Grounded In Grace

This Road Closed: Paul's Third Defense of Justification by Faith | Galatians 3:10-14 The curse of the law has been conquered by Christ ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: Road Closed I. Damned if you Don't: The Road of Law (10, 12b) A. Road Closed: The Law's Curse (10a) B. Road Closed: The Law's Demand (10b, 12b) II. Freed if you Do: The Road of Faith (11-14) A. Road Open: Justification by Faith (11-12) 1. Righteousness comes through faith alone (11) 2. Faith and Law are Incompatible (12) B. Road Open: The Curse Satisfied (13) C. Road Open: The Blessing of Abraham (14) Conclusion: Back to Justification Though Faith Alone

Father Abraham: Paul's Second Defense of Justification by Faith (Part 2) | Galatians 3:6b-9 ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction I. Father Abraham: Paul's Second Defense of Justification by Faith (Part 2) A. Who Was Abraham? (6a) B. The Relationship Between Faith and Forgiveness (6b) C. Will the Real Children of Abraham Please Stand? (7) D. Justification and the Heart of the Gospel? (8) E. Paul Closes His Case (9) Concluding Thoughts . . .

Father Abraham: Paul's Second Defense of Justification by Faith (Part 1) ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction and Review of 2:11-16; 3:1-5 I. Has Christ Changed You? (3:1) II. Has the Holy Spirit Changed You? (3:2-4) III. Has the Father Changed You? (3:5) I. Paul's Second Defense of Justification by Faith Alone: Abraham A. Who Was Abraham? 1. An overview of Genesis 11-15 II. By way of Application (concluding thoughts) A. Abraham did not Deserve to be Chosen by God B. True Faith Demonstrates Itself in Action C. True Faith Doesn't Have to be Perfect to Save D. Justification by Faith Alone is at the Heart of the Gospel

Essential: The Nature and Necessity of the Church | Selected Scriptures ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I Love the Church I. The Nature of the Church "The church is the community of all true believers for all time." [Wayne Grudem] A. Words translated church B. Different Ways to Describe the Church C. The Local Church 1. What makes a church a church? II. The Necessity of the Church A. The Church is Essential to Christ's Mission 1. He died for the church 2. He lives for the church 3. He builds the church 4. He will return for the church B. The Church is Essential to our Discipleship 1. The N.T. centers on the church 2. Ephesians 4:11–12 3. 1 Corinthians chapter 12 C. The Church is Essential to Our Suffering and Rejoicing D. The Church is Essential to our Great Commission E. The Church is Essential to our Worship 1. 1 Peter 2:5 "A Royal Priesthood" F. The Church is Essential Not Optional Conclusion: Do You Love the Church?

What's the Big Deal? The Resurrection is Essential to Everything | Selected Scriptures ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: What's the Big Deal? I. Why Is the Resurrection So Essential? A. There is No Word of God Without It B. There is No Jesus Christ Without It C. There is No Christianity Without it D. There is No Forgiveness Without It E. There is No Hope Without It Conclusion: Is the Resurrection Essential to You?

Don't Forget the Change: Paul's First Defense of Justification by Faith (Part 2) | Galatians 3:2-5 ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: Remembering the Judaizers I. Has Christ Changed You? (3:1) 1. The “bewitched” Galatians 2. Jesus was publically portrayed (“placarded”) as crucified II. Has the Holy Spirit Changed You? (3:2-4) A. Second Question: Did You Receive the Spirit by Doing or Believing? (v. 2) 1. “Receive” = an aorist verb (referring to a past action / moment of salvation) 2. Romans 8 / Faith and Abraham B. Third Question: Are You Really That Foolish? (v. 3b) C. Fourth Question: Can Your Efforts Perfect What the Spirit Began? (v. 3b) 1. May be a veiled reference to circumcision here 2. Note the contrast: beginning (justification) and completing (sanctification) D. Fifth Question: Did You Suffering For Nothing? (v. 4) 1. Translation issue related to the word paschō (“to suffer”) 2. The Gospel gives meaning to our suffering III. Has the Father Changed You? (3:5) A. Sixth Question: Does He Provide the Spirit by Your Doing or Believing? 1. God provides them with the Spirit and works miracles among them Conclusion: Sufficient Grace

Don't Forget the Change: Paul's First Defense of Justification by Faith (Part 1) | Galatians 3:1 ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: * Rhetorical questions * Our experiences * 2 Corinthians 13:5-6 I. Has Christ Changed You? (3:1) A. First Question: Who Duped You? 1. Foolishness and the spiritual ignorance of our day a. “Foolish” = The Greek noun anoētos (“the stupidity that arises from deadness and impotence of intellect”) b. Lessons from today and from history . . . 2. The “bewitched” Galatians a. The word “bewitched” as related to the phrase “giving the evil eye” (1) Catch the word-play . . . 3. Jesus was publically portrayed (“placarded”) as crucified a. The keygma (proclamation) of the early church) Conclusion: Have you been changed?

Ears to Hear: The Family & Hearing Sermons (Part 2) | Selected Scriptures ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. It's About the Book (Importance of Expository Preaching) A. Definition of Expository Preaching B. The Importance of Expository Preaching C. The Legacy of Expository Preaching D. The Challenge of Expository Preaching II. May I be Excused? (Objections to Expository Preaching) A. Excuse #1 - My Ears (I'm not a good listener) B. Excuse #2 - My Brain (It's too deep) C. Excuse #3 - My Seat (It's too long) D. Excuse #4 - My Kin (The kids don't like it) E. Excuse #5: My Disinterest (It's boring) F. Excuse #6: My Animus (I don't like the preacher) III. Help Desk (Listening to Expository Preaching) A. Be Sure You Have Ears That Hear B. Cherish the Preaching of God's Word C. Discipline Yourself in Hearing of God's Word "There is no true growth in Christ beyond whatever discomfort we are unwilling to endure." [Pastor Reid Ferguson] D. Ask Questions E. Shepherd Your Family Conclusion: It's About the Book!

