Family Bible Church weekly message

* You can get the sermon note sheet at: http://family-bible-church.org/2025Messages/25May25.pdf * Jesus has entered into Jerusalem and has been teaching the people in the Temple. We are in the midst of a four day period when the Passover Lamb would be finely examined to make sure that it was a worthy Sacrifice. The religious unknowingly are fulfilling this prophetic requirement of YHWH (cf. Exodus 12:2-7). * Two weeks ago, we considered the Chief Priests' and Scribes' attempted to find a blemish in Jesus by asking whether it was lawful for Jews to pay taxes to Caesar. * Last week, we saw the Sadducees seek to trap Him by asking him who wife would a woman be (in the resurrection) who had been married consecutively to seven brothers. Jesus responded to them by drawing attention to the fact that they truly did not believe the Scriptures that they supposedly held in high regard. * Jesus took the moment as an opportunity to teach - both the Scribes and His Disciples - with authority. The first being a call to expositing the Word of God faithfully and the second a call to beware of pretentiousness. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on May 25, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* You can get the sermon note sheet at: http://family-bible-church.org/2025Messages/25May18.pdf * Jesus has entered into Jerusalem and has been teaching the people in the Temple. We are in the midst of a four day period when the Passover Lamb would be finely examined to make sure that it was a worthy Sacrifice. The religious unknowingly are fulfilling this prophetic requirement of YHWH (cf. Exodus 12:2-7). * Last week, we considered the Chief Priests' and Scribes' attempt to find a blemish in Jesus by asking whether it was lawful for Jews to pay taxes to Caesar. * Today, we see the Sadducees try to draw out a doctrinal flaw in the Messiah by a presenting Him a riddle regarding a woman who - by law - was married to seven different brothers and died childless * Like last week, we see Jesus respond in a manner that silences His critics! * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on May 18, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* You can get the sermon note sheet at: http://family-bible-church.org/2025Messages/25May11.pdf * Jesus has entered into Jerusalem. He initially went into the Temple, cleared out the money-changers, and declared that the Temple was meant to be a house of prayer for all nations, but the religious establishment had made it into an emporium of thieves! * For the next four days, from His entrance into the city to His death on the cross, Jesus taught the people in the Temple. * Also on those the next four days, the religious leaders sought to trap Him and find public fault in Him or His teachings. This is important because as Psalm 118 declared, He would also be the Festal Sacrifice. * Jesus was the fulfillment of the Passover Lamb. In Exodus 12, YHWH gave specific instructions for processing of the Passover Lamb. It was supposed to be chosen on the 10th day of the month, examined for the next four days to assure that it was without blemish, and then slaughtered at twilight on the 14th day of the month. (Exodus 12:2-7) * Unknowingly, the religious leaders were certifying Jesus' fulfillment of this prophecy! * Through the rest of this chapter, we see several of these "tests" which the leaders brought to Jesus. * Each of the tests, leave of us with applications to our lives as well. * Today, we see YHWH's expectations for us in relationship to earthly authority and His heavenly authority! * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on May 11, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* You can get the sermon note sheet at: http://family-bible-church.org/2025Messages/25May04.pdf * As Jesus came to Jerusalem, the people began to sing the Psalms of the Hallel and to call out the Messiah praise contained in them. * As we considered that portion of Luke three weeks ago, we looked at the Messianic declarations from Psalm 118. chiefly: v. 22-23 22 "The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. 23 This was the LORD's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes." * In today's passage, we see Jesus refer back to this Messianic passage and clearly infer that He was the fulfillment this "cornerstone." Additionally, He reiterates His prophetic declaration that Israel would be punished for it's rejection of Him. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on May 4, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

