. Let us walk and live lives pleasing to God. Let the love for the brethren overtake us. Encourage and strengthen one another. As sons of the Light be sober and alert for His coming again. Abstain from evil. Do what is good to all. God is faithful, He shall preserve and complete us unto the Day of the LORD blameless, holy and unspotted.

171

Title: Good Evil Context: 2Thessalonians 1-3 Key Verses: 2TH 1:3 We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each one of you toward one another grows ever greater; 2TH 1:4 therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure. 2TH 1:5 This is a plain indication of Gods righteous judgment so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering. 2TH 1:6 For after all it is only just for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you, 2TH 1:7 and to give relief to you who are afflicted and to us as well when the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in flaming fire, 2TH 1:8 dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 2TH 1:9 These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, 2TH 1:10 when He comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believedor our testimony to you was believed
2TH 3:1

Finally, brethren, pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified, just as it did also with you; Introduction: Paul and the apostles were proud of the unwavering faith and the love shown by the Thessalonians. Amidst persecution and affliction their faith has enlarged and their love for each other grew greater. In Pauls second letter, he encouraged them to continue in the faith and in what they are doing. Those who afflict Gods people shall have their retribution from God at the coming of the Lord Jesus and the saints be glorified in Him. He also made clear when the coming of the Lord be. In this world its between the works of darkness and of God. Its between good and evil. How should we see ourselves and behave in this world? What should we be doing amidst the evil around us? Why the wicked are condemned? What shall it be at the last day? Body: I. Good Saints 1. Life a. Faith enlarged b. Love grow c. Word spread rapidly 2. Character a. Persevere b. Faith c. Follow the Apostles 3. Worthy a. Counted b. Fulfill goodness c. Work of faith d. Stand firm

(Verse 1:3) 2Pet 3:18 (Verse 3) Eph 5:2 Phil 1:9 (Verse 3:1) Act 13:49 (Verse 1:4) Rev 14:12 (Verse 4) Eph 1:15 (Verses 3:6-15) 1Cor 4:17 (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse 1:5) Act 14:22 11) Tit 2:14 11) Js 2:18 2:15) 1Cor 16:13

172

II. Grave Sinners 1. Character a. Do not know God (Verse 1:8) Eph 2:1-3, 12 b. Not Obey the Gospel (Verse 8) Rom 2:8, 10:16, 18 c. Receive not the love of the truth (Verse 2:10) Rev 9:20-21 d. Believe not the truth (Verse 12) Heb 3:19-4:6 e. Took pleasure in wickedness (Verse 12) Rom 1:29-32 f. Perverse and evil (Verse 3:2) Jde 1:4 2. End a. Eternal Destruction (Verse 1:9) Jde 1:6-7 b. Away from the Lord (Verse 9) Mt 7:23 3. Wicked Working a. Antichrist coming (Verses 2:1-6) Mt 24:15 Dan 9:27 b. Lawlessness (Verse 7) Rev 13:1-10 c. Activity of Satan (Verse 9) Rev 13:11-13 d. Deceives men (Verse 10) Rev 13:14-18 III. Great Savior 1. Giver a. In God b. Peace and Grace c. Calls through the gospel d. Comforts and Strengthens e. Protects us from evil one f. Directs g. Grants peace 2. Judge a. Repays b. Deludes the wicked c. Relieves the saints 3. Coming a. Glorified with His Saints b. Gathered with Him c. Slay the Antichrist

(Verse 1:1) Col 3:3 (Verses 1:2, 3:18) Jn 1:16-17 (Verses 2:13-14) Rom 1:16-17 (Verses 16-17) 2Cor 1:3-4 (Verse 3:3) Jn 17:15 (Verses 4-5) 2Cor 5:14 (Verse 16) Col 3:15 (Verses 1:6, 12) Jde 1:15 (Verses 2:10-11) Rom 1:24, 28 (Verse 1:7) Heb 5:9 (Verses 1:10, 12) Jde 1:14-15 (Verse 2:1) Mt 24:29-31 (Verse 8) Rev 19:20-21

Conclusion: The final message of the book of Revelation we can read, Let the one who does wrong, still do wrong; and the one who is filthy, still be filthy; and let the one who is righteous, still practice righteousness; and the one who is holy, still keep himself holy. Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs and the sorcerers and the immoral persons and the murderers and the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices lying. We are in the world today where both the good and the bad dwell together. 1Jn 5:19 says, We are of God and the whole world is under the power of the evil one. Saints we are very blessed that God counted us worthy into His Kingdom through His Son. Him whom we have believed and trusted. Let us continue and grow more in faith and love, doing His will, practicing righteousness, spreading the word and giving Him glory.

173

Title: The Good Fight Context: Book of Timothy Key Verses: 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 on 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 Pauls instructions. Body: I. Preach 1. Sound Doctrines a. According to gospel truth 2. The Word 3. Faith and godliness 4. With Integrity 5. The Gospel II. Stand 1. Gospel Truth 2. Word 3. Intercession 4. Order in the House III. Keep 1. The Faith 2. With Good Conscience 3. The Commandment 4. On Path 5. Good Fight

(Verses 1:3, 7-11) 1Thess 2:3-5 Col 2:4-8 (Verses 4:1-7, 2Tim 2:16-18, 4:1-4) (Verses 1:3-6, 4:7, 6:3-5, 20-21, 2Tim 2:23-26) Tit 1:14, 3:7-11 (Verses 1:5-6, 12, 4:7-8, 12, 2Tm 2:19-21) (Verses 2Tim 1:8-12, 4:5) Mt 28:19 (Verse 1:13-17,15, 2:5, 4:9-11) Gal 1:6-9 (Verses 1:7-8, 4:13, 2Tm 2:15) 1Jn 2:14 (Verses 2:1-8) 2Pet 3:9 (Verses 2:9-3:15, 5:1- 6:2) Tit 1:5-2:12 (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 1:19, 3:16) 1Cor 15:1-4 2Pet 1:1 1:19-20, 3:9) 2Cor 7:2 Rom 12:17-18 6:14, 2Tim 3:1-5) 1Jn 2:3-6 2Tim 3:10-11) 2Pet 1:10-15 Phil 3:13-15 1:18-19, 6:11-14, 2Tim 2:1-13, 4:6-8)

Conclusion: 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 on 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 Pauls instructions. 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 to your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

174

Title: Everything Right Context: 1Timothy 1-2 Key Verses: 1TI 1:3 As I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus so that you may instruct certain men not to teach strange doctrines, 1TI 1:4 nor to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which give rise to mere speculation rather than furthering the administration of God which is by faith. 1TI 1:5 But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
1TI 1:11

according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, with which I have been entrusted.
1TI 1:15

It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. 1TI 1:16 Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.
1TI 2:3 1TI 2:4

This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1TI 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 1TI 2:6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.
1TI 2:8

Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension. Introduction: Timothy joined the apostles early in his life. He became wise through the scriptures as he was taught by his grandmother Lois who later with his mother knew the Lord through Pauls ministry. Paul asked Timothy to come with them. He became a faithful servant and soldier of the Lord. They traveled from place to place preaching the gospel and teaching the word of God. Along the way, they encountered hostile men, false teachers within and without. In Pauls letter to him when he was left and called to strengthen and guard other churches, Paul gave instructions to keep and have right doctrines, right gospel and right living. In our age and time which Paul mentioned, we are living in the last days wherein men shall become more evil and godless, false doctrines and false gospels shall arise. Therefore let us learn from the word of God what was instructed 2,000 years ago and should be kept into this day. Body: I. Right Doctrines 1. Salvation a. God our Savior b. Jesus our hope c. Grace, mercy, peace 2. Teachings a. Not strange doctrines

(Verses 1:1, 2:3) Mk 10:26-27 (Verse 1) Jn 14:6 (Verse 2) Jn 1:16-17 (Verse 1:3) Col 2:8

175

b. Not myths (Verse 4) Col 2:18-23 c. Not result to speculation (Verse 4) 2Pet 3:15-16 d. But brings faith (Verse 4) Eph 4:11-12 e. Goal is love (Verse 5) 1Cor 13:2 f. Not fruitless discussion (Verses 6-7) Act 18:28 g. Not contrary to sound teaching (Verses 8-10) 2Jn 1:9 h. According to the gospel (Verse 11) Gal 5:1-7 Act 15:1-2, 11 II. Right Gospel 1. He calls servants a. Put into the ministry (Verse 1:12) Gal 1:15-16 b. Possess eternal life (Verses 13-16) Phil 1:23 1Jn 5:11-13 2. The Gospel a. Christ came to the world to save sinners (Verse 1:15) Jn 3:14-17 1Jn 4:14 b. Mediator for God and men (Verse 2:5) Jn 14:6 2Cor 5:19-21 c. Given as a Ransom for All (Verses 2:6-7) Is 53:6 Jn 1:29 Heb 7:27, 10:10-12 1Pet 2:24, 3:18 1Jn 2:2 d. Believe in Him for eternal life (Verse 1:16) Mk 1:15 Jn 3:16 Rom 3:21-26 e. God is honored and glorified (Verse 1:17) Mt 17:5 Phil 2:6-11 3. Fight a. A good fight (Verse 1:18) Jde 3-4 Gal 1:6-9 b. Keep the faith (Verse 19, 6:12) 2Tim 4:6-8 c. Others have shipwrecked (Verses 19-20) Jn 6:66-69 Gal 5:2-7 III. Right Living 1. Intercede a. For all men (Verses 2:1-2) Lk 23:27-38 b. God desires all to be saved (Verses 3-4, 6-8) Jn 1:29, 3:16 2Cor 5:19-21 2. Modest a. Decent (Verse 2:9) 1Pet 3:3 b. With good works (Verse 10) 1Pet 3:4 c. Women not exercise authority over men (Verses 11-14) 1Pet 3:5-7 d. Continue in faith, love and holiness (Verse 15) 2Cor 7:1 Phil 2:16 Conclusion: Everything right. God wants His children to have and keep right teachings, right gospel and right living. These complete the believer and make him not fall away, not deceived but become fruitful in the knowledge of Christ and service to God. Right doctrines begin with God is our Savior and Jesus our hope through whom we have received grace, mercy and peace. Teachings should not promote speculations, endless discussions but brings faith and love. Teachings that are according to the gospel of Christ. Right gospel is the utmost important message that we should keep, honor and fight for. For by this gospel we are saved through faith in Him. The right gospel is that: God our Savior desires all men to be saved and has given His Son as a ransom for all. Jesus came into the world to save sinners. He is the mediator between God and men. Sinners believe in Him for eternal life. This is the gospel the apostles received, they preached and we received and preach the same. God is honored and glorified. Right living is interceding for all men for their salvation and knowledge of the truth- that Christ is the ransom and payment for the sins of the world. Right living is behaving in godliness and holiness- continuing in faith, love and holiness. God wants everything right. Let us profess and live right.

176

Title: The Servant Leader Context: 1Timothy 3-6 Key Verses: 1TI 3:1 It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do.
1TI 3:15

but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.
1TI 3:16

By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness: He who was revealed in the flesh, Was vindicated in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Proclaimed among the nations, Believed on in the world, Taken up in glory.
1TI 4:1

But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, 1TI 4:6 In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following.
1TI 4:16

Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you. Introduction: Paul was a good example and the epitome of a leader and a servant of God. He said, Follow my life and my teachings. He followed Christ his Leader and Shepherd. Christ taught His apostles not only the doctrines of God but also the way of life which we should walk according to our heavenly calling. Paul gave instruction to Timothy in a letter how one should conduct himself in the household of God and who are qualified to serve in the ministry. Paul dealt with the character, life, reputation, ability to teach, and basic doctrines that Gods servants should have, keep and hold onto. What are the qualifications, teachings and the life of a leader. Body: I. Qualification of the Leader 1. Called a. Aspire and desire (Verses 3:1) 1Cor 12:31 b. Right conduct in Gods house (Verses 15) Tit 1:5 2. An Overseer a. Above reproach (Verses 3:2) b. The husband of one wife (Verses 2) c. Temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable (Verses 2) d. Able to teach (Verses 2) e. Not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable (Verses 3) f. Free from the love of money (Verses 3)

177

g. Manages his own household well (Verses 4-5) h. Not a new convert (Verses 6) i. Good reputation (Verses 7) 3. Deacons a. Men of dignity (Verses 3:8) b. Not double-tongued (Verses 8) c. Not addicted to much wine (Verses 8) d. Not fond of sordid gain (Verses 8) e. Holding to the mystery of the faith (Verses 9) f. Tested (Verses 10) g. Beyond reproach (Verses 10) h. Husbands of only one wife (Verses 12) i. Good managers of their own households (Verses 12) j. Serve well (Verses 13) 4. Women a. Dignified, not malicious gossips (Verses 3:11) b. Temperate, faithful in all things (Verses 11) II. Teachings of the Leader 1. Firm Doctrines a. Christ came down from heaven (Verses 3:16) Jn 3:38 Phil 2:6-9 b. Spirit lifted Him as Lord (Verses 16) Mt 3:16 1Cor 12:3 c. Seen by the angels (Verses 16) Heb 1:6-7 d. Christ, the gospel is preached (Verses 16) 1Cor 1:23, 15:1-4, 11 e. People believe (Verses 16) Rom 10:9-18 f. Christ resurrected (Verses 16) Jn 2:19-22 2. Not Deceived a. Some will fall away (Verses 4:1-2) 2Pet 2:1, 20-21 b. Doctrines of demons (Verses 1) Gal 1:6-9 2Cor 11:3-4 c. Forbids marriage, food (Verses 3-5) Col 2:18-23 d. Sound doctrines (Verses 6-7) 1Jn 2:22-26 e. God savior of all men (Verses 10-11) Jn 1:29, 3:16 2Cor 5:19-21 f. No other doctrines (Verses 6:3-6) 2Jn 1:9 g. Turn away opposing from ideas (Verses 6:20-21, 1:3-6) III. Life of the Leader 1. Righteous Life a. Practice godliness (Verses 4:7-9, 6:6-7, 11, 13-14) b. Contented (Verses 6:8-10) Heb 13:5-6 2. Example to believers a. In speech, conduct, love, faith and purity (Verses 4:12) b. gives attention public to exhortation and teaching (Verses 13) c. not neglect the spiritual gift within (Verses 14) Col 4:17 d. Progress (Verses 15) 1Cor 15:58 3. Good Works in the House a. Treat others as brothers and sisters (Verses 5:1-2, 6:1-2) b. Honor widows (Verses 5:3-16) c. Honor elders (Verses 17-19) Heb 13:7 d. Rebuke sinners (Verses 20-22) Mt 18:15-17 e. Good deeds seen (Verses 24-25) Tit 2:14 f. The Rich to share (Verses 6:17-18) Js 5:1-6

178

4. The Fight of Faith a. Keep the faith b. Take hold of the eternal life c. Watch life and doctrine

(Verses 1:18) 2Tim 4:2 (Verses 6:12-14) (Verses 4:16) 1Cor 9:27

Conclusion: Are you called into the ministry? Are you called to serve? Are you serving the Lord in His work? Servant leaders are required to hold, keep and have high moral standing within and outside the church. Paul wrote, An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious, gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money, manages his own household well, not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil and a good reputation. Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience, tested and beyond reproach. It is not only required that we live godly and righteous lives but have sound and correct doctrines. Holding to the Deity of Christ, His coming into the flesh from heaven, His death and resurrection and coming again as the Lord, Savior and Judge. His ransom for the sins of the world. We oppose strange doctrines that contradict godliness and the gospel truth. We are able to manage Gods house. Be an example to believers in righteousness and teachings. Able to move the church into good works not neglecting those in need and the widows. Not showing partiality, rebuking those who continue to sin, good deeds seen, the rich help those in need. The servant of the Lord fights a good fight of faith, keeps the faith and holds into eternal life, keeps the commandment without stain and reproach until the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul wrote to Timothy, Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you. Right living, right teachings and the right gospel ensure our salvation and of those we teach.