Ears to Hear: The Family & Hearing Sermons (Part 1) | Selected Scriptures ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. It's About the Book (Importance of Expository Preaching) A. Definition of Expository Preaching B. The Importance of Expository Preaching C. The Legacy of Expository Preaching 1. Nehemiah 8 2. The N.T. and beyond 3. The Reformation 4. America and the church growth movement 5. What is our purpose as a gathered church? 6. Theological illiteracy in the church today D. The Challenge of Expository Preaching Conclusion:

Two Peoples – One Way (Part 8) | Galatians 2:20-21 ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. Essential Elements of the Gospel in Galatians (vv. 15-21) A. The Universal Nature of Sin (v. 15-16a) B. Justification Is by Faith Alone (v. 16) C. The Believer's Union With Christ (vv. 17-20) II. Six Implications of our Union with Christ* A. Salvation (We are Justified in Christ) B. Sanctification (We Live in Christ) C. Satisfaction (God is Satisfied with us in Christ) D. Sin (Our Battle is Fought In Christ) 1. How can I overcome besetting sin? Five ideas . . . E. Suffering (We Endure Suffering in Christ) 1. Suffering as a Result of Living in a Fallen World 2. Suffering as a Result of Personal Sin 3. Suffering as a Result of God's Discipline 4. Suffering as a Result of Demonic Attack F. Security (We Make it Safely Home in Christ) Back to our main outline and the last point covering verse 21: D. Sola Gratia and Solus Christus (v. 21) Conclusion:

Two Peoples – One Way (Part 7) | Galatians 2:20 ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: Clarifications Regarding the Word “Law” I. Essential Elements of the Gospel in Galatians (vv. 15-21) A. The Universal Nature of Sin (v. 15-16a) B. Justification Is by Faith Alone (v. 16) C. The Believer's Union With Christ (vv. 17-20) 1. To be “In Christ” is not to be “In Sin” (17) 2. To be "In Christ" is to have died to sin and the Law (18-19) 3. To be "In Christ" is to have been crucified with Christ (20) II. Six Implications of our Union with Christ* A. Salvation (We are Justified in Christ) 1. Justification is at the heart of the gospel 2. Substitutionary atonement and its extent B. Sanctification (We Live in Christ) 1. Justification and sanctification are distinct but not inseparable 2. The Christian has been crucified! C. Satisfaction (God is Satisfied with us in Christ) 1. Why does God accept us? 2. The depth of God's love Conclusion: * Points 4-6 Next Time

Two Peoples – One Way (Part 6)| Galatians 2:20 ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: The Biblical Use of the Word “Law” and Alternate Worlds * When it comes to the Mosaic Law we can look at in one of two ways: 1. Universal, which reflects the immutable character of God 2. Provisional, or laws given for a given time and situation I. Essential Elements of the Gospel in Galatians (vv. 15-21) A. The Universal Nature of Sin (v. 15-16a) B. Justification Is by Faith Alone (v. 16) C. The Believer's Union With Christ (vv. 17-20) 1. To be “In Christ” is not to be “In Sin” (17) 2. To be "In Christ" is to have died to sin and the Law (18-19) 3. To be "In Christ" is to have been crucified with Christ (20) a. Why does the Law have no further hold upon us? b. What does it mean that the believer has been crucified with Christ? c. Spiritual reality is nonetheless reality (the problem with logical positivism) d. Crucifixion and death isn't the end of the story e. The life of faith Conclusion:

Two Peoples – One Way (Part 5) | Galatians 2:20a; Ephesians 1:4-13 ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- Introduction: The Biblical Use of the Word “Law” (Greek “nomos” / Hebrew “torah”) * Summed up three different ways: 1. Scripture in general (particularly the O.T.) 2. Laws that apply to all people everywhere at all times 3. The Mosaic Law given to Israel * When it comes to the Mosaic Law we can look at in one of two ways: 1. Universal, which reflects the immutable character of God 2. Provisional, or laws given for a given time and situation I. Essential Elements of the Gospel in Galatians (vv. 15-21) A. The Universal Nature of Sin (v. 15-16a) B. Justification Is by Faith Alone (v. 16) C. The Believer's Union With Christ (vv. 17-20) 1. The biblical and theological foundation for our union with Christ 2. A look at Ephesians 1 3. Application C. The Believer's Union With Christ (vv. 17-20) 1. To be “In Christ” is not to be “In Sin” (17) 2. To be "In Christ" is to have died to sin and the Law (18-19) 3. To be "In Christ" is to have been crucified with Christ (20) a. Greek sustauroō – “to be crucified with” (1) Four things that were crucified with Christ b. Christian mysticism Conclusion: Knowing the Essential Truth of Who You Are in Christ

Two Peoples – One Way (Part 4) | Galatians 2:18-19; Romans 6:1-7 ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- Introduction A. The Universal Nature of Sin (v. 15-16a) B. Justification Is by Faith Alone (v. 16) C. The Believer's Union With Christ (vv. 17-20) 1. To be "In Christ" is not to be "In Sin" (17) 2. To be "In Christ" is to have died to sin and the Law (18-19) a. We must not rebuild what is no longer in force (1) Words "rebuild" and "destroyed" refer to the Law b. Romans 6:1-7:6 and our union with Christ (1) The Antagonist (1) (2) The Answer (2) (3) The Argument (3-7) 3. To be "In Christ" is to have been crucified with Christ (20) Conclusion