Due to technical difficulties video is unavailable this week. * Two weeks ago we considered the proclamations of the people regarding the Messianic fulfillment of Jesus as He journeyed to Jerusalem. We saw, as well, how Jesus confirmed those proclamations by declaring to the Pharisees that if the people would be quiet then the stones would immediately cry out! * In the Old Testament, the book of Lamentations contains the sorrowful account of Jeremiah as he looks upon the destruction of Jerusalem after Nebuchadnezzar's conquest. Chapters 1 and 2 declare how YHWH handed over Jerusalem, and His Temple, to the atrocities of Nebuchadnezzar and Babylon as punishment for treating His Temple with disdain and for bringing idolatrous practices into the Temple - in His presence - before Him. * In similar manner, Jesus - being omniscient - sees the destruction which will come upon Jerusalem within 40 years because they, as well, did not know the day of their visitation! They returned to treating YHWH's house with disdain and had rejected YHWH Himself when He had fulfilled His Word to come as a child and dwell in their midst. * Today, we consider a short - but very profound - passage which contains Jesus' Messianic Lamentations for Jerusalem and His Temple. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on April 27, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* In the beginning, God made man in His own image and likeness. He then placed man in the garden and made him a helpmeet. In that garden, God placed two special trees, along with the other various trees. These two trees were the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (otherwise known as the Tree of Death - for in the day that you eat of it, you shall surely die.) * God made man with the Privilege of Choice. Man, in the garden, had a choice to make. God told man that he could eat of any tree (including the Tree of Life), but he was forbidden from eating from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Sadly, man chose to disobey God, and death entered into the world. * This choice has been the primary choice which man needs to make. To choose obedience to God is to choose life. To choose disobedience to God is to choose death. Romans 6:23 states, "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord." * The apex of that choice was displayed 4000 years later, in the very moment of Christ's payment for our sin. There on Golgotha - the place of the Skull - Jesus was crucified between two criminals. The trees upon which these criminals were hung equate to the trees in the Garden of Eden. * Mankind, another 2000 years later, is still faced with the same choice that these criminals faced. Let's look at "The Choice" each made. * This message was presented by Chuck Sabo and Bob Corbin on April 20, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Jesus has passed through Jericho and has now made it to Jerusalem. * Luke records that on the journey to Jerusalem, Jesus had healed the ten lepers and Bar-Timaeus. Throughout Jesus' earthly ministry, He had performed many mighty acts which required great power. These wonderful works had not escaped the notice of the populace. * The anticipation of the crowds begins to raise to a crescendo as Jesus now enters the city. Jesus adds to this Messianic feel with His preparations and His confirmation of the crowd's proclamation of praise. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on April 13, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Jesus is on His final trip from Galilee to Jerusalem. * Last week, we saw Him invite Himself to the house of Zacchaeus as He passed through the city of Jericho. After his conversation with Jesus, Zacchaeus bore fruits of repentance and Jesus declared that salvation had come to that house! * Today, we examine "The Parable of the Ten Minas" which Jesus shared while sitting at the house of Zacchaeus. * Through this Parable, Jesus is once again seeking to prepare His Disciples for the days ahead. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on March 30, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Jesus is on His final trip from Galilee to Jerusalem. He has made His way down the Jordan River in order to pass through Jericho. In Jericho, we see that He had two divine appointments with those who would have been considered outcasts of society. * Last week, we saw His interaction with Bar-Timaeus, a blind beggar. * Today, we consider the well known encounter with a chief tax collector named Zacchaeus - a wee little man who climbed a sycamore tree for the Lord he wanted to see! * Again today, we will consider how Jesus provides the opportunity for one who was inquisitive to find the truth - and for the truth to set them free! * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on March 23, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Jesus is on His final trip from Galilee to Jerusalem. He has made His way down the Jordan River in order to pass through Jericho. * In our study of the Gospel according to Luke, we have seen that Jesus clearly will go out of His way in order to "coincidentally" have an encounter with specific individuals. In many of those occasions, those individuals would have been considered outcasts of society - lepers, demoniacs, gentiles, Roman centurions, tax collectors, prostitutes, etc. * Today, we see Jesus engage another "outcast." Yet, as we have seen in many of those other encounters, Jesus sets up the opportunity for them to engage Him! * In today's passage, we also see a juxtaposition of two accounts in which God keeps blinded the "eyes" of those who can see (the Apostles) and opens the eyes of one who cannot see (Bar-Timaeus)! * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on March 16, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Jesus is on His final trip from Galilee to Jerusalem. He has been ministering to, and teaching, the multitudes as He traveled. He took a side trip through Samaria and then is making His way back down toward the Jordan River in order to pass through Jericho. * Over the past two weeks, we have seen Jesus begin to address the question of the Pharisees regarding when the Kingdom of God would come. Jesus told them that the Kingdom of God ultimately does not come with observation but rather God reigns in the hearts of individuals. He then to present instruction to His disciples regarding some of the details of His return. * Last week, we saw Jesus begin to address how the spiritual Kingdom would be apparent in those in which He reigned. He encouraged His disciples to not lose heart in presenting their petitions to God but to always remember that He would judge justly. * In today's passage, we see Jesus teach further into this Kingdom mindset. "What does it look like to have Christ reigning in your heart?" How will that affect your life and your motivations? * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on March 9, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Jesus is on His final trip from Galilee to Jerusalem. He has been ministering to, and teaching, the multitudes as He traveled. He took a side trip through Samaria and then is making His way back down toward the Jordan River in order to pass through Jericho. * Last week, we saw Jesus address the question of the Pharisees regarding when the Kingdom of God would come. He told them that the Kingdom of God ultimately does not come with observation but rather God reigns in the hearts of individuals. Jesus then turned to present instruction to His disciples regarding some of the details of His return. * It is good to remember that there were no chapter breaks when Luke wrote. This parable of "The Persistent Widow" is given by Jesus to His disciples directly following this instruction regarding His Spiritual Reign in the hearts of individuals and His Return to Physically Reign on the earth over the nations. