Sometimes it's a struggle to deal with tough situations - that's what makes them tough! We get word of a tragedy in someone's life. We go see them and don't know what to say. We want to express concern for a sick person, but stumble around with stories we've heard of others who had the same sickness. Often we're awkward and unconsoling, but that's rarely the goal. We may not know how to best help people going through tough times. It takes some thoughtful preparing, praying and thinking of what is best for them - not us.
Curiosity is always present. Naturally, most of us are curious to hear how somebody is doing, how they're dealing with whatever stresses are in their life. So, it's likely that many people approach others going through tough times with a focus on themselves, rather than the person who needs our help. We want to learn more. We want our curiosity satisfied. That doesn't make us bad people - but it does often make us inconsiderate people.
First things first, measure your words and questions carefully whenever you are attempting to help somebody else. Perhaps it's wise to ask yourself, " Will this comment or question help this person or will it help me?" If it won't help the person in trouble, rethink it. Your Christian obligation is to help others, not yourself. Let others lean on you as they want or as they need. Don't force it. Don't meddle. Don't be nosy. Make yourself of service and if they decide to fill in details for you, fine. If they don't, accept it and keep working to help them.
Comforting words are almost always the goal, even if they often fail us. We've all been in those conversations where we just don't know what to say - and more often than not, we say the wrong thing. Prepare what you'd like to say. Better yet, say little and listen often.
James 1:19 says, "So then my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath."
Nobody cares about your stories of defeat. I recall some years ago being in a hospital room visiting a person who had been diagnosed with an ailment. While there other visitors entered and began telling a horrid story of somebody they knew with the same illness. I looked at them and realized they had absolutely no idea the impact of their visit on this sick person. They were more interested in the story they had to tell than in helping the person they were visiting. I'm certain that wasn't their intent. They just came totally unprepared to help this person through their difficult time. We can't be so careless in our work to help others.
It's not about YOU. It's about the person we serve. It's about leaving them better off than when we found them. One of the best questions to ask yourself is, "Will this person be better off when I enter the room or when I leave the room?" If the answer is when you leave, then maybe you should stay home until you can figure out how to make your visit profitable for them.
The purpose of our visit has to be more than duty or sense of obligation. The heart of each visit must be to help this person who is having a tough time. The purpose can't be to meddle, get all the gory details, or quiz them down about everything that's curious to us. The purpose must be to leave them spiritually uplifted and to do our best to tend to their physical, emotional and mental needs. We want to leave them better than when we found them. If we fail to do that, then our visit was in vain, even hurtful.
Sometimes others need to know we're there should they require our help. They may not want to see us. They may not feel like talking to us. We shouldn't be offended (again, remember - it's not about us).
Sometimes they may need us to do something useful for them. They may need their lawn mowed, house cleaned, errands run. It may not be company they need, but work done. Offer to help without engaging them in conversation.
Sometimes they may just need to know we're praying for them and thinking of them. That's easily done with a short note mailed to them. It may be done in a quietly spoken sentence, "I'm thinking and praying for you."
Sometimes, perhaps all the time, they need encouragement. I say "sometimes" because there are times when people just don't feel like interaction of any kind. They just want to be left alone. Respect that and don't read more into it than you should. You don't know their state of mind. You don't know their worries. Give them space and respect that today may not be a good day to engage them. You can still let them know you're thinking of them and available to help them whenever they are ready.
Don't make the adversity of their life the focus of their life. Whether it's an illness, a financial burden, a relationship difficulty or something else - life is more than the problem. People do not want their challenge becoming the focal point of their own life, muchless of your life. Imagine being a person with a health issue and every time you encounter others they make your health the focus of the conversation. How would that make YOU feel? Well, it makes them feel exactly the same way - awful. So stop it. And remember how many people are probably dealing with them in that fashion - almost everybody! What a beating that must be. Don't contribute to the beating. Be the person who talks to them about normal stuff - things other than their problem. They'll know you're there for them if they decide to lean on you about their problem.
"I'm not a doctor, but I play one on TV." We've all heard that phrase before. Well, it's appropriate to remember whenever you're visiting the sick. Don't play doctor. People lose all their sensibilities when dealing with folks who are sick. They offer medical advice, books to read, diets to follow and a host of other things that serve to intrude, not help. Sick members have doctors, dieticians and other professionals who are helping them. That's not our role. Imagine everybody coming up to you offering medical advice. How would you enjoy it? Stop doing it to others. I'll reiterate that these behaviors stem, in my opinion, from people who can't get the focus off of themselves long enough to serve others. They're often more interested in the advice they've got to offer than they are in the impact it may negatively have on the person who is the object of their advice. Our best course is to always be thinking of the person who is the object of our service.
I'm sure more could be said (and probably should be said), but hopefully these few paragraphs of ramblings help you serve others through difficult times. Measure your behaviors and words carefully. Take the focus off yourself and put it on the object of your service - the person going through tough times. Make sure everything you do is helpful. Pray for them. Pray for wisdom to know how to best help them.
Life deals each of us hard body blows from time to time. We can overcome the adversities of life with the help of the Lord and each other. Even so, we need wisdom to know how to help others. We know how the story will end for all of us if we're faithful to the end, so during the span of our lives we're working hard to help other remain true to the end. Nothing else really matters.
With so many among us who need our visits and our help, it's always useful to step back, review our behaviors, review our words and conversations and make sure we're doing the most profitable things we can to help others endure difficult times.
Rev. 2:10, "Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." (NKJV)
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Sunday, April 10, 2005
"The Wrong Road"
The final service of the meeting was held at 2pm, Sunday, April 10th. Ronny's text reading was 1 Samuel 27:10.
David had fled Saul. For awhile he lived in the land of the Philistines. He would report to the king his comings and goings. The king would inquire of him, "Where have you been today? What have you been doing today?" Implied is the question, "Where are you headed?"
Too many people aren't thinking of their eternal destiny. Some people are traveling the wrong road. Some roads don't take you anywhere. They are worthless roads.
Job 6:18 tells us about roads that go nowhere. Those aren't roads we want to travel.
1. Idleness is a road to nowhere.
Matthew 20:1-6 is the story of a man who goes to hire laborers. All throughout the day he goes to hire people. Late in the day he comes across people who have been sitting idle all day long. "Why stand ye here all day idle?"
Time is the most valuable element of life. You can't store time. You can't relive time. When time is gone, it's gone forever. Use of time is final and unchangeable.
Have we wasted our time? Colossians 4:5 instructs us to carefully improve what remains of our time and wisely use what we have now!
2. Prejudice is a road to nowhere.
Matthew 13:15 Prejudice in religion caused the death of Stephen.
Racial prejudice should never be named among God's people. In Galatians 2:11 Peter was confronted by Paul for displaying prejudicial behavior. James talks of not showing partiality or being a respector of persons.
3. Confusion is a road that goes nowhere.
For instance, atheism is a confusing road. Job 8:13, 14 "so are the paths of all that forget God." A spider's web is tough to trace from the beginning to where it ends. That's how confusion is.
2 Timothy 3:8 describes a man who is reprobate or perverted morally. It's a man whose mind is clouded with his own speculations.
Hypocrisy is also confusing. It's always confusing when people say one thing and do another.
Denominationalism is confusing. 1 Cor. 1:10-12
Some in the Church desire to be like the denominations.
There are destructive roads we should avoid, too.
a) Worldliness is such a road. We can't love the world.
b) An uncontrolled temper is such a road. Proverbs 14:17, Proverbs 14:29 and Proverbs 29:22. Many sins are commited in anger. Gen. 49:6 and 1 Sam. 15 are but two examples where people lost their temper and destroyed themselves.
Think about the road you are traveling. Make sure you're on a profitable road that will take you to heaven.
And so our 2005 Spring meeting came to an end. It was a wonderful meeting, made so by the profitable preaching of one our best. Ronny has served our brotherhood in so many ways that only history will be able to recall them all. All week long he was willing to give of his time to all who called (and many did). The burdens of others is never far from him as countless people seek his counsel. We pray for him in the Lord's Work. We pray for the brotherhood and all faithful congregations who fight the good fight.
David had fled Saul. For awhile he lived in the land of the Philistines. He would report to the king his comings and goings. The king would inquire of him, "Where have you been today? What have you been doing today?" Implied is the question, "Where are you headed?"
Too many people aren't thinking of their eternal destiny. Some people are traveling the wrong road. Some roads don't take you anywhere. They are worthless roads.
Job 6:18 tells us about roads that go nowhere. Those aren't roads we want to travel.
1. Idleness is a road to nowhere.
Matthew 20:1-6 is the story of a man who goes to hire laborers. All throughout the day he goes to hire people. Late in the day he comes across people who have been sitting idle all day long. "Why stand ye here all day idle?"
Time is the most valuable element of life. You can't store time. You can't relive time. When time is gone, it's gone forever. Use of time is final and unchangeable.
Have we wasted our time? Colossians 4:5 instructs us to carefully improve what remains of our time and wisely use what we have now!
