The Lessons From The Ants
May 16, 2007
THE LESSONS FROM THE ANTS
Prov 6:6-9 Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:
Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, & gathereth her food in the harvest. How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep
Prov 30:24-25 There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise: The ants are a people {Creature} not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;
Introduction:
A) God’s creation gives us valuable instruction
1) Isa 1:3 The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider.
2) Jer 8:7 Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgment of the LORD.
B) If man’s vision is too weak to look at the burning bush.
1) Let him look at the glow worm at his feet.
2) All of these things give us a Divine Sermon.
C) The Writer says “Go to the ant you sluggard”
1) A sluggard is one who loves his leisure.
2) His is one who lives in idleness.
D) The false cults are living around us.
1) They knock on doors day by day…
2) We are Lazy and Asleep.
I) THE ANTS HAVE UNITY AND COOPERATION
A) ANTS LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
1) They don’t fight among themselves.
2) Christians are Exhorted to “Love One Another”
B) ANTS HELP ONE ANOTHER.
1) If a grain is too large to move they pull together
2) If one is injured they help him out.
3) If one falls in a pit the all work to rescue him.
4) Christians need to “Bear one anther’s burden’s”
C) ANTS WORK HARMONIOUSLY.
1) Though small they unite to get greater results
2) Each individual ant has his own job.
3) None is greater than the other.
D) THERE IS POWER IN UNITY.
1) Illustration of the African Ant… They march in the millions in close order – terror spreads before them – Nothing before them is safe – Lion – Snake – Elephant – People – Houses – Being united is powerful
2) Imagine what the Church could do of it were united like this……
3) The Powers of Darkness would flee..
4) The Early Church moved forward with Unity.
II) THE ANTS ARE INDUSTRIOUS
A) THEY WORK VOLUNTARILY.
1) They have no guide – overseer or ruler…
2) Thousands live in one colony and they all work
B) THEY WORK ACCORDING TO THEIR ABILITY
1) Storekeeper – Nurses – Engineers..
2) Can’t build a Cathedral – Can build an ant hill
3) God expects us to use our ability He has given us Eccl 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might;
C) THE ANTS WORK CONTINUALLY.
1) They work from daylight to dark…
2) Their motto is “Work for the night is coming”
3) If an ant-hill is destroyed – They Rebuild.
4) If an ant had a text “Be not weary in well doing”
D) CHRISTIANS SHOULD STUDY THE ANT..
1) Many think the church is a “Don’t work club” Just leave it – It will get done someway.
2) Its like the farmer I read about… A Tourist saw him sitting on a stump in the field He ask him “How are things going?” – “Pretty tolerable” – “I had to cut down some trees but the wind blew them down and saved me the trouble” … “That’s fine” said the tourist .. “Lighting set fire to the brush pile – saved me the trouble” – “That’s remarkable” said the tourist…”What are you doing now” – “Nothing much” said the farmer “Just waiting for and earthquake to shake the taters out of the ground”
3) Cause of Christ suffers because of lazy Christians
(a) Many Christians are indifferent…
(b) Many put ease and comfort ahead of God…
4) Most are not Workers but Shirkers… Heb 6:12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
5) 90% of God’s work is done by 10% of the people
III) CONSIDER THE ANTS – THEY ARE WISE
A) GOD SINGLED OUT THE ANT FOR HIS WISDOM
1) Some ant hills are like a modern city – Streets are laid out – Some one-way.
2) It has ample rooms – Hatcheries and barracks..
B) CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE WISE IN THE WISDOM OF GOD Rom 13:11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
C) WE SHOULD BE WISE IN SOUL WINNING… “He that winneth souls is wise”
1) Many Church’s are well fed highly organized, But souls are going to hell because of NO Soul Winning
2) Conversion of sinners was Christ whole objective
(a) “He came to seek and save the lost”
(b) Died that He “Might draw all men unto me”
(c) He sent the Holy Spirit to convict us of sin.
3) Notice how wise the N.T. Church was…. 3000 Saved – 5000 Saved -Multitudes Saved..
4) Today many church members are more interested in Bingo Parties….
IV) THE ANTS HAVE DETERMINATION
A) THEIR MOTTO COULD BE “This One Thing I Do”
1) Nothing stops the ant from finding food.
2) He will work – live – die to obtain food.
B) THE AVERAGE CHRISTIAN SAYS “WE CAN’T”
1) Can’t Teach - Can’t Preach
2) Can’t Win Souls – Can’t Tithe
V) THE ANT IS PURPOSEFUL
A) THAT HAVE A PURPOSE IN EVERYTHING THEY DO
1) They don’t waste a move…
2) They will take the straightest path home…
B) CHRISTIAN SHOULD HAVE A PURPOSE IN LIFE
1) Need Purpose in our Praying…
2) Need Purpose in our Giving…
3) Need Purpose in our Separation…
VI) THE ANT HAS FORESIGHT
A) HE PREPARES FOR THE FUTURE.
1) He lays up in the summer for bad times.
2) Times when he cannot come out..
B) MEN BELIEVE IN LIFE BEYOND THE GRAVE YET THEY DO NOT PREPARE FOR HEAVEN.
1) Prepare for good education, Good job, Retirement
C) GOD TOLD US TO PREPARE IN THIS LIFE
A Mothers Day Promise
May 9, 2007
A MOTHERS DAY PROMISE
Ex 20:12 Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
Eph 6:1-2 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with
promise;)
A) The only commandment that contains a promise.
1) Commandment is Divine recognition of that which is due our Parents
2) Commandment given 3,000 years ago issued to God’s people
B) It is no mere human proposition.
1) God Himself speaks in this edict.
2) His voice is to be heeded.