Two Peoples – One Way (Part 3) | Galatians 2:16-17 ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- Introduction I. Essential Elements of the Gospel in Galatians (vv. 15-21) A. The Universal Nature of Sin (v. 15-16a) B. Justification Is by Faith Alone (v. 16) 1. Three key concepts: (1) Justified (2) Works of the Law (3) Faith in Jesus Christ 2. Revisiting the context (back to 2:11ff.) 3. The future element of justification 4. The Law condemns but the Gospel acquits C. The Believer's Union With Christ (vv. 17-20) 1. To be “In Christ” is not to be “In Sin” (17) a. Three propositions (1) But if while seeking to be justified in Christ... (2) ...we ourselves were found to be sinners,... (3) ...is Christ then a minister of sin?... Conclusion

Two Peoples – One Way (Part 2) | Galatians 2:16 ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- Introduction: Setting the Stage I. Essential Elements of the Gospel in Galatians (vv. 15-21) A. The Universal Nature of Sin (v. 15) B. Justification Is by Faith Alone (v. 16) 1. "Justified" (dikaioō) is used 3x in v. 16 2. To be justified by faith in Christ = to have saving faith in Him as my sin bearer & only hope of righteousness before God 3. Martin Luther, Desiderius Erasmus, the Latin Vulgate and the Greek N.T. 4. If God declares us righteous through faith alone – if works don't save us or contribute to our salvation – why do them? a. The essential relationship between justification and sanctification Conclusion: Life as Preparation for Death

Two Peoples – One Way (Part 1) | Galatians 2:15-16 ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- Introduction: 1. The context of 2:11-21 2. Different uses of the word for justification / to justify (dikaioō / dikaiosunē) I. Essential Elements of the Gospel in Galatians (vv. 15-21) A. The Universal Nature of Sin (v. 15-16a) 1. Paul is using the word “sinner” (hamartōlos) in typical Jewish fashion B. Justification Is by Faith Alone (v. 16) 1. Unpacking Three Key Concepts in Verse 16 a. “Justified” (Verb dikaioō) - used 3x in v. 16 (1) Relates to the Old Testament Hebrew word tsadiq (sdq) - “justice” / “righteousness” (which in its active form means “to declare righteous”) (2) Justification is at the heart of the Gospel b. "Works of the Law" (erga nomou) (1) Three views as to the meaning of the phrase: 1. Legalism; 2. Social boundary markers; 3. Deeds commanded by the Law c. "Faith in Jesus Christ" (1) Two views: 1. "faith in Jesus Christ;" 2. "the faithfulness of Jesus Christ" Conclusion . . .

The Heart of the Matter | Galatians 2:15a There's no beating around the bush when it comes to the Gospel ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- I. Establishing the Context A. The Context Within the Chapter B. Verses 15 – 21 Are Transitional (Like a Pie Diagram) II. Examining Key Concepts A. Key Words 1. Word nomos (law) – used 0x in 1:1-2:14; 6x 2:15-21; 27x in the rest of the letter 2. The phrase ergon nomos (works of the law) – 0x in 1:1-2:14; 3x in 2:15-21; 3x in the rest of the letter 3. The word pistis (faith) – 1x in 1:1-2:14 (2:7); 3x 2:15-21; 18x in the rest of the letter 4. The word dikaioō (to justify) – 0x in 1:1-2:14; 4x 2:15-21; 4x in the rest of the letter 5. The word dikaiosunē (righteousness) – 0x in 1:1-2:14; 1x 2:15-21; 3x in the rest of the letter 6. The word zaō (to live) – 1x in 1:1-2:14; 5x 2:15-21; 3x in the rest of the letter B. Key Terms 1. Union with Christ (cf. Galatians 2:19-21) 2. Justification by Faith a. Penal Substitutionary Atonement (PSA) and Imputation 3. The New Perspective on Paul a. Overview: (1) The Reformers were wrong about salvation and over-reacted to Rome (2) 1st c. Judaism wasn't legalistic, or works-based – It was based on grace (“covenantal nomism”) (3) Issue Paul addresses isn't salvation, per se, but Jewish boundary markers and membership in the church. (4) As far as salvation, initial justification is by faith, but final justification is by works (at least partially) (5) One enter the covenant community by grace and stays in by obedience (it's about who's in, who stays in, and who is finally and forever in at the final judgment) b. Three Main Proponents of (recent) History (1) E.P. Sanders (1937-2022) (2) James D.G. Dunn (1939-2020) (3) N.T. Wright (born 1948) c. Critical Assessment and Relevance

Hypocrisy, Gentiles, and the Gospel | Galatians 2:11-14 Paul's apostolic authority demonstrated in the reproof of Peter in Antioch ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- I. Paul's Fourth Defense: Peter Reproved in Antioch (2:11-14) Paul's apostolic authority is proven in the reproof of Peter in Antioch. ~Paul Reproves Peter the Pillar~ A. The Context (11a) B. The Circumstance (11b-12) 1. Table fellowship and the Jews 2. Did Peter bring a kosher lunch? 3. Acts 10, Mark 7, and the word katharizõ C. The Consequence (13) D. The Crux (14a) E. The Comment (14b) II. Observations and Application A. "Illegal Procedure" (Should Paul Have Publically Confronted Peter?) B. “Wide Right” (Even the Best of God's People Blow It) C. “We're Not the 72 Dolphins” (There's No Perfect Church) D. “Offsides” (Our Sin Affects Others) E. “Out of Bounds” (The Danger of Hypocrisy) F. “Tight Coverage” (Sanctified Stubbornness) G. “Coachable” (Are we Humble and Teachable?) H. “Staying In Bounds” (The Narrow Path of the Gospel)