2. Prejudice is a road to nowhere.
Matthew 13:15 Prejudice in religion caused the death of Stephen.
Racial prejudice should never be named among God's people. In Galatians 2:11 Peter was confronted by Paul for displaying prejudicial behavior. James talks of not showing partiality or being a respector of persons.
3. Confusion is a road that goes nowhere.
For instance, atheism is a confusing road. Job 8:13, 14 "so are the paths of all that forget God." A spider's web is tough to trace from the beginning to where it ends. That's how confusion is.
2 Timothy 3:8 describes a man who is reprobate or perverted morally. It's a man whose mind is clouded with his own speculations.
Hypocrisy is also confusing. It's always confusing when people say one thing and do another.
Denominationalism is confusing. 1 Cor. 1:10-12
Some in the Church desire to be like the denominations.
There are destructive roads we should avoid, too.
a) Worldliness is such a road. We can't love the world.
b) An uncontrolled temper is such a road. Proverbs 14:17, Proverbs 14:29 and Proverbs 29:22. Many sins are commited in anger. Gen. 49:6 and 1 Sam. 15 are but two examples where people lost their temper and destroyed themselves.
Think about the road you are traveling. Make sure you're on a profitable road that will take you to heaven.
And so our 2005 Spring meeting came to an end. It was a wonderful meeting, made so by the profitable preaching of one our best. Ronny has served our brotherhood in so many ways that only history will be able to recall them all. All week long he was willing to give of his time to all who called (and many did). The burdens of others is never far from him as countless people seek his counsel. We pray for him in the Lord's Work. We pray for the brotherhood and all faithful congregations who fight the good fight.
"What Causes People To Get Into Trouble?"
Psalms 106:6-15 served as Ronny's text for the Lord's Day morning sermon.
God cared for Israel in bringing them out of slavery. While they may have been well fed physically, they were experiencing leanness spiritually.
Certain choices bring about trouble. Generally speaking, people ask for trouble by the decisions they make.
1. Sinful lives result in trouble.
Jonah was sent by God to preach. He didn't want to obey so he made a poor decision to run away from God. After experiencing a storm on board a ship he was cast overboard. He then spent 3 days and 3 nights in the belly of a fish God had prepared to swallow him. When he was vomited up on shore he found himself confronted with the exact same commandment of God. God had not moved. God's command had not changed. The only thing different was Jonah had experienced some unnecessary trouble because of his unwise choice.
The second time God told him to go, he went. Most of our difficulties are our own doing.
2. When we pitch our tent toward Sodom we get into trouble.
Genesis 13 tells us the story of Lot moving toward the sinful city. Genesis 14:12 tells us "Lot dwelt in Sodom." Perhaps he never envisioned being inside the city, but that's where he ended up. It's not surprising because where we head is often where we end up. He headed toward Sodom, so it's quite natural to find him ending up inside Sodom.
Sodom was a wicked place. The term "wicked" as used to describe Sodom means literally "to break in pieces, destroy and afflict." That's exactly what the citizens of Sodom had done with God's law and his natural order of things - they had broken it in pieces. They had destroyed God's natural order.
If you're isolated from God's people and from God, you're in trouble. James said that friendship with the world is enmity with God.
The TV and media expose us to filth every day. It has an impact on our lives. There are things going on that we have no business knowing about, seeing or discussing. We certainly have no business indulging in these things.
Lot's wife longed for Sodom and paid the price. Lot's daughters got him drunk and had incest with him. All terrible things that resulted from his decision to move toward Sodom.
3. When we try to hide our sins we're asking for trouble.
Genesis 3:8 tells us that Adam and Eve tried to hide from God due to their sin. You can't hide from God though. We read a story of sin being in the camp of God's people. Their sin found them out. King David tried to hide his adultery, but he just dug a deeper hole.
1 John 1:9 tells us to confess our sins. We need to come clean with God. He knows what we've done anyway.
It's unprofitable to beat about the bush. We need to just fess up to whatever sin we've commited so we can remedy it with forgiveness from God.
4. When we stretch the limitations of God's word we're asking for trouble.
God doesn't want us to expand the limits of his commands. Adam and Eve in the garden, Noah and the ark and Moses and the temple all illustrate the limits God puts on mankind - and how serious they are.
In Numbers 20:13-16 we read the story of Moses sin in striking the rock. This sin resulted in God refusing him entrance into the land of promise. Jer. 26:2 tells us "do not diminish a word." We can't stretch the limitations of God's word.
1 Peter 4:11 talks to us of speaking as the oracles of God. We can't take liberties with the Word of God.
5. When children fail to obey their parents they're asking for trouble.
Ephesians 6:1 Proverbs 4:1 Proverbs 13:1
Godly parents seek the best for their children. They seek your spiritual welfare most of all.
6. When we leave the Father's house we're asking for trouble.
2 Corinthians 5:17 and Ephesians 1:3 talk of spiritual blessings found in Christ. "Every" spiritual blessing is found in Christ. Other scriptures cited: Acts 2:47 and 1 Timothy 2:5. When people leave the Church they're asking for trouble.
Luke 15 is the story of the prodigal son. Eventually, he "came to himself." There's a certain insanity about sin. You loose your bearings and sensibilities.
If you are out of the Church you need to come home.
It was a heart felt appeal to encourage anybody present to obey the Gospel. Only hearts of stone could refuse.
God cared for Israel in bringing them out of slavery. While they may have been well fed physically, they were experiencing leanness spiritually.
Certain choices bring about trouble. Generally speaking, people ask for trouble by the decisions they make.
1. Sinful lives result in trouble.
Jonah was sent by God to preach. He didn't want to obey so he made a poor decision to run away from God. After experiencing a storm on board a ship he was cast overboard. He then spent 3 days and 3 nights in the belly of a fish God had prepared to swallow him. When he was vomited up on shore he found himself confronted with the exact same commandment of God. God had not moved. God's command had not changed. The only thing different was Jonah had experienced some unnecessary trouble because of his unwise choice.
The second time God told him to go, he went. Most of our difficulties are our own doing.
2. When we pitch our tent toward Sodom we get into trouble.
Genesis 13 tells us the story of Lot moving toward the sinful city. Genesis 14:12 tells us "Lot dwelt in Sodom." Perhaps he never envisioned being inside the city, but that's where he ended up. It's not surprising because where we head is often where we end up. He headed toward Sodom, so it's quite natural to find him ending up inside Sodom.
Sodom was a wicked place. The term "wicked" as used to describe Sodom means literally "to break in pieces, destroy and afflict." That's exactly what the citizens of Sodom had done with God's law and his natural order of things - they had broken it in pieces. They had destroyed God's natural order.
If you're isolated from God's people and from God, you're in trouble. James said that friendship with the world is enmity with God.
The TV and media expose us to filth every day. It has an impact on our lives. There are things going on that we have no business knowing about, seeing or discussing. We certainly have no business indulging in these things.
Lot's wife longed for Sodom and paid the price. Lot's daughters got him drunk and had incest with him. All terrible things that resulted from his decision to move toward Sodom.
3. When we try to hide our sins we're asking for trouble.
Genesis 3:8 tells us that Adam and Eve tried to hide from God due to their sin. You can't hide from God though. We read a story of sin being in the camp of God's people. Their sin found them out. King David tried to hide his adultery, but he just dug a deeper hole.
1 John 1:9 tells us to confess our sins. We need to come clean with God. He knows what we've done anyway.
It's unprofitable to beat about the bush. We need to just fess up to whatever sin we've commited so we can remedy it with forgiveness from God.
4. When we stretch the limitations of God's word we're asking for trouble.
God doesn't want us to expand the limits of his commands. Adam and Eve in the garden, Noah and the ark and Moses and the temple all illustrate the limits God puts on mankind - and how serious they are.
In Numbers 20:13-16 we read the story of Moses sin in striking the rock. This sin resulted in God refusing him entrance into the land of promise. Jer. 26:2 tells us "do not diminish a word." We can't stretch the limitations of God's word.
1 Peter 4:11 talks to us of speaking as the oracles of God. We can't take liberties with the Word of God.
5. When children fail to obey their parents they're asking for trouble.
Ephesians 6:1 Proverbs 4:1 Proverbs 13:1
Godly parents seek the best for their children. They seek your spiritual welfare most of all.
6. When we leave the Father's house we're asking for trouble.
2 Corinthians 5:17 and Ephesians 1:3 talk of spiritual blessings found in Christ. "Every" spiritual blessing is found in Christ. Other scriptures cited: Acts 2:47 and 1 Timothy 2:5. When people leave the Church they're asking for trouble.
Luke 15 is the story of the prodigal son. Eventually, he "came to himself." There's a certain insanity about sin. You loose your bearings and sensibilities.
If you are out of the Church you need to come home.
It was a heart felt appeal to encourage anybody present to obey the Gospel. Only hearts of stone could refuse.
"The Lessons We Learn Too Late"
On Saturday afternoon, April 9th, Ronny read 1 Kings 13:1-3 as his text.