3) It has confirmation in the N.T. Mk 7:10 Jesus said For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother,let him die the death:
4) Our Savior knew that this was a commandment of God…
C) There is something personal about this special commandment. Ex 20:12 Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
1) Five 2nd person Pronouns in this Vss
i) Thy Father…
ii) Thy Mother…
iii) Thy Days…
iv) Thy God…
v) Giveth Thee…
2) The Heavenly Parent knows the problems of the earthly ones.
3) Father & Mother stand as one in this verse
D) The Text Of This Commandment Divides Itself Into Four Parts
I) DIVINE RESPONSIBILITY “HONOR"
A) HONOR IS AN EXPERIENCE.
1) It is to be rendered Daily…
2) Must be Continuous, not Irregular..
3) NOT left up to the individual to carry out this Commandment at his pleasure
4) God says the Child has a very Decided responsibility toward the parent.
B) WHAT DO WE MEAN BY "HONOR"?
1) All Patriotic citizens HONOR the Flag.
(a) Stand at attention as the flag passes.
(b) We stand up with pride as we see it unfurled in the wind and we admire it
2) We are giving HONOR to our flag of the U. S. & Rightly So…
3) We Are To Give "HONOR" To Our Parents
C) "HONOR" IMPLIES OBEDIENCE. Eph 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
1) The Lord has given us the answer….
(a) To Give Obedience to the Lord first
(b) Then To Our Parents.
2) I owe my Mother the profoundest respect.
3) Jesus gave respect HONOR To his mother Because She Respected the Commandments. Lk 2:51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
4) Even dying on the cross He thought of Her Jn 19:26-27 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.
D) A TRAGIC SIGN OF THE TIMES 2 Tim 3:2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers DISOBEDIENT TO PARENTS, unthankful, unholy,
1) Hear discussion today about Children
(a) Some say they are Hell-bent..
(b) Others say it is not so…
2) "When Has The Flesh Been Other Than Hell-bent"
3) ALL Need equally to be regenerated by the Power Of God's Holy Spirit.
4) Every child is sinner in the eyes of God.
(a) Not one gets into Heaven by virtue of his its sweetness or innocence…
(b) It is the Blood Of Christ that avails, even for infants…
II) DIVINE REPRESENTATION. "THY FATHER AND THY MOTHER"
A) HOME LIFE REPRESENTATIVE OF GOD
1) The First FOUR commandments deal with the Duties Men Owe To God…
2) The Last FIVE Commandments Deal With Duties Men Owe To Each Other…
3) FIFTH Commandment Deals With The Question Of Authority.
B) THERE CAN BE NO AUTHORITY UNLESS IT BEGINS AT HOME.
1) God cannot have authority in you home unless you have authority in your home. Eph 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
2) There can be no Authority in the Nation unless there is Authority In The Home..
3) When Home Authority Decays – ALL Authority Decays.
C) THINK OF THE AUTHORITATIVE ASPECT.
1) If parents want HONOR From our Children – We Must stand before them Honorable
2) We want their Love -we must be Loveable
3) We MUST Teach Our Children Respect…
(a) Respect God First. – Includes God's House
(b) Respect Parents
(c) Respect Our Elders
(d) Respect Our Nation…
III) DEFINITE REWARD. That thy days may be long upon the land
A) THE REWARD FOR OBEDIENCE. Deut 5:16 Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and THAT IT MAY GO WELL WITH THEE, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
1) This is an expansion of the Promise…
2) Here is the blessedness of Obedience.
3) Disobedience can only bring sorrow and ultimately death.
B) FOR OUR CHILDREN TO LIVE LONG.
1) They must be taught to "OBEY"
2) They must be taught to Live Right..
(a) To Obey God b. Obey their parents…
(b) To Obey Those In Authority Over Them..
(c) To Obey Your Parents Pleases God.. Col 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
IV) DESIRED REALIZATION. The land which the Lord ..Giveth Thee
A) THIS IS A RICH HERITAGE OF GRACE.
1) To enjoy this heritage it is necessary to walk in obedience..
(a) Obedience toward God…
(b) Obedience toward God's representative The Parents
(c) We must never get away from the fountainhead of true blessing.
B) LOVE OF GOD IS NEEDED IN THE HEART
1) Love is the fulfilling of the Law.
2) Lack Of Obedience Shows Need Of Love..
3) The Love Of God In Your Heart Can Make Us What We Ought To Be In Relation To Our Fathers And Mothers…
Vanishing Values
April 20, 2007
VANISHING VALUES
Text: Judges 17: 1-13
Introduction:
A) It is proven that history repeats itself.
1) God gave Israel strict laws and values.
2) By the time we reach Judges these values had vanished Vs 6 In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes.
B) America today is repeating history.
1) In a large scale “Right in his own eyes”
2) This “Religion” is called Humanism.
3) Impossible to define – No set doctrine
4) If you think it is right or wrong – That makes it right or wrong – NO Absolutes.
C) Text doesn’t say “Everyman did that which was wrong in their own eyes”
1) That’s what many are doing today
2) No matter what the crime it is alright – Example of Va. Tech – Schools are war zone
D) The Partial birth Abortion issue.
1) Many think it should be allowed.
2) Alright because the majority says it is
E) The majority is not always right.
1) Noah’s generation was destroyed – The Majority
2) Sodom & Gomorrah was destroyed – The Majority
3) Majority on Broad way that leads to hell.
4) Why do sinners reject God’s Word?
F) People do what is right in their own eyes
I) FAMILIES WHO HAVE NO FOUNDATIONS
A) TEXT TELLS OF A MAN NAMED MICAH
1) Stole 1100 Shekels silver from his mother
2) She had saved a little nest egg of money.
(a) Would have left it to him at her death
(b) She was upset, spoke curses on the thief
3) Micah became afraid & confessed
B) SOMETHING HAPPENED
1) When she was given back the money her disposition completely changed.