Suffering in Ministry: 2024 FIRE N.E. Regional Conference (Session 1) ------------------------ Sermon Outline------------------------------ I. When Calamity Strikes (a personal testimony of suffering) A. The Story Begins on Christmas Eve of 2015 II. Principles for Life and Ministry A. Seven Principles: 1. The Principle of Necessity: Expect to Suffer 2. The Principle of Example: We Are Role Models of Suffering 3. The Principle of Brokenness: God is Glorified in Our Weakness 4. The Principle of Conformity: Suffering Makes Us More Like the Chief Shepherd 5. The Principle of Providence: We Take Comfort in God's Sovereignty 6. The Principle of Temporality: Hold the Things of This World Loosely 7. The Principle of Eternity: Suffering will give way to Eternal Glory

The Litmus Test in Jerusalem (Part 3) | Galatians 2:6-10 The pillars and Paul sing in unison ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- I. Paul's Third Defense: A Litmus Test in Jerusalem (2:1-10) A. The Consequent Journey to Jerusalem: Paul's Second Trip (vv. 1-2) B. The Confrontation in Jerusalem: Titus and the Test Case (vv. 3-5) C. The Confirmation in Jerusalem: Gospel of Grace Affirmed (vv. 6-9) 1. Contributing Nothing to Paul (v. 6) 2. Contrary Notions (v. 7) 3. Cooperation Among Brothers (vv. 8-9) D. The Contribution to Jerusalem: Remembering the Needy (v. 10) II. Observations A. False Teachers are Nothing New B. The Truth of the Gospel is the Central Issue of False Teaching C. There is Such a Thing as a False Christian D. Sanctified Stubbornness is a Good Thing E. It All Comes Back to the Empty Cross . . .

The Litmus Test in Jerusalem (Part 2) | Galatians 2:3-5 ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------ I. Paul's Third Defense: A Litmus Test in Jerusalem (2:1-10) A. The Consequent Journey to Jerusalem: Paul's Second Trip (vv. 1-2) B. The Confrontation in Jerusalem: Titus and the Test Case (vv. 3-5) 1. Circumcision and Titus (v. 3) a. Why physical circumcision? • Circumcision served as a mark of God's covenant with Abraham • Circumcision kept Israel Separate from the pagan nations around her • Circumcision served as a reminder that sin is transmitted through the procreative act and that a blood sacrifice is needed to take away sin • Circumcision prefigured and was fulfilled in the New Covenant b. Titus and the circumcision of the heart as a test case 2. Christians In Name Only (v. 4) 3. Celebrating the Freedom of the Gospel (vv. 4-5)

The Litmus Test in Jerusalem (Part 1) | Galatians 2:1-2 The Pillars and Paul sing in unison! ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- I. Paul's Third Defense: A Litmus Test in Jerusalem (2:1-10) A. The Consequent Journey to Jerusalem: Paul's Second Trip (vv. 1-2) 1. When was the trip? (v. 1a) 2. Who went? (v. 1b) 3. Why did they go? (v. 2a) 4. What happened? (v. 2b) 5. Where did it happen? (v. 2b) 6. What was Paul's concern? (v. 2c)

A Fortnight in Jerusalem | Galatians 1:18-24 ------------------------- Sermon Outline------------------------------- I. Paul's Second Defense: Only A Fortnight In Jerusalem (vv. 18-24) A. Purpose: “To Know Peter Not the Gospel” (18-19) B. Promise: “The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing But the Truth” (20) C. Polemic: “Getting out of Dodge” (21) 1. Connection to Acts chapter 9 . . . G. Privacy: “Incognito in Judea” (22) H. Power: “From Persecutor to Preacher” (23) I. Praise: “Soli Deo Gloria!” (24) II. Final Thoughts (Two Words: Creed and Conduct)

Jesus Not Jerusalem | Galatians 1:13-17 -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- I. Paul's First Defense: Jesus Not Jerusalem (vv. 13-17) A. "Who I Was" (Paul's Pre-Conversion Life as a Jew) –vv. 13-14 1. Public knowledge: Paul was a notorious convert 2. Paul's former manner of life "in Ioudaismos" ("in Judaism") a. Expressed negatively (13) and positively (14) b. The question of authority B. "What I Am" (Paul's Conversion to Christ) – vv. 15-16a 1. God's Choice (cf. Romans 9:11-18; Ephesians 1:4-5) 2. God's Call (cf. 1 Peter 1:3, 2:9) 3. God's Commission (cf. Jeremiah 1:5) C. "Where I Went" (Paul's Post-Conversion Trip to Arabia) – vv. 16b-17 II. Observations . . . (adapted from Charles Simeon, Horae Homileticae: Galatians-Ephesians, vol. 17 [London: Holdsworth and Ball, 1833], 24–26) A. Our salvation is the same in its origin: the electing love of God B. Our salvation is the same in its means: the effectual grace of God C. Our salvation is the same in its manner: the revelation of Christ who is the Gospel D. Our salvation is the same in its goal: to make Christ known

What's The Point? The Apostle Paul's Thesis | Galatians 1:11-12 Paul's Gospel came directly from Christ the Gospel -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- I. Paul's Thesis Introduced (11) A. Paul's Message Was Not “According to Man” (three questions) 1. How Does This Fit the Context? (“for”) 2. Why Is This Important? (“I would have you to know”) 3. What is the Central Focus? (“the gospel preached”) II. Paul's Thesis Illuminated (12) A. Paul's Message Was the “Revelation of Jesus Christ” (three statements) 1. Negative Assertion #1: 2. Negative Assertion #2: 3. The Positive Assertion: III. Life Application: Christ is the Gospel

