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Second Timothy chapter three encourages believers to follow Paul's example during challenging times ...
Text: Proverbs 21:17-18 (ESV) 17 Whoever loves pleasure will be a poor man;he who loves wine and oil will not be rich.18 The wicked is a ransom for the righteous,and the traitor for the upright. THE PERIL OF LOVING PLEASURE Living for pleasure causes a person to become destitute.[see Prov 10:1] The modern world, it is easier for people to be lost in mindless entertainment. Many individuals live for pleasure, instead of better investing time and finances. Obsession with pleasure—with pleasing oneself in the moment—is also a sign of spiritual weakness. Second Timothy 3:2–4 warns about this as a symptom of a world moving away from God: "…people will be lovers of self…lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God." Similarly, 1 Tim 5:6 notes, "she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives." In Ecc 2:1 Solomon testifies: "I said in my heart, 'Come now, I will test you with pleasure; enjoy yourself.' But behold this also was vanity [emptiness]." Wine and oil were used at feasts (Psa 104:15; Prov 27:9; Amos 6:6). The host and guests drank wine, and the oil meant here was a perfume poured over the head of an honored person. Hoarding such things, instead of investing them, would not be an effective use of resources. In another way, those who love luxuries ("wine and oil") such that they prioritize them will be more likely to waste their resources and become poor. The implication of verse 18 seems to be that God's holy anger will turn to those who defy Him, and away from those who seek to honor His name. These wicked oppressors of the righteous will be punished, and the righteous will be free of suffering. History is filled with God's people having suffered at the hands of wicked people, but they will be avenged someday. The wicked earns deceptive wages, but one who sows righteousness gets a sure reward. (Prov 11:8). When the wicked fall under God's wrath, they can no longer persecute believers, and those believers are "ransomed" from their hardships. Haman's story is a classic example of the wicked becoming a ransom for the righteous. Wicked Haman passionately tried to kill righteous Mordecai. He even prepared gallows for Mordecai's execution. However, through God's sovereignty and justice, he perished on the gallows he made for Mordecai. God's people will not suffer eternally. God will wipe all tears from their eyes ultimately and punish the wicked. Jesus even asked, “And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily.”[Luke 18:7,8a] Our assurance is that "the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness an unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth" (Rom 1:18). Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram
(1 Thessalonians 4:13-17) Someday soon God's people are going to get carried away! The next great event in the last days is the coming of Christ for His church. Are you ready to be caught away? (0969250319) ----more---- The Last Days Welcome to the last days. Second Timothy 3:1 says this, "Know also that in the last days perilous time shall come. For men should be lovers of their own selves. covetous, boasters, proud blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, incontinent fiercce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof." I repeat, "Welcome to the last days." We are living, my friends, in perilous times, and yet I'm afraid too often when we talk about the last days, it gives the connotation of some doom. Now, certainly those doomed for those who do not know God. It is a sad reality that people will be separated from God forever. But if you're a child of God, if you know the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, this is not a sad ending. Instead, it's a glorious beginning of eternity with God, of every good thing that God has planned for us. The Bible says, "Eye hath not seen, ear hath not heard, neither is entered into the heart of man, the things that God hath prepared for them that love him." Do you love the Lord Jesus Christ? If you do, I want you to know the Lord who loves you first, and loves you more than you could ever imagine. Has mighty things in store for you. The Rapture of the Church We're talking about what the Bible says about the end of time and what it will be set in motion. Now we know that scripture teaches, we just read it in 2nd Timothy 3, that the last days describes that period between the first coming of Christ and the second coming of Christ, and we know that Christ came the first time and he's promised he will come again. So I believe that the next thing on God's agenda. The next thing on the divine calendar is what is commonly referred to as the rapture of the church. And we're gonna talk about that word in just a moment, but a simply put, we're referring to the moment when the Lord Jesus Christ comes again. I. For us when he comes to take his children out of this world. Now, the word rapture is not actually found in scripture, and yet the teaching of it certainly is. You see the word rapture comes from a word that means to, to catch away, to seize or carry away. The word is actually used in scripture. For example, 1 Thessalonians 4:17 says this, "We which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds." That's the exact meaning of the word rapture. That is exactly what we're talking about. We're gonna be caught away. It's used of Philip in Acts chapter eight. Remember when the Holy Spirit caught him away? It's used of the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12. He was caught up into the third heaven; and so we believe there's gonna be a definite moment when God catches away his children, when he removes us from this