2) Forgot all the wrong Micah did to her.
(a) Amazing what the sight of money can do.
(b) No doubt money was the god she served and loved
3) She tells him why she became so angry Vs 3 I had wholly dedicated the silver unto the LORD from my hand for my son, to make a graven image and a molten image: now therefore I will restore it unto thee.
(a) She said it would be given for her son’s benefit to make a house of god.
(b) Notice she only gave 200 shekels to the silversmith to make an image.
C) WHAT HAPPENED TO THE 900 SHEKELS.
1) She kept it for herself.
2) No wonder she would have such a son
(a) Many children today are a “Chip off the old block” Illus: A true story. I read of a preacher James. One day his 2 boys found a little dog and took it home with them. Preacher James asked them where they got the dog – They said they had just found him. – The preacher came up with a bright idea and said “The dog is cute, someone may be trying to find him, get some shoe black and paint some black spots on him” – The boys did as they were instructed. Not long after that a man came by asking if anyone had seen a little stray dog. – The boys asked what color his dog was and he told them it was white. – The little dog trotted about then and the man said “That looks like my dog” – The boys chimed in “You said your dog is white, this dog is black and white.” The man admitted they were right and he went on his way to search for his dog. The 2 boys were none other than Frank and Jesse James.
D) WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO OUR HOMES?
1) Families used to Eat together – Talk together- Play together – Worship together
2) America is coming loose at the seams.
3) NO longer have families with good Moral Foundations or Spiritual Foundations
II) PREACHERS WHO HAVE NO PRINCIPLES
A) Vs 7-13 THE WICKEDNESS OF THE EMPLOYEE
1) This SORRY preacher is Micah’s Priest 18:4 And he said unto them, Thus and thus dealeth Micah with me, and hath hired me, and I am his priest.
2) He acknowledges that his money came from Micah and that he belonged to him.
(a) Money can buy a Politician.
(b) I hate it -money can buy some preachers
(c) Realize this – A church should take care of its pastor A workman is worthy of his hire
3) True Pastor is not a Hireling – He is called
4) Today we have to many Hirelings and not enough preachers that are called of God. Jn 10:12-13 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
5) Micah hire a “Preacher” the preacher said “I am his priest”
6) We no longer have “Prophets” we now have men of P-R-O-F-I-T-SB. SEE THE WICKEDNESS OF THE EMPLOYER Judg 18:5 And they said unto him, Ask counsel, {Inquire} we pray thee, of God, that we may know whether our way which we go shall be prosperous.
1. Micah had the same mentality that many have in America have today.
2. They think that it brings you good luck to treat the preacher right. Judg 17:13 Then said Micah, Now know I that the LORD will do me good, {really bless me} seeing I have a Levite to my priest. {a genuine priest working for me!}
3. What he said may have sounded real Spiritual, but he was wicked in God’s Sight
Text: Judg 17:6 In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes.
Shamgar One Great Little Man
April 14, 2007
SHAMGAR – ONE GREAT LITTLE MAN
Text: Judges 3:31 After him was Shamgar the son of Anath which slew of the Philistines six hundred men with an ox goad: & he also delivered Israel
Introduction:
A) God's work is often done by the weak And little known 1 Cor 1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
B) Sham-gar is only mentioned twice in Bible. Judges 3:31 and 5:6
1) His name means "Destroyer"
2) Sham-Gar is not one of the Bible Greats
3) You wouldn't mention him in the same breath with Abraham – Isaac or Jacob.
4) He is not mentioned in Hebrews 11
5) Wasn’t a Sampson – Elijah Or John Baptist
C) This fellow was the third Judge of Israel after JOSHUA.
1) SHAM-GAR Served in a very difficult time. Judges 17:6 In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes.
2) Word Of God was not proclaimed Like Today 1 Sam 3:1 "There was no open Vision"
3) It was a time of Spiritual Darkness.
D) We Live In Very Dark Days Today.
1) Men have sold out for money in Politics – Sports – Even in Churches.
2) A preacher who lets someone other than God Rule Him has Prostituted The Gospel.
3) If he SOFT-PEDALS God's Judgement…
4) If he sells out God for security.
E) What Can I Do About The Worlds Condition "I Am just one person"
1) SHAM-GAR was just one insignificant man
2) However this one man delivered the entire nation of Israel with an OX GOAD
I) SHAM-GAR WAS ONE MAN.
A) HE WAS NOT AN ARMY.
1) Just one person in a dark time.
2) What can I do?
(a) The world is going to the devil.
(b) You can be as influential as SHAMGAR.
B) HERE IS A GREAT PRINCIPLE.
1) In days of darkness God delivers his people through individuals.
(a) Not through organizations.
(b) Not through Presidents or Congress
2) God looks for dedicated Christians who will "LIFT UP HOLY HANDS" Unto Him.
3) God Used A Man Called SAM JONES – The Fiery Methodist Preacher. Illus: SAM JONES was in a revival preaching his usual hard hitting messages and they were digging into the hearts and tearing up sin…He was preaching against smoking – drinking – cursing and dancing…Calling them by name…All over town people were getting stirred…Finally the ministerial association declared an early morning prayer meeting to stop SAM JONES…One Preacher said "Lord We Pray You Will Help Old Sam To Calm Down"… Another said "Dear Lord We Pray Sam Will Not Offend Our Members"… Next one said "Lord Sam Is Stirring Up A Hornets Nest"…They prayed on and on not realizing that Old SAM JONES had walked in….When they stood as they finished praying SAM Said.."Hold It, It's My Turn To Pray"…"Dear Lord, Don't Make Me Like These Lazy Devils, Send A Revival To This Town." – {THEY HAD A REVIVAL}
C) WHAT MADE SAM JONES DIFFERENT?