Often times we are too soon old, too late wise. We all make mistakes. We've all made unwise choices that we later regret. In the text reading we're introduced to an unnamed man who is a courageous man serving God. However, he ends up doing the wrong thing and it costs him his life.
This man was fearless in crying out against the false gods. But, Satan never gives up easily. While this man condemned the idolatry of the day, he's enticed by an old prophet's invitation. The Lord had told him not to go home with any man. His disobedience resulted in his death by an lion attack. Certainly, he'd have done things differently if given the chance to do it all over.
Like a jewel cutter, concerned with proper planning to make sure the cut is made exact - we should exercise great care in our lives. We can be forgiven. We can be reformed. But we can't go back.
1 Corinthians 10:11 tells us the things written aforetime were written for our learning.
God doesn't indulge in self-contradiction. God had told the man what He wanted. God had talked to him directly the first time. Yet he's now listening to a complete stranger who tells him of a new revelation from angels. Why would he follow such a man? Why would he do just the opposite of what God had told him directly?
People do the same thing today. They speculate on all sorts of things that go beyond what is written. For example, we often hear people claim that love is the most important thing. But John 14:15 teaches us that loving God is found in keeping His commandments. The Bible never said love conquers all, but that's what we often hear.
For instance, the Church matters even though people claim it doesn't. Ephesians 5:23 and Ephesians 4:4 teach us that Christ is the head of the body, the Church. He's the Savior of the body. And we're told there is only one body.
The lesson of our text also teaches us that you can't always believe what religious leaders tell you. The devil doesn't always attack you head on. Sometimes he sneaks around the back door. The younger prophet was gullible. He believed the lies of the old prophet.
Acts 17:11 talks of being noble by searching the scriptures daily to see whether things are true. 2 Corinthians 4:2 talks of renouncing the hidden things of dishonesty and handling God's word deceitfully. The old prophet lied to him.
John 16:13 talks of being guided into "all truth." 2 Peter 1:3 speaks of "all things that pertain to life and godliness."
The old prophet claimed to have seen an angel. The younger prophet believed him.
Hebrews 1:1 teaches us that God used to speak through the prophets, but now He speaks to us through His Son, Christ.
Galatians 1 talks of the Truth being contradicted by even an angel of heaven - "let him be accursed."
Sincerity didn't matter. We don't doubt the sincerity of the younger prophet. He died anyway.
Matthew 15 talks of the blind leading the blind so that they both fall into the ditch. Matthew 7:21 exclaims that "not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, will enter into the kingdom of heaven."
Yesterday's obedience will never atone for today's disobedience. It's important we remain stedfast and faithful unto death. 1 Cor. 15:58 and Rev. 2:10
The first part of his mission was successful, but he had a second part of the mission. He had to return home fully obedient to God's commands. He failed.
Galatians 1:6 demonstrates Paul shock that these brethren were so soon removed from the Gospel he had taught them. In Gal. 5:7 he asks, "Ye did run well. Who did hinder you?"
Paul asks them, "You were running so well. What happened?" The word "hinder" in the original language means to "break up a road." Armies would destroy roads so the enemy's progress would be impeded. Paul's question is, "Who tore up the road in front of you?"
Their progress was hindered by false prophets. Unfortunately, too many will learn this lesson too late. At judgment they're realize their progress was hindered because they followed someone or something other than the Truth.
"Who interfered with your spiritual progress?" Today, who hinders your progress?
The fact is, there are some lessons that we can learn too late.
1. Division is wrong and it will never pay. But that may be a lesson learned too late.
We need to come to grips with the problem of division - which is nothing more than a work of the flesh. 1 Corinthians 1:5, "That there be no divisions among you."
Too often brethren divide over pettiness. Very seldom do brethren divide over doctrinal issues. Division never blesses. It never builds up the body of Christ.
We need to learn to get along. We need to value working with others.
Ephesians 4:3 talks of keeping the unity in the bond of peace. That means we ought to try hard.
2. The high cost of putting the Church second may be a lesson learned too late.
Some give the Church very little thought when they select a spouse, a career, a place to live or anything else. The price is very high whenever we put the Church on a back burner to other things.
3. We are here to serve - not to be served. But that may be a lesson learned too late.
The rich man of Luke 16 learned too late that what he failed to do is what condemned him. In Matthew 25 those who were separated to the left hand were condemned for what they did not do.
Ronny then read to us a story of a cabby who picked up an elderly woman who was moving to a hospice. It was a moving story of service. The cabby was thankful he had gotten the old woman so he could be of service to her. It made him realize that it may have been one of the most important feats of his entire life.
Often times we are too soon old, too late wise. We all make mistakes. We've all made unwise choices that we later regret. In the text reading we're introduced to an unnamed man who is a courageous man serving God. However, he ends up doing the wrong thing and it costs him his life.
This man was fearless in crying out against the false gods. But, Satan never gives up easily. While this man condemned the idolatry of the day, he's enticed by an old prophet's invitation. The Lord had told him not to go home with any man. His disobedience resulted in his death by an lion attack. Certainly, he'd have done things differently if given the chance to do it all over.
Like a jewel cutter, concerned with proper planning to make sure the cut is made exact - we should exercise great care in our lives. We can be forgiven. We can be reformed. But we can't go back.
1 Corinthians 10:11 tells us the things written aforetime were written for our learning.
God doesn't indulge in self-contradiction. God had told the man what He wanted. God had talked to him directly the first time. Yet he's now listening to a complete stranger who tells him of a new revelation from angels. Why would he follow such a man? Why would he do just the opposite of what God had told him directly?
People do the same thing today. They speculate on all sorts of things that go beyond what is written. For example, we often hear people claim that love is the most important thing. But John 14:15 teaches us that loving God is found in keeping His commandments. The Bible never said love conquers all, but that's what we often hear.
For instance, the Church matters even though people claim it doesn't. Ephesians 5:23 and Ephesians 4:4 teach us that Christ is the head of the body, the Church. He's the Savior of the body. And we're told there is only one body.
The lesson of our text also teaches us that you can't always believe what religious leaders tell you. The devil doesn't always attack you head on. Sometimes he sneaks around the back door. The younger prophet was gullible. He believed the lies of the old prophet.
Acts 17:11 talks of being noble by searching the scriptures daily to see whether things are true. 2 Corinthians 4:2 talks of renouncing the hidden things of dishonesty and handling God's word deceitfully. The old prophet lied to him.
John 16:13 talks of being guided into "all truth." 2 Peter 1:3 speaks of "all things that pertain to life and godliness."
The old prophet claimed to have seen an angel. The younger prophet believed him.
Hebrews 1:1 teaches us that God used to speak through the prophets, but now He speaks to us through His Son, Christ.
Galatians 1 talks of the Truth being contradicted by even an angel of heaven - "let him be accursed."
Sincerity didn't matter. We don't doubt the sincerity of the younger prophet. He died anyway.
Matthew 15 talks of the blind leading the blind so that they both fall into the ditch. Matthew 7:21 exclaims that "not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, will enter into the kingdom of heaven."
Yesterday's obedience will never atone for today's disobedience. It's important we remain stedfast and faithful unto death. 1 Cor. 15:58 and Rev. 2:10
The first part of his mission was successful, but he had a second part of the mission. He had to return home fully obedient to God's commands. He failed.
Galatians 1:6 demonstrates Paul shock that these brethren were so soon removed from the Gospel he had taught them. In Gal. 5:7 he asks, "Ye did run well. Who did hinder you?"
Paul asks them, "You were running so well. What happened?" The word "hinder" in the original language means to "break up a road." Armies would destroy roads so the enemy's progress would be impeded. Paul's question is, "Who tore up the road in front of you?"
Their progress was hindered by false prophets. Unfortunately, too many will learn this lesson too late. At judgment they're realize their progress was hindered because they followed someone or something other than the Truth.
"Who interfered with your spiritual progress?" Today, who hinders your progress?
The fact is, there are some lessons that we can learn too late.
1. Division is wrong and it will never pay. But that may be a lesson learned too late.
We need to come to grips with the problem of division - which is nothing more than a work of the flesh. 1 Corinthians 1:5, "That there be no divisions among you."
Too often brethren divide over pettiness. Very seldom do brethren divide over doctrinal issues. Division never blesses. It never builds up the body of Christ.
We need to learn to get along. We need to value working with others.
Ephesians 4:3 talks of keeping the unity in the bond of peace. That means we ought to try hard.
2. The high cost of putting the Church second may be a lesson learned too late.
Some give the Church very little thought when they select a spouse, a career, a place to live or anything else. The price is very high whenever we put the Church on a back burner to other things.
3. We are here to serve - not to be served. But that may be a lesson learned too late.
The rich man of Luke 16 learned too late that what he failed to do is what condemned him. In Matthew 25 those who were separated to the left hand were condemned for what they did not do.
Ronny then read to us a story of a cabby who picked up an elderly woman who was moving to a hospice. It was a moving story of service. The cabby was thankful he had gotten the old woman so he could be of service to her. It made him realize that it may have been one of the most important feats of his entire life.