Who Do You Please? | Galatians 1:10 You can recognize a true servant of the gospel by who he loves and serves -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Review . . . I. Why is Dancing with Desertion so Devastatingly Dangerous? (1:6-9) A. Because it Abandons the Grace of Jesus Christ (v. 6a) B. Because Alternate Gospels (like alternate realities) Don't Exist (vv. 6b-7a) C. Because the Authentic Gospel is as Immutable as God's Nature (v. 7b) D. Because an Anathema is Promised as an Eternal Consequence (vv. 8-9) --------------- How do you recognize a true servant of the Gospel? (verse 10) I. A True Servant of the Gospel Pursues Truth Over People-Pleasing A. The word “now” introduces a time element - "(For am I now striving to please men or God?") II. A True Servant of the Gospel Knows and Defends the Gospel A. Reviewing the ABC's of the Gospel . . . III. A True Servant of the Gospel Serves Only One Master A. A Slave has a Single Purpose – to Please his Master (Matthew 6:24) "Who Do You Please?"

The Devastating Danger of Desertion (Part 2) | Galatians 1:8-9 When the Alternative to the Authentic is Anathema, Stay with the Authentic -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: What do Joshua chapters 6 & 7, being "under the ban," and the anathemas of Galatians 1:8- 9 have in common? I. Why is Dancing with Desertion so Devastatingly Dangerous? A. Because it Abandons the Grace of Jesus Christ (v. 6a) B. Because Alternate Gospels (like alternate realities) Don't Exist (vv. 6b-7a) C. Because the Authentic Gospel is as Immutable as God's Nature (v. 7b) D. Because an Anathema is Promised as an Eternal Consequence (vv. 8-9) II. What is the Gospel? Three Elements (ABCs): A. Person: B. Work: C. Application:

The Devastating Danger of Desertion (Part 1) | Galatians 1:6-7 When the Alternative to the Authentic is Anathema, Stay with the Authentic -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: What do Paul's First Missionary Journey and the Judaizers (Acts 15:1) have in Common? I. Why is Dancing with Desertion so Devastatingly Dangerous? (1:6-9) A. Because it Abandons the Grace of Jesus Christ (v. 6a) B. Because Alternate Gospels (like alternate realities) Don't Exist (vv. 6b-7a) 1. Note the use of heteros (different, v. 6b) and allos (another, v. 7a) * heteros may refer to "another of a different kind" and allos "another of the same kind" C. Because the Authentic Gospel is as Immutable as God's Nature (v. 7b) D. Because an Anathema is Promised as an Eternal Consequence (vv. 8-9) Conclusion:

No Time for Kudos | Galatians 1:1-5 No time for kudos when the truth of the gospel is at stake -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- I. The Greeting (Opening Credits) (1-5) A. The Writer: The Apostle Paul (1a) 1. Four uses of the word “apostle” (apostolos) in the N.T. 2. Six reasons why we don't have apostles (office) today: B. The Director: Jesus Christ and God the Father who Raised Him from the Dead (1b) C The Supporting Cast: Those with Paul (2a) D. The Audience: The Churches of Galatia (2b) E. The Introduction: A Gospel of Grace and Peace (3-4) 1. The Origin of Grace (3) 2. The Action of Grace (4a) 3. The Result of Grace (4b) 4. The Guarantee of Grace (4c) F. The Credits: Doxology to a Sovereign God (5)

Introduction to Galatians (Part 2) | Galatians 1:1a and Selected Scriptures -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. The Return Address (v. 1) A. Who Wrote the Letter? II. The Address Proper (v. 2) A. Who Were the Recipients of the Letter? 1.The origin and expansion of Galatia 2. Did Paul write to churches in Northern Galatia (Ethnic) or Southern Galatia (Provincial)? a. Northern Galatia = The standard view from the Church Fathers to the Reformers b. Southern Galatia = Popularized by Sir William Ramsey in the 19th c. - the majority view today 3. Why the south? III. The Post-Mark Date A. When and Where was the Letter Written? IV. The Stamp A. Are there Issues Pertaining to Authenticity and Canonicity? V. The Text of the Letter A. What is the Style and Structure of the Letter VI. The Contents of the Letter A. What Is the Letter About and Why was it Written? (Acts 15 and the Judaizers)

Introduction to Galatians (Part 1) | Galatians 1:1a and Selected Scriptures -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- I. The Return Address - who wrote it? (v. 1) A. PAUL (an apostle) 1. Born Saul of Tarsus 5 BC - 5 AD B. Paul was well educated and in his youth was sent to Jerusalem where he studied under Rabbi Gamaliel C. It's in Acts Chapter 7 that Paul First appears in Scripture 1. Stephen – the first martyr (Acts 7:1-8:3) D. Paul: A Persecutor of the Church E. Paul's Conversion (Acts 9) F. The Book of Acts and Paul G. Second Roman Imprisonment and Death

The Resurrection: Fact or Fiction? | Selected Scriptures He is Risen: He is Risen Indeed! -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: The Essential Nature of Christ's Resurrection i. Historical realities as it relates to the earthly life of Jesus that historians of every stripe agree on ii. Why do people deny the resurrection of Christ? iii. Jesus didn't really die (most commonly: swoon theory) iv. Jesus didn't die (conspiracy theories) v. Jesus died (wrong tomb theory) vi. Jesus died (stolen body theory) I. Living Proof of a Living Savior A. Jesus Publicly Predicted His Resurrection B. No Gain (for the disciples) But Lots of Pain C. Lives and Cultures are Transformed D. The Superiority of the Christian Worldview E. The Word of God Clearly Teaches It II. The Reason for the Resurrection

