POPULARITY
25 episodes with 20cor
14 episodes with 20cor
4 episodes with 20cor
12 episodes with 20cor
2 episodes with 20cor
2 episodes with 20cor
Show #2401 Show Notes: Communion Verses: 2 Corinthians 4:11-18 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Cor.%204%3A11-18&version=KJV 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor%2011%3A23-26&version=KJV Lost Lands Music Festival: https://www.lostlandsfestival.com/ Bitter Michelle Obama: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?mibextid=wwXIfr&v=1332594018034388&rdid=9MAxT56ATIeqqQWz Ivermectin (2011): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3043740/ Ivermectin (2020): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7505114/ Kent Hovind: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1187090372818082 The Silencing Of Christianity […]
Show #2356 Show Notes: Communion Verses: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%2010%3A8-21&version=KJV https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2011%3A23-26&version=KJV Jim Breuer on Epstein list: https://x.com/TRUMP_ARMY_/status/1895175923181433121 Hebrews 12:26 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=hebrews%2012%3A26&version=KJV Pizzagate: https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-pizzagate-conspiracy-elon-musk-abc-657657139374 Obama Birth Certificate fact check: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/factcheck/2025/02/26/video-obamas-birth-certificate-fact-check/80301609007/ Top 21 Conspiracies: https://www.livescience.com/11375-top-ten-conspiracy-theories.html Epstein was FBI source: https://x.com/MarioNawfal/status/1895251272741298486 […]
Show #2346 Show Notes: ‘Charisma’: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/charisma Till You Can’t – Cody Johnson: https://youtu.be/v2LixP7n_hM?si=q_orbrMEHcnjPmTy Communion verses: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208%3A31-39&version=KJV https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2011%3A23-26&version=KJV RFK Jr Acceptance Speech: https://www.facebook.com/reel/615999707698725 Heaven and the New Jerusalem: https://christianity201.wordpress.com/2020/07/07/heaven-and-the-new-jerusalem-whats-the-difference/#:~:text=Heaven%2C%20God’s%20dwelling%20(1%20Kings,the%20entire%20Bible%20(see%20Rev Revelation 21:https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation%2021%3A2&version=KJV Luke 17:21 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2017%3A21&version=KJV Kayaker swallowed […]
Show #2326 Show Notes: Romans 5: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans%205&version=KJV People Waiting for Propane: https://therebelpatient.substack.com/p/free-propane-drive-up-for-wnc-5400#media-bd922533-c6da-4f02-891f-ecdacd5ee74e Cowboy David Graham: https://heartshurt.com Communion Verses: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%2012%3A%2022-29&version=KJV https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2011%3A23-26&version=KJV Shades of Gray – The Monkees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lcmte3fR86Q Thomas More Society Petitions Trump: https://www.thomasmoresociety.org/news/thomas-more-society-petitions-president-trump-to-pardon-21-pro-lifers-targeted-by-biden-doj LAN, […]
Show #2321 Show Notes: Communion verses; Galatians 2:16-21 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=%20Gal.%202%3A16-21&version=KJV 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2011%3A23-26&version=KJV Mysterious drone over Cali fires: https://www.themirror.com/news/weird-news/mysterious-drones-spotted-flying-over-898007 Ricky Skaggs – Wings of a Dove: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBgIlMAy3kw God showed this man judgment: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/LM-PEKeS4gA Dave […]
Show #2297 Show Notes: Communion Verses: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Cor.%205%3A14-21&version=KJV and https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2011%3A23-26&version=KJV Biden announces $1B for Africa (NC Videos): https://100percentfedup.com/220321-2/ Dave Daubenmire, a veteran 35 year high school football coach, was spurred to action when attacked […]
Show #2279 Show Notes: When the Man Comes Around: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9IfHDi-2EA Thief on the Cross: https://youtu.be/4A24z5VMedY Communion Verses: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Cor.%204%3A11-18&version=KJV and https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor%2011%3A23-26&version=KJV Kash Patel on DOJ: https://x.com/BehizyTweets/status/1854603814978060445 Trump’s plan: https://www.facebook.com/rett.copple/videos/2667258226995375 ‘Restitution’: https://webstersdictionary1828.com/Dictionary/restitution Liberal Professor Election Reaction: https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2024/11/this-liberal-professors-prediction-about-election-is-funniest/ Bureaucracy: https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1853887450365735153 […]
Show #2234 Show Notes: Communion verses: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%2010%3A8-21%20%26%201%20Cor.%2011%3A23-26&version=KJV & https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%2010%3A8-21&version=KJV Psalm 94: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm%2094&version=KJV The Current Prayer Action: https://thelibertyactionnetwork.com/current-action/ & https://thelibertyactionnetwork.com/first-things-first-repentance-humiliation-remorse-fasting-prayer/ Coaches Rant: https://coachdavelive.tv/w/ryiFakMoh5GnFBRoPijXWN Gender Gap: https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2024/09/gender-gap-cnn-points-trump-has-huge-advantage/ Dave Daubenmire, a veteran 35 year high school football coach, was spurred […]
Show #2219 Show Notes: Communion verses: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208%3A31-39&version=KJV – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2011%3A23-26%20&version=KJV Bane: https://webstersdictionary1828.com/Dictionary/bane MAD AS HELL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwMVMbmQBug Pastor on free Masonry: https://www.facebook.com/reel/352142471286149 Florida Vote NO on A4- anti Abortion video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CMIb5mcIsg&rco=1 Gino Family business: https://www.facebook.com/reel/3697543453837981 Driving a Parked […]
XVIII. The FamilyGod has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. It is composed of persons related to one another by marriage, blood, or adoption.Marriage is the uniting of one man and one woman in covenant commitment for a lifetime. It is God's unique gift to reveal the union between Christ and His church and to provide for the man and the woman in marriage the framework for intimate companionship, the channel of sexual expression according to biblical standards, and the means for procreation of the human race.The husband and wife are of equal worth before God, since both are created in God's image. The marriage relationship models the way God relates to His people. A husband is to love his wife as Christ loved the church. He has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect, and to lead his family. A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation.Children, from the moment of conception, are a blessing and heritage from the Lord. Parents are to demonstrate to their children God's pattern for marriage. Parents are to teach their children spiritual and moral values and to lead them, through consistent lifestyle example and loving discipline, to make choices based on biblical truth. Children are to honor and obey their parents.Genesis 1:26-28; 2:15-25; 3:1-20; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Joshua 24:15; 1 Samuel 1:26-28; Psalms 51:5; 78:1-8; Psalms 127; Psalms 128; 139:13-16; Proverbs 1:8; 5:15-20; 6:20-22; 12:4; 13:24; 14:1; 17:6; 18:22; 22:6,15; 23:13-14; 24:3; 29:15,17; 31:10-31; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 9:9; Malachi 2:14-16; Matthew 5:31-32; 18:2-5; 19:3-9; Mark 10:6-12; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Corinthians 7:1-16; Ephesians 5:21-33; 6:1-4; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Timothy 5:8,14; 2 Timothy 1:3-5; Titus 2:3-5; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Peter 3:1-7.
XVIII. The FamilyGod has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. It is composed of persons related to one another by marriage, blood, or adoption.Marriage is the uniting of one man and one woman in covenant commitment for a lifetime. It is God's unique gift to reveal the union between Christ and His church and to provide for the man and the woman in marriage the framework for intimate companionship, the channel of sexual expression according to biblical standards, and the means for procreation of the human race.The husband and wife are of equal worth before God, since both are created in God's image. The marriage relationship models the way God relates to His people. A husband is to love his wife as Christ loved the church. He has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect, and to lead his family. A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation.Children, from the moment of conception, are a blessing and heritage from the Lord. Parents are to demonstrate to their children God's pattern for marriage. Parents are to teach their children spiritual and moral values and to lead them, through consistent lifestyle example and loving discipline, to make choices based on biblical truth. Children are to honor and obey their parents.Genesis 1:26-28; 2:15-25; 3:1-20; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Joshua 24:15; 1 Samuel 1:26-28; Psalms 51:5; 78:1-8; Psalms 127; Psalms 128; 139:13-16; Proverbs 1:8; 5:15-20; 6:20-22; 12:4; 13:24; 14:1; 17:6; 18:22; 22:6,15; 23:13-14; 24:3; 29:15,17; 31:10-31; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 9:9; Malachi 2:14-16; Matthew 5:31-32; 18:2-5; 19:3-9; Mark 10:6-12; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Corinthians 7:1-16; Ephesians 5:21-33; 6:1-4; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Timothy 5:8,14; 2 Timothy 1:3-5; Titus 2:3-5; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Peter 3:1-7.
XVIII. The FamilyGod has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. It is composed of persons related to one another by marriage, blood, or adoption.Marriage is the uniting of one man and one woman in covenant commitment for a lifetime. It is God's unique gift to reveal the union between Christ and His church and to provide for the man and the woman in marriage the framework for intimate companionship, the channel of sexual expression according to biblical standards, and the means for procreation of the human race.The husband and wife are of equal worth before God, since both are created in God's image. The marriage relationship models the way God relates to His people. A husband is to love his wife as Christ loved the church. He has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect, and to lead his family. A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation.Children, from the moment of conception, are a blessing and heritage from the Lord. Parents are to demonstrate to their children God's pattern for marriage. Parents are to teach their children spiritual and moral values and to lead them, through consistent lifestyle example and loving discipline, to make choices based on biblical truth. Children are to honor and obey their parents.Genesis 1:26-28; 2:15-25; 3:1-20; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Joshua 24:15; 1 Samuel 1:26-28; Psalms 51:5; 78:1-8; Psalms 127; Psalms 128; 139:13-16; Proverbs 1:8; 5:15-20; 6:20-22; 12:4; 13:24; 14:1; 17:6; 18:22; 22:6,15; 23:13-14; 24:3; 29:15,17; 31:10-31; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 9:9; Malachi 2:14-16; Matthew 5:31-32; 18:2-5; 19:3-9; Mark 10:6-12; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Corinthians 7:1-16; Ephesians 5:21-33; 6:1-4; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Timothy 5:8,14; 2 Timothy 1:3-5; Titus 2:3-5; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Peter 3:1-7.Read Commentary on Article XVIII – The Family
In this Wednesday night teaching Bro. Derrick follows up last week's teaching with part 2 of Article XV of The Baptist Faith & Message, "The Christian and the Social Order."XV. The Christian and the Social OrderAll Christians are under obligation to seek to make the will of Christ supreme in our own lives and in human society. Means and methods used for the improvement of society and the establishment of righteousness among men can be truly and permanently helpful only when they are rooted in the regeneration of the individual by the saving grace of God in Jesus Christ. In the spirit of Christ, Christians should oppose racism, every form of greed, selfishness, and vice, and all forms of sexual immorality, including adultery, homosexuality, and pornography. We should work to provide for the orphaned, the needy, the abused, the aged, the helpless, and the sick. We should speak on behalf of the unborn and contend for the sanctity of all human life from conception to natural death. Every Christian should seek to bring industry, government, and society as a whole under the sway of the principles of righteousness, truth, and brotherly love. In order to promote these ends Christians should be ready to work with all men of good will in any good cause, always being careful to act in the spirit of love without compromising their loyalty to Christ and His truth.Exodus 20:3-17; Leviticus 6:2-5; Deuteronomy 10:12; 27:17; Psalm 101:5; Micah 6:8; Zechariah 8:16; Matthew 5:13-16,43-48; 22:36-40; 25:35; Mark 1:29-34; 2:3ff.; 10:21; Luke 4:18-21; 10:27-37; 20:25; John 15:12; 17:15; Romans 12–14; 1Corinthians 5:9-10; 6:1-7; 7:20-24; 10:23-11:1; Galatians 3:26-28; Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:12-17; 1 Thessalonians 3:12; Philemon; James 1:27; 2:8.