Saturday, April 09, 2005
"Walking With God"
Friday night, April 9th, Ronny used Genesis 5:21-24 as the text for his sermon.
The phrase "walking with God" was another way of saying somebody was consistent with following God. Every day we ought to live as though we've gotten bad news causing us to grow closer to God.
Hebrews 11:5,6 talks of Enoch, who walked with God and never saw death. God took him. The scriptures say he walked with God.
1. Walking with God always involves walking by faith.
2 Corinthians 5 tells us our earthly house or tabernacle is our body. But while the physical body is visible, the soul is invisible. Faith isn't based on sight. It's based on faith in God's Word. We choose to live according to God's rule when we we decide to walk by faith.
2. Walking with God is walking in the light.
1 John 1 teaches that sinful people can't have fellowship with God. The implication is that only perfect people can have fellowship with God. Only forgiven people have fellowship with God.
- We realize we're cleansed by the blood of Christ and we know we're walking in the light.
- We have the intercession of Christ and we know we're walkikng in the light.
- Atonement of Christ breaks down the barrier preventing our fellowship with God.
Ephesians 5:8 and Ephesians 4:1 tell us about being the children of light and walking worthy of our calling.
We can't walk with God if we're not obedient to God where the blood of Christ can continue to cleanse us from our sin. God forgives Christians of sins that we repent of and that we confess to Him. Walking in the light involves our sincere effort to avoid sin. Psalms 119:105 and 2 Corinthians 4:4
3. Walking with God is walking by the Spirit.
Galatians 5:13, 16 contrasts walking in the Spirit with walking in the lust of the flesh.
Liberty in Christ never permits sinful living.
We're able to walk in the Spirit because God's Word tells us what God wants. The apostles and prophets were guided by the Holy Spirit in order to reveal God's Word. John 16:13 and John 14:23
When we reproduce the works of the Spirit, we're walking with God. The works of the Spirit eliminate hatred or poor behavior toward our brethren.
I cannot hate my brother and walk with God at the same time. I cannot be harsh with my brother and walk with God. I can't divide the Church and walk with God.
We should all be concerned with our behavior toward one another.
4. We walk in newness of life when we walk with God.
Romans 6 In the act of baptism we die to sin, then arise to walk in newness of life. The old man is the unconverted sinner. His life was unrighteous because he was not yet obedient to the commands of the Gospel.
Ephesians 2:1-3 and Ephesians 4:22 contrast walking according to the course of this world and walking with God.
We put off behaviors common to the old man once we obey the Gospel. Col. 3:5, Rom. 6:6, 12
Before obedience, sin reigned in our lives. But in obedience we put away a devotion to self and sin. We put off the behavior of the old man and put on the behavior of the new man. Eph. 4:22 and Col. 3:12
In Eph. 4:25 the apostle Paul contrasts the behavior of the old man versus the behavior of the new man. When we are "crucified with Christ" it brings about a new man.
Ronny spoke of burying the hatchet, but leaving the handle sticking out so we can conveniently grab it whenever we want. Sometimes we allow the old man to creep back into our behavior when we deal with our brethren in spiteful ways.
5. We walk circumspectly when we walk with God.
Ephesians 5:15, 16
This means "to look around on all sides" or "to walk accurately or exactly." Ronny told us the original language signifies walking so carefully as to be like a tight rope walker who measures every step carefully. We should approach our Christian walk with the same precision and concern.
Redeeming the time is also part of walking circumspectly. We can't actually buy up time, but rather we can take advantage of our opportunities. Redeeming the time means we pay the necessary price (sacrifice) to use our time wisely. The word "time" (as used in "redeeming the time because the days are evil") doesn't refer to chronological time, but rather a season of opportunity. In our lifetime of opportunities we have to seize every advantage because the days are evil.
Clearly, the sermon exhorted us all to walk with God. We want to see heaven and only those who walk with God will achieve that.
The phrase "walking with God" was another way of saying somebody was consistent with following God. Every day we ought to live as though we've gotten bad news causing us to grow closer to God.
Hebrews 11:5,6 talks of Enoch, who walked with God and never saw death. God took him. The scriptures say he walked with God.
1. Walking with God always involves walking by faith.
2 Corinthians 5 tells us our earthly house or tabernacle is our body. But while the physical body is visible, the soul is invisible. Faith isn't based on sight. It's based on faith in God's Word. We choose to live according to God's rule when we we decide to walk by faith.
2. Walking with God is walking in the light.
1 John 1 teaches that sinful people can't have fellowship with God. The implication is that only perfect people can have fellowship with God. Only forgiven people have fellowship with God.
- We realize we're cleansed by the blood of Christ and we know we're walking in the light.
- We have the intercession of Christ and we know we're walkikng in the light.
- Atonement of Christ breaks down the barrier preventing our fellowship with God.
Ephesians 5:8 and Ephesians 4:1 tell us about being the children of light and walking worthy of our calling.
We can't walk with God if we're not obedient to God where the blood of Christ can continue to cleanse us from our sin. God forgives Christians of sins that we repent of and that we confess to Him. Walking in the light involves our sincere effort to avoid sin. Psalms 119:105 and 2 Corinthians 4:4
3. Walking with God is walking by the Spirit.
Galatians 5:13, 16 contrasts walking in the Spirit with walking in the lust of the flesh.
Liberty in Christ never permits sinful living.
We're able to walk in the Spirit because God's Word tells us what God wants. The apostles and prophets were guided by the Holy Spirit in order to reveal God's Word. John 16:13 and John 14:23
When we reproduce the works of the Spirit, we're walking with God. The works of the Spirit eliminate hatred or poor behavior toward our brethren.
I cannot hate my brother and walk with God at the same time. I cannot be harsh with my brother and walk with God. I can't divide the Church and walk with God.
We should all be concerned with our behavior toward one another.
4. We walk in newness of life when we walk with God.
Romans 6 In the act of baptism we die to sin, then arise to walk in newness of life. The old man is the unconverted sinner. His life was unrighteous because he was not yet obedient to the commands of the Gospel.
Ephesians 2:1-3 and Ephesians 4:22 contrast walking according to the course of this world and walking with God.
We put off behaviors common to the old man once we obey the Gospel. Col. 3:5, Rom. 6:6, 12
Before obedience, sin reigned in our lives. But in obedience we put away a devotion to self and sin. We put off the behavior of the old man and put on the behavior of the new man. Eph. 4:22 and Col. 3:12
In Eph. 4:25 the apostle Paul contrasts the behavior of the old man versus the behavior of the new man. When we are "crucified with Christ" it brings about a new man.
Ronny spoke of burying the hatchet, but leaving the handle sticking out so we can conveniently grab it whenever we want. Sometimes we allow the old man to creep back into our behavior when we deal with our brethren in spiteful ways.
5. We walk circumspectly when we walk with God.
Ephesians 5:15, 16
This means "to look around on all sides" or "to walk accurately or exactly." Ronny told us the original language signifies walking so carefully as to be like a tight rope walker who measures every step carefully. We should approach our Christian walk with the same precision and concern.
Redeeming the time is also part of walking circumspectly. We can't actually buy up time, but rather we can take advantage of our opportunities. Redeeming the time means we pay the necessary price (sacrifice) to use our time wisely. The word "time" (as used in "redeeming the time because the days are evil") doesn't refer to chronological time, but rather a season of opportunity. In our lifetime of opportunities we have to seize every advantage because the days are evil.
Clearly, the sermon exhorted us all to walk with God. We want to see heaven and only those who walk with God will achieve that.
Friday, April 08, 2005
"A Famine In The Land"
On Thursday evening, April 7th, Ronny's text reading was Amos 8:11, 12.
Running out of food was a fear among ancient people. Famine was a dreaded catastrophe. However, the text speaks of a different type of famine - a spiritual famine. In the days of Amos men were without spiritual guidance. Today, we have a self-imposed spiritual famine. Men choose not to listen to God.
2 Kings 22 tells us about the days when the rennovation of the temple ocurred. After a 57 year absence, the book of the law was discovered. We don't know how the law was lost, but during this 57 year period people had forgotten God's word. They were in a spiritual famine.
What are the evidences of today's self-imposed spiritual famine?
1. People have no delight in God's Word (Jer. 6:10).
Denominationalism has become the norm, and even crept into the Lord's Church. People concern themselves more with what they want to do to serve God. They're far less interested in what God's Word declares.
Psalms 1 tells us to meditate on God's Word day and night.
2. There is a failure to recognize error when it's preached or practiced.
Jeremiah 6 shows us how a time existed when God's people were destroyed for a lack of knowledge. It was a time when men cried peace when there was no peace. People saw good in things rather than seeing if a thing was spiritually "right" in the eyes of God.
Too often the standard for people is whether or not they deem something "good." Abraham Lincoln made a statement on September 7, 1864 that "but for it (God's Word) we wouldn't know right from wrong." He was correct. Yet, too frequently people don't lean on the word of God to determine if a thing is right or not.