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on March 2, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Jesus has been teaching and interacting with those who are following Him - the multitude, the disciples, the apostles, and even those who are looking for reasons to accuse - the Scribes and the Pharisees. Today, we see this as well. * Jesus is on His way to Jerusalem and has just past through Samaria. Yet, topically, this section ties back to 16:14-17 when Jesus responded to the derision of the Pharisees and declared that since John the Baptist "the Kingdom of God has been preached, and everyone is pressing into it." * Jesus fields a question from the Pharisees regarding the Kingdom of God, addresses their unbelieving hearts, and then provides additional information to His disciples regarding God's Kingdom plan. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on February 23, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Dan Nave is the Executive Director of Southeast Church Extension whose mission is to help struggling churches get healthy and healthy churches reproduce. * There are only two paths that are open to you, either to follow God or to reject God. A stable person is the person who follows God; this is individual is blessed. * Whether we are entering a new stage in our life, or are simply realizing where we are, this is THE question we need to ask - will we be blessed of God? * This message was presented by Dan Nave on February 16, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* While Jesus has been teaching the multitudes, we have seen Him addressing the faithlessness of the Pharisees, scribes and lawyers. In the parable of the Prodigal Son, Jesus revealed the callousness of the Jewish religious leaders towards the revival that was going on amongst the "common people." * Two weeks ago, we saw Jesus address this again with the Pharisees while presenting the Parable of the unjust, or unrighteous, steward to His disciples. The Pharisees understood that Jesus was referring to Him and responded with derision. * Last week, we continued that interaction with Jesus' response to the Pharisees - showing them the contrast between their hypocrisy and the fervent desire of the "sinners" to repent and enter into the Kingdom of God. Jesus revealed their hypocrisy and failure to live according to the dictates of the Law, regarding treatment of the poor, through the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus. * Today, we see Jesus build on this moment by providing instruction to His "disciples" that causes alarm in His "apostles." Jesus continues to teach in a manner to transform the mindset of those listening to Him - from trusting in their works, to trusting in the work of God alone. Jesus has continually revealed that according to your works you will never attain the righteousness of God. It is only through faith in the power and work of God, that we can truly walk in righteousness. We must believe that God is able to "work in us both to will and to do for His good pleasure" (Philippians 2:13) and in so doing, we "can do all things through Christ who strengthens us!" (Philippians 4:13) * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on February 9, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Over the past month, we have been studying Luke 14 through 16. In this portion of Luke, we have seen Jesus teaching various people groups that were following Him. In this section, we have seen Jesus' use of parables - or word pictures - to help illustrate, or portray, the point which He was conveying. Additionally, Jesus tended to teach into a moment by addressing a question, or statement, from those following Him. * Last week, at the beginning of chapter 16, Jesus specifically turned his teaching toward His disciples - sharing with them a parable regarding an unjust, or unrighteous, steward who is at first condemned and then commended by his master. At the conclusion of the parable, we saw that there were "others" (specifically, the pharisees) who were listening in, and who understood that the parable was addressing them. * Today, we want to pick up with that understanding of the Pharisees and consider Jesus' instruction to them after their derision of Him. In this portion, we saw Jesus first quickly address the extent of God's Knowledge, Kingdom, and Law. He then shares a parable which, at its core, is addressing the hardness of the Pharisees' hearts ... but which also opens up an opportunity for us to discuss what post-death might look like. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on February 2, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Last week, we saw Jesus share the value of a repentant sinner and the situation of a repentant sinner to the Pharisees and the multitudes in general. The first two parables that he spoke were about a man who had lost a sheep and a woman who had lost a coin. Then he shared the parable regarding the Prodigal Son. * Today, we see that Jesus turns his teaching specifically toward His disciples - sharing with them a parable regarding an unjust, or unrighteous, steward who is at first condemned and then commended by his master. At the conclusion of the parable, we see that there were "others" listening in. Jesus' teaching regarding the actions of this steward and His subsequent applicational principles regarding our faithfulness and allegiance are points to which we ought to give somber consideration in our walk with Christ. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on January 26, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Last week, we saw Jesus again telling the multitude the expectations and costs of being His disciple. Jesus declared that being his disciple requires a full commitment - you must be "All In!" The Messiah expected that those who would be His disciples would be fully committed - forsaking everything including family and self! * In today's passage, we see that this teaching got the attention of the multitude. In fact, those who we would think would be repelled by the teaching actually drew closer. Those who should have been open to the instruction, became more repulsed. Jesus addresses the interests of the Pharisees and the multitudes through two sections of parable - the first addressing the value of a repentant sinner and the second addressing the situation of the repentant sinner. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on January 19, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Last week, we took a one week break from Luke to examine ourselves as new creations in Christ. Paul declared, "If any one be in Christ he is a new creation." Indeed, he continued by stating that "old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." If you are a disciple of Christ, then you cannot be the same as you were before Jesus came into your life. While you used to live for the things of this world, now you are a minister of reconciliation, an ambassador of Christ, and are becoming the righteousness of God. * Today, as we return to our study in the gospel of account of Luke, we see Jesus giving the multitude a reiteration of the foundational teaching for what Paul declared. Being a TRUE disciple of Jesus Christ is not something that I can turn on and off. Being a disciple of Jesus Christ requires a full commitment - you must be "All In!" On September 13th, when we were studying Luke 9:18-36 we considered the expectation of the Messiah - He expected that those who would be His disciples would be fully committed, that they would deny themselves, take up their cross daily and follow Him. * Today, as we go through this "hard to hear" teaching, we must again ask ourselves, "Am I all in? Am I truly a disciple of Christ?" If in any of these areas you, or I, fall short then we need to be humble enough to call upon the Lord and ask Him to cause us to be more committed! * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on January 12, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* As we enter into a new year, it is generally a time to consider the past and the future, and the changes which we have experienced. It is a time, for many, to institute new "positive" changes, or habits. * Additionally, it is also the first Sunday of the month. As an assembly we traditionally hold our commemoration of the Lord's Supper on the first Sunday of the month. The weeks preceding these commemorations are also good times to assess my relationship with Christ. We are told in 1 Corinthians 11 to examine ourselves to determine whether we are participating in this sacred event in an "unworthy manner." In fact, Paul declares that some were sick and even dieing as a result of not treating the commemoration in a sacred manner. * As I pondered the convergence of these two opportunities to examine myself, I thought it would be good for us to relook at who we are - and/or should be - in Christ. It is easy to begin to take the gift that God has given us for granted and be distracted by the world. It is good to assess my level of commitment and seek His wisdom for the future. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on January 5, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* The Gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark and Luke report how Jesus performed many miracles on the Sabbath. Two weeks ago, we saw that Jesus healed a woman - in the synagogue - who was bent over and had been bound by Satan for eighteen years. These acts of grace and kindness put Him at odds with the Scribes, Lawyers and Pharisees who viewed healing as "work" which was unlawful to perform on the Sabbath Day - the day of rest. * Yet, the Jewish Leaders continued to listen to His teaching. Some, as we see again today, are doing so to find ways to accuse Him. However, the Word of God does not come back void, but accomplishes what YHWH pleases (Isaiah 55:11). * Today, we once again see Jesus' interactions with the Pharisees in connection to another healing on the Sabbath. This time in the home of one of the Synagogue Rulers. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on December 29, 2024 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Jesus began His ministry by declaring that the Kingdom of God had drawn near. As a result, people were going to need to change the way they thought. * We have seen that Kingdom awareness and Kingdom teaching has been an important part of Jesus' interaction with His disciples and with the crowds. * As He is making His final trip to Jerusalem, Jesus begins to prepare the people for life after His presence on the earth. He begins to teach them more regarding the Kingdom of God. Jesus will be referring to, and teaching regarding, the Kingdom of God much in the next 11 chapters. He will reference the Kingdom of God 19 times in 18 verses in that span. Today, we will be considering four of those occurrences. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on December 22, 2024 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Over the past couple of weeks, we have seen how Jesus taught while answering questions from the multitude. In the passage which we plan to consider today, we see that Jesus again is asked one question and then responds with an apparent non-corresponding answer. The Master knew where the hearts of the people were and addressed the core issues. * In today's passage, we see Jesus address the topic of sin dealing with the judgmental nature of people in assessing the sinfulness of individuals and God's desire to see people repent (change the way they think and become productive) and be released from the bondage that has held them captive! * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on December 15, 2024 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Last week, we saw Jesus address the crowd who was following Him to beware of covetousness. Today's portion is actually a continuation of that teaching. Jesus had warned the people to not be anxious about the things of this world but rather to trust God as their provider and protector. Specifically, regarding financial covetousness, Jesus stated, "For where your treasure is, there you heart will be also." * Today, Jesus builds upon that warning by reminding the crowd of the judgment that is to come when the Son of Man returns. This is an exciting teaching in itself because Jesus is declaring His death, resurrection, return, and reign all in one short teaching. Additionally, Jesus let's everyone know that there would be a period of time - a gap - between His resurrection and His return, and what His followers should expect to see during that time. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on December 8, 2024 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Luke 12 begins with Luke's description of the size of the following that Jesus was beginning to have. The Greek declares that there were myriads of a multitude. In fact there were so many that they were literally stepping upon one another. (cf. Matt 5:13; 7:6; Luke 8:5; Heb 10:29). Two weeks ago, we began to see how Jesus would interact with various individuals in the crowd, who would shout a statement or question. Then, we considered how Jesus' responded to the woman who declared that Jesus' mother was blessed - by stating that those who hear and heed the Word of God are the ones who are truly blessed. * Today, we see Jesus respond to another declaration coming from the crowd and uses this moment as well to teach on an important topic - covetousness. The covetous desires of man have not changed over the millennia and as we move into a season that should be focusing upon the incarnation of Christ to pay the penalty of our sins, we will need to fight a heightened challenge to not participate in the worldly gratification of their covetous desires. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on December 1, 2024 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Last week, we saw Jesus rebuke the Pharisees and Lawyers for being concerned about their outward appearance and living differently on the inside. * We would call this activity "hypocrisy." Hypocrisy is actually the transliteration of a Greek Word and it is actually what Jesus summarizes their activity as and about which He warns His disciples. * In today's passage, we see Jesus present four warnings to His followers and those pressing in about Him: beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, beware of fearing men, beware of denying the Messiah, and beware of blaspheming the Holy Spirit. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on November 24, 2024 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* Earlier in our study of Luke's account of the Gospel, we saw that Jesus shared an important detail of those who are truly part of the Kingdom of God ... having ears they will hear the message of God and they will heed what they hear! To "hear" and to "keep" - Shema and Shamar - is a very basic Jewish teaching. (cf. Deuteronomy 6:4-12) * Today, we will see Jesus reiterate this concept. The Jewish people wanted to see a sign from heaven. Jesus responds to that request with the foundational principle that the key to being blessed by God is to "Shema and Shamar" ... to Hear and to Heed! * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on November 17, 2024 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* When we considered Jesus healing of the demoniac of the Gadarenes (8:26-39), we saw that the Greek term "daimonizomai" which is best translated by it's transliteration: demonized. Biblically, it refers to someone who is being vexed by a demon - whether through possession or oppression. That man of the Gadarenes was possessed by many demons, for when Jesus asked the demon - who was speaking through the man - his name, he declared that it was "Legion" for in the host were many demons. * In Today's passage, Jesus casts out another demon and that begins a conversation and opportunity for Jesus to present teaching regarding the power and activities of demons. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on November 10, 2024 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