179

Title: Unashamed Workman Context: 2Timothy 1-2 Key Verses: 2TI 1:6 For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 2TI 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. 2TI 1:8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God,
2TI 2:15

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. Introduction: Paul in his first letter to Timothy he dealt with the characteristics and qualifications of God s servants. Having an impeccable life, faith and doctrines is a must for it is God that we serve. He should watch his life and doctrine and be an example to all the believers. In this second letter Paul maintained the same theme. He wrote, Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, and Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. The servant of the Lord works and suffers everything for Him and accurately handles the word of truth. His Master must be proud of him. Lets learn from Pauls instructions to Timothy as Gods servant. Body: I. His Faith 1. His Calling a. Holy calling b. He knows 2. His Security a. Promised eternal life b. His source 3. His Faith a. In Christ b. On fire c. Unashamed d. Suffers for the gospel e. Follows f. Guards II. His Work 1. Strength a. In the Lord 2. Character a. Teacher b. Soldier c. Athlete d. Farmer

(Verse 1:9) 1Pet 1:15 (Verses 1:1, 6, 9-11) (Verses 1:1, 9) 1Jn 2:25 (Verse 2) Gal 1:3 (Verse 1:5, 3:15) Eph 1:7 (Verses 3-4, 6-7) Act 1:8 (Verse 8) Mt 10:32-33 (Verses 8, 12) Lk 9:23-26 (Verse 13) 2Jn 1:9 (Verses 14-18) Jn 15:4-11

(Verse 2:1) Eph 6:10 (Verses 2:2, 7) (Verses 3-4) (Verse 5) (Verse 6)

180

III. His Teaching 1. The Truth a. The Gospel b. The Word of God c. Not Deny Him 2. His Way a. Real teachings b. Correct handling c. Godly d. Not Quarrelsome

(Verse 2:8) 1Cor 1:23 (Verse 9) 2Thess 2:13 (Verses 10-13) Rev 2:13, 26 (Verses 2:14, 16-18, 4:2-3) (Verse 15) 1Cor 4:6 (Verses 19-22) 2Cor 1:12 (Verses 23-25) Tit 3:9

Conclusion: God calls all of His children to serve Him. You may be literally full-time in Gods service or serving God in every way, everywhere and every time there is an opportunity to shine. God has the same commandment for all us. You may be involved in the five ministerial gifts or you are a member of His body called for good works, we are all called to stir up the faith in us, be not ashamed of the testimony of the Lord, suffer for the gospel and live godly lives. The Lords workman whom the Lord shall not be ashamed of are those who stand for the gospel truth, handles the word correctly, not quarrelsome but patient and walks righteously. He shall live and die for Him. He shall not deny His Master. He is a teacher who speaks for his Instructor. He is a soldier in full-time service for His Commander and not entangled with the affairs of this the world. He is an athlete who competes with the rules of the Kingdom and reaches for the crown blamelessly. He is a hardworking farmer and benefits from the fruit of his crops. He produces more crops tenfold, hundredfold. Finally, he chooses to abstain from wickedness to be a vessel of honor useful for the Master.

181

Title: Perilous and Glorious Times Context: 2Timothy 3-4 Key Verses: 2TI 3:1 But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. 2TI 3:2 For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, 2TI 3:3 unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, 2TI 3:4 treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 2TI 3:5 holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these.
2TI 3:10 2TI 3:11

Now you followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance, persecutions, and sufferings,

2TI 4:1

I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: 2TI 4:2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. Introduction: During the time of Paul men have become wicked, depraved and reprobate. They have loved wickedness and resisted the truth. Paul wrote it shall be more perilous in the last days. We are in the last days and before our eyes evil men become bad to worse. What should we do amidst the increase of evil in our days? Shall we let evil triumph? How should Gods children respond to this? Body: I. Evil Days 1. Evil Men a. Men become selfish b. Unloving c. Treacherous d. Religious e. Immoral f. Not able to know the truth g. Oppose the truth 2. Worse Men a. Bad to worse b. Deceiving and being deceived c. Not endure sound doctrines d. Turn away from the truth II. Intense Days 1. Believers Act a. Avoid evil b. Follow teaching c. Conduct d. Purpose e. Faith

(Verses 3:1-2) (Verse 3) (Verse 4) (Verse 5) (Verse 6) (Verse 7) (Verses 8-9) (Verse 3:13) (Verse 3:13) (Verse 4:3) (Verses 4:4, 14-15)

(Verses 3:5) 2Cor 6:14-7:1 (Verse 3:10) 2Jn 1:9 (Verse 10) 2Cor 1:12 (Verse 10) 1Tim 2:3-8 (Verse 10) Rom 3:21-26

182

f. Patience g. Love h. Perseverance i. Persecutions j. Sufferings 2. Gods Act a. Endure b. Delivers

(Verse 10, 2:24) (Verse 10) Jn 13:34-35 (Verse 10) Rev 3:10 (Verses 11, 12) 1Cor 4:12 (Verse 11) Phil 1:29 (Verse 3:11) 2Tim 2:12 (Verses 3:11, 4:16-18) Ps 34:19

III. Evangelistic Days 1. Believers Stand a. Continue in His Word (Verse 3:14) 1Jn 2:14 b. Firm faith in Christ for salvation (Verse 3:15) Jn 14:6 2. Believers Speak a. Teach and reproof (Verse 3:16) 1Tim 4:13 b. Preach the word (Verses 4:1-2) Act 10:42-43 c. Endure and evangelize (Verse 4:5) 2Thess 3:1-2 d. Work together (Verses 4:10-13, 19-22) 3. Believers Shine a. Good works (Verse 3:17) Tit 2:14 b. Good fight and crown (Verses 4:6-8, 9-13) Rev 2:10, 3:11 Js 1:12 1Pet 5:4 Conclusion: We are in the last days and living at perilous and dangerous times. Jesus said in the last days before He comes again men shall become more evil and hearts shall become cold. There shall be wars and rumors of wars, famine and pestilence. The nearer we come to the Lords Day the worse things become. What is alarming man moves far away from the Almighty. Paul wrote, But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these. Wickedness gets a greater and harder grip in the lives of many. The forces of darkness work in all activity of Satan deceiving and distorting the truth. Men try to become good and better without acknowledging God. On the other side, because life shall be harder people shall take all opportunities to survive. They become selfish and greedy. They return evil with evil. Love, respect and care for others wax colder. But the saints of God are to avoid all these. In these bad days we are to have a greater grip of the truth, greater hold of the word of God and greater hold unto what is life eternal. These call for our perseverance amidst temptations, trials and sufferings. These call for holding fast to the Lords deeds and holding fast to our faith in Christ. God knows how to deliver the godly from trouble and the wicked reserved for judgment. While there is time let us do the work of the evangelist. Preach the gospel truth, teach the word in season and out of season. Christ came to save sinners. The battle is not over. God is in the business of saving and delivering people. We are Gods co-workers in these last perilous and glorious days.

183

Title: House in Order Context: Book of Titus 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 Gods people respond? We were saved by grace, how should we live? Body: I. Our Faith 1. Chosen of God 2. Knowledge of truth 3. According to godliness 4. Hope of eternal life 5. There is hope for all 6. Saved by His grace II. Our Character 1. The Elders (Pastors) a. Set order b. Above reproach c. Holding fast to the Word d. Reprove and avoid e. Care for each other 2. Older Men a. Dignified 3. Older Women a. Revered 4. Young women a. Love family 5. Young men a. An example 6. Servants a. Subjected III. Our Deeds 1. Holy a. Pure 2. Godly a. Live righteously 3. Zealous a. For good deeds b. Engaged in good deeds

(Verse 1:1) 2Thess 2:13 (Verse 1) Col 1:5 1Tim 2:3-6 (Verse 1) Eph 1:4 Col 1:22 1Tm 6:3 (Verses 1:2, 2:13) 1Cor 1:7 Phil 3:20 (Verses 2:11, 3:4) Jn 3:16-17 1Jn 2:2, 4:10 (Verses 3:5-7) Rom 3:24, 5:20-21

(Verse 1:5) 1Tim 3:15 (Verses 1:6-8) 1Tim 3:1-7 (Verses 1:9-14, 2:1) (Verses 2:10-15, 3:9-11) 2Tim 2:23-26 1Tim 6:3-5 (Verses 3:12-15) (Verse 2:2) 1Pet 3:7-9 (Verse 2:3) 1Tim 2:9-15 1Pet 3:1-6 (Verses 2:4-5) (Verses 2:6-8) 1Tm 4:12 (Verses 2:9-10) Eph 6:5-8 Col 3:22-24 1Tim 6:1-2

(Verses 1:15-16) Mt 7:17-18 Jn 15:4-5 (Verse 2:11-12) 1Tim 6:11 1Jn 3:7 (Verses 2:14-15) Eph 2:10 Jn 15:8 (Verse 3:8) Gal 6:10

184

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 Gods purpose is that we shall be a people zealous for good deeds meeting the needs in time. Gods 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.

185

Title: Christ Factor Context: Philemon 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 2. Worker of the Lord 3. Soldier of the Lord 4. Intercedes in the Lord II. Follower 1. Faith toward the Lord 2. Love toward all the saints 3. Shares truth in Christ III. Forgiver 1. Peace maker 2. As a brother 3. Carrys burden 4. Pays 5. Obeys pardon 6. Rejoice among others

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

1:1) 1:1) 1:2) 1:4)

(Verses 1:5) (Verses 1:5, 7-9) (Verses 1:6) (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 1:10-15) 1:16) 1:17-18) 1:19) 1:20-21) 1:22-25)

Conclusion: Since we have been in Christ He should be seen in us in everything we do most especially 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 Pauls 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.

186

Title: Heavenly Context: Book of Hebrews 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. Gods Representative (Verse 1:3, 2:-4) Col 1:15 2. Gods Son (Verses 1:4-7, 4:14) Ps 2:7 Mt 3:17, 22:41-46 3. Gods 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) Jn 1:16-17 d. Those who obey (Verses 4:11, 5:9) Jn 10:27-28

187

e. Draw to God through Him (Verses 7:25) Jn 14:6 f. Those who await Him (Verses 9:28) Mt 24:44-51 5. Apostle and High Priest (Verses 3:1, 4:14) a. Better than Moses (Verses 3:2-6) Mt 17:1-8, Jn 1:16-17 b. Priest forever (Verses 5:1-10, 6:19-20, 7:23-28) c. Author and Perfecter (Verses 12:2) Jn 19:30 d. Mediator of the New Covenant (Verses 12:24) 1Tim 2:3-6 e. Great Shepherd (Verses 13:20-21) Jn 10:14 II. Sacrifice from Heaven 1. Tasted death for everyone 2. Perfected salvation 3. God promised life 4. Not through Levitical priesthood 5. Not through the Law 6. Better covenant 7. Heavenly Tabernacle 8. Blood of Christ 10. Divine Offering 11. Took away our sins 12. His body offered 13. One sacrifice for all 14. Forgiveness of sins III. Our Calling from Heaven 1. Our Position a. Made us His brethren b. We are His House c. Partakers of Christ d. Entered His Rest e. Great mercy f. People of God g. Sanctified h. Forgiven i. Have come to heaven j. Heavenly Kingdom 2. Our Appreciation a. Take heed b. Hold firm our assurance and hope c. Not harden heart d. Not evil heart e. Believe f. Not come short g. Obey h. Mature i. Not fall away j. Faith and patience k. Love and good deeds l. Assemble and encourage m. Not go on sinning willfully (Verse 2:9) Jn 1:29, 3:16-17 1Jn 2:2, 4:10 (Verse 2:10) Jn 19:30 2Cor 5:19 Rom 3:25 (Verses 6:16-20, 7:21) 1Jn 2:25 (Verses 7:11-17) (Verses 7:12, 18-19) Gal 3:31-26 (Verses 8:6-13) 2Cor 3:6-8 (Verses 9:8-12, 23-26, 10:19, 13:12-14) (Verses 9:12,14,18,22) Mt 26:28 (Verses 9:12,14) Rom 8:3 (Verses 10:1-4,11) Jn 1:29 (Verses 10:5-10) Jn 2:19-22 (Verses 7:27, 9:12, 10:10-12, 18) 1Tim 2:3-6 1Pet 2:24, 3:18 (Verses 10:17-18) Lk 1:77, 24:44-47

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

2:11-13) Ps 22:22 3:6) 1Cor 3:16 3:14) Eph 1:7, 1Cor 1:30 4:10) Mt 11:28-30 7:25, 10:19-22) 8:10-11) 1Pet 2:9-10 10:10) Act 15:9, 26:18 10:17-18) Rom 3:25-26, 4:7 12:18-24) Gal 4:26 Rev 3:12 12:28, 13:14) Col 1:13

(Verses 2:1-4) Js 1:22 (Verses 3:6, 14, 4:14, 18-19, 10:22-23,35) (Verses 3:15, 4:7) Ps 95:7-8 (Verses 3:7-13) Lk 8:15 (Verses 3:12-19, 4:2-3) Jn 14:1-4 (Verses 4:1, 11, 12:12-17) (Verses 4:1-2, 11, 5:9) Jn 14:15 (Verses 5:11-6:2) Jn 8:31 (Verses 6:4-8) Jn 15:1-6 (Verses 6:9-15) Rev 14:12 (Verses 10:24, 13:1-3) Jn 15:8 Tit 3:14 (Verses 3:13, 10:25, 13:7, 17-18) (Verses 3:12, 10:26) Jn 5:14, 8:11

188

n. Endure o. Have faith p. Lay aside sin q. Be holy q. Not refuse Him r. Offer acceptable worship 3. Severer Judgment a. Of those who shall fall away b. Better things for the faithful c. Saved or damned d. God disciplines

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

10:36, 12:1-3) 2Tim 2:12 11:1,16,26,39-40,12:2, 13:5-6,9) 11:25-26, 12:1) 2Cor 7:1 12:14, 13:4) 2Cor 1:12 12:25-28) Rev 2:29 12:28, 13:15-16) Rom 12:1-2 3:12, 6:4-6, 10:26-31,12:25,28-29) 6:9-12, 10:32-36) Lk 12:42-44 10:37-39) Gal 6:7-9 1Pet 1:4-5 12:4-11) Prov 3:11-12 Rev 3:19

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 Holies, 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 every day 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 cannot treat with 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.