perilous world, this wicked age, and brings us into his presence forever. As a matter of fact, when you come to the last book of the Bible, the revelation of Jesus Christ. He talks to his churches in the New Testament age. In Revelation chapter two, revelation chapter three. When you come to Revelation chapter four, verse one, you read these words, "After this, I looked and behold a door was open in heaven, and the first voice, which I heard was, as it were, of a trumpet talking with me, which said, come up hither and I will show thee things which must be hereafter." It's my conviction that verse is representative of a shift from the church age into the things which shall be hereafter. Friend, there's about to be a door open in heaven. There's about to be a voice and a trumpet. There's about to be a word come up hither. That's the catching away of believers in this New Testament age to be with the Lord Jesus Christ forever. Scriptural Basis for the Rapture Now, the most definitive portion of scripture that deals with the rapture of the church is 1 Thessalonians chapter four. So let me read the portion of scripture and then we'll draw a few observations. First Thessalonians chapter four, beginning in verse thirteen says, "But I would not have you to be ignorant brethren concerning them which are asleep." That means those who've died. "That you sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again." May I pause and ask, Do you believe that's the only way? That you can truly know Christ as your Savior? Do you believe Jesus died and rose again? If you believe that the Bible says, "even them also, which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him." In other words, as surely as Jesus didn't end at the cross and didn't stay in the tomb, he's not finished with us. There's more to come. The best is yet to come for the child of God. He goes on in verse fifteen to say, "For this, we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain under the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them, which are asleep. For the Lord himself," - not an angel, not a prophet - "the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with a voice of the archangel and with the trump of God and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so shall we ever be with the Lord." So what's the chain of events? What is set in motion? It begins with Christ returning. Christ himself is coming with a shout of victory. This is wonderful. God's gonna break his silence. Somebody said, I've never heard a booming voice from heaven. No, I haven't either, but God's going to break his silence. He descends from heaven, but He doesn't come all the way to the earth. Instead, the Bible says He comes in the air. Remember when He left in his ascension, the angel said, "This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as you have seen him go." He went up in the clouds. He's coming back in the clouds. The Bible says that those who are asleep in Jesus, who have died in Christ, they are coming back with Him. Their bodies are going to be resurrected from the grave. Isn't that gonna be glorious? They're coming out first, and so the Lord is coming back accompanied with all the pomp and circumstance of a king because he is a king. He's the King of kings and the Lord of Lord. So you have his return. Then you have the resurrection. That's the dead in Christ. Those who've died during this church age, they're gonna rise. Then the rapture, the living believers, I hope we're in that group. Frankly, the living believers are called up with them into the clouds, and the Bible says then there's a great reunion. A reunion both with them and with the Lord. First Corinthians 15:52 says, it's going to happen in a moment in the twinkling of an eye. Though we may talk about the process of it, it's gonna be a momentous occasion. It's instantaneous and complete in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye. The Imminent Return of Christ Now we know that this is happening because the Lord promised it was gonna happen and God doesn't lie. We also know that it could happen any moment the coming of Jesus Christ. Is imminent. Jesus said in John 14, "If I go away, I will come again and receive you unto myself that where I am there ye may be also." Let me just end today where the Lord ends. Let's let God have the final word here. Revelation 22:20 says, "He which testifieth these things saith. Surely I come. Quickly." Somebody said, What do you know about the coming of Christ? All I know is he's coming surely, and he's coming quickly. What should our response be? The rest of verse 20 says, "Amen. Even so, come Lord Jesus." Your Faith and the Rapture If you don't know Christ as your Savior, would you put your faith in Him right now? Would you call on Him and ask Him to be your Savior so you can look forward to going to be with Him forever? He'll come to live in your heart today, and if you know the Lord Jesus as your Savior, I hope you can live today with victory and joy saying, "Even so come, Lord Jesus." My closing prayer for you today is the closing prayer of the Bible. In light of the soon return of Christ in the rapture of the church, "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen." Outro and Resources Repeating what other people have said about the Bible is not enough. We must know the biblical reason behind what we believe. We hope you will visit us at etj.bible to access our Library of Bible teaching resources, including book-by-book studies of scripture. You'll also find studies to watch, listen to, or read. We are so grateful for those who pray for us, who share the biblical content and for those who invest to help us advance this ministry worldwide. Again, thank you for listening, and we hope you'll join us next time on Enjoying the Journey.