1) When he was a circuit-riding Methodist preacher he heard one brother testify… "Brethren, The Preacher Is A King, And The Pulpit Is A Throne."
2) SAM JONES left that meeting and shook up the pulpits of America 3. This was One man making a difference
D) WILL YOU GIVE GOD WHAT YOU HAVE.
1) JONAH – One Man – One Sermon – "Yet 40 Days And Nineveh Shall Be Overthrown."
2) PETER – 1 Man -Preached with such power that 3,000 got saved there at Pentecost.
3) PAUL -1 Man – Established Church’s throughout Asia – Rome – Spain – Etc.
4) D.L MOODY – An uneducated shoe clerk shook 2 continents as God used him.
E) SHAMGAR USED ALL HE HAD FOR GOD
1) God saw SHAM-GAR "What Have You Got In Your Hand SHAM-GAR?" – An OX GOAD, Lord..
2) Use It For Me SHAM-GAR.
3) The trouble with America today is not Secularism or Liberalism..
(a) Trouble with America today is You & Me
(b) We are trying to save society…
(c) We ought to be leading individual to Jesus
4) We need to put GOD and HIS WORD first.
(a) Many attend Church once a week don't Tithe – Don’t Get Involved…
(b) Then Wonder why Church is not on Fire
II) SHAM-GAR WAS ALONE.
A) WHAT DID ONE MAN DO ALONE?
1) Took an OX GOAD and slew 600 Philistines Destroying the enemy saving God's people
2) He was ONE MAN Alone….
3) Sometime you have to stand alone if you are going to be a SHAM-GAR.
4) Of Course – Maybe You Don't Want God To Have Your OX GOAD
5) You Don't Want To Lift Up HOLY HANDS
B) GOD'S GREATEST MEN WALKED ALONE.
1) STEPHEN – Crowd is about to Stone Him
(a) They just hit him on the head with a rock
(b) They Knocked him down – He is kneeling
(c) He saying something LISTEN…. Acts 7:56 Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God
2) JOHN – On Patmos – All alone – Wait A Minute – What is that God is showing Him
3) Poor ELIJAH – A fanatic living on desert by a little brook – depending on the ravens
(a) At Mt CARMEL face false prophets of Baal.
(b) How many preachers are standing with you Elijah? – N0 One, I'm Alone.
(c) How Many On Jezebel’s Side - 850
(d) But He Said "BUT I GOT THE FIRE"
4) DAVID – just had the Armor of God…
(a) One little slingshot – One man…
(b) Delivered ISRAEL from the Giant's Army
C) WHAT CAN I DO PREACHER?
1) Student can witness in school.
2) Factory worker can witness for Christ
3) One man can stand in the gap. Ezek 22:30 And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.
III) SHAM-GAR GAVE WHAT HE HAD.
A) WHAT'S IN YOUR HAND SHAM-GAR?
1) Its Just and old OX GOAD – A Stick Lord.
2) Will You Give It To Me? – Sure Lord
3) And he slew 600 Philistines with it.
B) MOSES WHAT DO YOU HAVE.
1) A Rod to Kill Snakes And Guide Sheep.
2) Will you give it to God MOSES? – SURE
3) And he used to lead ISRAEl out of Slavery
C) LITTLE BOY – WHAT DO YOU HAVE ?
1) I Just Have My Lunch.
2) Will You Give It To Jesus – SURE
3) with It JESUS Fed 5,000 Hungry People
CONCLUSION:
1. God Doesn't Want A Lot From You – Just What You Have.
2. You can't Give Him More Than You Have – But If It's Only An OX GOAD He Will Use It
3. Will You Give To God What You Have…
a. Maybe your holding back on your money
b. Maybe your holding back on your SHOUT
c. Even You Can Raise Holy Hands To Jesus
Why Christ Died
April 3, 2007
WHY CHRIST DIED Easter #3
Text: Mark 15:16 – 38
Introduction:
A) Veil in Jewish Temple shows distance between God & Man is very great.
1) The Temple was a series of walls.
2) Gentile could in the Court of the Gentiles but no farther unless you were a Jew
3) Then there was the Court of the Women.
4) Jewish woman could come to a wall & only Jewish men could go beyond that wall
5) The priest could go into the Holy Place with its 60 Ft H X 30 Ft W Veil
6) Veil separated priest from Holy of Holies, Mercy Seat there – Place where God dwelt.
B) It was this Veil that barred man's access into the Presence of God.
1) Only Way to God presence was by the Veil.
2) Only One allowed in the Presence of God was the High Priest.
3) Only Time he was allowed was on the Day of Atonement for the Blood of Sacrifice
C) Veil showed the distance between God and Man was great on account of sin.
1) Christ cried “It is finished" the unseen hand of God took that veil & tore it in two.
2) In the ninth hour, the Veil of the Temple was rent in twain from top to bottom.
3) It was precisely at this hour that the priests were ministering in the Temple.
4) As the Mercy Seat became visible, many priests looked on it for the first time.
D) No wonder when Apostles preached the gospel Priest believed message.
1) They saw effect of finished work of Christ
2) The way to God was opened
3) Christ died that He might bring us to God.
I) THINK ABOUT THE DESIGN OF THE VEIL
Why was the Veil hanging there at all?
Why did it rent from the top to bottom?
Word "Veil," which means "to separate"
This Veil hid God from the sight of those who served in the Tabernacle
A) THE PRIDE OF MAN REBUKED BY GOD:
1) Man thought he had right to approach God
2) Had the right to have fellowship with God?
3) The Veil of the Temple spoke its message in unmistakable terms, "No Entry."
4) Once a year High Priest allowed to go into the Holy of Holies, the presence of God.
5) He went to deal with problem of sin
6) Do you recognize you've broken God's Law
B) THE PRICE OF BLOOD REQUIRED BY GOD:
1) For the Veil was not always drawn.