189

Title: Sovereign Son Context: Hebrews 1-2 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. Gods Representative 2. Gods Son 3. Gods Equal a. God in Throne b. Lord the Creator II. Suffered 1. Made Lower than the angels 2. Tasted Death for everyone 3. Perfected Salvation III. Savior 1. Take Heed 2. Made us His Brethren 3. Set us Free

(Verse 1:3, 2:-4) Col 1:15 (Verses 4-7) Ps 2:7 Mt 3:17, 22:41-46 (Verses 8-9) Ps 45:6, 110:1 (Verses 10-14) Ps 102:25 Col 1:16-17 (Verse 2:9) Phil 2:7-8 (Verse 9) Jn 1:29, 3:16-17 1Jn 2:2, 4:10 (Verse 10) Jn 19:30 2Cor 5:19 Rom 3:25 (Verses 2:1-4, 4:1-2, 11, 12:25-29) (Verses 11-13) Ps 22:22 (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.

190

Title: Partakers If Context: Hebrews 3-6 Key Verses: HEB 3:1 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the Apostle and High Priest of our confession; HEB 3:6 but Christ was faithful as a Son over His house whose house we are, if we hold fast our confidence and the boast of our hope firm until the end. HEB 3:7 Therefore, just as the Holy Spirit says, TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, HEB 3:8 DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS AS WHEN THEY PROVOKED ME, AS IN THE DAY OF TRIAL IN THE WILDERNESS,
HEB 3:14

For we have become partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end, HEB 3:15 while it is said, TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS, AS WHEN THEY PROVOKED ME.
HEB 4:1

Therefore, let us fear if, while a promise remains of entering His rest, any one of you may seem to have come short of it. HEB 4:2 For indeed we have had good news preached to us, just as they also; but the word they heard did not profit them, because it was not united by faith in those who heard.
HEB 4:11

Therefore let us be diligent to enter that rest, so that no one will fall, through following the same example of disobedience.
HEB 5:8 HEB 5:9

Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. And having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation,
HEB 6:1

Therefore leaving the elementary teaching about the Christ, let us press on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God,
HEB 6:11

And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end, HEB 6:12 so that you will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
HEB 6:18

so that by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us. HEB 6:19 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, Introduction: The Book of Hebrews is all about the Supremacy of Christ our Lord and Savior, His being the Son of God, His perfect offering and sacrifice, His perfect covenant, His perfect intercession, His perfect priesthood, His perfect redemption, the great salvation finished and done on the cross once and for all. It was a perfect offering God made through the Son. And because of

191

these the writer warned the saints the danger of drifting away, hardening and falling away. For there remain no more sacrifice should we continue to sin, disobey and not hear His voice. The apostle wrote in chapter 2, For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it. For if the word spoken through angels proved unalterable, and every transgression and disobedience received a just penalty, how will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at the first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard. How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? Redemption was done by Christ and we are to receive it in faith, righteousness and holiness and firm unto the end. When should we become as truly partakers of Gods grace? Body: I. Partakers of Holy Calling 1. If we hold fast a. Our confidence b. Boast of our hope c. Until the end 2. If we listen a. If we hear His voice b. Not harden our hearts c. Not provoke Him c. Not go astray d. Enter His rest 3. If we not fall away a. Take care brethren b. Not an evil, unbelieving heart c. Not fall away from God d. But encourage daily e. Not hardened by deceitfulness

(Verse 3:6) 1Jn 5:11-13 (Verse 6) Tit 1:2 (Verse 6) Rev 2:26 (Verse 3:7) Jn 8:51 (Verse 8) Heb 12:5-6 (Verses 8-9) 1Cor 10:5-10 (Verse 10) Lk 12:43-45 (Verse 11) Mt 11:28-29 (Verses 3:12) Mk 13:37 (Verse 12) Js 1:21-24 (Verse 12) Lk 12:43-45 (Verse 13, 10:23-25) 1Thess 5:11 of sin (Verse 13) 2Cor 7:1 Rom 6:16

II. Partakers of Christ 1. If we hold fast a. The beginning of our assurance (Verse 3:14) 1Cor 15:1-2 b. Firm until the end (Verse 14) Rev 2:26 2. If we listen a. If we hear His Voice (Verse 3:15) Jn 8:51 b. Not harden our hearts (Verse 15) Heb 12:5-6 c. Not provoke Him (Verses 15-16) 1Cor 10:5-10 d. Not sinning (Verse 17, 10:26) Rom 8:12-13 e. Not disobedient (Verse 18) Mt 7:21 f. Not unbelief (Verse 19) Jn 6:66 III. Partakers of the Promise 1. We enter if a. Not come short of it b. Believe the good news c. Now entered through faith d. Not fall through disobedience e. Come to His grace 2. If we obey a. Christ obeyed b. He saves

(Verse 4:1, 12:14-17) (Verse 2) Mk 1:15 (Verse 3) Rom 5:1-2 (Verses 4-11) 2Cor 12:20-21 (Verses 12-16, 12:2-3) Lk 22:31-32 (Verses 5:1-8) Jn 15:4-10 (Verse 9) Jn 3:36

192

c. Discern good and evil (Verses 10-6:3) Rom 12:2 3. Who have fallen away a. Not repent anymore (Verses 6:4-6) Jn 6:66 b. Crucify to themselves the Son of God (Verses 6, 10:29) Phil 3:18-19 c. Put Him to open shame (Verse 6) 2Cor 12:20-21 d. Destroyed and burned (Verses 7-8, 10:26-31, 39) 1Cor 3:17 4. Things that accompany salvation a. Work for God (Verses 6:9-10) Rom 6:17-22 b. Love for the saints (Verse 10) Jn 13:34-35 c. Diligence (Verses 11, 10:32-34) d. Hope until the end (Verse 11) 1Cor 15:1-2 e. Faith and patience (Verses 12-15, 10:35-36) f. Hope on Gods promise (Verses 16-20) 1Jn 2:24-26 Conclusion: The Book of Hebrews exalts and glories on the works and ministry of the Son of God. Jesus is the High Priest, the Mediator of the New Covenant, our Hope, the Apostle, the Author and Finisher of our faith. Eternal redemption was purchased by His blood on the cross. He took away the sins of the world by the sacrifice of Himself. His body was offered by the eternal Spirit in the Holy of Holies, in Heaven where God is. This sacrifice was made once and for all. One offering was made for all men, for all time never to be repeated again. It was perfect and holy and able to perfect those who come to God through the Son. The ministry of Jesus was perfect, immortal, infinite, full of grace, full of truth and full of glory. With these in view the apostle gave an example aforetimes that every sin committed were dealt with just penalty. He continued that we have entered His rest through our belief in the gospel that was preached unto us. Others did not enter because of their unbelief and disobedience. He commanded us to encourage each other daily. He warned us of drifting away, hardening of our hearts through the deceitfulness of sin, taking care of not having an evil, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. Let us take an example of those aforetimes who provoked Him through their sin and were destroyed. We are made holy, perfect and complete in Christ. The death and resurrection of Christ- His Holy Sacrifice are not to be taken lightly but with utmost reverence and fear. We entered His rest through faith in Christ and should not come short of it through disobedience, sinning and falling away. We become partakers of His holy calling, partakers of Christ and partakers of His promise if we hold fast until the end the firm assurance and hope that we boast of- He died and paid for our sins. We are partakers because we have faith in Christ, walk in the Light, walk in love, walk in the Spirit and are washed by the blood of the Lamb. Let us like Abraham through whom God made the promise of eternal life received the promise through faith, hope, diligence and obedience. For our God is not mocked, the Lord Jesus succumbed into death and shed His blood for our holy redemption and no one shall treat it unholy and in contempt for God is a consuming fire.

193

Title: Better Covenant Context: Hebrew 6:20-9:28 Key Verses: HEB 7:22 so much the more also Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant.
HEB 7:24

but Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently. HEB 7:25 Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. HEB 7:26 For it was fitting for us to have such a high priest, holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens; HEB 7:27 who does not need daily, like those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the sins of the people, because this He did once for all when He offered up Himself.
HEB 8:10

FOR THIS IS THE COVENANT THAT I WILL MAKE WITH THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL AFTER THOSE DAYS, SAYS THE LORD: I WILL PUT MY LAWS INTO THEIR MINDS, AND I WILL WRITE THEM ON THEIR HEARTS. AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE. HEB 8:11 AND THEY SHALL NOT TEACH EVERYONE HIS FELLOW CITIZEN, AND EVERYONE HIS BROTHER, SAYING, `KNOW THE LORD,' FOR ALL WILL KNOW ME, FROM THE LEAST TO THE GREATEST OF THEM. HEB 8:12 FOR I WILL BE MERCIFUL TO THEIR INIQUITIES, AND I WILL REMEMBER THEIR SINS NO MORE.
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 9:27 And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment, HEB 9:28 so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him. Introduction: Hebrews chapters one to two talked about the Sovereign Son. The Son of God was sent by the Father for a purpose- to be sacrificed for our sins. Chapters three to six showed how we should accept and not neglect the great salvation provided by God through His Son that we revere and honor what we have received. We become partakers if we hold fast until the end what we have believed, hoped for, assured of and not continue to sin and fall away. Chapters seven to nine the apostle showed the better, superior and excellent covenant enacted by God through the Son. The old covenant was the Ten Commandments God gave to Moses for Israel to follow with its Laws and ordinances. The new covenant was said of that God shall write the Laws in our hearts and shall remember our sins no more. What makes the new covenant different from the old covenant? And how was it made better?

194

Body: I. Eternal Priesthood 1. Order of Melchizedek a. Highpriest forever (Verse 6:20) b. King of Righteousness (Verse 7:2) c. King of Peace (Verse 2) d. Perpetual Pries (Verse 3) e. Received tithes (Verses 4-10) 2. Priesthood not under the Law a. Not Levitical Priesthood (Verses 7:11-14) b. According to Indestructible life (Verses 15-17) c. Law made nothing perfect (Verses 18-19) d. Made through Gods oath (Verses 20-21) 3. Jesus continues forever a. Guarantee of better covenant (Verse 7:22) b. Permanent Priesthood (Verses 23-24) c. Save and intercedes forever (Verse 25) d. Holy Priest and Son forever (Verses 26-28) II. Eternal Covenant 1. High Priest a. On the Throne b. Heavenly Minister 2. Excellent Ministry a. Mediator of a better covenant b. Enacted on better promises 3. New Covenant a. Old Covenant gone b. New Covenant effected c. Eternal Covenant

(Verse 8:1) (Verses 2-5) (Verse 8:6) (Verses 6, 10-12) (Verses 8:7-9) (Verses 10-13) (Verse 13:20)

III. Eternal Redemption 1. Earthly Sanctuary a. Copy of the true one (Verses 8:4-5) b. Tabernacle made (Verses 9:1-5) c. Priests offer for sins always (Verses 6-7) d. Temporary until perfection comes (Verses 8-10) 2. Heavenly Sanctuary a. Christ appeared (Verse 9:11) b. Entered the perfect tabernacle (Verse 11) c. Through His blood (Verse 12) d. Entered once and for all (Verse 12) 3. Eternal Salvation a. Obtained eternal redemption (Verse 9:12) b. His blood cleanses (Verses 13-14) c. He died for it (Verses 15-17) d. Forgiveness through His blood (Verses 18-23) e. Put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself (Verses 24-26) f. Will appear without reference to sin (Verses 27-28)

195

Conclusion: What if a person of higher and reputable rank makes a promise to you and seals that commitment how would you feel? I believe you shall be greatly overwhelmed and the experience beyond comparison. What if God promised and made an oath that He will never remember our sins anymore? He shall wipe out all of our sins, He shall take it away and He shall do it in one stroke? These He all did through His Son Jesus Christ on the cross. He promised Abraham that many nations shall be blessed through his seed. That seed was Christ sent to the world. The gospel- the good news, the promised eternal life was made to Abraham while Moses and Israel were still in his loins. The Law came after which was the first covenant. The Law and its ordinances were given in preparation of the coming of the perfect one. There was an earthly tabernacle where the priests first offered sacrifices for their sins and then for the people. These they did everyday for the offerings never make them perfect, holy and sanctified. But at the opportune time, the Son of God appeared and entered the Most Holy Place which is Heaven itself where God is, through the eternal Spirit offered Jesus as a sacrifice for sins once and for all. By this offering He took away the sins of the world by the sacrifice of Himself and now seated on the Throne of Majesty in Heaven. He is able to intercede and save us forever because He holds the Priesthood permanently. He is the mediator of the new covenant and enacted it through His death. His holy blood was shed for our eternal forgiveness. Now He will appear the second time without reference to sin to those who love Him and His appearing. Glory to God.