What is the benefits of Church Attendance? Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/CC412 TGC: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/benefits-church-attendance/#:~:text=Church%20attendance%20pleases%20and%20glorifies,doing%20good%20work%20(1%20Cor. GotQuestions: https://www.gotquestions.org/church-membership.html Youtube: https://youtu.be/FlbLBG0kDV4 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christian-cornerstone/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christian-cornerstone/support
In this Wednesday night teaching, Bro. Derrick teaches on Article XV of The Baptist Faith & Message, "The Christian and the Social Order."XV. The Christian and the Social OrderAll Christians are under obligation to seek to make the will of Christ supreme in our own lives and in human society. Means and methods used for the improvement of society and the establishment of righteousness among men can be truly and permanently helpful only when they are rooted in the regeneration of the individual by the saving grace of God in Jesus Christ. In the spirit of Christ, Christians should oppose racism, every form of greed, selfishness, and vice, and all forms of sexual immorality, including adultery, homosexuality, and pornography. We should work to provide for the orphaned, the needy, the abused, the aged, the helpless, and the sick. We should speak on behalf of the unborn and contend for the sanctity of all human life from conception to natural death. Every Christian should seek to bring industry, government, and society as a whole under the sway of the principles of righteousness, truth, and brotherly love. In order to promote these ends Christians should be ready to work with all men of good will in any good cause, always being careful to act in the spirit of love without compromising their loyalty to Christ and His truth.Exodus 20:3-17; Leviticus 6:2-5; Deuteronomy 10:12; 27:17; Psalm 101:5; Micah 6:8; Zechariah 8:16; Matthew 5:13-16,43-48; 22:36-40; 25:35; Mark 1:29-34; 2:3ff.; 10:21; Luke 4:18-21; 10:27-37; 20:25; John 15:12; 17:15; Romans 12–14; 1Corinthians 5:9-10; 6:1-7; 7:20-24; 10:23-11:1; Galatians 3:26-28; Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:12-17; 1 Thessalonians 3:12; Philemon; James 1:27; 2:8.
In this Wednesday night teaching our Executive & Missions Pastor, Vlad Baraniuk, teaches on Article XIV of the Baptist Faith & Message, "Cooperation."XIV. CooperationChrist's people should, as occasion requires, organize such associations and conventions as may best secure cooperation for the great objects of the Kingdom of God. Such organizations have no authority over one another or over the churches. They are voluntary and advisory bodies designed to elicit, combine, and direct the energies of our people in the most effective manner. Members of New Testament churches should cooperate with one another in carrying forward the missionary, educational, and benevolent ministries for the extension of Christ's Kingdom. Christian unity in the New Testament sense is spiritual harmony and voluntary cooperation for common ends by various groups of Christ's people. Cooperation is desirable between the various Christian denominations, when the end to be attained is itself justified, and when such cooperation involves no violation of conscience or compromise of loyalty to Christ and His Word as revealed in the New Testament.Exodus 17:12; 18:17ff.; Judges 7:21; Ezra 1:3-4; 2:68-69; 5:14-15; Nehemiah 4; 8:1-5; Matthew 10:5-15; 20:1-16; 22:1-10; 28:19-20; Mark 2:3; Luke 10:1ff.; Acts 1:13-14; 2:1ff.; 4:31-37; 13:2-3; 15:1-35; 1 Corinthians 1:10-17; 3:5-15; 12; 2 Corinthians 8-9; Galatians 1:6-10; Ephesians 4:1-16; Philippians 1:15-18.
In this Wednesday night teaching Bro. Derrick covers 2 articles of The Baptist Faith & Message:• Article XII. Education• Article XIII. StewardshipXII. EducationChristianity is the faith of enlightenment and intelligence. In Jesus Christ abide all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. All sound learning is, therefore, a part of our Christian heritage. The new birth opens all human faculties and creates a thirst for knowledge. Moreover, the cause of education in the Kingdom of Christ is co-ordinate with the causes of missions and general benevolence, and should receive along with these the liberal support of the churches. An adequate system of Christian education is necessary to a complete spiritual program for Christ's people.In Christian education there should be a proper balance between academic freedom and academic responsibility. Freedom in any orderly relationship of human life is always limited and never absolute. The freedom of a teacher in a Christian school, college, or seminary is limited by the pre-eminence of Jesus Christ, by the authoritative nature of the Scriptures, and by the distinct purpose for which the school exists.Deuteronomy 4:1,5,9,14; 6:1-10; 31:12-13; Nehemiah 8:1-8; Job 28:28; Psalms 19:7ff.; 119:11; Proverbs 3:13ff.; 4:1-10; 8:1-7,11; 15:14; Ecclesiastes 7:19; Matthew 5:2; 7:24ff.; 28:19-20; Luke 2:40; 1 Corinthians 1:18-31; Ephesians 4:11-16; Philippians 4:8; Colossians 2:3,8-9; 1 Timothy 1:3-7; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:14-17; Hebrews 5:12-6:3; James 1:5; 3:17.XIII. StewardshipGod is the source of all blessings, temporal and spiritual; all that we have and are we owe to Him. Christians have a spiritual debtorship to the whole world, a holy trusteeship in the gospel, and a binding stewardship in their possessions. They are therefore under obligation to serve Him with their time, talents, and material possessions; and should recognize all these as entrusted to them to use for the glory of God and for helping others. According to the Scriptures, Christians should contribute of their means cheerfully, regularly, systematically, proportionately, and liberally for the advancement of the Redeemer's cause on earth.Genesis 14:20; Leviticus 27:30-32; Deuteronomy 8:18; Malachi 3:8-12; Matthew 6:1-4,19-21; 19:21; 23:23; 25:14-29; Luke 12:16-21,42; 16:1-13; Acts 2:44-47; 5:1-11; 17:24-25; 20:35; Romans 6:6-22; 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 4:1-2; 6:19-20; 12; 16:1-4; 2 Corinthians 8-9; 12:15; Philippians 4:10-19; 1 Peter 1:18-19.
In this Wednesday night teaching Bro. Derrick continue with part 2 of, "Last Things," Article X of The Baptist Faith & Message. God, in His own time and in His own way, will bring the world to its appropriate end. According to His promise, Jesus Christ will return personally and visibly in glory to the earth; the dead will be raised; and Christ will judge all men in righteousness. The unrighteous will be consigned to Hell, the place of everlasting punishment. The righteous in their resurrected and glorified bodies will receive their reward and will dwell forever in Heaven with the Lord.Isaiah 2:4; 11:9; Matthew 16:27; 18:8-9; 19:28; 24:27,30,36,44; 25:31-46; 26:64; Mark 8:38; 9:43-48; Luke 12:40,48; 16:19-26; 17:22-37; 21:27-28; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:11; 17:31; Romans 14:10; 1 Corinthians 4:5; 15:24-28,35-58; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Philippians 3:20-21; Colossians 1:5; 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:14-18; 5:1ff.; 2 Thessalonians 1:7ff.; 2; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 4:1,8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:27-28; James 5:8; 2 Peter 3:7ff.; 1 John 2:28; 3:2; Jude 14; Revelation 1:18; 3:11; 20:1-22:13.
Verses: Philippians 3:5-6, Acts 7:54-8:3, Acts 9:1-22, 2 Corinthians 11:23-28, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Philippians 3:7-10Main Point: God is mighty to save and graceful to pursue.Questions:1. What impacted you from this message? What challenged you or encouraged you? What did you learn about God through the study of Paul?2. What details do you know about Paul's life? Which details seem the most important to you?3. Read Philippians 3:5-6. How did Paul describe his religious background? Which things was he born into, and which things did he pursue? How could have Paul's background created a barrier to following Jesus?4. Read Acts 7:54-8:3. What was Saul's role at the Stephen's stoning. What happened after Stephen was martyred? Describe Saul's persecution of the early church?5. Read Acts 9:1-22. What was Saul doing at the beginning of this passage? How did the Lord get his attention? What did Jesus say to Saul? What would you have felt if you were in Saul's place?6. What was Ananias' response to being told to pray for Saul? What did the Lord tell Ananias about Saul? After his conversion, what did Paul do? What did the people say about him?7. Read 2 Corinthians 11:23-28. Paul was called to be the “Apostle to the Gentiles” (Romans 11:13). Throughout his missionary journeys, Paul would suffer for the Jesus. Describe the sufferings Paul listed in these verses?8. Read 1 Corinthians 15:1-11. In these verses Paul described the Gospel message and how it impacted him. How would you describe the Gospel from these verses? What impact did it have on Paul?9. Read 1 Timothy 1:12-17. How did Paul describe himself in these verses? How did God's grace change him? How do these verses give us hope that anyone can trust in Jesus and experience his grace?10. Read Philippians 3:7-10. This is the continuation of the verses you read above. What did Paul desire above all else? Why is knowing God so important?11. What is one specific thing you can do this week to put into practice what you learned in this message?
In this teaching on the Baptist Faith & Message, Bro. Derrick covers Article IX, The Kingdom. IX. The KingdomThe Kingdom of God includes both His general sovereignty over the universe and His particular kingship over men who willfully acknowledge Him as King. Particularly the Kingdom is the realm of salvation into which men enter by trustful, childlike commitment to Jesus Christ. Christians ought to pray and to labor that the Kingdom may come and God's will be done on earth. The full consummation of the Kingdom awaits the return of Jesus Christ and the end of this age.Genesis 1:1; Isaiah 9:6-7; Jeremiah 23:5-6; Matthew 3:2; 4:8-10,23; 12:25-28; 13:1-52; 25:31-46; 26:29; Mark 1:14-15; 9:1; Luke 4:43; 8:1; 9:2; 12:31-32; 17:20-21; 23:42; John 3:3; 18:36; Acts 1:6-7; 17:22-31; Romans 5:17; 8:19; 1 Corinthians 15:24-28; Colossians 1:13; Hebrews 11:10,16; 12:28; 1 Peter 2:4-10; 4:13; Revelation 1:6,9; 5:10; 11:15; 21-22.
In this teaching Bro. Derrick covers Articles VII and VII of the Baptist Faith & Message• Article VII - Baptism & The Lord's Supper • Article VIII - The Lord's DayVII. Baptism and the Lord's SupperChristian baptism is the immersion of a believer in water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It is an act of obedience symbolizing the believer's faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Saviour, the believer's death to sin, the burial of the old life, and the resurrection to walk in newness of life in Christ Jesus. It is a testimony to his faith in the final resurrection of the dead. Being a church ordinance, it is prerequisite to the privileges of church membership and to the Lord's Supper.The Lord's Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the church, through partaking of the bread and the fruit of the vine, memorialize the death of the Redeemer and anticipate His second coming.Matthew 3:13-17; 26:26-30; 28:19-20; Mark 1:9-11; 14:22-26; Luke 3:21-22; 22:19-20; John 3:23; Acts 2:41-42; 8:35-39; 16:30-33; 20:7; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Corinthians 10:16,21; 11:23-29; Colossians 2:12.VIII. The Lord's DayThe first day of the week is the Lord's Day. It is a Christian institution for regular observance. It commemorates the resurrection of Christ from the dead and should include exercises of worship and spiritual devotion, both public and private. Activities on the Lord's Day should be commensurate with the Christian's conscience under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.Exodus 20:8-11; Matthew 12:1-12; 28:1ff.; Mark 2:27-28; 16:1-7; Luke 24:1-3,33-36; John 4:21-24; 20:1,19-28; Acts 20:7; Romans 14:5-10; I Corinthians 16:1-2; Colossians 2:16; 3:16; Revelation 1:10.