2) Once a year High Priest allowed to enter
3) He went bearing the Blood of Atonement.
4) Blood sprinkled ON & BEFORE Mercy Seat “Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin."
II) NOTICE THE DESTRUCTION OF THE VEIL
A) AT DEATH THE VEIL WAS DIVINELY RENT: "From the top to the bottom." Vs 38
1) Temple Veil was about 18 inches thick.
2) In Story of Cross you become conscious of way many were involved in the crucifixion
(a) The Hatred of the Scribes and Pharisee's:
(b) Treachery of Judas: Weakness of Pilate
3) At the Cross God was doing something
(a) Isaiah "It pleased the Lord to bruise Him."
(b) He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us
4) Jesus experienced the Wrath of God that you might enjoy the Love of God.
B) THE VEIL WAS ENTIRELY RENT: "From the top to the bottom." Vs 38
1) Not a single thread remained unbroken to bar man's approach to God.
2) Notice the hour when this took place?
(a) "And Jesus cried with a loud voice."
(b) What did He cry? – One word " Finished"
3) Work of man's redemption was complete
4) The work of Christ is a finished work. "When He from His lofty throne, Stooped to do and die. All the work was fully done, Listen to His cry, It is finished, yes indeed, finished every jot, Sinner this is all you need, tell me is it not?
C) THE VEIL WAS PUBLICLY RENT:
1) "And the sun was darkened, and veil of the temple was rent in the midst,"
2) His death not a private execution. – It was in the midst before many witnesses.
3) Paul told Agrippa that the death of Christ did not take place in a corner.
D) THE VEIL WAS CENTRALLY RENT:
1) Word "twain," means "in the midst."
2) Effect was to divide Veil into 2 equal parts.
3) The Cross of Christ is the Great Divide.
(a) History divided by it – Times past looked forward, these last days we look back.
(b) Humanity divided by it 2 others crucified with Christ and these 2 are represent all. " Which one Are You?”
4) The way into the presence of God was now wide open. But what is:
III) WHAT IS THE DEMAND OF THE VEIL Heb 10:19 "Having therefore, brethren boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh …. let us draw near."
A) WE COME TO GOD THROUGH CHRIST:
1) Christ said, "Him that cometh unto me I will in no wise cast out." Jn 6:37
2) Unsaved-you’re assured a royal welcome
3) Christ is the High Priest who enters within the Veil:
4) He is all that God demands – And He is all that man requires.
B) WE COMMUNE WITH GOD THOUGH CHRIST
1) Consider what Christ blood has done For us let us approach the presence of God.
2) It was the sin of a man that drove him out from that presence.
3) The death of Christ that brings him back.
IV) CONCLUSION:
A) That is what we are saved FOR:
1) The Cross is to bring us Back: – to bring us In: – and to bring us Home.
2) WHY DID CHRIST DIE ? What is the meaning of the Cross ?
B) So you and I might find our way in!
The Last Thing Jesus Said On The Cross
April 2, 2007
THE LAST THING JESUS SAID ON THE CROSS
Text: Lk 23:46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
Introduction:
1. You are not really prepared to live unless you are prepared to die.
2. Death is going to come… Heb 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:
3. Only God knows the hour..
4. The Seventh saying from the Cross tells us about death and how Christ died. Lk 23:46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
5. Four key statements I want to make.
I. He Died Actually II. He Died Confidently.
III. He Died Willingly. IV. He Died Victoriously.
I) HE DIED ACTUALLY.
A) HIS DEATH WAS NOT AN ILLUSION.
1) The Lord Jesus Christ Had A Real Body.
(a) He experienced all the sinless infirmities of human nature.
(b) Suffered more than any man suffered
2) Jesus knew what it was to grow up.
(a) To eat like anyone else.
(b) To drink like anyone else.
(c) To sleep like anyone else.
(d) To grow weary like anyone else.
B) THE OFFICIALS CHECKED CAREFULLY TO BE SURE THAT JESUS HAD DIED.
1) Soldiers who came to look at the bodies found Jesus had died. Jn 19:36 For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken.
2) To obtain custody of the body for burial
(a) Joseph & Nichodemus check with Pilate
(b) Pilate marveled Jesus was so soon dead
C) HE DID NOT SWOON ON THE CROSS.
1) Many Liberal Theologians believe this..
2) They think a cool tomb revived Him.
3) The Lord Jesus DIED ACTUALLY…
D) THE WORD "DEATH" IS APPLIED TO BELIEVERS INFREQUENTLY.
1) 1 Thes 4:14 For if we believe that Jesus died & rose again even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him
2) Jesus Died it wasn’t sleep It Was DEATH
3) Christ confronted last enemy – DEATH.
(a) He faced its Sorrow
(b) He faced its Pain
(c) He faced its Agony.
(d) And Finally He ACTUALLY DIED.
II) HE ALSO DIED CONFIDENT Not Only Died Actually – But Also Confident. Father, into thy hands I Commend My Spirit
A) LOOK AT THE FATHERS PRESENCE.
1) He died confident because He was in the Fathers Presence.
2) On the Cross Jesus said "FATHER" two times He only said "MY GOD" Once.
(a) First words FATHER FORGIVE THEM
(b) Middle Cross saying MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAST THOU FORSAKEN ME
(c) Seventh Saying "FATHER INTO THY HANDS I COMMEND MY SPIRIT."
3) At the beginning – In the middle – At the end Jesus prayed…
4) Father was often on our Lord's lips…
(a) At 12 years old "I MUST BE UP AND ABOUT MY FATHERS BUSINESS."
(b) Sermon On The Mount Jesus Used The Word "FATHER" more than 15 times.
(c) In the upper room discourse He spoke of "FATHER" Many Times.
(d) He Died Confidently knowing He had the Fathers Presence.