Too often error goes unchallenged. If religious error it taught - we must oppose it. We need to stand up for what's right based on God's standard.
3. There is a lack of spiritual consecration.
1 John 4:4 We ought to display our differences to the world. As God's children we should be willing to set ourselves apart from the world through righteous living.
4. There is a lack of shame.
Jer. 6:15 speaks of a time when people were unable to blush - that is, they could no longer feel shame. What causes people to lose their shame?
a) They become too familiar with sinful behavior. It becomes too routine.
b) They accept that sinful behavior they've continually been exposed to.
c) They begin to practice the sin they first tolerated, then accepted.
Hebrews 3:13 Ephesians 5:11, 12
Sin is deceitful. Sometimes we're overcome by false impressions.
How can we reclaim our shame?
- Reformation is the only way. We have to reform ourselves by compliance with the will of God.
- We must distance ourselves from sin and those who are devoted to sin.
5. There is a lack of respect in the church.
There is a lack of respect for God and His Word. Exodus 20:7 Isaiah 17:7
There is a lack of respect in dealings with others. Romans 14:1 Romans 12:10 Ephesians 6:1,2
Every child should be taught proper respect.
1 Timothy 5:2 instructs us not to rebuke an older man - not to treat him harshly. We need more respect among brethren.
Self-imposed spiritual famine has only one remedy - obedience to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Running out of food was a fear among ancient people. Famine was a dreaded catastrophe. However, the text speaks of a different type of famine - a spiritual famine. In the days of Amos men were without spiritual guidance. Today, we have a self-imposed spiritual famine. Men choose not to listen to God.
2 Kings 22 tells us about the days when the rennovation of the temple ocurred. After a 57 year absence, the book of the law was discovered. We don't know how the law was lost, but during this 57 year period people had forgotten God's word. They were in a spiritual famine.
What are the evidences of today's self-imposed spiritual famine?
1. People have no delight in God's Word (Jer. 6:10).
Denominationalism has become the norm, and even crept into the Lord's Church. People concern themselves more with what they want to do to serve God. They're far less interested in what God's Word declares.
Psalms 1 tells us to meditate on God's Word day and night.
2. There is a failure to recognize error when it's preached or practiced.
Jeremiah 6 shows us how a time existed when God's people were destroyed for a lack of knowledge. It was a time when men cried peace when there was no peace. People saw good in things rather than seeing if a thing was spiritually "right" in the eyes of God.
Too often the standard for people is whether or not they deem something "good." Abraham Lincoln made a statement on September 7, 1864 that "but for it (God's Word) we wouldn't know right from wrong." He was correct. Yet, too frequently people don't lean on the word of God to determine if a thing is right or not.
Too often error goes unchallenged. If religious error it taught - we must oppose it. We need to stand up for what's right based on God's standard.
3. There is a lack of spiritual consecration.
1 John 4:4 We ought to display our differences to the world. As God's children we should be willing to set ourselves apart from the world through righteous living.
4. There is a lack of shame.
Jer. 6:15 speaks of a time when people were unable to blush - that is, they could no longer feel shame. What causes people to lose their shame?
a) They become too familiar with sinful behavior. It becomes too routine.
b) They accept that sinful behavior they've continually been exposed to.
c) They begin to practice the sin they first tolerated, then accepted.
Hebrews 3:13 Ephesians 5:11, 12
Sin is deceitful. Sometimes we're overcome by false impressions.
How can we reclaim our shame?
- Reformation is the only way. We have to reform ourselves by compliance with the will of God.
- We must distance ourselves from sin and those who are devoted to sin.
5. There is a lack of respect in the church.
There is a lack of respect for God and His Word. Exodus 20:7 Isaiah 17:7
There is a lack of respect in dealings with others. Romans 14:1 Romans 12:10 Ephesians 6:1,2
Every child should be taught proper respect.
1 Timothy 5:2 instructs us not to rebuke an older man - not to treat him harshly. We need more respect among brethren.
Self-imposed spiritual famine has only one remedy - obedience to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, April 07, 2005
"What Will Be Left Standing?"
Matthew 24:1, 2 served as Ronny's text on Wednesday night. "Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said to them, "Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down."
In AD70 Jerusalem fell and this prophecy of Christ came to pass. The temple was completely and utterly destroyed within 40 years of this prophecy. In the destruction of Jerusalem history doesn't record the death of a single Christian. They fled. However, it's doubtful any of them could have imagined the temple falling. It was a magnificient structure held in the highest regard by the Jews. What Christ foretold would happen was unfathomable...but it happened exactly as Jesus said it would. Some of the gold within the temple melted as a result of the fire set to burn the temple. It ran between the stones, according to history, resulting in the conquering soldiers turning over every stone in order to recover it. Indeed, not a single stone was left standing on another stone.
The tragic events of September 11th prove that few things are permanent. People have confidence in things that appear invincible (as the Twin Towers, or the temple of Jerusalem), but they're able to fall.
What will remain standing once this world is no more?
1. The kingdom of Christ will remain.
Empires and kingdoms come and go. The Roman Empire was powerful, but it doesn't exist today. The USSR was a powerful force for decades, but it's power has been greatly diminished. The Church is God's eternal kingdom (Matt. 16:18). It cannot be shaken according to Hebrews 12:28.
The organizations of men won't last. Only one organization, established by God through Jesus Christ, will remain - the Church you read about in the Bible.
2. The Word of God will be left standing.
John 8:32 proves two things: a) there is truth and b) we can know what it is. Some men claim that we cannot know truth. Others claim there is no truth. However, this verse proves otherwise. God's Word is Truth.
According to Matthew 24:35 God's Word shall never pass away. If our entire country were destroyed and left desolate for 100 years, then people stepped onto our shores and found a old Bible - the Word would be as powerful then as it is now. Men's words will fade and fail, but not God's.
We'll be judged according to the Bible so we'd better devote ourselves to becoming well acquainted with it. (John 12:48 and Rev. 20:12).
3. The assurance of pardon will remain after this world is gone.
Romans 8:2 and 2 Timothy 1:12. Are you saved? How do you know? Do you rely on a feeling?
Suppose a convicted felon in prison summoned you to his cell and told you to go notify the warden that he needed to be freed because he felt he had been pardoned - would he be released? It's equally silly to rely on our feelings for eternal salvation.
Romans 8:16 talks about The Spirit bearing witness with Our Spirit. What does that mean?
It means our life can be held up to the standards of God's Word and we can easily see if we're in compliance with God's command - and therefore know if we're pardoned.
The Word of God tells us that we must believe and have faith. That's the Spirit telling us what is required by God. So, we're able to look at our life and know if we believe. If we can say, "Yes" then our Spirit is in agreement (through obedience) with the Spirit.
The Word of God tells us that we must repent or perish (Luke 13:3). If we've turned away from sin and made up our mind to serve God, then we can say, "Yes" to that, too. Again, our Spirit and the Holy Spirit agree.
The Gospel tells us that we must confess Christ before men. If we deny Him before men, He'll deny us before God in Heaven. Acts 8:37 demonstrates the confession required, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." Have we done that? If we say "Yes" then we're living in agreement with the Gospel.
The Bible commands us to be baptized for the remission of our sins. If we've complied with the demands of the Gospel by being baptized for the remission of our sins in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost then we can say, "Yes."
So when we examine what God demans and realize we've done what He demands, then we know we have pardon. If we know we've failed to do what He demands, then we know we're not yet pardoned.
God's plan of pardon and the assurance we can have in our own pardon will be left standing.
4. The love of God will be left standing.
Romans 8 tells us that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Things can separate our love for God, but God stays true. Our love is affected by all sorts of things. The love of men can change. That's not true with God's love. His love will remain.
5. A heavenly home will remain once this world is gone.
2 Cor. 5:1, 2 The home Christ has gone to prepare will remain even though this world and all that's in it will be burned up.
6. Only the obedient will be left standing.
1 John 2:15 tells us that the people who do the will of God will abide forever. Today, some may scoff at obedience, but God's Word has always revealed how God views obedience.
1 Samuel 15:22, 23 teaches us that obedience is better than sacrifice. God cares about obedience. He wants us to obey Him. He rewards that obedience with eternal salvation. According to Matthew 25:32-41 only the rigthteous obedient will be saved.
Every person should be diligent to make sure they're investing in things that will remain.
In AD70 Jerusalem fell and this prophecy of Christ came to pass. The temple was completely and utterly destroyed within 40 years of this prophecy. In the destruction of Jerusalem history doesn't record the death of a single Christian. They fled. However, it's doubtful any of them could have imagined the temple falling. It was a magnificient structure held in the highest regard by the Jews. What Christ foretold would happen was unfathomable...but it happened exactly as Jesus said it would. Some of the gold within the temple melted as a result of the fire set to burn the temple. It ran between the stones, according to history, resulting in the conquering soldiers turning over every stone in order to recover it. Indeed, not a single stone was left standing on another stone.