As we continue to "Explore the Baptist Faith & Message," Bro. Derrick teaches us about Article VI. The Church. VI. The ChurchA New Testament church of the Lord Jesus Christ is an autonomous local congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the gospel; observing the two ordinances of Christ, governed by His laws, exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word, and seeking to extend the gospel to the ends of the earth. Each congregation operates under the Lordship of Christ through democratic processes. In such a congregation each member is responsible and accountable to Christ as Lord. Its two scriptural offices are that of pastor/elder/overseer and deacon. While both men and women are gifted for service in the church, the office of pastor/elder/overseer is limited to men as qualified by Scripture.The New Testament speaks also of the church as the Body of Christ which includes all of the redeemed of all the ages, believers from every tribe, and tongue, and people, and nation. Matthew 16:15-19; 18:15-20; Acts 2:41-42,47; 5:11-14; 6:3-6; 13:1-3; 14:23,27; 15:1-30; 16:5; 20:28; Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 3:16; 5:4-5; 7:17; 9:13-14; 12; Ephesians 1:22-23; 2:19-22; 3:8-11,21; 5:22-32; Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:18; 1 Timothy 2:9-14; 3:1-15; 4:14; Hebrews 11:39-40; 1 Peter 5:1-4; Revelation 2-3; 21:2-3.**Note: This article was amended June 14, 2023, by action of the 2023 Southern Baptist Convention**
In this teaching Bro. Derrick concludes Article V of the Baptist Faith & Message: God's Purpose of GraceV. God's Purpose of GraceElection is the gracious purpose of God, according to which He regenerates, justifies, sanctifies, and glorifies sinners. It is consistent with the free agency of man, and comprehends all the means in connection with the end. It is the glorious display of God's sovereign goodness, and is infinitely wise, holy, and unchangeable. It excludes boasting and promotes humility.All true believers endure to the end. Those whom God has accepted in Christ, and sanctified by His Spirit, will never fall away from the state of grace, but shall persevere to the end. Believers may fall into sin through neglect and temptation, whereby they grieve the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, and bring reproach on the cause of Christ and temporal judgments on themselves; yet they shall be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. Genesis 12:1-3; Exodus 19:5-8; 1 Samuel 8:4-7,19-22; Isaiah 5:1-7; Jeremiah 31:31ff.; Matthew 16:18-19; 21:28-45; 24:22,31; 25:34; Luke 1:68-79; 2:29-32; 19:41-44; 24:44-48; John 1:12-14; 3:16; 5:24; 6:44-45,65; 10:27-29; 15:16; 17:6,12,17-18; Acts 20:32; Romans 5:9-10; 8:28-39; 10:12-15; 11:5-7,26-36; 1 Corinthians 1:1-2; 15:24-28; Ephesians 1:4-23; 2:1-10; 3:1-11; Colossians 1:12-14; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; 2 Timothy 1:12; 2:10,19; Hebrews 11:39–12:2; James 1:12; 1 Peter 1:2-5,13; 2:4-10; 1 John 1:7-9; 2:19; 3:2.
In this week's lesson on the Baptist Faith & Message, Bro. Derrick continued with Part 2 of Article V - "God's Purpose of Grace."V. God's Purpose of GraceElection is the gracious purpose of God, according to which He regenerates, justifies, sanctifies, and glorifies sinners. It is consistent with the free agency of man, and comprehends all the means in connection with the end. It is the glorious display of God's sovereign goodness, and is infinitely wise, holy, and unchangeable. It excludes boasting and promotes humility.All true believers endure to the end. Those whom God has accepted in Christ, and sanctified by His Spirit, will never fall away from the state of grace, but shall persevere to the end. Believers may fall into sin through neglect and temptation, whereby they grieve the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, and bring reproach on the cause of Christ and temporal judgments on themselves; yet they shall be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. Genesis 12:1-3; Exodus 19:5-8; 1 Samuel 8:4-7,19-22; Isaiah 5:1-7; Jeremiah 31:31ff.; Matthew 16:18-19; 21:28-45; 24:22,31; 25:34; Luke 1:68-79; 2:29-32; 19:41-44; 24:44-48; John 1:12-14; 3:16; 5:24; 6:44-45,65; 10:27-29; 15:16; 17:6,12,17-18; Acts 20:32; Romans 5:9-10; 8:28-39; 10:12-15; 11:5-7,26-36; 1 Corinthians 1:1-2; 15:24-28; Ephesians 1:4-23; 2:1-10; 3:1-11; Colossians 1:12-14; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; 2 Timothy 1:12; 2:10,19; Hebrews 11:39–12:2; James 1:12; 1 Peter 1:2-5,13; 2:4-10; 1 John 1:7-9; 2:19; 3:2.
As we continue through our study of The Baptist Faith and Message, Bro. Derrick teaches about Article V, "God's Purpose of Grace." V. God's Purpose of GraceElection is the gracious purpose of God, according to which He regenerates, justifies, sanctifies, and glorifies sinners. It is consistent with the free agency of man, and comprehends all the means in connection with the end. It is the glorious display of God's sovereign goodness, and is infinitely wise, holy, and unchangeable. It excludes boasting and promotes humility.All true believers endure to the end. Those whom God has accepted in Christ, and sanctified by His Spirit, will never fall away from the state of grace, but shall persevere to the end. Believers may fall into sin through neglect and temptation, whereby they grieve the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, and bring reproach on the cause of Christ and temporal judgments on themselves; yet they shall be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. Genesis 12:1-3; Exodus 19:5-8; 1 Samuel 8:4-7,19-22; Isaiah 5:1-7; Jeremiah 31:31ff.; Matthew 16:18-19; 21:28-45; 24:22,31; 25:34; Luke 1:68-79; 2:29-32; 19:41-44; 24:44-48; John 1:12-14; 3:16; 5:24; 6:44-45,65; 10:27-29; 15:16; 17:6,12,17-18; Acts 20:32; Romans 5:9-10; 8:28-39; 10:12-15; 11:5-7,26-36; 1 Corinthians 1:1-2; 15:24-28; Ephesians 1:4-23; 2:1-10; 3:1-11; Colossians 1:12-14; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; 2 Timothy 1:12; 2:10,19; Hebrews 11:39–12:2; James 1:12; 1 Peter 1:2-5,13; 2:4-10; 1 John 1:7-9; 2:19; 3:2.
In this session Bro. Derrick continued with Article IV. of the Baptist Faith and Message, Salvation. We covered parts C & D, Sanctification and GlorificationC. Sanctification is the experience, beginning in regeneration, by which the believer is set apart to God's purposes, and is enabled to progress toward moral and spiritual maturity through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in him. Growth in grace should continue throughout the regenerate person's life.D. Glorification is the culmination of salvation and is the final blessed and abiding state of the redeemed.Genesis 3:15; Exodus 3:14-17; 6:2-8; Matthew 1:21; 4:17; 16:21-26; 27:22-28:6; Luke 1:68-69; 2:28-32; John 1:11-14,29; 3:3-21,36; 5:24; 10:9,28-29; 15:1-16; 17:17; Acts 2:21; 4:12; 15:11; 16:30-31; 17:30-31; 20:32; Romans 1:16-18; 2:4; 3:23-25; 4:3ff.; 5:8-10; 6:1-23; 8:1-18,29-39; 10:9-10,13; 13:11-14; 1 Corinthians 1:18,30; 6:19-20; 15:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17-20; Galatians 2:20; 3:13; 5:22-25; 6:15; Ephesians 1:7; 2:8-22; 4:11-16; Philippians 2:12-13; Colossians 1:9-22; 3:1ff.; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; 2 Timothy 1:12; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews 2:1-3; 5:8-9; 9:24-28; 11:1-12:8,14; James 2:14-26; 1 Peter 1:2-23; 1 John 1:6-2:11; Revelation 3:20; 21:1-22:5.
Bro. Derrick continues with part 2 of Article IV. of the Baptist Faith & Message, "Salvation". IV. SalvationSalvation involves the redemption of the whole man, and is offered freely to all who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, who by His own blood obtained eternal redemption for the believer. In its broadest sense salvation includes regeneration, justification, sanctification, and glorification. There is no salvation apart from personal faith in Jesus Christ as Lord.A. Regeneration, or the new birth, is a work of God's grace whereby believers become new creatures in Christ Jesus. It is a change of heart wrought by the Holy Spirit through conviction of sin, to which the sinner responds in repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Repentance and faith are inseparable experiences of grace. Repentance is a genuine turning from sin toward God. Faith is the acceptance of Jesus Christ and commitment of the entire personality to Him as Lord and Saviour.B. Justification is God's gracious and full acquittal upon principles of His righteousness of all sinners who repent and believe in Christ. Justification brings the believer into a relationship of peace and favor with God.Genesis 3:15; Exodus 3:14-17; 6:2-8; Matthew 1:21; 4:17; 16:21-26; 27:22-28:6; Luke 1:68-69; 2:28-32; John 1:11-14,29; 3:3-21,36; 5:24; 10:9,28-29; 15:1-16; 17:17; Acts 2:21; 4:12; 15:11; 16:30-31; 17:30-31; 20:32; Romans 1:16-18; 2:4; 3:23-25; 4:3ff.; 5:8-10; 6:1-23; 8:1-18,29-39; 10:9-10,13; 13:11-14; 1 Corinthians 1:18,30; 6:19-20; 15:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17-20; Galatians 2:20; 3:13; 5:22-25; 6:15; Ephesians 1:7; 2:8-22; 4:11-16; Philippians 2:12-13; Colossians 1:9-22; 3:1ff.; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; 2 Timothy 1:12; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews 2:1-3; 5:8-9; 9:24-28; 11:1-12:8,14; James 2:14-26; 1 Peter 1:2-23; 1 John 1:6-2:11; Revelation 3:20; 21:1-22:5.
Bro. Derrick presented his observations after returning from the Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting. This week's study in the Baptist Faith & Message was on the Introduction and Section A of Article IV. Salvation.IV. SalvationSalvation involves the redemption of the whole man, and is offered freely to all who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, who by His own blood obtained eternal redemption for the believer. In its broadest sense salvation includes regeneration, justification, sanctification, and glorification. There is no salvation apart from personal faith in Jesus Christ as Lord.A. Regeneration, or the new birth, is a work of God's grace whereby believers become new creatures in Christ Jesus. It is a change of heart wrought by the Holy Spirit through conviction of sin, to which the sinner responds in repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Repentance and faith are inseparable experiences of grace. Repentance is a genuine turning from sin toward God. Faith is the acceptance of Jesus Christ and commitment of the entire personality to Him as Lord and Saviour.Genesis 3:15; Exodus 3:14-17; 6:2-8; Matthew 1:21; 4:17; 16:21-26; 27:22-28:6; Luke 1:68-69; 2:28-32; John 1:11-14,29; 3:3-21,36; 5:24; 10:9,28-29; 15:1-16; 17:17; Acts 2:21; 4:12; 15:11; 16:30-31; 17:30-31; 20:32; Romans 1:16-18; 2:4; 3:23-25; 4:3ff.; 5:8-10; 6:1-23; 8:1-18,29-39; 10:9-10,13; 13:11-14; 1 Corinthians 1:18,30; 6:19-20; 15:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17-20; Galatians 2:20; 3:13; 5:22-25; 6:15; Ephesians 1:7; 2:8-22; 4:11-16; Philippians 2:12-13; Colossians 1:9-22; 3:1ff.; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; 2 Timothy 1:12; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews 2:1-3; 5:8-9; 9:24-28; 11:1-12:8,14; James 2:14-26; 1 Peter 1:2-23; 1 John 1:6-2:11; Revelation 3:20; 21:1-22:5.
III. ManMan is the special creation of God, made in His own image. He created them, male and female, as the crowning work of His creation. The gift of gender is thus part of the goodness of God's creation. In the beginning man was innocent of sin and was endowed by his Creator with freedom of choice. By his free choice man sinned against God and brought sin into the human race. Through the temptation of Satan man transgressed the command of God, and fell from his original innocence whereby his posterity inherit a nature and an environment inclined toward sin. Therefore, as soon as they are capable of moral action, they become transgressors and are under condemnation. Only the grace of God can bring man into His holy fellowship and enable man to fulfill the creative purpose of God. The sacredness of human personality is evident in that God created man in His own image, and in that Christ died for man; therefore, every person of every race possesses full dignity and is worthy of respect and Christian love.Genesis 1:26-30; 2:5,7,18-22; 3; 9:6; Psalms 1; 8:3-6; 32:1-5; 51:5; Isaiah 6:5; Jeremiah 17:5; Matthew 16:26; Acts 17:26-31; Romans 1:19-32; 3:10-18,23; 5:6,12,19; 6:6; 7:14-25; 8:14-18,29; 1 Corinthians 1:21-31; 15:19,21-22; Ephesians 2:1-22; Colossians 1:21-22; 3:9-11.