Afterward: Wrapping Up the Gift of Job ***For a complete sermon transcript click on the "Notes" icon above*** ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- I. What the Book of Job Teaches Us About God and Good A. About God 1. God is Breathtakingly Great 2. God is Supremely Sovereign B. About Good 1. God is Good and the Standard for Goodness 2. Tolkien's Concept of Eucatastrophe II. What the Book of Job Teaches Us About Satan and Evil A. About Satan 1. He is real — and he has an army of demons who work at his bidding 2. Satan Lost his Wager B. About Evil III. What the Book of Job Teaches Us About Ourselves A. Satan is Real B. Our Suffering is Real C. Your Perseverance Will be Tested D. Learning the Lesson of Humility E. Your Worship Will be Proven IV. What the Book of Job Teaches Us About Jesus Christ A. Learning About God is to Learn about Jesus Christ B. Jesus is the Mediator Job Sought

Epilogue: Restoration! | Job 42:7-17 Endure suffering knowing that your reward is sure even if the timing isn't ***For a complete sermon transcript click on the "Notes" icon above*** ---------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- I. God Reprimands Job's Three Friends (v. 7) A. YHWH Addresses Eliphaz (v. 7a) 1. God is angry! (7b) 2. The reason for God's anger (7c) 3. Two things to note in v. 7 II. The Friends are Reconciled to God (vv. 8-9) A. Sacrificial Offering and Intercessory Prayer 1. Sacrifice (8a) 2. Prayer (8b) 3. The three do as they are told AND God does as He said He would do (v. 9) III. God Restores Job (vv. 10-17) A. Job is Restored AFTER He Prays (v. 10) B. Then It's Time to Celebrate (v. 11) D. YHWH's Blessing (vv. 12-17) 1. Double the Livestock (v. 12) 2. Double the Children (v. 13-15) 3. Double the Lifespan (v. 16-17) Concluding Thoughts: 1. God is gracious in our failures. 2. We are to do the right thing by faith regardless of the consequences. 3. Endure suffering knowing that your reward is sure even if the timing isn't. 4. The battle scars of suffering remain. 5. Job serves as a type of Christ. 6. Job's blessing came not by suffering but by believing

Job's Second Reply to God: When Suffering Means Surrender | Job 42:1-6 Sometimes Suffering Means Surrender ***For a complete sermon transcript click on the "Notes" icon above*** -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: Setting the Stage . . . I. Job's Second Reply to God: When Suffering Means Surrender A. Job's Realization: God Cannot be Overcome (vv. 1-2) 1. Two things that Job recognized in v. 2: a. God is omnipotent b. God is teleological B. Job's Recognition: Job Admits Ignorance (v. 3) 1. Job begins by quoting what God said to him in 38:2 2. Note again the Hebrew yada – to know C. Job's Reeducation: Job is Teachable (v. 4) 1. Essential components of discipleship D. Job's Revival: Job Now Sees (v. 5) 1. Revival and living the Christian life with the hope of seeing God in His glory E. Job's Repentance: Job Drops His Legal Case (v. 6) 1. Does Job despise himself or does he retract his words? 2. Two reasons why the NASB reading is to be preferred: 3. The nature of repentance (see all of the above) Concluding Thoughts . . . 1. Sometimes Suffering Means Surrender 2. God Never Gives Up on Family 3. Experiencing God Means We Truly Know Him

God's Second Reply to Job: The Lord of the Great and Terrible | Job 40:6-41:34 The Almighty is Lord of the Great and Terrible ***For a complete sermon transcript click on the "Notes" icon above*** -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: Reviewing God's First Reply to Job I. God's Second Reply to Job: The Lord of the Great and Terrible A. God's Charge Against Job (40:6-8) B. God's Challenge to Job (40:9-14) C. God's Character as Lord of the Great and Terrible (40:15-41:34) 1. God is Lord of Behemoth (40:15-24) 2. God is Lord of Leviathan (41:1-34)

Job's First Response to the God of the Whirlwind | Job 40:3-5 God hears the deafening roar of our silence ***For a complete sermon transcript click on the "Notes" icon above*** -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) II. Job's First Reply to God: I Am Insignificant (40:3-5) A. Job's Admission: Short of Repentance (40:3-4) 1. Verse 4 – "Insignificant" (better than the NIV's "unworthy") admits little 2. Word "Behold" (v. 4) = Heb. hen ("behold"/"see"/"look" – Also "since" or "if") 3. Job "lays his hand over his mouth" (cf. 21:5; 29:9) B. Job's Declaration: Committed to Silence (40:5) 1. Five reasons why I interpret this passage as I do: a. The words Job uses are ambiguous b. Job doesn't say anything that clearly indicates he's repentant c. God continues his correction d. Job's attitude is quite different in chapter 42 e. Some weighty scholars agree Concluding Thoughts: 1. God knows your heart. 2. God is long-suffering with you. 3. We ought to be long-suffering with each other. 4. Repentance begins at the Cross.

Job's First Response to the God of the Whirlwind | Job 40:3-5 God hears the deafening roar of our silence ***For a complete sermon transcript click on the "Notes" icon above*** -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) II. Job's First Reply to God: I Am Insignificant (40:3-5) A. Job's Admission: Short of Repentance (40:3-4) 1. Verse 4 – "Insignificant" (better than the NIV's "unworthy") admits little 2. Word "Behold" (v. 4) = Heb. hen ("behold"/"see"/"look" – Also "since" or "if") 3. Job "lays his hand over his mouth" (cf. 21:5; 29:9) B. Job's Declaration: Committed to Silence (40:5) 1. Five reasons why I interpret this passage as I do: a. The words Job uses are ambiguous b. Job doesn't say anything that clearly indicates he's repentant c. God continues his correction d. Job's attitude is quite different in chapter 42 e. Some weighty scholars agree Concluding Thoughts: 1. God knows your heart. 2. God is long-suffering with you. 3. We ought to be long-suffering with each other. 4. Repentance begins at the Cross.