196

Title: Perfected it All Context: Hebrews 10 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 into 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 a. Cannot take away sins 2. New Effective a. Took away our sins II. Perfect Priest 1. Blessing of the Priest a. Sanctified us 2. Come unto the Priest a. We hold fast III. Perfect Faith 1. Draw back a. End is perdition 2. Endure with confidence a. End is salvation

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

10:1-4) 4, 11) 10:5-10) Ps 40:6-8, Heb 9:11-12 10-12, 17-18)

(Verses 10:10-12,18) (Verses 10-12, 14) (Verses 10:19-23) Heb 12:22-24 (Verse 23) Heb 12:1-2 (Verses 10:26-31) Deut 17:6 Heb 12:15, 25, 28-29 (Verses 30-31, 39) Hab 2:4 (Verses 10:23, 35-36) Heb 3:12-14, 6:11-12 (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 until 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.

197

Title: Faith Context: Hebrews 11 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 certainty. What does it teach us today? Body: I. Essence of Faith 1. Faith is a. Sure of 2. Faith in b. God II. Endurance of Faith 1. Faith manifested a. Obeyed 2. Faith saw a. See the glory 3. Faith spoken a. Professed III. End of Faith 1. Faith standing a. Rewarded 2. Faith bearing fruit a. Conquer

(Verses 11:1-2, 4-5, 4-10) 2Cor 1:20 (Verses 11:3, 6) Ps 33:6 Gal 3:6-7

(Verses 11:17-19, 23-25, 27-28, 30-31) Gen 26.5, 48:15 (Verses 11:10, 13-16, 26-27, 39-40) (Verses 11:20-23) Gen 50:24

(Verses 11:6, 6:13-15, 10:36) (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 cannot do. If we believe we can be in situations we thought we cannot 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 a 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.

198

Title: Run with Endurance Context: Hebrews 12-13 Key Verses: 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.
HEB 12:7

It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline?
HEB 12:15

See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled;
HEB 13:12

Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people through His own blood, suffered outside the gate. HEB 13:13 So, let us go out to Him outside the camp, bearing His reproach. HEB 13:14 For here we do not have a lasting city, but we are seeking the city which is to come. Introduction: The last two chapters of Hebrews give us a concluding commandment that since Christ has finished, ransomed and obtained our eternal redemption and has taken away the sins of the world by the sacrifice of Himself, we are called to run with endurance, take hold of the faith we have in Christ and live a life pleasing to the Lord, holy and sanctified. The apostle began with the instruction, 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. Salvation is not by works but it is by faith in Christ that works. A living, alive faith in Christ blossoms matures and bears fruit. When we run we look forward and not backward. Endurance is Christs commandment. (Rev 2:3, 3:10) How should we then run the race? How rather the race is ran so that we can receive the price of our high calling? To where should we focus and fix our eyes? Body: I. Our Eyes on Jesus 1. Lay aside a. Encumbrance b. Sin 2. On the Savior a. Author and perfecter b. Endured the cross c. Seated on the Throne d. Endured hostility 3. Gods Discipline a. Endure b. As sons of God

(Verse 12:1) 2Cor 7:1 (Verse 1) Col 3:8 1Pet 2:1 (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse 12:2) Jn 1:19 2) Phil 2:8 2, 8:1) Phil 2:9-11 3) 1Pet 2:21-23

(Verse 12:7) 1Cor 11:27-32 Rev 2:20-23 (Verses 7-8) 2Cor 12:20-21, 13:5-6

199

c. For holiness d. For righteousness e. Straighten path II. Our Eyes on Living 1. Sanctification a. Pursue peace b. Holiness 2. Not come short a. No bitterness b. No immoral c. Rejected 3. Love a. For the brethren b. Honor marriage c. Not love money d. Honor servants e. Love for Jesus III. Our Eyes on Heaven 1. Not on Earth a. Not Mt Sinai 2. Heavenly a. Mt Zion, Heavenly Jerusalem b. General Assembly c. To Jesus 3. Kingdom a. Not refuse Him b. Unshaken Kingdom c. With gratitude and respect d. Pleasing in His sight

(Verse 10) 1Cor 3:16-17 Gal 6:7-8 (Verse 11) Rom 6:17-22 (Verses 12-13) Eph 5:14-17

(Verse 12:14) Mt 5:9 (Verse 14) Rom 6:17-22 (Verse 12:15) 1Jn 3:14-15 (Verse 16) 2Cor 6:1, 14-18 (Verse 17) Lk 12:43-46 (Verses 13:1-3, 16) 1Jn 3:16-18 (Verse 4) Mt 19:9 (Verses 5-6) 1Tim 6:6-10 Mt 6:30-34 (Verses 7, 17-18) 1Tim 5:17 (Verses 8-13, 15) Phil 1:29 Mk 8:34-38

(Verses 12:18-21) Dt 5:22 (Verses 12:22, 13:14) Gal 4:26 Rev 21:10 (Verse 23) Lk 10:20 (Verse 24) 1Tim 2:3-6 Col 3:1-4 (Verses 12:25, 29, 2:3, 10:26-31) Jn 8:51 (Verses 26-27) Dan 7:14, 18, 22 (Verse 28) Phil 2:12 Gal 6:7-8 (Verses 13:20-21) 2Cor 5:9

Conclusion: Have you competed in a race? A good runner is one who never gives up. He runs and endures everything that would prevent him from winning the prize. He runs at top speed, at the right pace, not cheating and within the rules, and most especially his eyes forward, focused and fixed on the finish line- on the crown. Heaven is our calling. Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith. He was our forerunner. He endured everything on the cross, suffered hostility and shame, shed His blood and died. Has spoken no evil and no sin was found in Him. He has set an example for us His people that through obedience to the Father He was glorified and exalted. We are not only called to believe in Him but also to suffer for Him. We endure sufferings, trials and temptations. We suffer for the sake of righteousness, holiness and doing what is good. We lay aside all encumbrances and sin that easily beset us. If our eyes are fixed on Jesus we can bear His reproach. Since we look for a Heavenly Kingdom that cannot be shaken and a Holy God who has redeemed us through the blood of His Son, let us serve Him with reverence, fear and awe. Live lives pleasing to Him. See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God, no bitter and immoral person among us. For our God is a consuming fire. Let us run with endurance the race set before us, for in that day He shall reward us with the crown of righteousness and His Gates widely open for us.

200

Title: Wisdom from Above Context: Book of James Key Verses: 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 Lords 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. Its 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 2. There are temptations 3. Sinful nature a. lust b. anger c. tongue 4. Evil II. Application of Wisdom 1. In us a. Asked and received b. Put aside sin c. Put the Word of God d. Obey the Word of God e. Faith and works f. Good behavior g. Humble and submit to God h. Give God due respect i. Be patient and endure 2. Others a. Riches b. Needy c. Brethren Impartiality and love Give Do not judge Pray and confess sins Return a sinning brother d. World

(Verse 1:2) (Verse 1:13) (Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses 1:14-15, 4:1, 3) 1:19-20, 4:2) 1:26, 3:1-12) 3:14-16)

(Verses 1:5-8, 16-17) (Verses 1:21, 4:17) (Verse 1:21) (Verses 1:22-25) (Verses 2:14-26) (Verses 3:13-18) (Verses 4:5-10) (Verses 4:13-16, 5:12) (Verses 5:7-11) (Verses 1:9-11, 5:1-6) (Verse 1:27) (Verses 2:1-13) (Verses 2:15-16) (Verses 4:11-12) (Verses 5:13-16) (Verses 5:19-20) (Verse 4:4)

201

III. Fruit of Wisdom 1. Perfect and complete 2. Crown of life 3. Best of us 4. Blessed 5. Pure 6. Righteousness 7. Grace 8. Answered prayers

(Verses 1:3-4) (Verse 1:12) (Verse 1:18) (Verses 1:25, 5:11) (Verse 3:17) (Verse 3:18) (Verse 4:6) (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.

202

Title: Tested Faith Context: James 1 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 Lords 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 2. Endure 3. Ask wisdom 4. Persevere II. During Temptations 1. Not from God a. Gave us new birth First and best 2. Own lust III. Enduring Tests 1. Hear the word 2. Put aside sin 3. Do the word

(Verse 1:2) Mt 5:11 (Verses 1:3-4) Rom 5:3-4 (Verses 1:5-7) Prov 2:6 Mk 11:24 Jn 16:24 (Verse 1:12) Rev 2:10 (Verses 1:13, 16-17) (Verse 1:18) 1Pet 1:23-25 (Verse 1:18) Mk 4:20 Jn 15:8, 16 (Verses 1:14-15) (Verses 1:19-20, 21) (Verse 1:21) Col 3:8-10 (Verses 1:22-24, 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)

203

Title: Faith That Works Context: James 2-3 Key Verses: JAS 2:1 My brethren, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism.
JAS 2:8

If, however, you are fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF, you are doing well. JAS 2:9 But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.
JAS 2:18

But someone may well say, You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.
JAS 2:22

You see that faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected; JAS 2:23 and the Scripture was fulfilled which says, AND ABRAHAM BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS, and he was called the friend of God. JAS 2:24 You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone. Introduction: Apostle James the Lords brother was one of the apostles who led the church at Jerusalem. Paul mentioned him as one of the pillars of the church with Peter and John. James in his letter detailed what real faith should be. We have our faith in Christ. And this faith is seen and manifested. He mentioned Abraham obeyed God after he believed Him. He sacrificed his son Isaac and was justified and righteousness was credited to him. As believers in the Lord Jesus how do we show our faith? Jesus said a good tree bears good fruit and our faith in Christ should bear good fruit. Let us see how James exemplified faith that works. Body: I. Attitude in Faith 1. We are in the Faith a. In the Lord Jesus Christ 2. No Partiality a. Over the rich b. A sin 3. Not Judge a. With evil motives b. God loves the poor c. We all have sinned 4. Love a. Others as self II. Works in Faith 1. Dead Faith a. Do not work b. Cannot save c. Demons also believe d. Useless

(Verse 2:1) 2Pet 1:1 Jde 1:3 (Verses 2:1-3) Prov 14:20 (Verses 6-7, 9) Gal 2:10 (Verse 2:4) Prov 16:2 (Verse 5) Ps 72:13 (Verses 9-13) Gal 3:10 (Verse 2:8) Mt 22:39

(Verses 2:14, 17) Mt 7:26 (Verse 14) 2Pet 1:5-11 (Verse 19) Lk 4:41 (Verse 20) Jn 8:51

204

e. Faith without works is dead 2. Working Faith a. Gives b. Faith is shown by works c. Faith working with our works d. Works perfect faith e. Justified and made righteous III. Behavior in Faith 1. Integrity a. Do what you say 2. Discipline a. Control ourselves b. Produce good only 3. Good behavior a. Is wise b. Good deeds c. Not jealous and bitter d. Righteousness and peace

(Verse 26) Rev 3:2 (Verses 2:15-16) 1Jn 3:16-17 (Verse 18) 1Jn 3:18 (Verses 21-22) Jn 15:4-10 (Verse 22) Rom 4:3, 21-22 (Verses 23-25) Rom 4:21-22

(Verses 3:1-2) 1Jn 3:18 (Verses 3:3-8)1Cor 9:27 (Verses 9-12) Rom 6:16-18 (Verse 3:13) Prov 14:16 (Verse 13) 2Tim 2:19-21 (Verses 14-16) Heb 12:15-17 (Verses 17-18) Gal 5:22-25

Conclusion: Do you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ? Have you accepted His forgiveness on the cross? Therefore show God and men that you have believed God and have repented of your sins. If faith in Christ is importantly stressed in our preaching so repentance should be- repentance from dead, evil works into good works. James said, You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works. And, You see that faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected. God loves our good works. Titus 2:14 said, Who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. True faith in Christ is manifested in our good works, good attitude, and good behavior. We show our faith because we believed in Him. Our faith does not begin and stops in believing Christ but works and moves forward producing good deeds, good words perfecting our faith in Him. We are saved by grace through faith in Him but not by our works. It begins with faith in Christ and our faith in Christ works with our works and is shown in our works. Therefore, like what Paul said that those who name the name of Christ should depart from wickedness and abound in good works. Jesus said, He who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations. And John in Revelation 14:12, Here is the perseverance of the saints who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus. We are saved therefore not by faith that does not work but real faith that works. If you have believed in Christ show it to God and to men.

205

Title: Dont Overlook These Context: James 4-5 Key Verses: JAS 4:4 You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
JAS 4:7

Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. JAS 4:7 Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. JAS 4:8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
JAS 4:8 JAS 4:11

Do not speak against one another, brethren. He who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks against the law and judges the law; but if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge of it.
JAS 5:7

Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. JAS 5:13 Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray. Is anyone cheerful? He is to sing praises.
JAS 5:19

My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back,

Introduction: James continued his writing by reminding the saints the things that they should know about how they behave toward one another, toward the world and toward God. Sometimes we forget these things when we are occupied with so many things- most especially with the affairs of our lives and of this world. As we pass through this earth these things should be part of our lives, our thoughts, our confessions and our deeds. We should not overlook these. Let us learn from apostle James the Lords brother and leader of the church at Jerusalem. Body: I. Relationship with God 1. Ask with right motives 2. Desires we belong only to Him 3. Humble before Him 4. Submit and draw near to God 5. Resist the devil 6. Dont boast 7. Do what is right 8. Wait patiently for His Coming 9. Dont swear 10. Pray, sing praises 11. Pray earnestly

(Verse 4:3) 1Jn 3:22 (Verse 4:5) 2Cor 6:14-18 (Verse 4:6) Ps 138:6 (Verses 4:7-10) Jn 15:4-10 (Verse 4:7) Eph 4:27 1Pet 5:8 (Verses 4:13-16) Act 18:21 (Verse 4:17) Rom 14:23 1Jn 5:17 (Verses 5:7-8) 2Pet 3:3-9 (Verse 5:12) Mt 5:34-37 (Verse 5:13) Ps 50:15, 69:30 Col 3:16 (Verses 5:17-18) 1King 17:1-16 Mk 11:23

206

II. Relationship with the Brethren 1. Dont envy 2. Dont quarrel 3. Dont speak against 4. Dont judge 5. Dont complain against 6. Pray for the sick 7. Confess sins and pray for 8. Turn back a sinning brother III. Relationship with the World 1. Not a friend of the world 2. Misuse of riches 3. Dont condemn the innocent 4. Endure

(Verses 4:1-2) 1Pet 2:1 (Verses 4:1-2) Prv 17:14 2Tim 2:24 (Verse 4:11) Prov 15:1 2Cor 12:20 (Verses 4:11-12) Mt 7:1 (Verse 5:9) 1Cor 1:10 (Verses 5:14-15) Mk 6:13 (Verse 5:16) Act 19:18 (Verses 5:19-20) Mt 18:15 Gal 6:1 (Verse 4:4) 1Jn 2:15-17 2Cor 6:14-18 (Verses 5:1-5) Lk 6:24, 12:16-21 (Verse 5:6) Ams 4:1-2 (Verses 5:10-11) Jb 1:21-22 1Pet 3:14

Conclusion: There are times when believers are busy with the work of the Lord, do many things for the church and are involved with various activities; we overlooked our good relationship with the brethren and the world. When disagreement arises we speak against one another and we judge one another. This is not the way it should be. Rather we confess our sins to one another. Pray for one another so we can be healed. We should turn a sinning brother back to the Lord. When we are not in the ministry activity there are times we become friends of the world. Those who are not involved with the church and are not conscious with their walk with the Lord are more prone to be tempted and sin. James in his letter admonished the saints to hold our faith in Christ with utmost care. We should not speak against our brethren. We should not be like the world with its evil desires and evil works. We should not love the world and become an enemy of God. We should endure everything while waiting patiently for the coming of the Lord. We receive from the Lord if we ask and ask according to His will and not ask amiss. Let us draw near to God and resist the devil for the days are evil and the enemy does not sleep. Humble ourselves before the Lord and He shall exalt us. Therefore brethren let us not overlook these things- our relationship with God, relationship with the brethren and with the world for in doing so we shall be fruitful in our knowledge and service to God.