III. ManMan is the special creation of God, made in His own image. He created them, male and female, as the crowning work of His creation. The gift of gender is thus part of the goodness of God's creation. In the beginning man was innocent of sin and was endowed by his Creator with freedom of choice. By his free choice man sinned against God and brought sin into the human race. Through the temptation of Satan man transgressed the command of God, and fell from his original innocence whereby his posterity inherit a nature and an environment inclined toward sin. Therefore, as soon as they are capable of moral action, they become transgressors and are under condemnation. Only the grace of God can bring man into His holy fellowship and enable man to fulfill the creative purpose of God. The sacredness of human personality is evident in that God created man in His own image, and in that Christ died for man; therefore, every person of every race possesses full dignity and is worthy of respect and Christian love.Genesis 1:26-30; 2:5,7,18-22; 3; 9:6; Psalms 1; 8:3-6; 32:1-5; 51:5; Isaiah 6:5; Jeremiah 17:5; Matthew 16:26; Acts 17:26-31; Romans 1:19-32; 3:10-18,23; 5:6,12,19; 6:6; 7:14-25; 8:14-18,29; 1 Corinthians 1:21-31; 15:19,21-22; Ephesians 2:1-22; Colossians 1:21-22; 3:9-11.
III. ManMan is the special creation of God, made in His own image. He created them male and female as the crowning work of His creation. The gift of gender is thus part of the goodness of God's creation. In the beginning man was innocent of sin and was endowed by his Creator with freedom of choice. By his free choice man sinned against God and brought sin into the human race. Through the temptation of Satan man transgressed the command of God, and fell from his original innocence whereby his posterity inherit a nature and an environment inclined toward sin. Therefore, as soon as they are capable of moral action, they become transgressors and are under condemnation. Only the grace of God can bring man into His holy fellowship and enable man to fulfill the creative purpose of God. The sacredness of human personality is evident in that God created man in His own image, and in that Christ died for man; therefore, every person of every race possesses full dignity and is worthy of respect and Christian love.Genesis 1:26-30; 2:5,7,18-22; 3; 9:6; Psalms 1; 8:3-6; 32:1-5; 51:5; Isaiah 6:5; Jeremiah 17:5; Matthew 16:26; Acts 17:26-31; Romans 1:19-32; 3:10-18,23; 5:6,12,19; 6:6; 7:14-25; 8:14-18,29; 1 Corinthians 1:21-31; 15:19,21-22; Ephesians 2:1-22; Colossians 1:21-22; 3:9-11.
C. God the Holy SpiritThe Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, fully divine. He inspired holy men of old to write the Scriptures. Through illumination He enables men to understand truth. He exalts Christ. He convicts men of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment. He calls men to the Saviour, and effects regeneration. At the moment of regeneration He baptizes every believer into the Body of Christ. He cultivates Christian character, comforts believers, and bestows the spiritual gifts by which they serve God through His church. He seals the believer unto the day of final redemption. His presence in the Christian is the guarantee that God will bring the believer into the fullness of the stature of Christ. He enlightens and empowers the believer and the church in worship, evangelism, and service. Genesis 1:2; Judges 14:6; Job 26:13; Psalms 51:11; 139:7ff.; Isaiah 61:1-3; Joel 2:28-32; Matthew 1:18; 3:16; 4:1; 12:28-32; 28:19; Mark 1:10,12; Luke 1:35; 4:1,18-19; 11:13; 12:12; 24:49; John 4:24; 14:16-17,26; 15:26; 16:7-14; Acts 1:8; 2:1-4,38; 4:31; 5:3; 6:3; 7:55; 8:17,39; 10:44; 13:2; 15:28; 16:6; 19:1-6; Romans 8:9-11,14-16,26-27; 1 Corinthians 2:10-14; 3:16; 12:3-11,13; Galatians 4:6; Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:30; 5:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:19; 1 Timothy 3:16; 4:1; 2 Timothy 1:14; 3:16; Hebrews 9:8,14; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 John 4:13; 5:6-7; Revelation 1:10; 22:17.
B. God the SonChrist is the eternal Son of God. In His incarnation as Jesus Christ He was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God, taking upon Himself human nature with its demands and necessities and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin. He honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and in His substitutionary death on the cross He made provision for the redemption of men from sin. He was raised from the dead with a glorified body and appeared to His disciples as the person who was with them before His crucifixion. He ascended into heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where He is the One Mediator, fully God, fully man, in whose Person is effected the reconciliation between God and man. He will return in power and glory to judge the world and to consummate His redemptive mission. He now dwells in all believers as the living and ever present Lord. Genesis 18:1ff.; Psalms 2:7ff.; 110:1ff.; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 53:1-12; Matthew 1:18-23; 3:17; 8:29; 11:27; 14:33; 16:16,27; 17:5; 27; 28:1-6,19; Mark 1:1; 3:11; Luke 1:35; 4:41; 22:70; 24:46; John 1:1-18,29; 10:30,38; 11:25-27; 12:44-50; 14:7-11; 16:15-16,28; 17:1-5, 21-22; 20:1-20,28; Acts 1:9; 2:22-24; 7:55-56; 9:4-5,20; Romans 1:3-4; 3:23-26; 5:6-21; 8:1-3,34; 10:4; 1 Corinthians 1:30; 2:2; 8:6; 15:1-8,24-28; 2 Corinthians 5:19-21; 8:9; Galatians 4:4-5; Ephesians 1:20; 3:11; 4:7-10; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 1:13-22; 2:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:14-18; 1 Timothy 2:5-6; 3:16; Titus 2:13-14; Hebrews 1:1-3; 4:14-15; 7:14-28; 9:12-15,24-28; 12:2; 13:8; 1 Peter 2:21-25; 3:22; 1 John 1:7-9; 3:2; 4:14-15; 5:9; 2 John 7-9; Revelation 1:13-16; 5:9-14; 12:10-11; 13:8; 19:16.
There is one and only one living and true God. He is an intelligent, spiritual, and personal Being, the Creator, Redeemer, Preserver, and Ruler of the universe. God is infinite in holiness and all other perfections. God is all powerful and all knowing; and His perfect knowledge extends to all things, past, present, and future, including the future decisions of His free creatures. To Him we owe the highest love, reverence, and obedience. The eternal triune God reveals Himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, with distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence, or being.A. God the FatherGod as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures, and the flow of the stream of human history according to the purposes of His grace. He is all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving, and all-wise. God is Father in truth to those who become children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. He is fatherly in His attitude toward all men.Genesis 1:1; 2:7; Exodus 3:14; 6:2-3; 15:11ff.; 20:1ff.; Leviticus 22:2; Deuteronomy 6:4; 32:6; 1 Chronicles 29:10; Psalm 19:1-3; Isaiah 43:3,15; 64:8; Jeremiah 10:10; 17:13; Matthew 6:9ff.; 7:11; 23:9; 28:19; Mark 1:9-11; John 4:24; 5:26; 14:6-13; 17:1-8; Acts 1:7; Romans 8:14-15; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Galatians 4:6; Ephesians 4:6; Colossians 1:15; 1 Timothy 1:17; Hebrews 11:6; 12:9; 1 Peter 1:17; 1 John 5:7.
There is one and only one living and true God. He is an intelligent, spiritual, and personal Being, the Creator, Redeemer, Preserver, and Ruler of the universe. God is infinite in holiness and all other perfections. God is all powerful and all knowing; and His perfect knowledge extends to all things, past, present, and future, including the future decisions of His free creatures. To Him we owe the highest love, reverence, and obedience. The eternal triune God reveals Himself to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, with distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence, or being.A. God the FatherGod as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures, and the flow of the stream of human history according to the purposes of His grace. He is all powerful, all knowing, all loving, and all wise. God is Father in truth to those who become children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. He is fatherly in His attitude toward all men.Genesis 1:1; 2:7; Exodus 3:14; 6:2-3; 15:11ff.; 20:1ff.; Leviticus 22:2; Deuteronomy 6:4; 32:6; 1 Chronicles 29:10; Psalm 19:1-3; Isaiah 43:3,15; 64:8; Jeremiah 10:10; 17:13; Matthew 6:9ff.; 7:11; 23:9; 28:19; Mark 1:9-11; John 4:24; 5:26; 14:6-13; 17:1-8; Acts 1:7; Romans 8:14-15; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Galatians 4:6; Ephesians 4:6; Colossians 1:15; 1 Timothy 1:17; Hebrews 11:6; 12:9; 1 Peter 1:17; 1 John 5:7.B. God the SonChrist is the eternal Son of God. In His incarnation as Jesus Christ He was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God, taking upon Himself human nature with its demands and necessities and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin. He honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and in His substitutionary death on the cross He made provision for the redemption of men from sin. He was raised from the dead with a glorified body and appeared to His disciples as the person who was with them before His crucifixion. He ascended into heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where He is the One Mediator, fully God, fully man, in whose Person is effected the reconciliation between God and man. He will return in power and glory to judge the world and to consummate His redemptive mission. He now dwells in all believers as the living and ever present Lord. Genesis 18:1ff.; Psalms 2:7ff.; 110:1ff.; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 53:1-12; Matthew 1:18-23; 3:17; 8:29; 11:27; 14:33; 16:16,27; 17:5; 27; 28:1-6,19; Mark 1:1; 3:11; Luke 1:35; 4:41; 22:70; 24:46; John 1:1-18,29; 10:30,38; 11:25-27; 12:44-50; 14:7-11; 16:15-16,28; 17:1-5, 21-22; 20:1-20,28; Acts 1:9; 2:22-24; 7:55-56; 9:4-5,20; Romans 1:3-4; 3:23-26; 5:6-21; 8:1-3,34; 10:4; 1 Corinthians 1:30; 2:2; 8:6; 15:1-8,24-28; 2 Corinthians 5:19-21; 8:9; Galatians 4:4-5; Ephesians 1:20; 3:11; 4:7-10; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 1:13-22; 2:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:14-18; 1 Timothy 2:5-6; 3:16; Titus 2:13-14; Hebrews 1:1-3; 4:14-15; 7:14-28; 9:12-15,24-28; 12:2; 13:8; 1 Peter 2:21-25; 3:22; 1 John 1:7-9; 3:2; 4:14-15; 5:9; 2 John 7-9; Revelation 1:13-16; 5:9-14; 12:10-11; 13:8; 19:16.C. God the Holy SpiritThe Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, fully divine. He inspired holy men of old to write the Scriptures. Through illumination He enables men to understand truth. He exalts Christ. He convicts men of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment. He calls men to the Saviour, and effects regeneration. At the moment of regeneration He baptizes every believer into the Body of Christ. He cultivates Christian character, comforts believers, and bestows the spiritual gifts by which they serve God through His church. He seals the believer unto the day of final redemption. His presence in the Christian is the guarantee that God will bring the believer into the fullness of the stature of Christ. He enlightens and empowers the believer and the church in worship, evangelism, and service. Genesis 1:2; Judges 14:6; Job 26:13; Psalms 51:11; 139:7ff.; Isaiah 61:1-3; Joel 2:28-32; Matthew 1:18; 3:16; 4:1; 12:28-32; 28:19; Mark 1:10,12; Luke 1:35; 4:1,18-19; 11:13; 12:12; 24:49; John 4:24; 14:16-17,26; 15:26; 16:7-14; Acts 1:8; 2:1-4,38; 4:31; 5:3; 6:3; 7:55; 8:17,39; 10:44; 13:2; 15:28; 16:6; 19:1-6; Romans 8:9-11,14-16,26-27; 1 Corinthians 2:10-14; 3:16; 12:3-11,13; Galatians 4:6; Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:30; 5:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:19; 1 Timothy 3:16; 4:1; 2 Timothy 1:14; 3:16; Hebrews 9:8,14; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 John 4:13; 5:6-7; Revelation 1:10; 22:17.