* During the last five messages in our study of Luke, we have seen Jesus' instructive interaction with His disciples. * Last week we saw that those who are disciples of Jesus will be devoted to the Mind of Christ (loving others) and the Word of Christ (desiring to learn from Him). * The disciples must have heard Jesus' rebuke of Martha and praise of Mary .... For they now come to Jesus to seek teaching and instruction regarding prayer. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on November 3, 2024 at Family Bible Church located in Martinez, Georgia.

* The last four messages in our study of the Gospel According to Luke have focused on the expectations, costs, and motivations of being a disciple of Jesus Christ as opposed to being just a convert, or one who is called a Christian. * In the passage that we are examining today, we see that Luke shares two more vignettes of Jesus instruction regarding the passions of a disciple of Christ. A disciple of Christ will be devoted to loving others (taking on the mind of Christ) and will be devoted to learning from the Words of Christ. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on October 27, 2024 at Family Bible Church located in Martinez, Georgia.

* Our study of Luke has gotten juggled a little bit. After Hurricane Helene, it seemed appropriate to set aside our study to refocus upon our Great and Sovereign God who is also our Faithful and Loving Shepherd. * While I was in Argentina, David picked up in our study of Luke with the sending of the seventy disciples recorded at the beginning of chapter 10. Today, we will drop back into chapter 9 to finish that portion. * As context, Jesus had just been transfigured before Peter, James and John; and He had healed the demon-possessed boy in a manner that awed all who were there. While all were amazed, Jesus told His disciples to pay attention to what He was telling them, that He was about to be betrayed. However, as we see in this passage, the disciples sadly only paid attention as well as we do many times! * Jesus had communicated the expectation: deny yourself, take up your cross daily, and follow Him. In today's passage we see how this expectation is met practically through six different vignettes displaying our call to humility and commitment. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on October 20, 2024 at Family Bible Church located in Martinez, Georgia.

* John Tellis and his family joined us today for worship. John is a native of Scotland who seeking to reach his native Scots with the gospel of Jesus Christ. * John was scheduled to speak prior to Helene hitting the area. The topic of his message - chosen before Helene - was very applicable. This message was presented by John Tellis on October 13, 2024 at Family Bible Church located in Martinez, Georgia.

Today we meditate on Psalm 23 while thanking God for his protection through the recent storm. This message was presented by Bob Corbin on September 29, 2024 at Family Bible Church located in Martinez, Georgia.