The tragic events of September 11th prove that few things are permanent. People have confidence in things that appear invincible (as the Twin Towers, or the temple of Jerusalem), but they're able to fall.
What will remain standing once this world is no more?
1. The kingdom of Christ will remain.
Empires and kingdoms come and go. The Roman Empire was powerful, but it doesn't exist today. The USSR was a powerful force for decades, but it's power has been greatly diminished. The Church is God's eternal kingdom (Matt. 16:18). It cannot be shaken according to Hebrews 12:28.
The organizations of men won't last. Only one organization, established by God through Jesus Christ, will remain - the Church you read about in the Bible.
2. The Word of God will be left standing.
John 8:32 proves two things: a) there is truth and b) we can know what it is. Some men claim that we cannot know truth. Others claim there is no truth. However, this verse proves otherwise. God's Word is Truth.
According to Matthew 24:35 God's Word shall never pass away. If our entire country were destroyed and left desolate for 100 years, then people stepped onto our shores and found a old Bible - the Word would be as powerful then as it is now. Men's words will fade and fail, but not God's.
We'll be judged according to the Bible so we'd better devote ourselves to becoming well acquainted with it. (John 12:48 and Rev. 20:12).
3. The assurance of pardon will remain after this world is gone.
Romans 8:2 and 2 Timothy 1:12. Are you saved? How do you know? Do you rely on a feeling?
Suppose a convicted felon in prison summoned you to his cell and told you to go notify the warden that he needed to be freed because he felt he had been pardoned - would he be released? It's equally silly to rely on our feelings for eternal salvation.
Romans 8:16 talks about The Spirit bearing witness with Our Spirit. What does that mean?
It means our life can be held up to the standards of God's Word and we can easily see if we're in compliance with God's command - and therefore know if we're pardoned.
The Word of God tells us that we must believe and have faith. That's the Spirit telling us what is required by God. So, we're able to look at our life and know if we believe. If we can say, "Yes" then our Spirit is in agreement (through obedience) with the Spirit.
The Word of God tells us that we must repent or perish (Luke 13:3). If we've turned away from sin and made up our mind to serve God, then we can say, "Yes" to that, too. Again, our Spirit and the Holy Spirit agree.
The Gospel tells us that we must confess Christ before men. If we deny Him before men, He'll deny us before God in Heaven. Acts 8:37 demonstrates the confession required, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." Have we done that? If we say "Yes" then we're living in agreement with the Gospel.
The Bible commands us to be baptized for the remission of our sins. If we've complied with the demands of the Gospel by being baptized for the remission of our sins in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost then we can say, "Yes."
So when we examine what God demans and realize we've done what He demands, then we know we have pardon. If we know we've failed to do what He demands, then we know we're not yet pardoned.
God's plan of pardon and the assurance we can have in our own pardon will be left standing.
4. The love of God will be left standing.
Romans 8 tells us that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Things can separate our love for God, but God stays true. Our love is affected by all sorts of things. The love of men can change. That's not true with God's love. His love will remain.
5. A heavenly home will remain once this world is gone.
2 Cor. 5:1, 2 The home Christ has gone to prepare will remain even though this world and all that's in it will be burned up.
6. Only the obedient will be left standing.
1 John 2:15 tells us that the people who do the will of God will abide forever. Today, some may scoff at obedience, but God's Word has always revealed how God views obedience.
1 Samuel 15:22, 23 teaches us that obedience is better than sacrifice. God cares about obedience. He wants us to obey Him. He rewards that obedience with eternal salvation. According to Matthew 25:32-41 only the rigthteous obedient will be saved.
Every person should be diligent to make sure they're investing in things that will remain.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
"Remembering The Words of Jesus"
We are rapidly approaching the midway point of our gospel meeting with Ronny Wade. The preaching has been excellent. Our crowds have been good. Lord willing, the meeting is resulting in elevated energy toward righteous living among all our members and those who have joined us.
Tonight, Ronny used Acts 20:28-36 as his text. "Remembering The Words of Jesus" was the topic of his sermon.
Many people don't remember, respect or even care about what Jesus said about anything. The words of Jesus are the final authority because God has given all power and authority to Christ.
Memory is a wonderful gift from God. Without memory there would be no history, no relationships, no ability to recognize our own kids or family, and no ability to conduct business. The gift of memory allows us to have the quality of life we often take for granted.
God deals with us on a mental, moral and spiritual level. He reaches us by appealing to these faculties.
John 16:4 begins a discussion about the role of the Holy Spirit in teaching us the words of Jesus. The apostles had infalliable recollection because of the miraculous measure of the Holy Spirit. They were able to perfectly recall the things that Jesus said and taught. Additionally, they were guided by the Spirit in the things that Jesus didn't teach them while He walked among them.
According to Mark 13:11 inspiration was the measure of the Holy Spirit given to the apostles. Today, we are to rely on the words given by the Holy Spirit as recorded in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Here are some areas where we need to be remembering the words of Jesus.
1. The words of Christ on the subject of creation can settle a great debate among people.
Theistic evolution is merely a scheme of men to help religious people accept the theory of evolution. However, according to Genesis chapter 1 God created the world.
Genesis 1:26, 27 speaks of God creating "in the beginning." That removes room for evolution. Men who claim that God created the world through evolution haven't remembered these words. God created a full grown world without evolution.
Matthew 19:4 speaks of God's law on marriage, but one phrase is important: "at the beginning." God created man and woman at the beginning. Mankind didn't come from some stem cell that evolved. Mankind was created as male and female full grown. And God created them "from the beginning."
2. We need to remember the words of Christ on the mission of the Church.
John 17:1-11 dispell the notion of "the postponement theory of the kingdom." Some men believe Christ will return and reign on the earth for 1000 years. However, they fail to remember the words of Jesus here in John 17. Christ said He had finished His work. Whatever His work was, He had finished it. Christ said He would be no more in this world. Similar words are recorded in 2 Corinthians 5:17. It will be impossible for us to remember the words of Jesus and falsely believe that Christ will return to reign on the earth. And besides, the kingdom has already been established - the Church.
3. We need to remember the words of Christ on marriage, divorce and remarriage.
Divorce is out of control in America.
50% of all first time marriages end in divorce.
63% of all second time marriages end in divorce.
80% of all third time marriages end in divorce.
People aren't listening to the Word of God. If they would remember the words of Christ in Matthew 19 they would understand that God intends for one man to marry one woman - and remain so for the rest of their lives. God intends for a man to leave his mother and father to be joined to his wife. God intends for men to marry women and for women to marry men. Same sex marriages may very well become commonplace in America or the entire world. However, God still condemns it. Mankind only needs to read what the Lord had to say for the issue to be settled.
Sexual immorality is the only reason Heaven gives for breaking the marriage bond. Unfortunately, people are too busy listening to the world when it comes to the subject of marriage.
4. We need to remember the words of Christ on Heaven.
While there are many things we'd love to know about Heaven, we do know that the location is wherever Christ lives (John 14:1-4). Heaven will be a place where there is no sickness or death. It will be a place of light and life. It will be a homecoming for all faithful Christians. Our citizenship is in Heaven - so for us, we'll be going home.
Please make plans to attend the remainder of this gospel meeting as often as you can. The meeting ends on Sunday, April 10th. We want you to hear God's Word taught by one of the most capable preachers. We hope you'll join us.
Tonight, Ronny used Acts 20:28-36 as his text. "Remembering The Words of Jesus" was the topic of his sermon.
Many people don't remember, respect or even care about what Jesus said about anything. The words of Jesus are the final authority because God has given all power and authority to Christ.
Memory is a wonderful gift from God. Without memory there would be no history, no relationships, no ability to recognize our own kids or family, and no ability to conduct business. The gift of memory allows us to have the quality of life we often take for granted.
God deals with us on a mental, moral and spiritual level. He reaches us by appealing to these faculties.
John 16:4 begins a discussion about the role of the Holy Spirit in teaching us the words of Jesus. The apostles had infalliable recollection because of the miraculous measure of the Holy Spirit. They were able to perfectly recall the things that Jesus said and taught. Additionally, they were guided by the Spirit in the things that Jesus didn't teach them while He walked among them.
According to Mark 13:11 inspiration was the measure of the Holy Spirit given to the apostles. Today, we are to rely on the words given by the Holy Spirit as recorded in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Here are some areas where we need to be remembering the words of Jesus.
1. The words of Christ on the subject of creation can settle a great debate among people.
Theistic evolution is merely a scheme of men to help religious people accept the theory of evolution. However, according to Genesis chapter 1 God created the world.
Genesis 1:26, 27 speaks of God creating "in the beginning." That removes room for evolution. Men who claim that God created the world through evolution haven't remembered these words. God created a full grown world without evolution.
Matthew 19:4 speaks of God's law on marriage, but one phrase is important: "at the beginning." God created man and woman at the beginning. Mankind didn't come from some stem cell that evolved. Mankind was created as male and female full grown. And God created them "from the beginning."