207

Title: Holy Calling Context: Book of 1Peter Key Verses: 1PE 1:15 but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; 1:16 because it is written, YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY.
1PE 2:9 1PE

But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR Gods 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 clear the surety of our salvation in Christ and the inheritance we have in heaven. We are aliens and travelers in this world. A chosen race, a holy nation, and a people for Gods 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. Him 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)

208

II. Our Holy Savior 1. His sacrifice a. Predicted b. By His precious blood c. Bore our sins d. Died for all 2. He is a. Holy b. The Corner Stone c. Shepherd and Guardian d. Seated with the Father 3. Blesses a. The righteous b. Keep you

(Verses 1:10-12, 20-21, 4:6) (Verses 1:18-19) (Verse 2:24) (Verse 3:18) (Verses 1:16, 2:22-23) (Verses 2:4, 6-8) (Verse 2:25) (Verse 3:22) (Verses 3:10-14) (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)

209

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 Gods 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 into 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 into a holy life. Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God and honor the king.

210

Title: Chosen Context: 1Peter 1 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 began 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 Gods 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 Gods chosen you and me. Body: I. Given New Birth 1. Obtain an inheritance 2. Saved II. Faith Tested 1. Obeyed 2. Holy III. Redeemed 1. By the Blood 2. Through the Word Conclusion:

(Verse 1:3-4) Col 1:4-5 (Verses 5, 9-10) Mk 16:16 (Verses 1:13-14, 22) Jn 8:47 (Verses 15-17) 1Pet 2:5 (Verses 1:18-21) 1Cor 6:20, Heb 9:12 (Verses 12, 23-25) Js 1:18

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 the 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.

211

Title: Royal Priesthood Holy Nation Context: 1Peter 2-3 Key Verses: 1PE 2:1 Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, 1PE 2:2 like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation,
1PE 2:9

But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR Gods OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;
1PE 2:16

Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God. 1PE 2:17 Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.
1PE 2:21

For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, 1PE 2:22 WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH;
1PE 2:24

and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.
1PE 3:18

For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit; Introduction: God has called us into His holy kingdom. We have a holy calling. We are a holy nation purchased by the holy blood of the Son of God. We are called into holiness and not into unrighteousness. Peter and the apostles were taught by our Lord Jesus Christ. They lived and walked with Him. They knew the Lord and saw His ways. In his very first letter Peter discussed Gods calling for His people- their holy calling. We are His royal priests and holy people. Priests offer sacrifices. Let us learn from Peter who loved the Lord into his death and lived a life of holiness and service to God. How should we live our lives as royal priests and holy people? Body: I. Redeemed by Christ 1. Tasted a. Kindness of the Lord b. Died for sins once for all c. By His resurrection d. Others disobeyed 2. Built a. Spiritual House b. Gods possession now 3. Precious Savior a. Precious Stone b. Bore our sins on the cross

(Verses 2:3, 10) Heb 6:5 Tit 3:4-5 (Verse 3:18) 1Tim 2:6 Heb 9:26 (Verse 3:21, 1:3) Rom 4:25 (Verses 2:6-8, 3:19-20) Heb 3:19-4:6 (Verses 2:4-5) Eph 4:15-16 (Verse 9-10) Ex 19:5-6 (OT if) (Verses 2:6-8) Is 28:16 (Verse 24) Is 53:6

212

c. By His wounds we are healed d. Shepherd and Guardian e. Rules II. Live for Christ 1. Righteously a. Put aside sin b. Excellent behavior c. Honor authority d. Family values 2. Long for the Word a. Grow in salvation 3. Offer up a. Spiritual sacrifices b. Godly lives III. Suffer for Christ 1. Slandered a. For doing right b. Blessed c. They shall be put to shame 2. Harshly Treated a. Endure 3. Not Sin a. Christ set the example b. Die to sin, live righteously

(Verse 24) Is 53:5 (Verse 25, 5:4) Jn 10:11 (Verses 3:22) Heb 1:3

(Verses (Verses (Verses (Verses

2:1, 11, 16) 2Cor 7:1 Heb 12:1 12, 17) 2Cor 1:12 13-14, 18) Rom 13:1-7 3:1-7) Col 3:18-21

(Verse 2:2) 2Tim 3:15-17 1Jn 2:14 (Verse 2:5) Heb 13:15-16 Rom 15:16 (Verses 3:8-12) Rom 12:1-2

(Verses 2:12, 15, 3:17) Phil 1:29-30 (Verses 3:13-14, 4:13-14) Mt 5:10-11 (Verses 16-17) 2Thess 1:4-10 (Verses 2:19-20) Js 5:11 Js 1:12 (Verses 2:21-23) Mt 11:29, 16:24 (Verse 24) Rom 6:2, 10-19

Conclusion: Peter wrote, But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR Gods OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Yes dear saints, thats what we are - a chosen race, a royal priesthood and a holy nation. We have become priests unto God. We have become His holy people- a special royal race. We are separated from this world and we are not of this world. We are citizens of heaven. It is all because we are now Gods possession. We are purchased by the precious blood of the Lamb. He bore our sins on the cross. He died for sins once for all. Glory to God. Our salvation made in heaven. Reserved in heaven and are kept by faith through the power of God. He called us out of darkness into His Kingdom of Light. We are called into the light, darkness and death have passed away. We are no longer slaves of darkness and sin. He died to set us free from unrighteousness and to live righteously. Christ endured and suffered. He was maligned and slandered yet did not return evil with evil and sin was not found in Him. He was our forerunner. He has set an example that in which He suffered He endured them all. As His royal priests and holy nation we are to follow His steps. Let us offer sacrifices of righteousness. Reviled for doing good and not sin. Walk as He walked. Talk as He talked. Live as He lived. He is our Head and we are His body. Purchased and owned by God. We are His and Christ is ours. If we live and suffer for Him we shall be glorified together with Him. Let us therefore live and proclaim the excellencies of Him who called us into His Marvelous Light.

213

Title: Living for God Context: 1Peter 4-5 Key Verses: 1PE 4:1 Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 1PE 4:2 so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.
1PE 4:8

Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.
1PE 4:10

As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
1PE 4:14

If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 1PE 4:15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 1PE 4:16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name.
1PE 5:6

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, 1PE 5:7 casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. 1PE 5:8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Introduction: Peter is indeed the model for every believer. He was once a sinner and when converted he became Christs follower. In John 6:66 when some of the disciples did not walk anymore with Jesus because they were offended at the Lords teaching that whoever eats His flesh and drink His blood shall live. Jesus said to Peter and the others, Will you also go away? Peter answered to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Peter at the latter part doubted for a while and denied Him thrice. Jesus prayed for him that his faith may not fail. When Christ has resurrected and they were filled with the Holy Spirit they were never the same again. Peter became bold as a lion. He spoke the word of God with gusto and power. Peter lived and walked for God. Living for God and serving Christ was his greatest desire. History has shown us that until death Peter never denied his Lord. He was crucified upside down. How should believers really live for God? What is living for God? Body: I. Ceased from Sinning 1. Suffer a. Stop sinning 2. Life on earth a. Not as the world b. In the will of God 3. There is a Judge a. All will give account

(Verses 4:1, 1:14) Rom 6:18 1Cor 15:34 Heb 12:1-4 (Verses 4:2-4) Eph 2:1-3 Col 3:8 1Pet 2:1 (Verses 2) Rom 12:1-2 2Cor 5:9 (Verses 4:5-6) 2Cor 5:10

214

b. Judged II. Constant in Serving 1. Love a. Each other deeply b. Hospitable 2. Spiritual gifts a. To serve others b. In God 3. Unfazed by trials a. Not strange b. Rejoice and blessed c. Commit to God and do good III. Connected in Spirit 1. Come to God a. Commune b. Resist the devil c. Strengthened 2. Elders a. Serve b. Be examples 3. Members a. Humble

(Verses 17-19) 1Cor 11:32

(Verses 4:8, 1:22) Jn 13:34-35 (Verses 9) Rom 12:13 (Verses 4:10) Rom 12:6-7 (Verses 11) 2Cor 5:14 (Verses 4:12) Act 14:22 (Verses 13-16) Mt 5:10-11 (Verses 17-19) Heb 12:2-3

(Verses 4:7, 5:7) Js 4:8 (Verses 8-9, 12) Js 4:7 (Verses 5:10-11) 2Thess 2:16-17 (Verses 5:1-2) Jn 21:16-17 (Verses 3-4) 1Tim 4:12 Phil 3:17 (Verses 5-6) Js 4:6 Prov 3:34

Conclusion: There are facts and truths that we cannot do away with in this world and in the age to come. God shall judge the living and the dead and there are only two groups of people that exist today. Those who have Christ and those who do not. Those in Christ are forgiven and saved and those who are condemned Gods wrath remains in them unless they come to know Christ. Are you in Christ? Therefore we are not of this world. Do we live for God or still live as the world does with all its lust and godlessness. Peter who lived with Christ wrote, Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. We are redeemed from darkness and no longer live therein. Living for God is ceasing from sin, constant in serving and connected with the Spirit. We serve with love through the gifts that God has given us. In teaching we teach as God has spoken and serving in Gods strength so that God shall be praised. Living for God is suffering for Him. Suffering is experienced when we stop from sinning. Suffering for Him is when we endure persecutions because of Christ and for doing what is right. Living for a God is loving each other deeply. We humble ourselves before God and commune with Him always. Its resisting the devil and his works. Therefore, brethren lets live for God for we cannot do anything against the truth but for the truth.

215

Title: Reminder Context: Book of 2Peter Key Verses: 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.
2PE 3:17

You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, 2PE 3:18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. 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, well 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 2. Add to your faith a. Given divine power b. All righteousness c. To be fruitful d. Make sure and welcomed 3. Sure faith a. Continued reminder b. Were eyewitnesses II. The Faithless 1. False Teachers 2. Deny the Lord 3. Their works a. Many deceived b. Way of the Truth maligned c. Sinful 4. Their end a. Formerly believed b. Destruction 5. Godly delivers

(Verses 1:1-2) Jde 1:3 Jn 20:28-29 Tit 2:13 (Verses 1:3-4) Eph 3:16 2Pet 2:1 (Verses 1:5-7) Js 1:21-22 (Verses 1:8-9) Js 1:23-25 (Verses 1:10-11) 1Jn 2:28-29 Rev 3:3, 16:15 Lk 12:45-46 Jn 15:5-6 (Verses 1:13-15, 3:1-2, 16) 1Thess 4:1-2 Jude 1:17 (Verses 1:16-21) Mt 17:1-9 1Cor 2:1-2 Act 26:13-18 (Verse 2:1) Act 20:27-30 1Jn 2:18-19 (Verse 2:1) 1Tim 4:1 Jude 1:4 (Verse 2:2) Act 20:30 Mt 24:11 (Verses 2:2-3, 1Pet 2:8) Act 15:5-6,11 Gal 1:6-9, 5:1-10 Rom 9:31-33 (Verses 2:10-19, 20) Jde 1:15-16 (Verses 2:1, 20-22) Act 20:30 (Verses 2:3-6, 9) Jde 1:4, 14-15 (Verses 2:5-9) Jn 15:4-5

216

III. The Faithful Coming 1. Others mock 2. End of age 3. Gods patience 4. Day of the Lord 5. New heaven and new earth 6. Be holy and godly 7. Be on guard and steadfast

(Verses 3:1-2) Jde 1:18-19 (Verses 3:5-8) Heb 1:10-11 Mt 24:14 (Verse 3:9) Rom 2:4 1Tim 2:4 (Verses 3:10-12) 1Thess 5:1, 2Thess 2:1-8 (Verse 3:13) Is 65:17 Rev 21:1-2 (Verses 3:11, 14) Jde 1:20-22 (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 Gods is patient wanting many to repent and come into salvation. On 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.