Main Point: God's desire is to redeem, restore, and transform people into the image of Jesus.Questions:What impacted you from the message this weekend? What challenged you or encouraged you? How did the message impact your understanding of spiritual growth?What things have helped you grow in Christlikeness during different seasons of your life? What things are helping you become more like Jesus now?Read Romans 8:28-30. What words and ideas stick out to you in these verses? What is the purpose of God saving people? What does it mean to be “conformed to the image of his Son”?The Apostle Paul is describing a process of becoming like Jesus. This is often called the process of sanctification. What does it look like to become more like Jesus? What is necessary for that transformation to happen?Read 2 Corinthians 3:18. Take this verse word-by-word. What words do you have questions about? What is Paul communicating?The word “transformed” is important to this verse. What does it mean? What does “being transformed into his image” mean in the life of a follower of Christ?Read Romans 12:1-2. What does this verse tell us about living for God? How does what a person worships (what is most important to us) affect what that person becomes?What do these verses tell us about being transformed? According to verse 2, how are we transformed? What does this process look like?What is one thing you can do this week to put into practice what you learned in this message?
INTRODUCTIONOur normal pattern during the season of Advent is to bring a series of messages that are geared to the season, thus taking a break from whatever book we were working through at the time. But as it happens, some of the themes in 2 Cor. 8 line up with some of the things I wanted to emphasize in this Advent season anyway. So for a week or two, at least, we are continuing our series. The theme concerned is giving and generosity, quite a fitting topic for Advent.THE TEXT“Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also. Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.” (2 Corinthians 8:1–7).SUMMARY OF THE TEXTPaul wanted to make sure that the Corinthians knew about the particular nature of the grace that God poured out on the churches in Macedonia (v. 1). In the context of great affliction, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty combined to produce a most generous gift (v. 2). Paul testified that they willingly gave up to their ability to give, and even beyond it (v. 3). As Chrysostom pointed out, in this situation, the Macedonians did the begging, not Paul (v. 4). Not only did they give as Paul's band had hoped, but they did this in the right order. They donated themselves to God first, and then to Paul's specific project, and all in the will of God (v. 5). Apparently, Titus was delivering this letter also, and as he had reminded them of their pledge on his previous visit, Paul is now looking for him to complete the giving campaign (v. 6). Paul then makes his pitch. As the Corinthians abounded in numerous graces—faith, speech, knowledge, diligence, and love—so should they abound in this grace of giving monetarily as well (v. 7). The grace bestowed on the Macedonian churches was a grace of giving (v. 1), and Paul is seeking to find the same kind of generosity rising up in the Corinthians (v. 7).DIFFERENT KINDS OF GIVINGNow by “gifts,” I include pretty much anything going out—time, money, wrapped up presents, hospitality, and so on. Every church should want to develop a culture of generosity, and this is the kind of culture that has many manifestations. This means hospitality. It means unloading moving vans. It means rallying to meet someone's financial crisis. It means barn-raising events. It means the discipline of loving birthday and Christmas opportunities. It means open-handedness.Now we are coming into a season of shopping for gifts, and so we should take special care to make sure we understand what we are doing. A gift—as given externally, as seen from the outside—can be one of three things. First, it can be a bribe. Second, it can be an extortion payment. And third, it can be a true gift. Two of them are most unfortunate, and the third is the genuine article. How can we tell the difference?The bribe is given by a manipulator, or someone who wants somehow to game the system. He gives in order to get. You give presents in order to get presents. You give compliments in order to receive compliments. You donate to the church so that others will see you in that role. This was the sin of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1ff). Jesus warns against it sternly (Matt. 6:1).An extortion payment is given by someone who is under duress. He gives in order to be left alone. This is the sin that Paul is trying to teach us to avoid in the next chapter (2 Cor. 9:7).The true gift is what the Macedonians offered here. They gave themselves first to God (v. 5), and then turned to the second stage of the gift. Christmas morning should be the second unwrapping of the gift. You give yourself to God first, and He unwraps you, and then you give your gift to the other person. This person gives to get, in order to be able to give some more. Our aspiration should be for this to become our way of life.AN AQUIFER OF GENEROSITYWhat is happening when this wonderful thing occurs? In this chain of events, God gives first. The word charis (grace, favor, benefit or gift) is used eight times in chapters 8-9. God bestowed His grace on the Macedonians (v. 1), which is where their giving spirit first originated. Paul wants to see the same thing happening in Corinth (v. 7).Remember that this was a one-time special need offering. We are not talking about the tithe here, or regular giving. This was a relief offering for the saints in Jerusalem. It was off-budget.As they gave to others in this way, it created a bond of koinonia-fellowship (v. 4). Sharing of goods is fellowship, just as the sharing of food is fellowship. We partake of one another when we give. We are intertwined when we give. When we give, we are being knit together.For the Macedonians, this geyser of generosity came about in a unique set of circumstances. First, the grace of God came down upon them (v. 1), and then the providence of God surrounded them with a great trial of affliction (v. 2). In thatsetting, their deep poverty combined with their abundance of joy to erupt in an effusion of giving. The word for deep is bathos, which we get the word bathysphere. Their poverty was down in the Mariana Trench which, when combined with heavenly joy, exploded into a remarkable gift.IN HIS STEPSWe are going to develop this much more when we get there, but we need to look ahead at the next two verses. When we give to others properly, we are doing so in the footsteps of the Lord Jesus. This is part of what it means to follow Him. Christ was rich, and He became poor as a gift, so that those who were poor might be made rich through Him (2 Cor. 8:9).There is no generosity without Christ. The engine that drives the economy of generosity is not merchants, or manufacturers, or commercial interests, or anything like that. It is not possible for us to remember the gift of Christ, and not to have a multitude of gifts following.
Going back to our broadcast archives, Bob airs the continuation of Will Duffy's cross-examination from the December 1, 2017, Open Theism debate versus Matt Slick. Duffy is the founder of opentheism.org (the official home of the debate) and Slick is the founder of carm.org, the Christian Apologetics and Research Ministry. Section nine from GodsFreeWill.com/verses, 9 - God Says Things Are Possible that would be Impossible if the future were settled or decreed. Lest God consume Israel on the way Ex. 33:3 (i.e., during their forty years in the wilderness); Jesus could call for twelve legions of angels Mat. 26:53 (to save Him from the cross); God has provided a way for believers to resist any temptation 1 Cor. 10:13 (if only they trust Him); God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones Mat. 3:9; Luke 3:8; at times Jesus speaks in parables so that some of His opponents will not understand Mat. 13:15; Isa. 6:9-10; Mark 4:12; Luke 8:10; (by then putting His clear interpretation of the Sower parable into the Bible proves that Jesus' purpose was to thwart those unbelievers of His day, and not to confuse all generations of unbelievers who today can simply read the interpretation in any Bible); God could destroy Israel and raise up a new nation to Himself Num. 14:12; God could have destroyed Nineveh in forty days Jonah 3:4 (as He had said He would, but they repented so He did not Jonah 3:10); God doesn't bring the Israelites through the wilderness by a certain route so they won't be tempted to go back to Egypt Ex. 13:17; I could come up in one moment and consume Israel Ex. 33:5; God could destroy the land Ezek. 22:30; God could have enabled Eli's sons to have ministered forever to Him 1 Sam. 2:30; God could have given to Saul a perpetual dynasty 1 Sam. 13:13-14 & 2 Sam. 7:15; God could have totally destroyed Jerusalem 1 Chr. 21:11-12, 15; God could destroy a nation but may not if it later repents Jer. 18:7-8, God could bless a nation but may not if it later does evil Jer. 18:9-10; that as the tabernacle and the ark had been in Shiloh for centuries but then left never to be returned, likewise God threatened to permanently remove his Temple from Jerusalem Jer. 26:6; Ezekiel shall bake a specific cake that never gets baked Ezek. 4:12-15; I will fulfill My anger against the Israelites while they are still in the midst of the land of Egypt Ezek. 20:8-9, and in the wilderness Ezek. 20:13-14, 17; God says to the righteous, you shall surely live, but it turns out that he shall die Ezek. 33:13; God says to the wicked, you shall surely die, but it turns out that he lives Ezek. 33:14; and then the children in the wilderness Ezek. 20:21-22; destroy Jerusalem by Micah's prophecy Micah 3:12 with Jer. 26:18-19; Hezekiah is about to die Isa. 38:1; 2 Kings 20:1; God would have healed (blessed) Israel but for their sin Hos. 7:1; God hardens people's hearts (against what?), so that they wouldn't do the things that they couldn't do anyway, if everything had been decreed Ex. 4:21; 9:12; 10:20, 27; 11:10; 14:4, 8, 17; Deut. 2:30; Josh. 11:20; 1 Sam. 6:6; John 12:40; the wicked "limited the Holy One of Israel" from doing what He otherwise would have done Ps. 78:41; because of the unbelief of the Nazarenes Jesus did not do many miracles among them like He would have done Mat. 13:58; of course within the constraint of rationality and including the saving of men, "with God all things are possible Mat. 19:26; (see also other passages among the God repents verses; and see Mat. 18:6; and see those passages in the next category: God Said He'll Do Something He Never Does). * The KGOV Duffy/Slick Debate Analysis and Other Handy Links: - GodsFreeWill.com/debates - Duffy's Opening Statement and Comments (above) - Duffy Cross-Examines Matt Slick Pt. 1, Pt. 2, Pt. 3, Pt. 4, Pt. 5, Pt. 6 - Slick Cross-Examines Duffy on Open Theism Pt. 1, Pt. 2 (changes topic after 5 minutes) - Duffy's Closing Statement vs. Slick on Open Theism - Matt Slick's Historic Concession to Openness: "God is not outside of time" - 12/1/17: Open Theism: youtu.be/JCNPmLIOnDg (we welcome your comments) - 12/2/17: Calvinism: youtu.be/XDA-_SP3J9Y (on our moderated threads) - See the 33 Categories of Open Theism Verses at opentheism.org/verses - Hear Will's pre-debate radio interview at kgov.com/duffy - Related: Will Duffy vs. Arminian Pastor Jaltus: Is the future open? - Radio interview on the film Calvinist and John Calvin Institutes Bk. 1 Chap. 18. Today's Resource: Predestination & Free Will Debate Bob Enyart vs. Brian Schwertly Can God change? Does He change? Has God pre-planned all events? Is your life following a complete script, written before you were born? Has it been decided in advance which, if any, of your children will go to heaven or hell?