Week 9 | Pillar #4 - DiscipleshipReturning to Second Timothy, we now study our final pillar as a church: discipleship. Paul charges Timothy to share everything he has learned from him with others who will then do the same. This means that our understanding of Jesus and His work should not be kept secret; it should be lived out and passed on to others. Discipleship, in other words is an intentional process where we are intentionally connecting in the lives of others, to intentionally lead them to deepening understanding and devotion to Christ.SERIES DESCRIPTION:We live in a culture where what's new is what's best. We like the updates, we like the shiny, we like the brand new. We like the smell of the new car, the peel of the wrapper off the package, of knowing that what we have is the latest and the greatest.To be sure we love the new, but what if the old was actually always the best. For that matter what if the old is actually only what renews, revives, and refreshes. That to be renewed requires going back to what has always worked.In second Corinthians chapter 3 the apostle Paul says these very important words:And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.He's referencing Moses. Moses, who stood on the mountain top and talked directly to God. Moses, whose face shone when he came down and back to his people. Moses, whose life was never the same after he had met with the Lord on high. What if the pathway for our transformation, lay in the same direction. What if what has always worked works for us too. What if our renewal as a church lay in our beholding the Lord!Join us for a series where, as a church, we seek fix our eyes upon the Lord, and we seek to behold his glory and hearing from him directly what the priorities of our church should be. But get ready, because these priorities are nothing new, but they are every bit as transformative as they have always been!Join us as we behold and renew!
(Hebrews 2:3) One little word reveals the greatness of God's salvation. It is a heart word, a word of joy and soberness. "So" both defies definition and, at the same time, reveals how great salvation is! (0957250305) ----more---- The Power of a Little Word A big truth can be packed into a little word. Have you ever considered the little word? So it's a powerful little word. It's an adjective that can be used in a myriad of different ways, but in scripture. It is used frequently. The Meaning of 'So' in Scripture For example, John chapter three, verse number 16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son." What does that mean? He's so loved. You see the little word, so is a word that defies definition. Really. It's an intensive word. It's a word that says to an extent or a degree that cannot be explained. It cannot be expressed perhaps by finite minds. It cannot even be understood. He just so loved the world. Today in our study, we've come to one of those sows in scripture. The Greatness of Salvation It's found in Hebrews chapter two and verse number three, where the Bible says, "How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him." I would submit to you that the little word, so here is both a joyful word and a sobering word. At the same time, we're talking about what the Bible says about salvation and God describes it this way. His salvation is not just salvation. It's not even just great salvation. No, it is so great salvation. It is so great that you need it. It is so great that without it you'll be separated from God forever. It is so great that you ought to rejoice when you have it, my friend. You ought to thank God that he saved you, but it's also so great that you ought to be sober about it and realize what a serious, costly thing this salvation is. We're talking today about the greatness of this salvation and if somebody said to me how great is it? I just have to use the Bible word and say, it's so great. An infinite God uses the word so to, to try to relate this truth to finite man. Why is our salvation so great? The Divine Author of Salvation It's so great because of its divine author. Just this week I've been preaching in the place where I've been ministering from the little Book of Jonah, and I came to that verse. Just last night, Jonah chapter two at verse number nine, it says, "Salvation is of the Lord." Can I remind you that man didn't come up with salvation. Salvation was God's idea that apart from God, we'd all still be lost in our sin would either be in hell or on our way there. But the divine author of salvation is the God of love and mercy and grace. It came to us