B) LOOK AT THE FATHERS PROMISE.
1) Jesus quoted part of Psalm 31:5 Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.
(a) O.T. Promise Jesus applied to Himself
(b) He added the word "FATHER."
(c) Left out words about being redeemed.
2) All 3 of Christ prayers are Scriptural.
(a) "Father Forgive Them" Was Fulfilled Isa 53:12 He hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
(b) "MY GOD, MY GOD." Fulfilled Psalm 22
(c) "Father Into Thy Hands I commend My Spirit Fulfilled in Psalm 31:5
3) If you live by God's word – You CAN die by it
(a) Died Confidently in Fathers Presence.
(b) Died Confidently in Fathers Promise.
C) THE FATHERS PROTECTION. INTO THY HANDS I COMMEND MY SPIRIT
1) He Told the Disciples. I'm Going To Be Delivered Into The Hands Of Sinners
2) The Hands Of Sinners…
(a) Beat Him.
(b) Stripped Him..
(c) Put A Crown Of Thorns On His Head.
(d) Nailed Him To A Cross.
3) At The Conclusion Of His Work, Jesus Is No Longer In The Hands Of Sinners.
4) He Is In The Hands Of God…
(a) Psa 31:8 And hast not shut me up into the hand of the enemy:
(b) Psa 31:15 My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, & from them that persecute me
( I. He Died Actually. )
( II. He Died Confident. )
III) HE DIED WILLINGLY.
A) IN ONE SENSE OUR LORD WAS KILLED
1) Peter Said in Acts Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel & foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
B) ANOTHER SENSE HE WAS NOT KILLED
1) He Died Willingly.
2) Jn 10:17-18 I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself.
C) NOTHING EVER DIED WILLINGLY AS A SACRIFICE
1) Not A Lamb – Not A Dove – Not Anything
2) But JESUS DIED WILLINGLY.
D) JESUS BEFORE LAYING DOWN HIS LIFE.
1) Forgave enemies Father Forgive Them
2) Gave Salvation To A Dying Thief..
3) Cared For His Mother…
4) Finished The Work God Gave Him To Do.
E) SOME THINGS YOU AND I OUGHT TO DO
1) Forgive Our Enemies.
2) Come To Death Having Shared Salvation
3) Be Faithful Caring For Those In Need.
4) Surrender To God's Will
( I. He Died Actually. )
( II. He Died Confidently. )
( III. He Died Willingly. )
IV) FINALLY HE DIED VICTORIOUSLY. “Father Into Thy Hands I Commenr My Spirit”
A) JESUS ACCOMPLISHED GOD'S WORK.
B) VEIL OF TEMPLE TORE FROM THE TOP TO THE BOTTOM
1) God opened the way into Holy of Holies.
2) The Graves were opened.
3) The Saints were resurrected.
4) Jesus Proved Himself Victorious…Over Sin - Death – Over The Power Of Satan.
C) AN EARTHQUAKE SHOOK…
1) Like the earthquake at Mount Sinai At The Giving Of The Law.
2) Did Not Announce The Terror Of The Law
3) It Made A Greater Announcement.
D) JESUS CHRIST DIED FOR SINNERS.
1) He Died Actually.
2) He Died Willingly.
3) He Died Victoriously
4) He didn’t die for His own sin…
5) He died for the sins of the whole world.
(a) Someday you to will die.
(b) People die the way the live…
(c) Don’t trample with eternity.
E) YOU TOO CAN DIE CONFIDENT.
1) With assurance that you are going to The Fathers House.
2) With the promise of God's Word.
(a) Promises to give you GRACE.
(b) Promises To Give You STRENGTH.
(c) Promises To Give You COMFORT.
3) You Can Die In The Safest Place In the Universe. – In The Hand Of God.
4) Jn 10:27-28 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit:
The King Is Coming
April 1, 2007
THE KING IS COMING
(Series On The Cross Palm Sunday 12 )
Text: Luke 19:11-14
A) Today is Psalm Sunday.
1) Triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.
2) This was prophesied in Zechariah 9:9 Zech 9:9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.
B) A Parable is given to prepare His disciples for Psalm Sunday.
1) About a nobleman who became a king.
2) Its a King who was rejected – One who rewarded His servants
I) THE RECEIVING OF A KINGDOM. Lk 19:12 ..A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom..
A) THE NEGLECTED PART OF OUR MESSAGE.
1) A King was born in Jerusalem.
2) The Word was given to Mary Lk 1:32 He shall be great, and called the Son of the Highest
3) The Wise Men came seeking a King. Mt 2:2 Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
B) PALM SUNDAY PRESENTED THE KING OF THE JEWS
1) At first came – Reception – Praise – Honor.
2) Palm branches placed before the King. Jn 12:13 Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord.
3) Palm Branches In the N.T are identified as Victory. Rev 7:9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;
C) THE REJECTION OF THE KING.
1) The cries of the crowd soon changed.
2) The Betrayal – Beating – Crucifixion.
3) The King Is Crucified.
4) The King is Resurrected.
II) THE RETURN OF THE KING.
A) THE KING WAS TO GO AWAY & RETURN Lk 19:12 He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.
1) This was spoken to those who expected the Kingdom then 2. God’s timetable is better than ours.
B) TRIUMPHAL ENTRY BEGAN AT THE MOUNT OF OLIVES Lk 19:29 And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples,
1) the Ascension also began at Mt. Of Olives
2) There were Questions about the Kingdom Acts 1:6 “..They asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?”
C) HOW IMPATIENT WE HUMAN BEINGS ARE.
1) Kingdom will come when the King returns.
2) The future triumphal entry. Rev 19:16 He hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.
III) THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE KING’S SERVANT Vs 13 “Occupy Till I Come.”