217

Title: Faith Plus Godliness Context: 2Peter 1 Key Verses: 2PE 1:1 Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ:
2PE 1:3

seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.
2PE 1:5

Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 2PE 1:6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 2PE 1:7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 2PE 1:8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2PE 1:9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 2PE 1:10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble; 2PE 1:11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you.
2PE 1:19

So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. Introduction: The last letter of Peter instructed and reminded all the saints who have received the same faith as the apostles received that we remember the words spoken by the prophets and the commandments of our Lord Jesus Christ through His apostles so that we shall be on guard and not be carried away by unprincipled men and fall from our steadfastness. We have received a faith from God and He has granted us His divine power pertaining to life and godliness so that we may grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ and become mature. We dont start and end in just believing. There are more things in faith and believing. Let us go through some of the sure prophecy about our Lord Jesus and the commandments of our Lord through His apostle Peter. Body: I. Equipped Faith 1. Faith from God a. Same as the Apostles b. By Christs righteousness 2. Power from God a. Grace and peace multiplied b. Divine power granted c. Gave precious promises d. Partakers of divine nature

(Verse 1:1) Jde 1:3 Jn 20:28-29 Tit 2:13 (Verse 1) Rom 1:16-17, 3:21-26 (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse 1:2) Jn 1:16-17 Phil 3:7-10 3) Eph 3:16 2Pet 2:1 4) 2Cor 1:20 1Jn 2:25 4) Heb 12:10 1Jn 3:2-10

218

II. Enriched Faith 1. For this reason a. Apply with all diligence (Verse 1:5) 1Jn 3:18 b. Add in your faith (Verse 5) Js 1:21-22, 2:1, 18 2. Virtues Added a. moral excellence (Verse 1:5) 2Cor 1:12 b. knowledge (Verse 5) Phil 3:8, 10 Eph 4:20-21 c. self-control (Verse 6) 1Cor 9:27 Rom 6:15-20 d. perseverance (Verse 6) Rev 2:26, 3:10 e. godliness (Verse 6, 3:11) 1Tim 6:11 f. brotherly kindness (Verse 7) Rom 12:10 f. love (Verse 7) Jn 13:34 3. Importance a. Yours and increasing (Verse 1:8) Col 1:10 b. Fruitful in Christ (Verse 8) Jn 15:4-5 2Tim 2:19-21 c. If lacked, has forgotten (Verse 9) Js 1:23-25 Heb 10:23-29 d. Make sure His election (Verse 10) 1Jn 2:24-27 Rev 3:3, 16:15 e. Entrance abundantly supplied (Verse 11) Lk 12:45-46 Heb 12:14-17 1Jn 2:28 III. Ensured Faith 1. Reminded a. Established in truth b. Destination 2. Faith sure a. Not devised fables b. Eyewitnesses c. Christ glorified 3. Prophetic sure a. Words from God b. Scripture from God

(Verses 1:12, 15) 1Thess 4:1-2 Jude 1:17 (Verse 14) 2Cor 5:1-8 2Tim 4:6-8 (Verse 1:16, 2:3) Col 2:20-23 (Verse 16) 1Cor 2:1-2 Act 26:13-18 (Verses 17-18) Mt 17:1-9 (Verses 1:18-19) Heb 2:2-4 Rev 1:1, 19:9 (Verses 20-21) 2Tim 3:16 Rev 1:2-3

Conclusion: James said Ill show my faith by my works. Peter wrote that we have received a faith same as theirs and God has granted to us the divine power pertaining to life and godliness. By His grace we are able to live godly and righteous lives. Peter reminded us that we should not be carried away by unprincipled men and not fall from our steadfastness. With all effort and diligence we should add to our faith moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. If these virtues in us and continue to increase we shall be useful and fruitful in our true knowledge and service to Christ. No believer can be useful to His Master should he not guard himself from sin and unrighteousness. Righteousness brings forth righteousness. Good tree bears good fruit. A good heart and abiding spirit in the Lord bring us at the center of His will and produce good works. He who neglects these has forgotten that he has been forgiven. Our faith is equipped through grace and should be enriched with these qualities for our faith is ensured in Christ. Our faith is ensured by Gods revelation to His prophets and apostles. Faith and godliness. Hebrews 12:14-17 said that without holiness no one will see the Lord, make sure no one comes short of His grace and no godless person among us. Therefore make our election and calling sure and an entrance into His Kingdom shall be abundantly supplied to us.

219

Title: False Teachers Among Us Context: 2Peter 2-3 Key Verses: 2PE 2:1 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. 2PE 2:2 Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; 2PE 2:3 and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.
2PE 2:9

then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from temptation, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment for the day of judgment,
2PE 2:20

For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world by the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and are overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. 2PE 2:21 For it would be better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn away from the holy commandment handed on to them.
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.
2PE 3:11

Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,
2PE 3:17

You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, 2PE 3:18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. Introduction: Peter, Paul and Jude talked about false teachers and wicked workers. Who are these men and where do they come from? The bible teaches us that as there were false prophets among the people so there shall be false teachers that shall arise among us. Yes in our midst. Within our fellowship and among the brethren. There are those who come from outside the church and there are those who come within the congregation. They were formerly believers, knew the truth and the way of righteousness and turned their backs from the holy commandment of the Lord. How can we recognize these men- their origin, ways and judgment? How can we escape from them? Body: I. Their Origin 1. From outside the brethren a. Among the People b. Mockers 2. From among the brethren a. Among us

(Verse 2:1) Act 20:29 (Verses 3:3-8) Jde 18-19 (Verse 2:1) Act 20:30

220

3. Apostatized a. Were bought b. Knew the Lord c. Turn away d. Others antichrists already II. Their Ways 1. Their teachings a. False teachers b. Destructive heresies b. Deny the Master c. Way of truth maligned d. Forsaken the right way e. Way of Balaam f. Distort Scriptures 2. Their character a. Take followers b. Sensual c. False words d. Follow their sinful nature e. Revile angelic beings f. Revel in pleasures g. No life III. Their Judgment 1. Destruction a. Upon themselves b. Judged already c. Kept for judgment d. Black darkness reserved 2. Our way out a. Be reminded b. Words of the prophets c. Commandments of the Lord d. Repent e. Holiness and godliness f. Grow in grace and knowledge 3. The Coming Age a. His Second Coming b. New Heaven and Earth

(Verse 2:1) Heb 10:29 (Verse 20) Heb 6:4-5 (Verses 21-22) Heb 6:6 1Tim 4:1 (1Jn 2:18-19, 22-23)

(Verse 2:1) 2Cor 11:13 (Verse 1) Gal 6:7-8, 5:2-4 (Verse 1) 2Cor 11:3-4 Jde 4 (Verse 2) Jn 3:16, 14:6 (Verse 15) 1Jn 1:5-9 (Verses 15-16) Rev 2:14 (Verses 3:16-17) 2Tim 3:16-17 (Verse 2:2) 1Tim 4:1 (Verse 2) Jde 4 (Verse 3) Rom 16:18 (Verses 10, 18-19) Jde 16, 18 (Verses 10-12) Jde 8-10 (Verses 13-14) Rom 13:13 (Verse 17) Jde 12

(Verse 2:1) Heb 6:7-8 (Verse 3) Gal 6:7-8 (Verses 4-9) Jde 6-7 (Verse 17) Jde 6 Rev 20:10 (Verse 3:1) Jde 17 (Verse 2) Lk 24:44-37 (Verse 2) 1Thess 4:1-9 (Verses 7-9, 15) Act 17:30 (Verses 11, 14) 2Cor 1:12 (Verse 18) Jde 20-21 (Verses 3:4, 10) Mt 25:29-31 (Verses 10, 12-13) Rev 21:1

Conclusion: Paul commanded the overseers to take care of the flock because evil times are ahead. In Act 20:28-30 he wrote, Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. To Timothy, But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons. And Peter wrote, But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon

221

themselves. From among yourselves men will arise and there will also be false teachers among you- these men according to Peter knew the way of the truth and righteousness, have turned their backs and have denied the Master who bought them. They were formerly believers who have gone astray. They introduce destructive heresies. They deny the Lord Jesus as the only Savior and malign the only Way. They shall corrupt the only gospel by which we are saved. They hate holiness and good works. Devoid of the Spirit. They are immoral and sensual. They mock and insult. They forget that when the Lord comes again they shall be judged and destroyed and black darkness was reserved for them. They were condemned long time ago. Peter reminded us in his second letter to remember the words of the prophets- Jesus takes away the sin of the world by the sacrifice of Himself and His commandments through His apostles- to love one another and to walk as He walked. Was reviled but did no evil in return and sin was not found in Him. Since judgment and eternal fire shall come upon the wicked we ought to live our lives in holiness, righteousness and godliness. We are not to be influenced by unprincipled men and not fall from our steadfastness.

222

Title: Life, Love and Light Context: Books of 1John 3John 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: 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 Gods 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 in 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 2. The Life 3. Coming of the Life 4. Promised Life a. Since ancient times 5. We have eternal life II. The Love 1. Sent His Son 2. Shed Blood 3. For Forgiveness 4. Our Mediator 5. Ransom 6. Perfected in us 7. Made us His children 8. Shall be glorified 9. Took away our sins

(Verse 1:1) Jn 1:1-2 Rev 3:14 (Verses 1:1-2) Jn 1:4, 5:26 Rev 1:17-18 (Verses 1:2-3) Jn 1:9, 14 Mt 3:1-3 (Verses 2:24-27) Tit 1:2 Col 1:25-27 Gen 3:15, 22:18, 49:10 Ps 132:11 Is 7:14, 9:6 Jer 23:5-6 Act 13:32, 38-39 (Verses 5:11-13, 20) Jn 5:39, 20:31 (Verses 4:9-10, 14) Jn 3:16, 17:8 (Verse 1:7, 2:2) 1Pet 1:18-19 (Verses 1:8-10, 2:12, 5:16-17) Mt 26:28 (Verses 2:1) 1Tim 2:4-6 Heb 7:24-26 (Verses 2:2, 4:10) Isa 53:6,10 1Tim 2:6 (Verses 2:5, 4:11-12, 17-21) Jn 15:12-13 (Verses 3:1) Jn 1:12 Gal 3:26, 4:6 (Verses 3:2-3) Rom 8:17, 23 Phil 3:21 Col 3:4 (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

223

(Verses 2:5, 14, 24, 2Jn 1:8-11) Jn 8:31,14:23 (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 the brethren (Verses 4:7-12) 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 into 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.

c. Keep His words d. Love the brethren

224

Title: The Life of God Context: 1John 1 Key Verses: 1JN 1:1 What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we

have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the Word of Life
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.
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. 1JN 1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. Introduction: 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. John wanted 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 this everlasting truth? The apostles have known Christ because they lived, talked, walked and were taught by Him. Body: I. The Life 1. Origin of the Life a. From the beginning 2. Coming of the Life a. Manifested to us II. The Light 1. God is Light a. No darkness at all 2. Saints in the Light a. Not walk in darkness b. Walk in the light c. His blood cleanses us III. The Love 1. His Shed Blood a. Our forgiveness 2. His Faithfulness a. Mercy

(Verse 1:1) Jn 1:1-2 (Verses 1:2-3) Jn 1:14

(Verse 1:5) Jn 1:9, 8:12 (Verse 1:6, 2:4) Jn 3:20-21 (Verse 1:7, 2:3-6) Jn 8:12 (Verse 7) Gal 6:7-8

(Verse 1:7) 1Pet 1:18-19 (Verses 1:8-10) Ps 32:5 Rom 4:7-8

225

Conclusion: Our Lord Jesus Christ the eternal life was manifested. He was in the beginning with God His Father and came down from heaven to earth. He was from above and is above all. He was not of this world but came to our world. He came and showed us the Light. God is Light. We have come to God through His Son and now we have fellowship with Him. And true knowledge and fellowship with God are seen in our walk with Him in the light. If we say we know Him it is seen in our walk with Him. We do not walk in darkness. We do not practice sin but practice righteousness. We walk in the light as He is in the light and His blood cleanses us from all of our sins. We must be careful at all times and make sure we are not in darkness or sin but we are in the Light. When we sin He is faithful at all times when we come to Him to receive grace, mercy and forgiveness. As children of Light we are to walk in Him and for Him. Our world today is in darkness but knowing you are in the Light and having that Life makes our joy complete. Walk in the Light.

226

Title: You Know Him Context: 1John 2 Key Verses: 1JN 2:1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; 1JN 2:2 and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world. 1JN 2:3 By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments.
1JN 2:5

but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him:
1JN 2:9

The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until

now.

1JN 2:10

The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him.
1JN 2:15

Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
1JN 2:22

Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son. 1JN 2:23 Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father; the one who confesses the Son has the Father also. Introduction: John at the death of our Lord Jesus Christ was at the foot of the cross. It was said that he was one of the disciples who was closest to the Lord and loved the Lord so much and whom Jesus loved. In Johns General Epistles we can read from his thoughts and heart his real personality as he shared with the saints Gods revelation of real knowledge and experience of God. John showed in his letters the signs and evidences that we have come to know Him. Do you know Him? How can we know that we know Him? Lets hear from John. Body: I. Known by Obedience 1. Not Sin a. Commanded b. We have Christ the Advocator c. The propitiation for all sins 2. Keep His Commandments a. We know Him b. Liar who does not keep 3. Keep His words a. We are in Him b. Gods love perfected c. Abide in Him and walk II. Known by Love 1. The Commandment a. Darkness is passing

(Verse 2:1) Jn 5:14, 8:11 (Verse 2) Heb 7:25 (Verse 2) Is 53:6 1Tim 2:3-6 (Verse 2:3) Jn 14:21 (Verse 4, 1:6, 5:2) Rev 14:12 (Verse 2:5) Jn 8:31 (Verse 5) Jn 14:21, 23 (Verse 6, 3:6) Jn 15:4-9 (Verses 2:7-8) 2Cor 4:6

227

b. Light is shinning c. Not hate his brother d. Love the brethren 2. Confirmation a. We are forgiven b. We know Him c. We overcome the evil one d. The word abides in us 3. Love not a. The world b. The things of the world c. Gods love not in him d. Do Gods will

(Verse 8) Jn 8:12 (Verses 9, 11, 3:14-18) Rom 12:9-10 (Verse 10, 4:7) Jn 13:34 (Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse 2:12) Act 13:38-39 13, 5:11-13) Jn 3:36 13) Act 26:18 14) 1Pet 1:23-25

(Verse 2:15) Rom 12:1-2 (Verses 15-16) 2Cor 6:14-18 (Verse 15) Js 4:4 (Verse 17) Jn 8:51

III. Known by Confession 1. The antichrists a. Last hour (Verse 2:18) 1Tim 4:1 b. Many appeared (Verse 18) Mk 13:22 c. Not of us (Verse 19) Mk 9:38-40 2. We are anointed a. From the Holy One (Verse 2:20) Jn 14:26 b. We know the truth (Verses 20-21) 1Cor 2:15-16 c. That Jesus is the Christ (Verse 22) Mt 16:16 Jn 4:25-26, 42 d. Confess the Son (Verse 23, 4:1-3) Jn 6:38, 8:23, 16:28-31 3. Eternal Life a. The Word abide in us (Verse 2:24) 1Cor 15:1-4 b. We abide in the Father and the Son (Verse 24) Jn 14:24 2Jn 9 c. His promise is eternal life (Verses 25-26) Jn 8:51 d. He teaches and we abide (Verse 27) Jn 14:26 e. Then we have confidence (Verse 28) Jn 15:4-9 f. Truly Born of Him (Verse 29) 3Jn 11 Conclusion: John was one of the disciples whom Jesus loved. We can read this in Jn 21:20, Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them; the one who also had leaned back on His bosom at the supper and said, Lord, who is the one who betrays You? At the foot of the cross John was there beside Jesus. John indeed experienced the true knowledge of God. He not only talked about it but lived it. In his letter he said that God is light and we have come to know Him. Knowing God is seen in the believer. He does not sin meaning he does not live in sin. He keeps His commandments. He who says he knows Him but keeps not His commandments is a liar. When he keeps His words Gods love is perfected in him. We come to know Him if we walk and abide in the Light and not in darkness. If we do not hate but love our brethren we are in the Light. He who hates is still in darkness and abides in death. We know Him if we do not love the evil things of the world. We overcome the evil one because His words abide in us. Antichrists deny the Son and they deny the Father. We know Him if that which we heard from the beginning abides in us that Jesus is the Christ who was sent to be the Savior of the world and He is the propitiation of our sins and of the whole world. And this is His promise to us- eternal life. If we work righteousness we are born of Him.