Are you communicating clearly? If not, it's a skill that, as believers, is in need of constant improvement, because we are called to communicate, not only with God, but with one another. So how do we do that effectively? Join Rylee this week as he starts off this three series episode with some skills and tactics we can apply to communicate better, as the sender, so we can be not just hearers of the word, but doers of the word. He also provides three pertinent questions this week for you, as the sender, to help you have great communication in your life! In this episode, you will learn: What biblical communication is and what it involves 2:15 How to have clear communication with two important aspects 12:30 Three steps to great communication with God and one another 22:20 -- Scripture Notes Love one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2013.34 (John 13:34) & https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2015.12 (John 15:12),https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2015.17 (17). Forgive one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Eph%204.32 (Ephesians 4:32) & https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Col%203.13 (Colossians 3:13). Be servants to one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Gal%205.13 (Galatians 5:13). Show hospitality to one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Pet%204.7-10 (1 Peter 4:7-10). Pray for one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/James%205.16 (James 5:16). Build up (edify) one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%2014.19 (Romans 14:19), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Thess%205.11 (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Greet one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%2016.16 (Romans 16:16), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Pet%205.14 (1 Peter 5:14). Forbear one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Eph.%204.1-2 (Ephesians. 4:1-2) & https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Col%203.13-14 (Colossians 3:13-14). Do not judge one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%2014.13 (Romans 14:13). Do not speak evil of one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/James%204.11 (James 4:11). Do not murmur against one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/James%205.9 (James 5:9). Do not bite and devour one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Gal%205.15 (Galatians 5:15). Do not provoke and envy one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Gal%205.26 (Galatians 5:26). Have the same care for one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Cor%2012.25-26 (1 Corinthians 12:25-26). Receive one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%2015.7 (Romans 15:7). Teach one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Col%203.16 (Colossians 3:16). Admonish (counsel) one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%2015.14 (Romans 15:14) & https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Col%203.16 (Colossians 3:16). Submit to one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Eph%205.21-22 (Ephesians 5:21-22). Confess your sins to one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/James%205.16 (James 5:16). Do not lie to one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Col%203.9 (Colossians 3:9). Be kind to one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Eph%204.32 (Ephesians 4:32). Comfort one another - https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Thess%204.18 (1 Thessalonians 4:18), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Thessalonians%205.11 (5:11). -- The King's Council's mission is to help you discover and deploy your God-given talents. Our signature coaching program will give you the tools, tactics and strategies to radically change and level up in all areas of your life. Visit https://www.kingscouncilcoaching.info/discover (kingscouncilcoaching.com) to find out more about unleashing your God-given talents. -- This episode is brought to you by the Own Your Life Retreat. This is an opportunity for you to obtain the blueprint and the action steps to overcome the existing barriers in your life. To live a life of high performance. You're going to be exposed to different tools, brands, techniques, and ultimately systems that are going to aid you on your journey to...
The early verses of this psalm are a cry to the Lord from David for support as he's expressing his helpless condition, the bitterness of his heart, and the pain that he is feeling in his soul. He needs deliverance from his enemies and is entreating the Lord to hear his prayer. We see his distress so intense that he fears that he will “become like those who go down to the pit” (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Ps%2028.1 (Psalm 28:1)). As characteristic with David, he is calling out to God for relief. We don't see David taken in by smooth-talking neighbors who speak of peace, while their hearts plot evil. This Psalm is interesting as part-way through this serious lamenting, we see David's attitude switch from pleadings of deliverance; justice; and vengeance to words of rejoicing, worship, and song. You see, something incredible is happening here. In the midst of his deep distress, David stopped and remembered who God truly is: “The LORD is my strength and my shield…” This is jubilant praise! As we talked about yesterday and the day before regarding https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Ps%20118.8 (Psalm 118:8) and https://biblia.com/bible/we/2%20Cor%2012.9 (2 Corinthians 12:9, we)'re not promised health, wealth, or prosperity by simply being Christians. In fact, we're promised the opposite and should expect hard times. This is how be can avoid discouragement in our faith, and in this verse we see a prime example of David doing just that. When faced with tremendous difficulties, David knows that God has promised to be with us in every situation of life as he says, “in him my heart trusts, and I am helped…” As you go about your day, you should keep this truth in your mind: due to our sin and rebellion against God, we have the sentence of death if we only trust in ourselves. Don't trust in yourself or man, but in Christ, as it is He who provides to us sufficient grace, and in Whom we have been made new. “…my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.” This phrase is edifying and encouraging in glorifying God and singing our praises to Him. In good times and bad, we should worship Him, for it not only lifts our heart but in our helplessness we know we can trust in Him as we give glory to our Father in heaven. My prayer for each of us is that our heart may truly rejoice in the God of our salvation and that our hearts will exult in thankfulness and eternal praise to God.
Over the last few days we've examined some pretty incredible truths: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Prov%209.10 (Proverbs 9:10)), but fools despise wisdom, and detest instruction (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Prov%201.7 (Proverbs 1:7)). With these verses in mind, how much better to take refuge in the Lord than to place ones trust in man? We've learned from many places in the bible, but specifically the verses cited above that a reverential fear of God and a heart that trusts the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and gives us safety from the fear of man. As we continue to grow, learn, and gain more knowledge of our great God and Savior, we are given wisdom and understanding. But before this honor of wisdom and understanding is bestowed, humility must come first (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2012.9 (2 Corinthians 12:9)). Throughout the Bible we see that a trusting faith in the Lord trumps all other fears and failings, as this puts to flight the dread of what man or the world could ever do to us. This does not mean that we are spared from all difficulties or dangers in life, especially when Jesus told us that we should expect trials and tribulations (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2015.19 (John 15:19); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%205.2-6 (2 Corinthians 5:2-6)). Yesterday we talked about the truth that His grace is sufficient as nothing can separate us from the love of God (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%208.31-39 (Romans 8:31-39)), so, therefore, we can gladly boast in our weaknesses, as through our weaknesses Christ's strength is perfected (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2012.9 (2 Corinthians 12:9)). It's in His power that we can resist the devil. It's under the total authority of the indwelling Holy Spirit that we even have the means to put on the Armor of God (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Eph%206.10-18 (Ephesians 6:10-18)), that God Himself provides as a defense against all that seek to destroy us. We cannot, and will not ever be able to do it alone. Sin infects every single aspect of who we are. Those who take refuge in the Lord and venerate Him with a reverential fear are able to serve Him with worshipful obedience that upholds biblical doctrine and helps us to better align our thoughts and actions with His will. We need to start trusting His unfailing and ever-faithful mercies and stop relying on man for our happiness, comfort, or joy. John Piper puts it like this: “When tempted to flee the pressures of life, the Scriptures call us to hide ourselves in God. Only God can offer true refuge from life's dangers and the misery of our sin.” So today, I want to leave you with this: taking refuge in God does not always mean immediate escape from pain and suffering. God is in control, and completely and utterly undisturbed by any perceived chaos on earth. This doesn't mean He's not concerned about what is going on in our life, but it does mean that He's not panicking (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Ps%202.4 (Psalm 2:4)). God remains unshaken and eternally in power, which for us provides confidence for which we can claim refuge. No matter what happens on earth, we are to always celebrate him as our King. In Him we take refuge.
Few lies are as attractive, poisonous, and damaging to Christians and the Church as the claim that following God means worldly success (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Tim%206.3-5 (1 Timothy 6:3-5)). We've talked some about the prosperity gospel that so many widely popular pastors and televangelists preach, however, Jesus' explicit teaching was that Christians should expect hardships (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2015.19 (John 15:19); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%205.2-6 (2 Corinthians 5:2-6)). There will be hard times for all of us, and Christ knew this. When we expect hard times, we can avoid discouragement as we know that it comes with the territory (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2016.33 (John 16:33)). Liars who teach that health, wealth, prosperity, or any other benefits are waiting for anyone who possesses “enough” faith are, simply put, unbiblical. This section in 2 Corinthians that describes Paul's experience here is among all of Scripture's most powerful proofs that “word of faith” and other forms of the prosperity gospel are completely and utterly false. Here's some background regarding what leads up to this verse. Prior verses included Paul's extraordinary heavenly experience (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2012.1-3 (2 Corinthians 12:1-3)). It was in this experience/moment that Paul was provided with insights that he was not allowed to reveal to others (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2012.4 (2 Corinthians 12:4)). In order to prevent Paul from being conceited/arrogant about this insight that he gained, we see in Scripture that God sent Paul an unspecified “thorn in the flesh,” or a “stake in the flesh.” We don't know the extent to which this verse is speaking, whether the “thorn in the flesh” was emotional, physical, or a connection to some temptation. Rather, all we know is what we're told. We're told that this is a man of profound faith and deep commitment to God, was stricken and cried out repeatedly for relief (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2012.7-8 (2 Corinthians 12:7-8)). Paul came to realize that the purpose of this was to maintain his humility. His persistent “weakness” helped keep him from being conceited. We see God proclaiming that His grace was fully capable of providing everything that Paul needed to endure this suffering. His power is made perfect in our weakness. When we see the word “sufficient” being used, the greek word for it is arkei (αρκεί) which when translated implies endurance, strength, or satisfaction. In https://biblia.com/bible/we/2%20Cor%2012.5 (2 Corinthians 12:5, we) see Paul writing that he would only boast in his weaknesses, but now in verse 9 he is adding enthusiasm to it. “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly…” Why would Paul gladly boast about his weaknesses? Because Christ's power becomes the most obvious in the areas where we, as believers, are weakest. The phrase “made perfect” in the verse is originally teleitai (τελείται) in the Greek, which we see mostly refers to, in this context, completion or accomplishment (literally translated means, “is done”). This means that the focus of this is on something being achieved, and not having flaws removed. So why is this verse important? Because it reveals several incredible truths about how God works in the daily and worldly lives of Christians. Satan and his demons' attempts to harass God's work and His servants only proves to perfect God's grace through our weaknesses. Second, you need to understand that God answers to prayers are always subject to His will. Not ours. Not what we want. He answers every prayers, and sometimes the answer is “no.” He may answer “no” to a request to lift a burden on our lives. If our suffering is part of God's will and drawing us closer to Him, and more dependent on Him, it could be accomplishing in us exactly what He wants. But don't think that this means that God doesn't care for us. This truth shows us that God's primary concern for...
Verse of the Day: “Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!” Like we do every day, let's go over the context of this verse and what we're really being told here. 1 Chronicles offers a unique perspective not found anywhere else in the Bible. We see an amazingly detailed genealogy from Adam to David (the most detailed series of genealogy found in the Bible), but the 20 following chapters begin from the death of King Saul in Ch. 10, and then we are shown the events of David's reign. David is telling us in this verse that we should turn to Him in order to worship Him. “Seek the LORD…” The surrounding verses of this section explain in detail why we are to do this. Because: v. 9 – of His wonderful acts v. 12 – of His wonders, miracles, and judgment v. 14 – He is the Lord our God v. 15 – He remembers His covenants v. 21 – He protects His people v. 24 – of His marvelous deeds v. 25 – He is to be feared above all gods v. 26 – He made the heavens v. 27 – He is full of strength and joy v. 28 – of His name v. 29 – of His holiness v. 34 – He is good and His love endures forever v. 36 – He is everlasting All of these attributes of God are used by David as reasons as to why everyone should worship the Lord. And, in order to worship God, we need to first turn to God, look to God, seek Him. “…and his strength…” Our own strength will fail us. We are finite, weak, and fragile in comparison to the Lord. God is everlasting, and as we talked about a couple of days ago, He will never grow weary or faint. For God is made perfect in our weakness (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2012.9 (2 Corinthians 12:9)), and it's through Him that we have strength (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Phil%204.13 (Philippians 4:13)) because “Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place” (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Chron%2016.17 (1 Chronicles 16:17)). Seek the strength of the Lord. “…seek his presence continually…” Some versions translate the word “presence” as “face”, but what we're being told in this part of the verse is to be seeking is gracious presence. And we do this through Jesus Christ. David says in https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Ps%2027.8 (Psalm 27:8), “my heart says of you, ‘Seek his face!' Your face, Lord, I will seek” – thus expressing an intense desire to seek God. At times it may not feel like God is there, you'll go through trials where you won't feel Him, but again, it all comes back to feeding your faith with the Word of God. It's our faith and understanding of Scripture that must outweigh any circumstance that we're facing – and it will manifest in a search for God that will never give up. In good times or bad, always be seeking His presence. God is so much more worthy than simply try to find Him when times are tough. As you go about your day today, keep this in mind: we will never seek God in vain. If you truly seek Him you will always find Him.