A) THIS IS HIS COMMAND TO YOU AND ME
1) We are to be carrying on His Work.
2) We are to represent Him to the World.
3) We are to seize upon every moment to Serve Him.
B) TEN POUNDS GIVEN TO THE SERVANTS. Lk 19:13 He called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, {$2,000.00} and said unto them, Occupy till I come.
1) What are you going to do with your Talents and Abilities?
2) How will you account for your service when the King comes?
IV) CONCLUSION:
A) The world rejects the King today.
1) Vs 14 “We will not have this man to rule over us.”
2) Have you been rejecting Him too?
B) He wants to be king of your life today.
The Crowds At The Cross
March 25, 2007
THE CROWDS AT THE CROSS
Text: Mt 27:36 “And sitting down they watched him there;”
A) The cross is a place of contrast.
1) The place of Love - Yet of Judgement.
2) Place of Grace – Yet Fulfills the Demands Of The Law
3) Place of Salvation – Yet it Reminds us of our Sins.
4) Where man did his Worst – And yet God did His Best.
B) Who Was There?
I) THE GOVERNMENT WAS THERE.
A) THE SOLDIERS AND POLITICAL LEADERS
1) Crucifixions Were Routine To The Soldiers.
2) It was a common means of capital punishment to the Romans
3) Made fun of Jesus’ Robe - Reed - Crown
4) They Soldiers gambled for His garments.
B) PILATE WAS THERE Confused AND ANGRY.
1) Like Pilate our government leaders still Confused and Angry
2) Isa 9:6 “The government would be on His shoulders”
II) THE SOCIAL FAILURES WERE THERE Vs 38 “Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.”
A) SOMETHING HAD GONE WRONG IN THE LIVES OF THESE TWO THIEVES.
1) The High Hopes of their parents & others.
2) Their own early hopes and dreams.
3) Efforts of society to keep them straight.
B) JESUS CAME TO MEET TROUBLED PEOPLE AND TO CHANGE THEM.
III) ORGANIZED RELIGION WAS THERE Vs 41 “Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes & elders.”
A) THEIR RELIGION WAS OUTWARD – TO IMPRESS OTHERS.
1) They were the prime movers to bring Him to the Cross
2) Thought this would secure their positions.
B) INSTEAD HIS DEATH BROKE THE POWER
1) The law was fulfilled in Him.
2) Mt 5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law… I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.
IV) THE BACKSLIDER’S WERE THERE Mt 26:75 “And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.”
A) PETER WHO HAD DECLARED HE WOULD NEVER FORSAKE JESUS.
1) Peter chose the crowd & followed afar off
2) Peter who denied his Lord three times.
3) Peter who went out and wept bitterly.
B) THE BEST THING IS BACKSLIDERS CAN RETURN TO JESUS AND BE FORGIVEN. 1 Jn 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins,& to cleanse us from all unrighteousness
V) THE CONCLUSION OF A BYSTANDER “Truly this was the Son of God”
A) ONLY A FAITHFUL FEW AT THE CROSS. Jn 19:25-26 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!
B) ARE YOU FILLED WITH GRIEF AND DESPAIR?
C) JESUS DIED TO TAKE AWAY THOSE TEARS AND TO GIVE JOY.
CONCLUSION:
A) Centurion concluded “Truly This Was The Son Of God”
1) This was a believing Roman Centurion.
2) His example is a good one for us to follow.
B) See yourself at the Cross and Believe.
Because Of Calvary
March 18, 2007
BECAUSE OF CALVARY
Text: Mt 27:33-36 And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull, They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink. And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, they parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots. And sitting down they watched him there;
A) On the darkest day that ever dawned Jesus was crucified.
1) Night before He had dined with his friends
2) He told them what was about to happen.
3) Judas betrayed Him for 30 pieces of silver
4) Peter denied Him 3 times with a oath
5) He had been betrayed, beaten, spat upon
6) Arrested, humiliated in hands of wicked.
B) He had had no sleep that night
1) They drove the spikes home
2) The pain was excruciating.
3) He hangs there by nails driven by our sins
4) He was dying for our stead.
C) The darkest hour of World History
1) World brighter today because of that day
2) Because of that day there is hope for all.
3) All He did that day was put to our account For Time And Eternity.
I) BECAUSE OF CALVARY WE KNOW THE LOVE OF GOD.
A) DOES GOD LOVE THOSE WHO SINNED AGAINST HIM??
1) We don’t deserve His love….
2) He shows us His love in a million ways.
(a) The Food we eat is because he loves us.
(b) Clothes He gives us is because of love
(c) Every New Day is because of His love
(d) Every Breath we take is because of Love.
B) HE SHOWS HIS LOVE BY GIVING HIS SON
1) He looked at sinners & knew nothing new
2) “There is none good, No not one”
3) He Knew that we were not worthy of Him.
4) We were rebellious and broke God’s Law 4. We did not look good in His sight.
C) LOOK – THERE IS THE BEST IN HEAVEN.
1) He is without Spot or Blemish.
2) It is God’s own obedient Son.
3) Jesus is the only one worthy to go. Jn 3:16 For God so loved the world…..
II) BECAUSE OF CALVARY WE HAVE A GREAT SAVI4OR AND A DIVINE COMPANION.
A) IT’S IMPORTANT TO KNOW THAT ANYONE WHO COMES TO CHRIST CAN BE SAVED Wherefore He is able to also save them to the uttermost that come unto God
1) From the Uttermost to the gutter-most
2) From the Beggar to the richest King
3) From the Prostitute to the Drunkard
4) Jesus turns None away.
B) HE IS OUR DIVINE COMPANION
1) Song “Blessed Assurance” Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine what a fore-taste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood
2) He walks with us and talks with us daily.
3) It is because of Calvary that we have a Savior who saves us in spite of sin.