2. We need to remember the words of Christ on the mission of the Church.
John 17:1-11 dispell the notion of "the postponement theory of the kingdom." Some men believe Christ will return and reign on the earth for 1000 years. However, they fail to remember the words of Jesus here in John 17. Christ said He had finished His work. Whatever His work was, He had finished it. Christ said He would be no more in this world. Similar words are recorded in 2 Corinthians 5:17. It will be impossible for us to remember the words of Jesus and falsely believe that Christ will return to reign on the earth. And besides, the kingdom has already been established - the Church.
3. We need to remember the words of Christ on marriage, divorce and remarriage.
Divorce is out of control in America.
50% of all first time marriages end in divorce.
63% of all second time marriages end in divorce.
80% of all third time marriages end in divorce.
People aren't listening to the Word of God. If they would remember the words of Christ in Matthew 19 they would understand that God intends for one man to marry one woman - and remain so for the rest of their lives. God intends for a man to leave his mother and father to be joined to his wife. God intends for men to marry women and for women to marry men. Same sex marriages may very well become commonplace in America or the entire world. However, God still condemns it. Mankind only needs to read what the Lord had to say for the issue to be settled.
Sexual immorality is the only reason Heaven gives for breaking the marriage bond. Unfortunately, people are too busy listening to the world when it comes to the subject of marriage.
4. We need to remember the words of Christ on Heaven.
While there are many things we'd love to know about Heaven, we do know that the location is wherever Christ lives (John 14:1-4). Heaven will be a place where there is no sickness or death. It will be a place of light and life. It will be a homecoming for all faithful Christians. Our citizenship is in Heaven - so for us, we'll be going home.
Please make plans to attend the remainder of this gospel meeting as often as you can. The meeting ends on Sunday, April 10th. We want you to hear God's Word taught by one of the most capable preachers. We hope you'll join us.
"Prayer"
On Monday night Ronny's text was taken from 1 Thess. 5:17. His subject was prayer.
He began his sermon talking about the times when prayer isn't appropriate.
1. When the person who has never obeyed the gospel prays for salvation. Salvation isn't gained through prayer, in spite of the false claims by many preachers that the "sinner's prayer" will save. Ronny cited the example of Saul of Tarsus who was found praying when God sent Annanias to preach to him. Prayer wasn't saving Saul. Preaching the gospel (done at the hand of Annanias) is what saved Saul. Likewise, the story of Cornelius in Acts 10 proves that prayer doesn't save. The scriptures say that he prayed always. Yet, he was unsaved until he was baptized.
Ronny explained that "calling on the name of the Lord" in Romans 10 means "obeying the gospel." We're able to conclude that because we don't find anybody being saved by prayer, but we do find people being saved through baptism.
2. It's not appropriate to pray for the Kingdom to come. The Kingdom, the Church, has already come. For us to recite what is commonly called "The Lord's Prayer" is wrong today. When Christ was using that model prayer to instruct the disciples it was appropriate because the Church had not yet been established. However, it's not appropriate for any of us who live after the establishment of the Church.
3. Persistent sinners should quit praying. Those who refuse the gospel and neglect obedience have no business praying. God will not hear their prayers. Sinners need forgiveness. Obeying the gospel of Jesus Christ is where forgiveness is found.
4. People who fail to forgive others should stop praying. If the offender of Matthew 5 and the offended of Matthew 18 would do exactly as the Bible directs, Ronny points out they'd meet half way in gaining resolution of their problems. Unfortunately, too often men refuse the Bible plan for resolving conflict. God's forgiveness will be extended to us in like measure as we give it to others. A sobering thought for every Christian.
5. The hypocritical church member should stop praying. That doesn't mean they shouldn't pray for forgiveness, but they need to straighten up their behavior and stop being hypocritics. Ronny cited those described in Matthew 6 who wanted to be seen and heard of men. He also pointed out the folly of long-winded prayers, along with prayers full of vain repetitions.
He concluded by talking about acceptable prayer.
a. Pray in faith. We need to believe God will hear and answer our prayers.
b. Pray God's will be done. We don't want our will to be done because God knows best.
c. Pray through Jesus Christ, our mediator.
d. Pray for rulers to allow us to live quiet, peaceable lives in all righteousness.
e. Pray for brethren.
f. Pray for the lost.
g. Pray for the sick. Ronny discussed how to pray for those who are terminally ill. First, pray that God's will be done. Second, pray that whatever is best for them and their family be done. It's not wise to pray that God spare them because that may not be what is best. Turn it over to the Lord and pray that He'll do whatever is most fitting for them and those who love them.
h. Pray for physical needs.
i. Pray for your enemies.
j. Pray for forgiveness.
He closed by asking the question important to every person: "Is God your Father?" He took that question from the prayer Jesus modeled for the disciples when He began it with the phrase, "Our Father, which art in heaven."
Unless God is our Father, we can't pray to Him. Obedience to the gospel is fundamental for every person. He encouraged all who were not saved to obey the gospel by repenting, confessing their faith in Christ and being baptized for the remission of their sins.
The meeting continues each night this week. We urge you to come listen to God's Word plainly taught.
You won't be asked to contribute any money. You won't be embarrassed. You won't be made to feel uncomfortable.
We'll gladly answer any questions you may have. We promise your time will be well spent considering eternal things.
Join us each night this week at 7:30pm.
He began his sermon talking about the times when prayer isn't appropriate.
1. When the person who has never obeyed the gospel prays for salvation. Salvation isn't gained through prayer, in spite of the false claims by many preachers that the "sinner's prayer" will save. Ronny cited the example of Saul of Tarsus who was found praying when God sent Annanias to preach to him. Prayer wasn't saving Saul. Preaching the gospel (done at the hand of Annanias) is what saved Saul. Likewise, the story of Cornelius in Acts 10 proves that prayer doesn't save. The scriptures say that he prayed always. Yet, he was unsaved until he was baptized.
Ronny explained that "calling on the name of the Lord" in Romans 10 means "obeying the gospel." We're able to conclude that because we don't find anybody being saved by prayer, but we do find people being saved through baptism.
2. It's not appropriate to pray for the Kingdom to come. The Kingdom, the Church, has already come. For us to recite what is commonly called "The Lord's Prayer" is wrong today. When Christ was using that model prayer to instruct the disciples it was appropriate because the Church had not yet been established. However, it's not appropriate for any of us who live after the establishment of the Church.
3. Persistent sinners should quit praying. Those who refuse the gospel and neglect obedience have no business praying. God will not hear their prayers. Sinners need forgiveness. Obeying the gospel of Jesus Christ is where forgiveness is found.
4. People who fail to forgive others should stop praying. If the offender of Matthew 5 and the offended of Matthew 18 would do exactly as the Bible directs, Ronny points out they'd meet half way in gaining resolution of their problems. Unfortunately, too often men refuse the Bible plan for resolving conflict. God's forgiveness will be extended to us in like measure as we give it to others. A sobering thought for every Christian.
5. The hypocritical church member should stop praying. That doesn't mean they shouldn't pray for forgiveness, but they need to straighten up their behavior and stop being hypocritics. Ronny cited those described in Matthew 6 who wanted to be seen and heard of men. He also pointed out the folly of long-winded prayers, along with prayers full of vain repetitions.
He concluded by talking about acceptable prayer.
a. Pray in faith. We need to believe God will hear and answer our prayers.
b. Pray God's will be done. We don't want our will to be done because God knows best.
c. Pray through Jesus Christ, our mediator.
d. Pray for rulers to allow us to live quiet, peaceable lives in all righteousness.
e. Pray for brethren.
f. Pray for the lost.
g. Pray for the sick. Ronny discussed how to pray for those who are terminally ill. First, pray that God's will be done. Second, pray that whatever is best for them and their family be done. It's not wise to pray that God spare them because that may not be what is best. Turn it over to the Lord and pray that He'll do whatever is most fitting for them and those who love them.
h. Pray for physical needs.
i. Pray for your enemies.
j. Pray for forgiveness.
He closed by asking the question important to every person: "Is God your Father?" He took that question from the prayer Jesus modeled for the disciples when He began it with the phrase, "Our Father, which art in heaven."
Unless God is our Father, we can't pray to Him. Obedience to the gospel is fundamental for every person. He encouraged all who were not saved to obey the gospel by repenting, confessing their faith in Christ and being baptized for the remission of their sins.
The meeting continues each night this week. We urge you to come listen to God's Word plainly taught.
You won't be asked to contribute any money. You won't be embarrassed. You won't be made to feel uncomfortable.
We'll gladly answer any questions you may have. We promise your time will be well spent considering eternal things.
Join us each night this week at 7:30pm.
Sunday, April 03, 2005
"If Only We Had Known" and "Brethren, There Is Danger Ahead"
The Morning Service
Today was the first Lord's Day of our gospel meeting with Ronny Wade. This morning Ronny used 1st Corinthians 2:7,8 as his text reading. He introduced his sermon with a recollection of how the Jews of Jesus day didn't recognize Christ as the Messiah or His gospel as the Truth of God's Word. They failed to understand and perceive things as they really were.