Let's establish some context around where this verse comes from. In the book of Isaiah, the Jews were living in exile in Babylon. This was a foreign land to them, far away from their home, and it was a land that was broken. Because of their surroundings, they started to believe that their way was hidden from God and disgraced by Him (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Isa%2040.27 (Isaiah 40:27)). So it is to these people who were hurting and exiled, that the prophet Isaiah spoke with amazing language surrounding the supremacy of God. So now look at what Isaiah is telling us in this verse:. “The lord is the everlasting God…” – Isaiah doesn't address the Jews' situation right off the bat. He starts by shifting the focus from their problems and suffering to focusing on God. Despite what anyone in that culture thought at the time, God, who lovingly covenanted with His people, was wholeheartedly committed to them. In the rest of this verse we see a list of descriptions about who God is. A list that at the time would have given an exhausted and tired people hope. And that's what we need to do today. No matter how exhausted, tired, or broken you are, or how bleak life may feel – shift your focus to God. Unlike any nation, circumstance, or obstacle, God is everlasting. “…the Creator of the ends of the earth…” As Ray Ortlund comments, “There is not a single square inch on this earth unknown to God or lying beyond the range of his presence. Anywhere life may take us, whether Babylonian exile or a lonely hotel room or an intensive care unit, God will already be there for us. We lie in his grace and power at all times, everywhere.” “He will not grow weary” – It's in the times that life makes zero sense, that we need to remember that God is in control, powerful, and all-knowing. He's never perplexed or overwhelmed by any situation, for who He is and His character is far beyond anything we'll ever know. It's easy to lose trust when things go bad. It's easy to wonder if God cares when everything feels like it's breaking. These thoughts come from a place of doubt. And doubt is natural within faith. It comes from our human weakness and frailty. We naturally want certainty when things require faith. Instead of dwelling on doubt and uncertainty, think of your faith as a lifeline to God. A God who will never grow faint or weary. “…and his understanding no one can fathom.” – Rest easy in knowing that God's power, majesty, glory, and character are far beyond anything that we can comprehend. All throughout history we've tried to place God in a box, tried to rationalize his essence, tried to explain things in ways that make sense to us. And that's natural to do, but it should be awe-inspiring that there are some things about God that we can explain, but will never comprehend. In any trial that we go through, it's so easy to become narrow-sighted and to lose focus on what God is doing in our lives through the hard times. Do you feel like fainting? Draw near to God, He will not faint. In our weakness, He is strong (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2012.9 (2 Corinthians 12:9)). “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Matt%2011.28-29 (Matthew 11:28-29). We can find comfort, healing, joy, and rest in a Creator who is everlasting, will not grow faint or weary, and whose understanding is beyond anything we can fathom. Draw near to God. Spend time with Him today. Pray, read His Word, and draw near to Him. You will find rest.
The context of this verse is important in its application (as is every verse in the Bible). This entire book is an incredibly personal letter. We are able to read Paul's words of love and exhortation while witnessing his commitment to the truth of God's Word as well as him defending his authority as a genuine apostle while simultaneously pointing out the deceptive influence of the false apostles (10:1 – 13:10). John Piper summarizes this passage wonderfully: “it's as if Paul is saying, ‘I am visiting these rascals in Corinth who are so boastful in their philosophical prowess that I am going to demolish them – not by counter philosophy, but by divine power. I am going to show them power, and they are going to collapse in their thinking. And then I am going to take their thoughts captive so that they now obey Christ.'” We are plagued by a society that is consumed with the “strongholds” or “fortresses” of false teaching, false religions, cults, existentialism, and secular philosophy that we see in verse 5. And it's this obsession that has created a societal thinking that has imprisoned the minds of millions. We could discuss how specific false teachings go against the Word of God, and what following a secular philosophy leads to, and we'll cover all of that eventually, but today I want to explain it simply: any idea, opinion, or worldview that asserts that Christ is unnecessary is a direct reflection of Satan's pride. It's these thoughts that must be taken captive and made obedient to Christ. If you only take away one things from this today, let it be this: Paul isn't telling us here that we are to take our own thoughts captive. “When Paul says first that he is destroying arguments and arrogant opinions against God and second that he is taking thoughts or minds captive, we need to realize that it is the minds and thoughts of others. He is not talking about his own thoughts. It is the thoughts of others.” (Piper, 2015) We are the warriors, and the enemies are those whose minds and arguments are filled with pride and lifted up against God. Yet we do not rely on ourselves, manmade plans, or human ingenuity for victory, for the flesh is powerless against the schemes of the devil (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2010.3 (2 Corinthians 10:3)). So how do we do this? We should listen to what Paul is saying here, and submit all of our thoughts and feelings about God and about our life to what Scripture says for scrutiny. If anything is out of sync, we should let the Holy Spirit destroy it. Again, like we've mentioned before, this is far easier said than done. It's not easy, nor is it in our nature to want to submit all of our ideas, worldviews, and viewpoints to God saying, “let your word destroy what's necessary.” And this isn't to say that we won't keep sinning, we will. But we should be striving and seeking for the Holy Spirit to be conforming us to Christ. It's through doing this that we ask the Holy Spirit to work, because, again, Paul teaches us that we don't fight with mere human arguments. Every single one of us has a ministry, and our ministry has power: “The weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power” (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2010.4 (2 Corinthians 10:4)). As we are transformed by the renewing of our minds (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%2012.2 (Romans 12:2)), we engage the battle against pretense and arrogant philosophy in the world. “For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience” (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%2015.18 (Romans 15:18)). This is the same obedience as when he brings thoughts into obedience to Christ. We are able to trust Christ and through rightly speaking the Word of God (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Tim%202.15 (2 Timothy 2:15)) that we take every thought captive, pull down the strongholds, and, by the grace of God alone, set the captives free.
Today is going to get deep, as we're going to look at a basic introduction to the Doctrine of Justification. Let's start with a pretty simple, yet important statement: our justification before God is completely separate from any good works we've done in our life. We can't earn our way into heaven (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2014.6 (John 14:6)), and therefore for us to be justified in the eyes of God we must receive the payment Jesus made through his crucifixion. We do this by our faith in His completed work. Now that we've laid the groundwork, it's time for us to dive just a little deeper into two different types of justification that apply to this verse: 1. Forensic Justification 2. Synthetic Justification 1. Forensic Justification: This means that our justification is legal. God sees us as just in His court because His son, Jesus lived a perfect life and we are made right through our faith in Him alone. And it's important to note that we're able to receive this justification through faith alone, as there is no way that we can earn our justification (no matter how hard we try sometimes). Even though we are legally justified through our faith in Jesus, that does not mean that we are not still sinners. We live simultaneously just and yet as sinners. It is through Jesus that this sinfulness is cleared in the eyes of God. 2. Synthetic Justification: This means that there are two elements that have been added together to form a synthesis. The synthesis is that we are justified only because of the work of Jesus Christ that is added to us through our belief in Him. If we were to stand before God without this faith in Jesus, we would be condemned (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Gal.%202.16 (Gal. 2:16), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Gal%203.24 (3:24); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%205.24 (John 5:24), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2014.6 (14:6); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Mark%207.21 (Mark 7:21); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom.%205.1 (Rom. 5:1), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Phil.%203.9 (Phil. 3:9), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Eph.%202.8-9 (Eph. 2:8-9)). Some teach a “faith and works” doctrine, or also called Analytic Justification, saying that God looks at two things: our faith in Jesus, and our works after we believed in Him to see if we appropriated the grace of Christ. Further, this doctrine teaches that if we aren't good enough, we may have to spend time in purgatory to become better before being allowed into heaven (Sproul). To be blunt, that isn't remotely what Scripture says (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/James%205.24 (James 5:24), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Acts%2013.39 (Acts 13:39), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%205.19-21 (2 Corinthians 5:19-21)). Our admittance to Heaven is solely based on the work that Christ adds to us through our faith in Him. It isn't through anything that we can do or any change in character that we may have. As we wrap up, please do not take this as a statement saying that Christians aren't to have a noticeable change in character, do good works, or anything like that. We are saying that our admittance to heaven is not dependent on our own actions or any certain number of good works. Instead, we see in Scripture that anyone who is saved and walking with Jesus will therefore have their thoughts more aligned with those that are His will (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%2012.2 (Romans 12:2); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/James%204.8 (James 4:8)), and will subsequently have a change of character that is noticeable to others.
To us weak and feeble people, we can find strength in the Lord. This is one of His attributes, and we as His people, therefore, should put our trust in Him, and look to Him in aid (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2012.9 (2 Corinthians 12:9)). We see, in addition to this verse, in https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2012.9 (2 Corinthians 12:9) that we have no might in ourselves, but “in Him [we] have strength and He ‘increases' that strength.” (Jamieson, Fausset, Brown). So as you're going about your day, remember that in tough and trying times like these, when we feel weak, to put our trust in the Lord. Although our world as we know it has changed, God remains the same (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Heb%2013.8 (Hebrews 13:8); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Mal%203.6 (Malachi 3:6); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/James%201.17 (James 1:17); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Ps%2090.2 (Psalm 90:2); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%201.1 (John 1:1)).
The number 4 is huge here in this verse. This is the fourth instance where Jesus evokes the “I am” terminology which implies that he is divine. “I am the bread of life” (6:35). “I am the Light of the world” (8:12). “I am the door of the sheep” (10:7). “I am the good shepherd” (10:11, 14). Four times in these verses Jesus repeats that He lays down His life (10:11, 15, 17, 18). In the first two, He repeats that He lays down His life for His sheep. The last two times, He emphasizes that He lays down His life so that He may take it up again. Now, let's look at four things here: 1) Jesus was selfless (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Heb.%2012.2 (Heb. 12:2); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom.%205.7-8 (Rom. 5:7-8); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2010.18 (John 10:18)) 2) Jesus' death was sacrificial (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor.%205.21 (2 Cor. 5:21)) 3) Jesus' death was specific (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Eph.%205.25 (Eph. 5:25), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2010.29 (John 10:29), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%206.37 (John 6:37), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%206.39 (39); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%203.16 (John 3:16); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%204.42 (John 4:42), https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rev.%2022.17 (Rev. 22:17); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%206.39 (John 6:39); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2010.28 (10:28)). 4) Jesus' death was successful (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%204.25 (Romans 4:25)) Many ask the question, “Why follow Jesus?” As we see throughout the Bible that following Him may result in trials, persecution, or even martyrdom. We see in https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Ps%2073 (Psalm 73) that the author was honest about struggling with the same question. He looked at the wicked who seemed to be prospering and though (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Ps.%2073.13a (Psa. 73:13a)), “Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure…” The abundant life that Jesus gives consists in having God Himself as our portion, both now and forever. That's why you should follow Jesus as your good shepherd.
In wrapping his letter to the church of Corinth, Paul tells them to be watchful (or to stay on their guard) along with the command to stand firm in the faith. This goes beyond just standing firm in the Christian faith, but standing firm in sound doctrine (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Phil.%201.27 (Phil. 1:27); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Tim.%206.21 (1 Tim. 6:21); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Jude%203 (Jude 3)). In the previous chapter, Paul was teaching about their faith in the resurrection of Jesus and the resurrection of all who follow Him. Some had watered down their belief in the resurrection, yet Paul reminded them that the resurrection was absolutely essential to the gospel in which they stood (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Cor%2015.1 (1 Corinthians 15:1)). Paul tells us that it is our duty to look out for any kind of false teaching (i.e. prosperity gospel, legalism, antinomianism, cults disguised as Christian denominations, etc.). He also tells us to have courage and to be strong. It is our faith in Christ that will face opposition from our culture and from those around us. We need to prepare for this and resolve to remain strong in our faith with strength and courage.