4) He’s a constant companion in life’s journey
III) BECAUSE OF CALVARY WE HAVE A GOSPEL TO PREACH.
A) WHAT DOES THE WORD “GOSPEL” MEAN?
1) Good News of Salvation for a lost world
2) It is the Hope of Tomorrow.
3) It IS Good News WHEN………..
(a) Dr. tells patient to go home from hospital
(b) If you would inherit a million dollars
(c) When someone is lost and found safely
4) Best news is that “Christ died for the Lost”
B) JESUS IS THE MESSAGE THE WORLD NEEDS TO HEAR TODAY.
1) Hear of horrible crimes every day.
2) We hear of wars and rumors of wars..
3) Hear of terrible disaster around the world
4) The world needs to hear about Calvary
IV) BECAUSE OF CALVARY WE HAVE A HOME WAITING FOR US AT END OF THE WAY
A) MANY IDEAS HOW TO GET TO HEAVEN.
1) Some say it is because of Good Works.
2) “Do Good” & God will open the Gates
3) Some rely on Religious form & ceremony - Baptism – Join the Church -Do penitence
B) MANY RELIGIOUS THEORIES – THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO HEAVEN.
1) Jn 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
2) Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
3) Jn 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
A Needed Revival
March 4, 2007
A NEEDED REVIVAL
Text: Joel 2:28-32 + Acts 2:17
Introduction:
A) God is in cleansing business – Not the Whitewashing business 1. People need to be cleansed from within 2. Don’t need to be cleansed from without.
B) We need an old fashioned Revival.
1) One that will be blood washed.
2) Churches are dried out & without Revival 3. Not much weeping at the altar.
C) Peter preached a sermon at Pentecost
1) Resulted in many deeply under conviction Acts 2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?
2) Asked Men & brethren, what shall we do?
3) Peter said "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
4) Peter was quoting promise of Joel 2:33 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered:
5) There are several things about this great promise of Salvation for one and all.
I) THE PROMISE OF SALVATION
A) PETER IS QUOTING FROM JOEL 2
1) Words written some 800 years before.
2) The first time Salvation was promised for one & all “Upon All Flesh”
(a) Not just the Jew – Not just the Greek…
(b) “Upon All Flesh”
B) PROMISE FIRST MADE IN TIME….
1) In Garden of Eden God gave First Covenant
(a) Edenic Covenant – First of 8 Covenants
(b) It was the first promise of Salvation.
(c) It contains the condition of Responsibility.
2) Gen 3:15 gives 2nd or Adamic Covenant I will put enmity between thee & the woman, & between thy seed & her seed; it shall bruise thy head & thou shall bruise his heel.
3) Promise was made way back in eternity 1 Pet 1:20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
(a) Before World formed – God had a plan
(b) Before Sun set 1st day – God had a plan
(c) Before Man ever fell – God had a plan
4) Promised to send a Savior for all mankind
II) THE PROMISER OF SALVATION
A) THE VALUE OF ANY PROMISE DEPENDS ON THE ONE MAKING THE PROMISE.
1) That makes it genuine and trustworthy
2) Convinced of the Promiser’s Integrity.
B) WHO IS MAKING THE PROMISE HERE??? Acts 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God,
1) This is a Devine Promise.
2) A man made promise could fail….
C) BECAUSE GOD MADE THE PROMISE WE KNOW HE WILL HONOR HIS PROMISE
1) That made it Authentic.
2) God cannot nor will not LIE.
(a) Titus 1:2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
(b) Heb 6:18 It was impossible for God to lie
III) THE PECULIARITY OF SALVATION
A) FIRST OF ALL – WE NEED REPENTANCE.
1) What is Repentance Preacher????
(a) It is a change of mind about God & Christ
(b) It is a change of mind about SIN
2) Can be NO Salvation without Repentance Lk 13:3 I tell you, nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish
B) SECOND – WE NEED REMISSION
1) It is not enough just to repent…
2) We must put our Trust in God. 1 Jn 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
C) THIRD – WE NEED REGENERATION.
1) Need to receive a New Life…Ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost
2) When we repent & put our trust in the Savior we are forgiven – Gives us the Spirit
(a) We are “Born Again”
(b) Made “Partakers of the divine nature”
IV) THE PEOPLE OF SALVATION
1) Any promise would not be adequate unless it was addressed to all people.
2) To whom does God make the Promise? Acts 2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
B) PETER STARTS OUT WITH “UNTO YOU”
1) Reference is to the Jews who were present on the spot listening to Peter
C) PETER MAKES ANOTHER REFERENCE.
1) “TO YOUR CHILDREN”
2) The descendants of all who were listening
D) THEN PETER SPOKE TO YOU AND ME.
1) “TO ALL WHO WERE AFAR OFF”
2) This includes both Jew and Gentile…
E) FINALLY PETER SAID
1) “As many as our Lord shall call”
2) This includes everyone. Jn 6:37 And him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
3) This promise is for one and all. Rev 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.
4) God loves the whole world and He longs for people everywhere to be saved. 2 Pet 3:9 Not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
V) THE PLEASURABLENESS OF SALVATION
A) PETER PREACHED TO THEM – THEY REPENTED – THEY WERE HAPPY.
1) Acts 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized.
2) 3000 people were joyously happy
B) RECEIVING THE PROMISE OF THE WORD WILL MAKE YOU HAPPY.
1) Seen people laugh & cry at the same time
2) I have seen them shout down the aisle.
C) RECEIVING THIS PROMISE WILL MAKE YOU THE HAPPIEST PERSON ALIVE.
1) Dr. Bob Jones “I don’t know I am saved because I feel good – I know I am saved because the Bible says so – And I feel good because I know I am saved.”
2) Spurgon “Salvation may come in quietly, but few people can keep quiet about it”