* Over the last two months we've worked our way through Luke 8 and 9, where Jesus' disciples have begun to realize that Jesus is truly YHWH incarnate, not just a "human" prophet. Jesus has performed multiple miracles demonstrating His deity, including calming a storm, casting out demons, raising Jairus' daughter from the dead, and feeding the 5000. He sent the 12 disciples out in pairs for ministry, and Peter has proclaimed Jesus to be "the Christ of God." * Luke 9:51 says that Jesus "steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem". From Luke 9:51 through Luke 19:27, Jesus is on the way to Jerusalem, culminating with Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem recorded in Luk 19:28-44. In these chapters, while Jesus is traveling through many cities on His way to Jerusalem, Luke records for us a number of events and parables that are not in the other three gospels. * Today, we look at Luke's account of Jesus sending out 70 of His followers, in groups of two, where they are going ahead of Jesus to cities and places that Jesus intends to pass through on His way to Jerusalem.

* Last week, we considered how what you believe will affect your desires and your actions. Jesus had asked His disciples who the world thought He was and then who they thought that He was. He then proceeded to share with them what would shortly happen to Him and what His expectations would be of those who proclaimed to be His disciples. He would shortly be rejected by the elders, chief priests and scribes, be killed, and then be raised the third day. His disciples would then follow this example - they would deny themselves, they would take up their cross daily and they would follow Him. * At the end of His teaching, Jesus declared, "There are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Kingdom of God." * Eight days later it became apparent that Peter, James and John would be those who were privileged to see a glimpse of the Majesty and Glory of the King prior to His return to reign on the throne of David! * Today, we see the heavenly and incarnate glory of the Messiah juxtaposed together.

* Jesus had sent out His twelve Apostles to proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God and had equipped them with power and authority over all demons and with the ability to cure diseases. He then took them aside to talk about their experiences, but they had been interrupted by the 5,000+ crowd. Jesus used the moment to teach the people, but also to teach His disciples regarding the necessity of faith by having the disciples feed the crowd with just five small loaves of bread and two small fish! * Today, we begin to see the conversation of Jesus and His disciples when He finally gets them away. * As a segue, at Family Camp we discussed - from the Shema - the connection between your faith and your actions. If you have a genuine faith in God, you will naturally have a genuine love for God. This genuine love for God will then lead to a genuine interaction with His Word. Jesus uses this same logical connection between what you believe and how you will act in His discussion with His disciples.

* Two weeks ago, we considered when Jesus sent His twelve apostles out to herald the good news of the Kingdom of God. Jesus had given them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases. He had also instructed them to take nothing for the journey (to trust in God), to remain in whatever house they first entered, and to shake off the dust of their feet as a testimony against city that rejected them. * Today, we will examine another miracle which provides further attestation to Jesus' Messianic claim. However, it is two of the sub-themes which we will really focus upon today.

* Luke is writing in order that those who would read his account of the life and ministry of Christ would be assured of the truthfulness of the message. * What message did the people hear? Where did that message originate? From whom did they hear the message? * In Romans 10, we read: "For 'Whoever calls on the name of YHWH shall be saved." (cf. Joel 2:32) How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!" (cf. Isaiah 52:7) ... So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." * As we will be reminded today - God has chosen the weak things of the world to confound those that seem mighty - through the proclamation of the Good News of the Kingdom of God: that Christ died for our sins, was resurrected, and reigns on High! * "All" that is required for us is to ... trust and obey.

* In the beginning of our study of Luke's account of the life and ministry of Jesus, we saw that he was a "Physician." In different passages, we have found that Luke gives details that other writers did not give. * Last week, as we considered the deliverance of the man who had a legion of demons dwelling in him, Luke revealed many details of this man's situation before Jesus, and how he was healed and in his right mind when the townspeople came out to tell Jesus to leave. * Today, we will be considering two more events of Jesus' powerful deliverance of individuals. Again, Dr. Luke gives us specific details to help us understand the veracity of the events. * Though we will consider two deliverances, one is presented as an interruption along the path of the primary object. An important detail to remember in life is that God has many appointments that seem to be only "interruptions" along what we consider to be the primary path!

* In our study of Luke, we have seen that Luke has declared from the beginning that his purpose in writing this account of the life and ministry of Christ was that believers "Would know assuredly" the things with which they were instructed. Luke recorded immediately how Gabriel was sent to Mary to inform her that she would be overshadowed by the power of God and give birth to a son who "will be called the Son of the Highest," who "will reign over the house of Jacob forever," and who "will be called the Son of God." * As we have recently considered the beginning of Jesus' ministry and His proclamation of the coming of the Kingdom of God, we have seen that He began to certify His ministry through healings and casting out evil spirits. * Over the next two weeks, we will consider a portion of Jesus' ministry where His disciples, and those around Him, begin to realize that Jesus isn't just a "human" prophet; but rather, that Messiah was truly YHWH incarnate. * Today, we consider the display of Jesus' Authority over Nature and the Spiritual Realm ... as He calms the storm and the demoniac.