"The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent." - Exodus 14:14 This phrase of “The LORD will fight” has been true throughout the history of Israel (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Sam%2017.47 (1 Samuel 17:47); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Chron%2014.10-11 (2 Chronicles 14:10-11); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Chronicles%2020.15 (20:15); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Ps%2024.8 (Psalm 24:8); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Zech%2014.3 (Zechariah 14:3)). When reading this verse, be sure to also read the previous verse, 13, along with it. So both together read, “And Moses said to the people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again. The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent. With these two verses Moses issued three commands to the Israelites: 1. Do Not Be Afraid 2. Stand Firm 3. Be Silent (or in some translations, “Stand Still”) “Do not be afraid…” this is what grammarians call a negative imperative. Currid tells us that this is “the strongest possible form of expressing negation in the Hebrew language.” This is important to realize the tone of the original language because it lets us know the entire context and tone in which Moses was speaking, and therefore how we can interpret and apply his same emphasis to our own lives. With this phrase being the strongest form of expressing negation, we see that Moses was not comforting the Israelites whatsoever, instead he was rebuking them. What he is telling them is true for us as well, he's telling all to not be afraid because there is no reason to fear – for all we need to do is “stand (our) ground, quietly waiting to see what God (will) do” (Ryken). This scripture is very much true today as well. We know from the Bible that there is a spiritual war waging (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Eph%206.2 (Ephesians 6:2); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Pet%205.8 (1 Peter 5:8); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2010.3 (2 Corinthians 10:3)). The Devil pursues us constantly and in every circumstance wants us to fall. Yet, like Moses told the Israelites, we needn't run, for all we need to do is stand firm without fee and see the salvation of our God. Consider this: the Bible is not about what you or I can do to become better people. No, the entirety of the Bible is framed around what Jesus Christ accomplished – his complete atonement for sin, which turned asides God's wrath, and now offers this atonement through the gift of grace for our faith. It is through Jesus that we are able to enter the kingdom of Heaven and into the resurrection of life. What do you need to do to be saved? Nothing. Jesus already did it, and to think that in some way you can earn any part of it is to lessen what Jesus did on the cross. Once you've accepted Jesus, you need to stand your ground. Spiritual warfare is being constantly waged, and we're told a similar thing in Ephesians to what the Israelites were told by Moses: “Put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand…” (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Eph%206.13 (Ephesians 6:13)). This is far easier said than done, as standing still and trusting in Jesus isn't what our humanly nature wants to do. When true evil really comes for us, we want to run, cry out in fear, or fix it ourselves. God tells us to stand our ground. We don't need to fight the war, God will fight it for us. And who better to have on your side than the Lord Almighty? “When we are caught between the desert and the sea, all we need to do is be still and look for his salvation.” Sources: 1. John D. Currid, A Study Commentary on Exodus, 2 vols. (Auburn, MA: Evangelical Press USA, 2000), 1:296. 2. Ryken, Philip Graham. Exodus: Saved for God's Glory (Preaching the Word) (p. 1165). Crossway. Kindle Edition.
Ultimately, we see in this verse from Paul's letter that Satan's power over Christians has already been broken. The war is won through Christ's sacrifice on the cross and subsequent resurrection, which has forever conquered the power of sin and death (https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Rom%205.18-21 (Romans 5:18-21); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Cor%2015.56-57 (1 Corinthians 15:56-57); https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Heb%202.14 (Hebrews 2:14)). But for life on earth, we will struggle against temptation on a daily basis. All the time. Therefore, through the Lord's strength, and the strength of his Spirit, we are equipped for victory: “For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ…” – https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Cor%2010.3-5 (2 Corinthians 10:3-5) As you go about your day, remember that no temptation is too strong, for through the Lord's strength we have the victory.
Old Testament: Exodus 12:1-14 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2012%3A1-14 Epistle:1 Cor. 11:23-32 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2011%3A23-32 Holy Gospel:John 13:1-15 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2013%3A1-15
Old Testament: Gen. 3:1-21 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Gen.%203%3A1-21 Epistle:2 Cor. 6:1-10 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Cor.%206%3A1-10 Holy Gospel:Matt. 4:1-11 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt.%204%3A1-11 Collect: O Lord God, You led Your ancient people through the wilderness and brought them to the promised land. Guide the people of Your Church that, following our Savior, we may walk through the wilderness of this world toward the glory of the world to come; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Amen.
Old Testament: Gen. 3:1-21 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Gen.%203%3A1-21 Epistle:2 Cor. 6:1-10 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Cor.%206%3A1-10 Holy Gospel:Matt. 4:1-11 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt.%204%3A1-11 Collect: O Lord God, You led Your ancient people through the wilderness and brought them to the promised land. Guide the people of Your Church that, following our Savior, we may walk through the wilderness of this world toward the glory of the world to come; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Amen.
Old Testament: 1 Sam. 16:1-13 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Sam.%2016%3A1-13 Epistle:1 Cor. 13:1-13 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2013%3A1-13 Holy Gospel:Luke 18:31-43 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2018%3A31-43 Collect: O Lord, mercifully hear our prayers and, having set us free from the bonds of our sins, deliver us from every evil; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Amen.
Old Testament: 1 Sam. 16:1-13 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Sam.%2016%3A1-13 Epistle:1 Cor. 13:1-13 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2013%3A1-13 Holy Gospel:Luke 18:31-43 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2018%3A31-43 Collect: O Lord, mercifully hear our prayers and, having set us free from the bonds of our sins, deliver us from every evil; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Amen.
Old Testament: Ex. 17:1-7 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ex.%2017%3A1-7 Epistle:1 Cor. 9:24-10:5 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%209%3A24-10%3A5 Holy Gospel:Matt. 20:1-16 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt.%2020%3A1-16 Collect: O Lord, graciously hear the prayers of Your people that we, who justly suffer the consequence of our sin, may be mercifully delivered by Your goodness to the glory of Your name; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Old Testament: Isaiah 42:1-7 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2042%3A1-7 Epistle:1 Cor. 1:26-31 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%201%3A26-31 Holy Gospel:Matt. 3:13-17 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt.%203%3A13-17 Collect: Father in heaven, at the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River You pro claimed Him Your beloved Son and anointed Him with the Holy Spirit. Make all who are baptized in His name faithful in their calling as Your children and inheritors with Him of everlasting life; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Amen.
Old Testament: Isaiah 42:1-7 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2042%3A1-7 Epistle:1 Cor. 1:26-31 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%201%3A26-31 Holy Gospel:Matt. 3:13-17 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt.%203%3A13-17 Collect: Father in heaven, at the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River You pro claimed Him Your beloved Son and anointed Him with the Holy Spirit. Make all who are baptized in His name faithful in their calling as Your children and inheritors with Him of everlasting life; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Amen.
Old Testament: Isaiah 40:1-11 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2040%3A1-11 Epistle:1 Cor. 4:1-5 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%204%3A1-5 Holy Gospel:Matt. 11:2-10 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt.%2011%3A2-10 Collect: Lord Jesus Christ, we implore You to hear our prayers and to lighten the darkness of our hearts by Your gracious visitation; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Old Testament: Isaiah 29:17-24 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2029%3A17-24 Epistle:2 Cor. 3:4-11 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Cor.%203%3A4-11 Holy Gospel:Mark 7:31-37 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%207%3A31-37 Collect: Almighty and merciful God, by Your gift alone Your faithful people render true and laudable service. Help us steadfastly to live in this life according to Your promises and finally attain Your heavenly glory; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Old Testament: Gen. 4:1-15 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Gen.%204%3A1-15 Epistle:1 Cor. 15:1-10 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2015%3A1-10 Holy Gospel:Luke 18:9-14 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2018%3A9-14 Collect: Almighty and everlasting God, always more ready to hear than we to pray and to give more than we either desire or deserve, pour down upon us the abundance of Your mercy, forgiving those things of which our conscience is afraid and giving us those good things that we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Old Testament: Jer. 8:4-12 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jer.%208%3A4-12 Epistle:1 Cor. 12:1-11 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2012%3A1-11 Holy Gospel:Luke 19:41-48 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2019%3A41-48 Collect: O God, You declare Your almighty power above all in showing mercy and pity. Mercifully grant us such a measure of Your grace that we may obtain Your gracious promises and be made partakers of Your heavenly treasures; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Old Testament: 2 Sam. 22:26-34 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Sam.%2022%3A26-34 Epistle:1 Cor. 10:6-13 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2010%3A6-13 Holy Gospel:Luke 16:1-9 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2016%3A1-9 Collect: Let Your merciful ears, O Lord, be open to the prayers of Your humble servants; and that they may obtain their petitions, make them to ask such things as shall please You; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Old Testament: Exodus 12:1-14 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2012%3A1-14 Epistle:1 Cor. 11:23-32 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Cor.%2011%3A23-32 Holy Gospel:John 13:1-15 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2013%3A1-15 Collect: O Lord, in this wondrous Sacrament You have left us a remembrance of Your passion. Grant that we may so receive the sacred mystery of Your body and blood that the fruits of Your redemption may continually be manifest in us; for You who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Love One Another
Axe to the Root with Bojidar Marinov | Reconstructionist Radio Reformed Network
So, is Islam taking over Europe? Or the world? The answer is, it isn't. It is in retreat on all fronts. It has failed to create a civilization to challenge Christendom, or even the apostate humanist Western civilization that still carries a lot of its historical Christian cultural legacy. It has failed to produce individual purpose and personal maturity and productivity – and without purpose and maturity Islam can not produce the type of man needed to build a civilization. Islam needs Christianity to survive – and every time it rebels against Christianity it only sinks deeper and deeper in the drain of history, and loses more and more ground to that very Christianity it rebels against. Islam cannot produce any of the advances of the Western civilization – whether technological or social or political or psychological. The reactions of some radical groups against Christianity are simply the agony of a dying animal; the more violent those reactions are, the more energy is lost, and the nearer its death is. A few terrorists are not a cultural threat; and when we fret about those few terrorists, we are only declaring our own weakness and fear. But in reality, there is no reason for fear. And there is no reason for statist solutions and government enforced security and endless wars in the Middle East. A period of peace and evangelism will bring about the death of Islam faster than any government programs or defenses. The future, as Paul said in 1 Cor. 3:21-22, belongs to Christianity. Book of the Week: – God's Continent: Christianity, Islam, and Europe's Religious Crisis by Philip Jenkins
2 Corinthians 13:1-14
Sermon: Rev Peter Ledic Readings: Isaiah 58:3-9a; 1 Cor. 2:1-12, 13-16; Matthew 5:13-20 "You are the salt of the Earth and you are the light of the world." Matthew 5:13-14
This song is another cover by Randy Stonehill, from his 1980 album The Sky Is Falling, and has always been one of my favorite songs. It's also a bit of a departure for me: longer, more parts, more effects, more intricate, and so on; I spent a lot more time on this than any of my previous songs -- just over a year -- and far more than any of the other covers, which were each done in a day. This title of the song is a reference to 1 Corinthians 13:12, "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." It's a bit of a statement about how we can't know it all, not unlike the theme of You're Clueless. It was recorded with Logic, using the Washburn and Martin, drum loops, and the B3 organ synth in Logic. I love that synth.
In this teaching on the Baptist Faith & Message, Bro. Derrick covers Article X, Last Things. This will be a 2-part lesson with part 2 continuing in the next lesson. X. Last ThingsGod, in His own time and in His own way, will bring the world to its appropriate end. According to His promise, Jesus Christ will return personally and visibly in glory to the earth; the dead will be raised; and Christ will judge all men in righteousness. The unrighteous will be consigned to Hell, the place of everlasting punishment. The righteous in their resurrected and glorified bodies will receive their reward and will dwell forever in Heaven with the Lord.Isaiah 2:4; 11:9; Matthew 16:27; 18:8-9; 19:28; 24:27,30,36,44; 25:31-46; 26:64; Mark 8:38; 9:43-48; Luke 12:40,48; 16:19-26; 17:22-37; 21:27-28; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:11; 17:31; Romans 14:10; 1 Corinthians 4:5; 15:24-28,35-58; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Philippians 3:20-21; Colossians 1:5; 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:14-18; 5:1ff.; 2 Thessalonians 1:7ff.; 2; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 4:1,8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:27-28; James 5:8; 2 Peter 3:7ff.; 1 John 2:28; 3:2; Jude 14; Revelation 1:18; 3:11; 20:1-22:13.
© 2020-2025 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