God's First Reply to Job: Not “Why” But “Who” (Part 4) | Job 39:5-40:2 Tough Questions Melt in the Light of God's Nature -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) A. God's Opening Statement (38:1-3) B. God as Prosecuting Attorney and Judge (38:4-39:30) 1. Job's Finiteness: Were You There? (38:4-11) 2. Job's Experience: Have You? (38:12-30) 3. Job's Ability: Can You? (38:31-41) 4. Job's Knowledge: Do You Know? (39:1-4) 5. Job's Impotence: Who is Almighty? (39:5-30) a. Questions about the animal kingdom, continued (39:5-30) (1) The Wild Donkey: Independent Existence (39:5–8) (2) The Wild Oxen: Fearsome Power (39:9–12) (3) The Ostrich: Humorous Indifference (39:13–18) (4) The War Horse: Dark and Terrible (39:19–25) (5) The Hawk: Graceful Flight (39:26) (6) The Eagle: Life, Death (39:27–30) C. God's Closing Argument (40:1-2) Concluding Thoughts: 1. Tough questions melt in the light of God's nature. 2. God delights in His creation—even in its fallen state. 3. If God so enjoys the animal world, how much more people created in his image? 4. If people are created for God's glory, how much more so those of us who have been re-created in Christ! 5. If the redeemed bring God glory, we ought to be driven to reach the lost so that they may be added to the chorus.

God's First Reply to Job: Not “Why” But “Who” (Part 4) | Job 39:5-40:2 Tough Questions Melt in the Light of God's Nature -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) A. God's Opening Statement (38:1-3) B. God as Prosecuting Attorney and Judge (38:4-39:30) 1. Job's Finiteness: Were You There? (38:4-11) 2. Job's Experience: Have You? (38:12-30) 3. Job's Ability: Can You? (38:31-41) 4. Job's Knowledge: Do You Know? (39:1-4) 5. Job's Impotence: Who is Almighty? (39:5-30) a. Questions about the animal kingdom, continued (39:5-30) (1) The Wild Donkey: Independent Existence (39:5–8) (2) The Wild Oxen: Fearsome Power (39:9–12) (3) The Ostrich: Humorous Indifference (39:13–18) (4) The War Horse: Dark and Terrible (39:19–25) (5) The Hawk: Graceful Flight (39:26) (6) The Eagle: Life, Death (39:27–30) C. God's Closing Argument (40:1-2) Concluding Thoughts: 1. Tough questions melt in the light of God's nature. 2. God delights in His creation—even in its fallen state. 3. If God so enjoys the animal world, how much more people created in his image? 4. If people are created for God's glory, how much more so those of us who have been re-created in Christ! 5. If the redeemed bring God glory, we ought to be driven to reach the lost so that they may be added to the chorus.

God's First Reply to Job: Not “Why” But “Who” (Part 3) | Job 38:39 - 39:4 Tough Questions Melt in the Light of God's Nature -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) A. God's Opening Statement (38:1-3) B. God as Prosecuting Attorney and Judge (38:4-39:30) 1. Job's Finiteness: Were You There? (38:4-11) 2. Job's Experience: Have You? (38:12-30) 3. Job's Ability: Can You? (38:31-41) a. Questions about stars and clouds (38:31–38) (1) Stars (31-33) (2) Clouds (34-37) (a) Then there's the question of v. 36 b. Questions about the animal kingdom (38:39–41) (1) Lions (38:39–40) (2) Ravens (38:41) 4. Job's Knowledge: Do You Know? (39:1-4) a. Questions about the animal kingdom, continued (39:1-4) (1) Goats and deer (39:1–4) Conclusion: 1. God is bigger than we can fathom. 2. God's faithfulness is bigger than we can fathom. 3. God's work on the Cross is far-greater than we can fathom.

God's First Reply to Job: Not “Why” But “Who” (Part 3) | Job 38:39 - 39:4 Tough Questions Melt in the Light of God's Nature -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) A. God's Opening Statement (38:1-3) B. God as Prosecuting Attorney and Judge (38:4-39:30) 1. Job's Finiteness: Were You There? (38:4-11) 2. Job's Experience: Have You? (38:12-30) 3. Job's Ability: Can You? (38:31-41) a. Questions about stars and clouds (38:31–38) (1) Stars (31-33) (2) Clouds (34-37) (a) Then there's the question of v. 36 b. Questions about the animal kingdom (38:39–41) (1) Lions (38:39–40) (2) Ravens (38:41) 4. Job's Knowledge: Do You Know? (39:1-4) a. Questions about the animal kingdom, continued (39:1-4) (1) Goats and deer (39:1–4) Conclusion: 1. God is bigger than we can fathom. 2. God's faithfulness is bigger than we can fathom. 3. God's work on the Cross is far-greater than we can fathom.

God's First Reply to Job: Not “Why” But “Who” (Part 3) | Job 38:39 - 39:4 Tough Questions Melt in the Light of God's Nature ***For a complete sermon transcript click on the "Notes" icon above*** -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) A. God's Opening Statement (38:1-3) B. God as Prosecuting Attorney and Judge (38:4-39:30) 1. Job's Finiteness: Were You There? (38:4-11) 2. Job's Experience: Have You? (38:12-30) 3. Job's Ability: Can You? (38:31-41) a. Questions about stars and clouds (38:31–38) (1) Stars (31-33) (2) Clouds (34-37) (a) Then there's the question of v. 36 b. Questions about the animal kingdom (38:39–41) (1) Lions (38:39–40) (2) Ravens (38:41) 4. Job's Knowledge: Do You Know? (39:1-4) a. Questions about the animal kingdom, continued (39:1-4) (1) Goats and deer (39:1–4) Conclusion: 1. God is bigger than we can fathom. 2. God's faithfulness is bigger than we can fathom. 3. God's work on the Cross is far-greater than we can fathom.