228

Title: Children of God Context: 1John 3-4 Key Verses 1JN 3:1 See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. 1JN 3:6 No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has seen Him or knows Him.
1JN 3:9

No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
1JN 3:23

This is His commandment, that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, just as He commanded us. 1JN 3:24 The one who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. We know by this that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us.
1JN 4:2

By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God;
1JN 4:7

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 1JN 4:8 The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. Introduction: John again in his letter showed us who we are in Gods Kingdom. We are Gods children. In chapter 2 of 1 John he said that we have come to know Him and it is evidenced by our obedience, love and confession of the Christ. He continued what are the spiritual manifestations of being Gods own children. We are brought into the Kingdom of His Son and we are freed and transferred from darkness to light. What then are the manifestations of God children? How can we recognize them? Body: I. His Spiritual Children 1. Gods love a. Bestowed on us b. We know Him c. Sent His Son for us 2. Be like Him a. When He appears b. Our hope 3. Overcome antichrists a. Test every spirit b. Jesus has come in the flesh c. Christ in us d. Testify Jesus as Savior of the e. And the Son of God

(Verse 3:1, 4:10) Jn 3:16 (Verse 1) Heb 8:11-12 (Verses 4:9-10) Rom 8:3-4 (Verse 3:2) Phil 3:20 (Verse 3) Tit 1:2 (Verse 4:1) Gal 1:6-8 (Verses 2-3) Jn 3:31, 6:38, 16:28 Phil 2:6-9 (Verses 4-6) Col 2:6 world (Verse 14) 1Tim 2:3-6 (Verse 15) Mt 16:16

229

II. His Righteous Children 1. He took away sins a. He appeared for it (Verse 3:5) Jn 1:29 Heb 9:26 b. To destroy the works of the devil (Verse 8) Col 2:13, 15 2. Practice righteousness a. Sin is lawlessness (Verse 3:4, 5:17) Js 4:17 b. We abide not to sin (Verse 3:6, 24) Jn 15:4-10 c. Whoever sins does not know Him (Verse 6) Jn 8:34-36 d. Righteous (Verse 7, 10) Rom 6:16-22 3. Born of God a. Children of the devil sin (Verse 3:8) Mt 13:38 Jn 8:44 b. Born of God dont practice sin (Verse 9, 5:18) Act 26:18 III. His Loving Children 1. Sign of Gods children a. Love his brother (Verses 3:10, 4:11, 20) Jn 13:35 b. His commandment (Verses 3:11, 4:21) Jn 13:34, 15:12 c. Passed from death to life (Verses 3:12-15) Jn 5:24, 8:51 2. Love manifested a. Lay down our lives (Verse 3:16) 1Thess 2:8 b. Open our hearts (Verse 17) Js 2:15-16 c. Love in deed and truth (Verse 18) Js 1:22 d. Born of God (Verse 4:7) 1Cor 8:3 2Cor 5:14 e. Knows God (Verse 8) Jn 5:42 f. Gods love manifested (Verses 9-10, 2:2) Jn 3:16 g. God abides in us (Verses 12-13, 16) 3. Our assurance a. Our hearts do not condemn us (Verses 3:19-21, 4:16-19) b. God is greater than our hearts (Verse 3:20-21) Ps 7:9 c. He answers our prayers (Verse 22) Jn 9:31 d. His commandment (Verse 23) Jn 3:36, 15:12 e. We abide if we keep His commandments (Verse 24) Jn 15:10 f. Given us His Spirit (Verse 24) 2Cor 1:22 Conclusion: How great is Gods love that we are called Gods children. How great is Gods love for us that He has sent His Son to die for our sins and that He was sent so that through Him the world might be saved. John in his letters showed us the manifestations of Gods children. God first loved us and we love. Jesus said, He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him. As Gods children we keep His commandments. We practice righteousness because He is righteous. He who says he knows God but does not practice righteousness and does not love his brethren whom he sees is lying. The truth is not in him. God is love and he that loves has seen and known God. He that practices righteousness is born of God. His commandment is to believe in Jesus and love one another. John said as Gods children we have overcome the spirit of the antichrist. We testify that Jesus is the Savior of the world and He has come in the flesh. He came down from heaven. He is the propitiation for not only for our sins but of the whole world. We love and this is our confidence if our hearts do not condemn us we have the assurance because God is greater than our hearts. And anything we ask from Him He answers because we keep His commandments and love the brethren. Finally, it does not appear yet what we shall become but when He appears we shall be like Him.

230

Title: Born of God Context: 1John 5 Key Verses: 1JN 5:1 Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and whoever loves the Father loves the child born of Him.
1JN 5:4

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the worldour faith.
1JN 5:11

And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His

Son.

1JN 5:12

He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. 1JN 5:13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.
1JN 5:18

We know that no one who is born of God sins; but He who was born of God keeps him, and the evil one does not touch him. Introduction: John finished his first letter on being born again- born of God, born from above. It is becoming Gods children through faith in the Son. Earlier he wrote he that loves is born of God and he that practices righteousness is born of Him. Now he continued again discussing our being Gods children- being born of God. What do they believe and how do they live? What is the condition of Gods children? He that believes Jesus is the Christ is born of God John started. We can notice from Johns writing three things that he stressed over and over as Gods children- our confession, our practice of righteousness and our assurance. Lets continue his teachings. Body: I. Born Again Confession 1. Jesus is a. The Christ b. The Son of God c. Born of God 2. Jesus came a. by water b. blood c. Spirit 3. Jesus is a. True God b. Eternal Life II. Born Again Righteousness 1. Love a. The Father b. Gods children c. Born of God 2. Obey

(Verse 5:1) Jn 4:25-26, 42 (Verse 5) Mt 16:16 Heb1:5-10 (Verse 1) Jn 1:10-13 (Verses 5:6-8) Mt 3:13-17 (Verses 6-8) Mt 26:28 (Verses 6-8) 1Cor 12:3 (Verse 5:20) Jn 17:3 (Verses 5:20, 1:1-2) Jn 14:6

(Verse 5:1) Jn 8:38, 42, 15:23 (Verse 1) Jn 15:12 (Verse 4:7-8) Jn 5:42

231

a. Keep His commandments (Verses 5:2-3, 2:3) Jn 14:15 b. Practice righteousness (Verse 2:29, 3:7) Rom 6:16-18 c. Do not practice sin (Verse 3:6, 9) Jn 15:4-5 d. Born of God (Verse 5:18) Gal 5:22-25 3. Overcome the world a. By our faith (Verse 5:4, 2:13) Jde 3 b. Believing Jesus as the Son of God (Verse 5, 4:4) Jn 8:23-24, 31-32 c. Born of God (Verse 4) Act 26:18 4. Guard selves from idols (Verse 5:21) 1Cor 10:6-8 III. Born Again Assurance 1. Gods testimony a. Concerning His Son b. Has that testimony in him c. Eternal life in the Son 2. We know a. Written b. Son of God has come c. Know Him and in Him 3. Our confidence a. He hears us b. Forgiveness of others c. Kept from sin and evil

(Verse 5:9) Jn 3:16 (Verse 10) Rom 8:16 (Verses 11-12) Jn 3:36 (Verse 5:13) Jn 20:31, 5:39 (Verse 20) Jn 12:46-50 (Verse 20) Eph 1:13 (Verses 5:14-15) Jn 9:31 (Verse 16) Js 5:16 (Verses 17-19, 3:9) 2Thess 3:3

Conclusion: Born again. Born of God. Born from above. Did you know even the Cults call themselves the same? They believe after you have been indoctrinated and baptized in water then you are born again. Who is truly born again? How can we know that we are born again? What are the evidences of being born in the Spirit- born of God and born from above. Being born again is being born into the family of God. It is becoming His child through the sanctification of the Spirit and faith in the Son of God through the only gospel preached that is Christ was crucified for our sins. New birth is through receiving the Son of God through the only gospel message and is not through entering a church or group through series of indoctrination. It is by the gospel through faith in the Son of God who died for our sins. In the last chapter of 1John he depicted and showed us the manifestations, confessions, conduct and condition of true born again believers. They believe and confess that Jesus is the Christ- the Messiah, the Savior of the world, the Son of God, truly God in form and became like us and ransomed us from our sins. Born again believers love God the Father and love His children. He that loves is born of God. They keep His commandments. They do not practice sin but righteousness. They keep His commandments and abide in Him. No one who sins continually and walks in darkness is born of God. Born again believers are not overcome by the world but they overcome them through faith because they believe Jesus is the Son of God and true God in nature. Born again believers, real born again believers have Gods testimony in themselves that He has given us eternal life. This life is in the Son and he that has the Son has eternal life. Its a present spiritual condition into future revelation. Born again believers have confidence in God that He hears them. They are kept from sin and from the evil one. Therefore being born again is heard in our confession who Christ is, seen in our lives and conduct when we keep His commandments and love the brethren and our hearts confident and assured that God hears us.

232

Title: Walking in Truth Context: 2-3 John Key Verses: 2JN 1:1 The elder to the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in truth; and not only I, but also all who know the truth, 2JN 1:2 for the sake of the truth which abides in us and will be with us forever:
2JN 1:4

I was very glad to find some of your children walking in truth, just as we have received commandment to do from the Father.
3JN 1:3

For I was very glad when brethren came and testified to your truth, that is, how you are walking in truth. 3JN 1:4 I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.
3JN 1:11

Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God. Introduction: What is the truth? Are we in the truth? Do you know the truth? Are you in the truth? Are you walking in the truth? Unless we know the truth we cannot walk in the truth. Jesus said, I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. John was an apostle of Jesus Christ and has received and known the truth. Now he is writing and confirming the truth that we have received. Lets take a deeper understanding of the truth and walking in it. Body: I. Receiving the Truth 1. The Chosen a. Brethren b. Friends 2. Abides in us a. Will be forever 3. Giver a. Grace, mercy, peace b. From the Father and Son II. Being in Truth 1. Walking in Truth 2. Love one another 3. Walk in His commandments 4. Prosper in all respects 5. Does good is of God

(Verse 2Jn 10) Eph 1:4, 13 (Verses 3Jn 14-15) Lk 5:20 Jn 15:14-15 (Verse 2Jn 2) Tit 1:2 (Verse 2Jn 3) Jn 1:16-17 (Verse 3) Rom 1:7 (Verses 2Jn 4, 3Jn 3-4) Jn 8:31-32 (Verses 2Jn 5, 3Jn 5-6) Jn 15:12 (Verse 2Jn 6) Jn 14:15, 15:8-10 (Verse 3Jn 2) Jn 10:10 (Verses 3Jn 9-12, 1Jn 3:10) Gal 5:22-25

III. Teaching the Truth 1. Deceivers a. Deny Jesus coming in the flesh (Verse 2Jn 7) Jn 3:31, 6:38, 16:28 Phil 2:6-9 2. Watch and not lose (Verse 2Jn 8) Mk 13:37 Heb 10:35 3. Abide in the teaching of Christ a. Has both the Father and Son (Verse 2Jn 9) Jn 8:31 b. Reject others (Verses 10-11) Gal 1:6-9

233

4. Went out for the Name (Verse 3Jn 7) Mt 28:19-20 a. Support and be workers of truth (Verse 8) Lk 8:1-3 Conclusion: John wrote to the believers, I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth. Yes, if its a great joy for the apostles and Gods servants to see the saints walking in truth how much more is it for our Father in heaven to be pleased with us. Jesus said, If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Fathers commandments and abide in His love. The Father said of the Son, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased. God is pleased when His children are walking in truth. And keeping His commandments is walking in truth. Loving one another is walking in truth. Doing good to one another and not evil is walking in truth. It is also Gods desire that we all prosper in all respects- in health and in soul. Walking in truth is living an excellent and fruitful life giving glory to God. Truth is opposite of deception. There are many deceivers that have gone into the world that deny Jesus coming down from heaven to earth and took the human form and died for us. John said watch ourselves and that we do not lose what we have accomplished so that we may receive the full reward. Anyone who comes and does not bring the teaching of Christ should not be welcomed or received. Let us not participate in their evil deeds. He that has the teachings of Christ has both the Father and the Son. We are to support workers who bring the truth. Therefore brethren, let us walk in the truth that is in Christ. Keep His commandments, keep the love for the brethren, keep doing good and not evil. For he who does good and walks in the truth is of God and has seen God.