* Last week, we considered Scriptures regarding "The Kingdom of God." Jesus declared that His purpose was to share the good news of the Kingdom and then called upon His disciples to share that message as well. He also declared that this Kingdom was not just one that was, or would be, physical. Rather, the ultimate Kingdom of God is spiritual, and begins in the heart. Allegiance to God begins in the heart by expressing childlike faith and trust in the testimony which God has declared in His Word. Being part of God's Kingdom therefore means that an individual is declaring - by faith - fidelity, allegiance and obedience to YHWH as the One True King of the Universe. * When one chooses to believe - by faith - in YHWH and His redemptive plan they become citizens of His Kingdom and are "born-again." Just as they were born physically, they are now born spiritually. * Today, Jesus will share an important detail of those who are truly part of the Kingdom of God ... having ears they will hear the message of God and they will heed what they hear! To "hear" and to "keep" - Shema and Shamar - is a very basic Jewish teaching. (cf. Deuteronomy 6:4-12)

* As we have begun to study the ministry portion of Jesus' life recorded in Luke's account, we have seen a couple of times that Jesus has declared that His purpose is to declare the good news of "the Kingdom." * Today, we are going to take a one-week detour from our verse-by-verse exposition of the Book to consider the topic of "The Kingdom of God." This term is used 69 times in the Bible; 32 of those occurrences are in the book of Luke! Hence, as we begin to see it's usage and references to it, it would behoove us to understand exactly to what Jesus was referring, and how it specifically applies to our lives as believers. * In fact, as we move forward into chapter 8, Jesus declares to His disciples: "To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God ..." So, let's consider some of the facts that we see regarding the Kingdom of God in the Scriptures - and the impact this should make in our lives.

* In 1 Timothy 2:3-4 we read that God has a desire for "all men (people) to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." In 1 John 2:2 we read that Jesus died to be the propitiation for the sins of the whole world. The question is: Do we really believe that? If so, how do we exemplify it in our lives? How do we treat others? * After we have received the free gift of salvation through Christ and have had His righteousness applied to our "account," do we become judgmental of others who have not yet received that gift? Do we forget the wonder and awe of our redemption? Were we ever truly overwhelmed with the forgiveness that God extended us - freely? * In today's passage, we see Jesus' interactions with Simon the Pharisee and a Sinful woman - a man who was self-righteous and a woman who was publicly despised. There is much for us to learn and to be challenged by in this account which is only recorded by Luke.

* The earthly ministry of Jesus was marked by many miraculous events. We have already seen Jesus cast out demons, heal general sicknesses and specific diseases including leprosy, healing a paralytic, and healing a man with withered hand. Last week, we saw Jesus heal the Centurion's servant from a distance and raise the widow of Nain's son from the dead! * One would think that this would be enough proof to validate His claim as Messiah. However, we know that from the response of many today, that is sadly not the case. * However, there are times when even we who believe can be confused and have shades of doubt regarding what we have read in God's Word. Today, we will see how Jesus addressed doubt in those who were around Him.

* Over the past three messages we have considered the instruction of Jesus to those who were following Him. Jesus challenged those following Him to change the way they thought - from being worldly-focused to kingdom-focused; and from being self-focused to being other-focused. * In today's passage, we see Jesus illustrate this mindset in His interaction with Roman Centurion of Capernaum and the Widow of Nain.

* Except for last week, when visiting missionary Bob Schneider delivered the teaching, we've spent the majority of June considering Luke's perspective regarding Jesus's call of His primary messengers and the communication of His primary message. A primary message that was designed to help people to change the way they approached life, by teaching them what having a Messianic mindset was all about. For to be a true follower of Jesus requires us to increasingly adjust and adapt our thinking to match His, so that we can more effectively serve as His ambassadors in this world. * Pastor Bob summarized this Messianic mindset as one that is kingdom-focused and others-focused, rather than worldly-focused and self-focused. * So, 2 weeks ago, in verses 21-35, Jesus gave four contrasts in the form of blessings and woes to illustrate the outcomes of those two mindsets, and then seven commands that challenge us to respond to those that mistreat us in ways that cannot help but get their attention. * And my personal key take-away was this… "People destined for hell do not know what they are doing, or where they are heading. But we do". And one of the best ways we can help them, is for us to embrace and exhibit a Messianic mindset, especially when we are treated poorly or unfairly. * So this morning, after a quick recap of the seven commands, we'll wrap up Jesus's Messianic mindset teaching by considering five reflections of it, and then three illustrations that teach us how to effectively make it more of a reality in each of our lives.

* If you would die today do know where you are going? * If God would ask you, "Why should I let you into My heaven?" What would you answer? * Are you trusting in your good deeds? Do you believe that you will get into heaven because you attend church? * What about a robber, or a thief? Are they excluded based upon their badness? * Jesus had an interesting and eternal encounter with the thief hanging on the cross next to Him. This encounter has great relevance for us today.