After Darkness, Light | 2023 Reformation Sunday

After Darkness, Light | 2023 Reformation Sunday

God's First Reply to Job: Not "Why" but "Who" (Part 2) | Job 38:12-30 Tough Questions Melt in the Light of God's Nature -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) A. God's Opening Statement (38:1-3) B. God as Prosecuting Attorney and Judge (38:4-39:30) 1. Job's Finiteness: Were You There? (38:4-11) a. Questions about the earth (38:4–7) b. Questions about the sea (38:8-11) 2. Job's Experience: Have You? (38:12-30) a. Questions about Light and Darkness (38:12-15) b. Questions about Unexplored places (38:16-17) c. Questions about the Seasons and Weather (38:22–30) (1) Expanse of the Earth (18) (2) Light and Darkness (19-21) (3) Snow and Hail (22-23) (4) Lightening and East Winds (24) (5) Rain (25-27) (6) Ice and Frost – Father / Mother Metaphor (28-30) Conclusion: 1. Jesus Christ, as God, providentially controls all things 2. Jesus conquered the “King of terrors” (death)

God's First Reply to Job: Not "Why" but "Who" (Part 2) | Job 38:12-30 Tough Questions Melt in the Light of God's Nature -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) A. God's Opening Statement (38:1-3) B. God as Prosecuting Attorney and Judge (38:4-39:30) 1. Job's Finiteness: Were You There? (38:4-11) a. Questions about the earth (38:4–7) b. Questions about the sea (38:8-11) 2. Job's Experience: Have You? (38:12-30) a. Questions about Light and Darkness (38:12-15) b. Questions about Unexplored places (38:16-17) c. Questions about the Seasons and Weather (38:22–30) (1) Expanse of the Earth (18) (2) Light and Darkness (19-21) (3) Snow and Hail (22-23) (4) Lightening and East Winds (24) (5) Rain (25-27) (6) Ice and Frost – Father / Mother Metaphor (28-30) Conclusion: 1. Jesus Christ, as God, providentially controls all things 2. Jesus conquered the “King of terrors” (death)

God's First Reply to Job: Not “Why” but “Who” (Part 1) | Job 38:1-11 Tough Questions Melt in the Light of God's Nature ***For a complete sermon transcript click on the "Notes" icon above*** -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: Four things that don't happen in this first speech and the nagging question of “why?” I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) A. God's Opening Statement (38:1-3) 1. Tetragrammaton: YHWH (v. 1a) a. Exodus 3 (cf. John 8:38) 2. Theophanies and Christophanies a. Four reasons why this may be a Christophany: 3. The “Whom” is YHWH — Note the “where” (v. 1b) 4. The first of over 70 questions – key word “knowledge” B. God as Prosecuting Attorney (38:4-39:30) 1. Job's Finiteness: Were You There? (38:4-11) a. Questions about the earth (38:4–7) (1) Creation (38:4-7) (a) God is the architect (4-5a) (b) God is the surveyor (v 5b) (c) God is the engineer (v 6) (d) God's work applauded by angels (7) b. Questions about the sea (38:8-11) (1) Birth of the Sea (38:8-9) (2) Boundaries of the Sea (38:10-11) Conclusion: Three closing ideas . . .

God's First Reply to Job: Not “Why” but “Who” (Part 1) | Job 38:1-11 Tough Questions Melt in the Light of God's Nature ***For a complete sermon transcript click on the "Notes" icon above*** -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- Introduction: Four things that don't happen in this first speech and the nagging question of “why?” I. God's First Reply to Job: Who Are You? (38:1-40:2) A. God's Opening Statement (38:1-3) 1. Tetragrammaton: YHWH (v. 1a) a. Exodus 3 (cf. John 8:38) 2. Theophanies and Christophanies a. Four reasons why this may be a Christophany: 3. The “Whom” is YHWH — Note the “where” (v. 1b) 4. The first of over 70 questions – key word “knowledge” B. God as Prosecuting Attorney (38:4-39:30) 1. Job's Finiteness: Were You There? (38:4-11) a. Questions about the earth (38:4–7) (1) Creation (38:4-7) (a) God is the architect (4-5a) (b) God is the surveyor (v 5b) (c) God is the engineer (v 6) (d) God's work applauded by angels (7) b. Questions about the sea (38:8-11) (1) Birth of the Sea (38:8-9) (2) Boundaries of the Sea (38:10-11) Conclusion: Three closing ideas . . .

The Fourth Speech of Elihu: God is Great and Good | Job 36:1-37:24 “God's Greatness and Goodness Lead the Believer to Repentance” -------------------------- Sermon Outline-------------------------------- INTRODUCTION IV. Elihu's Fourth Speech: God is Great and Good (36-37) A. Introduction: A Prophetic Voice (36:1-4) B. God Is Good (36:5-25) 1. His Goodness in Justice (36:5-7) 2. His Goodness in Discipline (36:8-10) 3. An Appeal to Job (36:16-25) C. God Is Great (36:26-37:23) 1. God's greatness in nature (seasons) a. God's sovereign glory in the autumn storm (36:26–33) b. God's sovereign glory in the winter (37:1–13) c. God's sovereign glory in the summer (37:14–18) 2. Job's inability to understand God's ways (37:19–23) D. Conclusion: God is to be Feared (37:24) CONCLUSION: GOD AND THE GOSPEL