He entitled the morning sermon, "If We Had Only Known." We all must realize there can be times when we fail to understand things as they really are - and quite often the prices we pay are very high.
First, if we only knew the consequences of sin we would certainly live more righteously. The wages of sin is death. Those wages will be paid, but we often fail to fully comprehend that.
Ronny spoke of the high cost of immorality. He cited Numbers 32:23, which speaks of our being sure our sins will find us out. Ronny answered the question, "How will our sin find us out?"
a) Sin finds us out in our conscience. Our conscience should understand the difference between right and wrong. When we commit sin our conscience uncovers our sin.
b) Sin finds us out in our cowardice. Adam and Eve hid themselves from God after they sinned. People seek to commit sin in the shadows where they won't be discovered.
c) Sin finds us out in our defeats. Moses wasn't allowed to enter into the Promised Land due to the sin he committed. Defeat uncovered his sin - and it will uncovers our sins, too.
d) Sin finds us out in the conduct of our children. David's sin resulted in his being tormented by the dreadful behavior of his children.
Second, if we only knew or properly understood the misuse of our tongue we'd behave better. He spoke to us of the value of keeping our mouths shut more and in choosing our words more carefully. He then recited to us a prayer he came across - a prayer for our tongue. I'll try to get a copy of it and post it later. It was quite good.
Third, if we only knew how brief out lives would be we'd devote more of ourselves to God's service. He cited the rich man of Luke 16 who clearly had failed to realize the importance of living a righteous life while he was on earth. We must all understand that another day of life is not promised. It's up to us to make wise use of our time in preparation for eternity.
The Evening Service
Acts 20:28-32 was the text reading tonight. These verses contain the apostle Paul's address to the Ephesian elders. Paul warns them of the coming troubles that will plague the Church. Ronny entitled the sermon, "Brethren, There Is Danger Ahead."
Some of the dangers we face today are: 1) uninformed membership, 2) misinterpretating the mission of the Church, 3) decreasing emphasis on a "thus saith the Lord" along with a lack of reliance on God's Word and 4) the increasing tendancy for congregations to divide.
Ignorance of the scriptures makes us vulnerable to Satan's devices and false doctrine. It's important that we spend quality time studying our Bibles.
The purpose of the Church is summarized in Ephesians 4:12. The sum and substance is clearly stated: perfecting of the saints, working of the ministry and edifying the body.
Our reverance for God should be displayed in our reverance for His Word. His Word takes on His characteristics. Proper respect of God's Word should lead us to deal carefully with the Gospel and incorporate it fully into our lives.
Unity is the opposite of division. Unity isn't found in the opinions of men, but is only found in a reliance on the gospel. Unity will exist when people are dedicated to follow the gospel. Problems should be calmly addressed and resolved. Brethren should not divide as a solution to conflict.
It was a good day of worship. Ronny certainly did his part by edifying us in the Truth.
Remember, the meeting continues each night this week at 7:30pm. Please make plans to attend. We think you'll find it rewarding.
Today was the first Lord's Day of our gospel meeting with Ronny Wade. This morning Ronny used 1st Corinthians 2:7,8 as his text reading. He introduced his sermon with a recollection of how the Jews of Jesus day didn't recognize Christ as the Messiah or His gospel as the Truth of God's Word. They failed to understand and perceive things as they really were.
He entitled the morning sermon, "If We Had Only Known." We all must realize there can be times when we fail to understand things as they really are - and quite often the prices we pay are very high.
First, if we only knew the consequences of sin we would certainly live more righteously. The wages of sin is death. Those wages will be paid, but we often fail to fully comprehend that.
Ronny spoke of the high cost of immorality. He cited Numbers 32:23, which speaks of our being sure our sins will find us out. Ronny answered the question, "How will our sin find us out?"
a) Sin finds us out in our conscience. Our conscience should understand the difference between right and wrong. When we commit sin our conscience uncovers our sin.
b) Sin finds us out in our cowardice. Adam and Eve hid themselves from God after they sinned. People seek to commit sin in the shadows where they won't be discovered.
c) Sin finds us out in our defeats. Moses wasn't allowed to enter into the Promised Land due to the sin he committed. Defeat uncovered his sin - and it will uncovers our sins, too.
d) Sin finds us out in the conduct of our children. David's sin resulted in his being tormented by the dreadful behavior of his children.
Second, if we only knew or properly understood the misuse of our tongue we'd behave better. He spoke to us of the value of keeping our mouths shut more and in choosing our words more carefully. He then recited to us a prayer he came across - a prayer for our tongue. I'll try to get a copy of it and post it later. It was quite good.
Third, if we only knew how brief out lives would be we'd devote more of ourselves to God's service. He cited the rich man of Luke 16 who clearly had failed to realize the importance of living a righteous life while he was on earth. We must all understand that another day of life is not promised. It's up to us to make wise use of our time in preparation for eternity.
The Evening Service
Acts 20:28-32 was the text reading tonight. These verses contain the apostle Paul's address to the Ephesian elders. Paul warns them of the coming troubles that will plague the Church. Ronny entitled the sermon, "Brethren, There Is Danger Ahead."
Some of the dangers we face today are: 1) uninformed membership, 2) misinterpretating the mission of the Church, 3) decreasing emphasis on a "thus saith the Lord" along with a lack of reliance on God's Word and 4) the increasing tendancy for congregations to divide.
Ignorance of the scriptures makes us vulnerable to Satan's devices and false doctrine. It's important that we spend quality time studying our Bibles.
The purpose of the Church is summarized in Ephesians 4:12. The sum and substance is clearly stated: perfecting of the saints, working of the ministry and edifying the body.
Our reverance for God should be displayed in our reverance for His Word. His Word takes on His characteristics. Proper respect of God's Word should lead us to deal carefully with the Gospel and incorporate it fully into our lives.
Unity is the opposite of division. Unity isn't found in the opinions of men, but is only found in a reliance on the gospel. Unity will exist when people are dedicated to follow the gospel. Problems should be calmly addressed and resolved. Brethren should not divide as a solution to conflict.
It was a good day of worship. Ronny certainly did his part by edifying us in the Truth.
Remember, the meeting continues each night this week at 7:30pm. Please make plans to attend. We think you'll find it rewarding.
Saturday, April 02, 2005
"Halting Between Two Opinions"
Our meeting with Ronny Wade began Saturday night, April 2nd. Ronny spoke on an idea presented in 1 Kings 18:20, 21 about "halting between two opinions." It's important for all people to make up their mind to serve God. In the battle between God's prophet and the prophets of Baal - it was clearly Jehovah God who won, proving Himself to be the True God. Ronny spoke to us of three gods capable of taking us away from righteous living: a) the god of self, b) the god of money and c) the god of the flesh.
As usual Ronny's message was full of scripture with good application to the problems facing us today. He admonished us to make up our mind to serve God Jehovah by making sure other gods don't consume our time, our money and our passion.
We're looking forward to a wonderful week of gospel preaching. Please make plans to join us!
As usual Ronny's message was full of scripture with good application to the problems facing us today. He admonished us to make up our mind to serve God Jehovah by making sure other gods don't consume our time, our money and our passion.
We're looking forward to a wonderful week of gospel preaching. Please make plans to join us!
Friday, April 01, 2005
Gospel Meeting Starts Saturday - April 2nd
Our gospel meeting with evangelist Ronny F. Wade, from Springfield, Missouri, begins Saturday (April 2nd) evening at 6pm. We hope you'll attend.
Ronny is a talented student of the Bible who has been preaching for over 5 decades. He has traveled all over the country preaching the gospel and contending for the faith.
Coming back to Ft. Worth is a bit of a homecoming for Ronny. He grew up in Cleburne and completed his undergraduate degree at TCU. He and his wife have lived in Springfield for many years where Ronny was an elementary school principal.
A few years ago Ronny retired from secular work and began to devote himself to full-time evangelistic work, as he had in his younger days. Even during his educational work Ronny continued to conduct many gospel meetings throughout the country.
In addition, he serves as an editor of The Old Paths Advocate - a journal serving our brotherhood.
The meeting will continue through Sunday, April 10th.
We welcome everybody to come hear plain, easy-to-understand, gospel preaching.
Ronny is a talented student of the Bible who has been preaching for over 5 decades. He has traveled all over the country preaching the gospel and contending for the faith.
Coming back to Ft. Worth is a bit of a homecoming for Ronny. He grew up in Cleburne and completed his undergraduate degree at TCU. He and his wife have lived in Springfield for many years where Ronny was an elementary school principal.
A few years ago Ronny retired from secular work and began to devote himself to full-time evangelistic work, as he had in his younger days. Even during his educational work Ronny continued to conduct many gospel meetings throughout the country.
In addition, he serves as an editor of The Old Paths Advocate - a journal serving our brotherhood.
The meeting will continue through Sunday, April 10th.
We welcome everybody to come hear plain, easy-to-understand, gospel preaching.
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