234

Title: Contending for the Faith Context: Book of Jude 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 one of the apostles of the Lord and brother of 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 Judes 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 2. Are Kept 3. We Contend II. They Corrupt 1. Ungodly persons a. Crept in b. Immoral c. Deny the Lord Jesus d. Reject authority e. Way of Cain f. Error of Balaam g. Rebellion of Korah h. Lifeless i. Fault finder j. Sweet talker k. Cause division l. Without the Spirit 2. Ungodly end a. Destroyed b. Eternal Punishment III. Keep the Faith 1. Build up a. In your holy faith b. Pray in the Spirit c. Abide in Gods love d. Look onto His coming 2. Save others a. Have mercy

(Verse 1:1) Rom 1:6-7 1Cor 1:9 (Verse 1) 1Cor 1:8 (Verse 3) 1Tim 1:18, 6:12 (Verse 1:1) (Verse 4) 2Pet 2:1 (Verses 4,18) 2Pet 2:14 (Verse 4) 2Pet 2:1 (Verse 8-10) 2Pet 2:10-12 (Verse 11) Gen 4:8 1Jn 3:12 (Verse 11) Num 22:7 2Pet 2:15 (Verses 11) Num 16:1-3 (Tit 3:8) (Verse 12) 2Pet 2:17 (Verses 16,18) Act 25:11 2Pet 3:3 (Verse 16) 2Pet 2:18 (Verse 19) Gal 5:20 (Verse 19) Tit 1:16 (Verses 5,10,14-15) 2Pet 3:7 (Verses 6-7,13) 2Pet 2:3, 17 2Thess 1:8-9

(Verse (Verse (Verse (Verse

1:20) 2Tim 4:7 20) Eph 8:18 1Thess 5:17 1Cor 14:14-15 21) Ps 37:27 Jn 15:4,9-10 1Jn 4:16 21) 1Cor 1:7, Tit 2:13

(Verse 1:22) Rom 14:1

235

b. Snatch others from fire 3. Our Savior a. Able to keep b. Makes you stand c. Praised

(Verse 23) Tit 1:10-11,13 (Verse 1:24) 1Cor 1:8 Eph 5:27 (Verse 25) 2Pet 2:9 1Thess 5:23-24 (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 the 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 onto His coming for the saints. Give glory to God.

236

Title: Last Things Context: Book of Revelation 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 anyones 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.

237

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. Its 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, Begi nning of Gods 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)

238

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 Satans 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 of mankind is destroyed (Verses 6.7-8) 5th Seal: First Martyrs (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 didnt 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)

239

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 Lords saints. IV. The Second Coming 1. His Coming The 7th Trumphet sounded: Christ reign foreseen Rev 19-20 (Verses 10.7, 11.15-19) Mt 24.29-31 1Cor 15.52 (Verses 19.7-10) (Verses 19.11-16) Mt 24.30-31 Dan 7.13-14 (Verses 16.15, 3.3) 1Thess 5.4-6 2Pet 3:10

The Lamb and the bride ready The Coming of Jesus Christ Coming like as thief 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)

240

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 New Heaven & Earth Rev 21-22 (Verses 21:1 to 22) 1Cor 15.24-28 2Pet 3.10-13,7 Is 34.4, 51.62 Is 65.17 (Verse 21.2) (Verse 21.3) (Verse 21.3) (Verse 21.3) (Verse 21.4) (Verse 21.4) (Verse 21.4) (Verses 22.14-15) (Verse 21.5) Is 35.4-10 (Verses 21.27, 22.14-15) (Verses 22.1, 3) (Verse 22.3) Zech 14.11 (Verse 22.3) (Verse 22.4) (Verses 22.6, 21.24,26) Dan 7.18

1. The Character a. Place for the holy city, the new Jerusalem coming from heaven b. In the city is Tabernacle of God among men c. God will dwell among them d. They shall be His people e. No more tears f. No more death g. No more mourning, crying or pain h. No more sin i. All things are new j. All whose names written in the Lambs Book of Life shall come into it k. The Throne of God and of the Lamb in it l. There will no longer be any curse m. His bond-servants will serve Him n. They will see His Face and His Name will be on their forehead o. They will reign forever & ever

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 &

241

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. Theres 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 in 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 mans wickedness but m any 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 until 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 shall be

242

gathered to Him and be raised into 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 the 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 in the Books. And whosoevers name was not found in the Lambs 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 shall come 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.

243

Title: Revelation Context: Revelation 1:1-20 Key Verses: REV 1:1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show to His bond-servants, the things which must soon take place; and He sent and communicated it by His angel to His bond-servant John,
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. In the later years of Johns 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 2. Spoken by the Son 3. Through His apostle II. The Revealer 1. Faithful witness 2. Loves us 3. Made us a Kingdom 4. The Almighty 5. Conquering Savior III. The Receiver 1. Bond servants 2. Messengers of the Churches 3. The Churches

(Verse 1:1) Heb1:1 (Verses 1:1,5,11,19) Heb1:2 (Verses 1:1-4,9) Lk 10:16 (Verse 1:5) Jn 8:26, 15:15 (Verse 1:5, 5:9) Rom 5:6 (Verse 1:6, 5:10) 1Pet 2:9 (Verses 1:7-8,10,15-16, 19:15-16) Is 44:6 (Verses 1:17-18, 3:7) (Verses 1:1,3, 2:11,17,29) (Verse 1:20) Jn 21:15-17 Heb 13:17 (Verses 1:4,11-12,20, 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.

244

Title: Message to the Churches Context: Revelation 2-3:22 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. Lets 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 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Speaks He is among us (Verse 2:1) First and the Last, was Alive (Verse 2:8) Has the sharp two-edged sword (Verse 2:12) The Son of God (Verse 2:18) Has the seven Spirits of God and seven stars (Verses 3:1, (1:20)) Holy, True, has key of David, authority (Verse 3:7) Amen, Faithful & True Witness, Beginning of Gods creation (Verse 3:14) 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 2:3) b. Not tolerate evil men (Verse 2:2) c. Not tolerate false apostles, not Jews (Verses 2:2, 9) 2. Hate the deeds of Nicolaitans (Verse 2:7) 3. Endured tribulation and poverty (Verse 2:9) 4. Hold fast His Name and not deny His faith (Verse 2:13) 5. Deeds greater than the first (Verse 2:19) 6. Some not soil their garments and worthy (Verse 3:4) 7. Kept His word and not deny His Name (Verse 3:8) B. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Evil Left first love Satan dwells Teachings of Balaam and Nicolaitans Tolerate acts of immorality Dead Deeds not complete Lukewarm Miserable, poor, blind, naked (Verse 2:4) (Verse 2:13) (Verses 2:14-15) (Verse 2:20) (Verse 3:1) (Verse 3:2) (Verses 3:15-16) (Verse 3:17)

245

III. His Word A. Repent 1. Do the deeds 2. Do not fear, faithful until death 3. Keep His Deeds 4. Wake up and strengthen 5. Remember and keep 6. Learn from the Lord 7. Hear and open the door 8. Dine with Him

(Verses 2:5,16) (Verse 2:5) (Verse 2:10) (Verse 2:26) (Verse 3:2) (Verse 3:3) (Verses 3:18-19) (Verse 3:20) (Verse 3:20)

B. Overcome (Verses 2:7, 10) 1. Eat of the tree of life in Gods Paradise (Verse 2:7) 2. Have Crown of life (Verse 2:10) 3. Not hurt by second death (Verse 2:11) 4. Hidden manna, white stone and new name (Verse 2:17) 5. No burden (Verse 2:24) 6. Authority of the nations (Verses 2:25-27) 7. Given Morning Star (Verse 2:28) 8. Walk with Him in white (Verses 3:4-5) 9. Not erased in the book of life (Verse 3:5) 10. Confess his name before the Father (Verse 3:5) 11. Enemies bow and know you are loved (Verse 3:9) 12. Kept from tests (Verse 3:10) 13. Crown not taken (Verse 3:11) 14. Make Pillar in the Temple of God (Verse 3:12) 15. God and Jesus name written on Him (Verse 3:12) 16. Overcome and Sit with Him on His Throne (Verse 3:21) C. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Judgment Remove lampstand Make war Bring sickness and death Come like a thief Spit out of His mouth (Verses 2:5(1:20)) (Verse 2:16) (Verses 2:21-23) (Verse 3:3) (Verse 3:16)

Conclusion: Our Lord Jesus Christs 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 sin 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 onto 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.

246

Writing Relevant Sermons

Pastor Larry Dela Cruz

We are called to preach and teach the word of God in season and out of season. The
preacher must always be ready and equipped all the time when the need arises. Making a good and relevant sermon that motivates and moves the hearers to action is a challenge. James said, Do not be hearers of the Word but doers. The Word of God is active and powerful. We are called to the rightly divide the Word of Truth and present it clearly.

The Bible has many great themes and messages that the believer, the student, and the preacher can develop sermons from and through it for building up and edification. Each verse, texts, paragraphs, chapters and books are to be taken in context. Right exegesis or proper interpretation should always come out from the scripture and not the opposite. We do not put our thoughts into the scripture. To get the context the rule of the thumb is always get the immediate context above and below the text taken. Then go to the broader context which is the chapter and book were the verses were taken. We interpret Scriptures with Scriptures.

In writing a Sermon we can divide it into three parts. These are the Introduction, the Body and the Conclusion. How do we construct a sermon without compromising the main message of the writer? How can we uncover and unveil his intentions? How can we outline the message with clarity, order and ease? We should first get to know the intended purpose and meaning of the writer. Why is he writing the message? What is his purpose? To whom he is writing? Plotting out (see diagram below) the main parts of the message will help us find the context and intention of the author. Take Note: We have to start with finding the key verses first. From the key verses and the big picture we shall develop the main parts of the body of the message. The main points and sub-points of the body or message should be in context and flow from the verses therein and choosing the key words from them is the guide. The author has a specific central message in his writing. Next, as we see the big picture and intention of the writer we can now have a title. Titles should make the believers think and stimulate their attention to hear the message. And from thereon we can build up a good introduction. Finally, we make the conclusion and apply its relevance to our present time and audience and that would build up and encourage the saints.

247

6 Easy Steps in Developing a Sermon

1. Choose the Context (the chapter or verses of Scripture) from which we shall build upon the Study. Get the Main Message of the Study by knowing the main point(s) of the writer. Pray and get insight. Look at the Big Picture of the message within the context. Pause and meditate. The Big Picture is the Core Message(s) the writer intends to convey to his recipients. 2. After having an insight and knowing the Big Picture get the Key verse(s). 3. Develop a good Title upon seeing the Big Picture that shall flow with the context or message. Titles can be relevant in our times so the hearers can identify themselves with but shall not compromise the main and original thought of the writer. 4. Develop an Introduction that will open the minds of the hearers why they have to give ear to the Message. 5. Develop the Body of the Message by dividing into three main points with sub-points the Big Picture of the Message. The main points and the sub-points should have a link with each other as the message in context progresses and develops. Have key words from the verses to develop the sub-points. The Body should be dependent in the flow of the context within the chapter and verses chosen. We put their thoughts and teachings in the outline. Also, do not forget to put some parallel verses in the message after finishing the outline. This shall give credence, depth and biblical harmony of the message. 6. Give the Conclusion and apply its relevance today. Note: As you practice you can easily fill up the pattern as long you already know the Big Picture of the Message.

PLOT a sermon outline for guidance. Make sure you start and begin with Knowing the Big Picture. Find the Key Verses and Intention of the Writer. Fill up the Outline.

248

EXPOSITORY SERMON OUTLINE Title Context: (Starting point, Get the Big Picture, Meditate, Pause) Key Verse(s): Introduction: Body: Main Points with Sub-Points (Key Words from the verse) Conclusion:

Practice makes perfect. We have the whole Bible to build upon our Sermons. There are three Basic Types of Sermons Textual, Topical and Expository. The Textual Sermon is composed of one or two passages. The Topical Sermon is based on themes or subjects of the bible. The Expository Sermon is based on several passages in context. We shall dwell more on Expository Sermons. Why Expository Preaching? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. It is simple and direct. We get the core message of the writer. We let the Scripture speak for itself. We preach the Bible. We get acquainted and used to getting the original and intended meaning.

249

EXPOSITORY SERMON OUTLINES

1TI 4:13

Until I come, give attention to the PUBLIC READING OF SCRIPTURE, to exhortation and teaching.
2TI 4:2

PREACH THE WORD; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. 2TI 4:3 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, 2TI 4:4 and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.

DRILL # 1 1John 1 (GET THE BIG PICTURE)

1JN 1:1

What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the Word of Life 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 1JN 1:3 what we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. 1JN 1:4 These things we write, so that our joy may be made complete. 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. 1JN 1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. 1JN 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1JN 1:10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.

250

Title: (Develop a title relevant to the Context) Context : 1Jn 1:1-10 (Starting Point, Get the Big Picture, Meditate, Pause) 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: (Develop the Introduction that shall open the study and why study) 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: Main Points (Divide the Big Picture or the Message into three main points and sub-points. The Key Verses and the Key Words may help develop the Body) Three main points and sub-points: I. The Life 1. Origin of the Life 2. Coming of the Life (verse 1) (Have Key Words for sub-points) (verses 2-3) (verse 5) (verses 6-7) (verse 7) (verses 8-10)

II. The Light 1. God is Light 2. Saints in the Light III. The Love 1. His Shed Blood 2. His Faithfulness

Conclusion: (Give the application and relevance of the Study) 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.

251

Parallel Passages: (These passages can be placed after the message has been done. Quotations or passages from the same author from the same book and or his other books are a good first choice of reference. Let the bible speak for itself. We just convey and preach what it says.)

(Choose parallel passages)

JN 1:1 JN 1:2

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.

JN 1:14

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.
JN 1:9

There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man.

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 3:20

For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. JN 3:21 But he who practices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds may be manifested as having been wrought in God.
1PE 1:18

knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, 1PE 1:19 but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.
PS 32:5

I acknowledged my sin to You, And my iniquity I did not hide; I said, I will confess my transgressi ons to the LORD; And You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah. To have a more in-depth study and exposition: Consider: a) Context (Get the Immediate and Broader Context) b) Syntax (Consider the Language and Genre used) c) Etymology (Word meaning) d) Background (History and Condition)

252

OUR FINISHED SERMON:

Title: Context: 1John 1:1-10

The Life of God

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 2. Coming of the Life (verse 1) Jn 1:1-2 (verses 2-3) Jn 1:14 (verse 5) Jn 1:9, 8:12 (verses 6-7) Jn 3:20-21 (verse 7) 1Pet 1:18-19 (verses 8-10) Ps 32:5

II. The Light 1. God is Light 2. Saints in the Light III. The Love 1. His Shed Blood 2. His Faithfulness 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.

253

larrydelacruz.weebly.com

254