* Last week, we considered Jesus' call of His Primary Messengers and began to consider the communication of His Primary Message. We considered that the overall theme of Jesus' teaching was for people to change the way they thought - from being worldly-focused to kingdom-focused; and from being self-focused to being other-focused. As we will see, the Kingdom mindset is unlike the mindset of the world * Lord willing, the message today and then two weeks from now will cover some of the exhortations, applications and implications of this primary message. * Today, we will be considering Contrasts, Commands, and Conclusions that Jesus presents based upon the Theme of this Primary Message. That theme is revealed throughout these verses. - THE THEME OF JESUS' MESSAGE ... If you do to others just as you would have them do to you, then your reward will be great and you will be sons of the Most High. For with the same measure you use, it will be measured back to you!

* Up to this point in our study of Luke's Gospel, we have seen the proclamation of the coming of the Messiah and His forerunner. We have then seen the birth and ministry of the Messiah's forerunner - John the Immerser (the Baptist), the proclamation of Jesus inaugurating His Messianic ministry, the authority and power of Jesus displayed through a variety of healings and of demons being cast out. Last week, we saw Jesus begin to ramp up His Messianic ministry by providing corrective instruction regarding the observance of the Sabbath. During this time, Jesus began to call individuals to follow Him. Some did and some did not. We read of some of those who did. * Today, we see Jesus take the next step in His Messianic ministry - choosing His primary Ambassadors and giving them their primary Message. * If you were to choose twelve men to represent you, or your business, or your ministry ... how would you go about choosing them? Would they send in resumés? Would you have multiple interviews? What criteria would you use to assess the most qualified candidates? * What we begin to learn ... or begin to learn in a more intensive way ... is that the Kingdom mindset is unlike the mindset of the world.

* As Chuck reminded us last week, Luke wrote this gospel account that we are studying in order "that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed." * We have seen, that it was Jesus' custom to go to the Synagogue on the Sabbath. It was on the Sabbath that Jesus gave His Messianic proclamation in the Synagogue in Nazareth. It was also on the Sabbath that we saw His ministry begin in the town of Capernaum. There, in the Synagogue, the people were amazed at His teaching and He cast the unclean Spirit out of a man. Afterwards, Jesus went to Simon's house and healed Simon's mother-in-law. * Today, we are going to see Jesus - the Lord of the Sabbath - begin to deal with the misunderstandings that the people have regarding the Law of the Sabbath. These interactions are going to bring Him into direct confrontation with the Pharisees and teachers of the Law. * Similarly, this topic can be quite controversial amongst believers, and theologians, in the church today. Is the discussion of the Sabbath only for Israel in an Old Covenant setting? Do the principles of the Sabbath "laws" apply to believers, and if so, how? * Also, questions are then raised regarding the application of the teachings of Jesus for New Testament. Many dispensationalists, of which I am one, would declare that Jesus' teaching was "Kingdom" teaching and is not applicable to the saints if they are not reiterated elsewhere in the New Testament. However, Jesus specfically declared as part of the process of His Great Commission - to Make Disciples - that it included teaching the new believer (disciple) to observe all of the things which He commanded. * So, today's passage ... though, only 11 verses ... has so much for us to consider. Indeed, as Chuck mentioned last week, we will only scratch the surface! * First ... what is the Meaning of the "Second Sabbath." Again, there is great debate: is it the second Sabbath of Jesus in Capernaum (since Luke 4:31), or is this an allusion to it being the week of Passover and this is a reference to 1st Fruits, or one of the Holy Convocations? It is a detail that Luke chose to include by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Though it is not germaine to our discussion today, it would be a good study for you to perform!

Though we have taken a few detours along the way, we have spent the bulk of the past 5 months examining Luke's gospel account, with our plan this morning being to finish up chapter 5. This means that at our current pace, we will be in Luke, not only for the remainder of 2024, but most likely a good portion of 2025 as well. * And while for some, this might be considered a "slow" pace, for me it is a reminder of the depth and beauty of God's Word, and also the fact that the Bible is so full of truth that it merits and deserves our careful attention to its every detail. But then, as many of you have no doubt experienced over the years, we will have but "scratched the surface" even after we eventually come to the end of Luke 24. * Now, as Pastor Bob has reminded us frequently over the past 5 months, Luke's desire was to present an orderly account of the ministry of Jesus the Christ, so that those that heard about it could be assured of its veracity, in order that they could have confidence to share its testimony with others. * Before we get into the final 13 verses of Luke 5, where Jesus reveals more about the nature of His new work, let's consider a few additional characteristics of Luke's gospel account. The intent being to further prepare us for all that we have to cover, and discover, in the months ahead.