according to the eternal purpose of God. This was not God coming up with an emergency plan. No. Our sovereign God knew from the very beginning of the world, this was not an afterthought. He knew from the very beginning of the world that we were gonna need a savior. Ephesians one, verse four says, "Before the foundations of the world." Ephesians three verse eleven says, "According to his eternal purpose." Titus 1:2 says, "Before the world began." First Peter 1:20 says, "Before the foundation of the world." It sounds to me like God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. Don't you think that he's been writing this story of redemption? Graham Scragg, he wrote a powerful book on the Bible many years ago and he titled his book, and I love the title, the Unfolding Drama of Redemption. My friend that's really what the Bible is. It is God's redemptive story to man Herbert Locky wrote this deep and far in an untrackable eternity. Its foundations were laid. It's not a thing of yesterday, it will not pass away with tomorrow. The father has endorsed it with his own everlasting ness. Think of that my salvation is rooted in the eternalness of God. He's the divine author that makes it so great. The Cost of Salvation It was also so great because of the price that was paid for it. In First Peter chapter one, we're told that we've been bought, not with corruptible things, but incorruptible. The incorruptible blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. The precious blood of Christ was what the cost of my salvation was. Don't take this lightly friend. We should never discuss spiritual things in a flippant way. One of the things that is tragic today is the lack of reverence. When people talk about God and spiritual truths and friends, you might make a joke about some things, but never joke about Christ and about salvation. It's so great and then it's so great because. The Universal Offer of Salvation Of the fact it's universally offered to every man. John chapter three, verse number 16, still says, "whosoever." First Timothy chapter two says that God will have all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. Don't you love that verse, John 2:2 says, "Jesus Christ died for the sins of the whole world." Does that mean everybody's gonna be saved? No, we know that some people are going to reject the truth and some people. Perhaps we'll never even hear the truth. What a tragic loss that is. But the fact remains that Christ died for every man. God loves all people, and the Holy Spirit has come to make the free offer of salvation available to all. Who will believe on the Lord Jesus Christ? Oh, you know what it sounds like to me, it's so great salvation. The Eternal Duration of Salvation Not only that, it's so great because of its duration. How long is it gonna last forever? Salvation is forever. You see the great word used in scripture is this eternal life. Don't you love that eternal life? Isaiah 45 calls it "everlasting salvation." Isaiah 51 verse six says, "Whatever God does, it's forever." Hebrews chapter five, verse number nine says that the Lord Jesus has become the author of eternal salvation. Hebrews chapter nine, verse 12 calls it "eternal redemption." John chapter three, verse number sixteen says it is everlasting life. Don't you love the terms that God uses? Salvation has a beginning point. It's the moment you look to Christ in simple faith. But the beauty is it has no ending point. It is so great salvation. It's so great because of its divine author. It's so great because of the price paid for it. It's so great because it's universally offered to every man. It's so great because it's eternal in its duration. Salvation in the Person of Jesus Christ But finally it's so great because it came to us in the person of Jesus Christ. It's not a system, it's not a church. Salvation is in the person of Jesus Christ. If it was in some thing, then we might have to struggle to keep it, and there would be constant fear that we would lose it. But salvation is not anything. It's in Jesus. You're not hanging on to Jesus friend. Jesus is hanging on to you. You're being held. By the hand of the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Psalm twenty-seven, verse one, "The Lord is my salvation." Second Timothy chapter one, verse twelve, "I know whom I have believed. I know whom I have believed, and I'm also persuaded that he is able to keep that which I've committed unto him against that day." No wonder Hebrews chapter two in verse number three calls it "so great salvation." Understanding the Depths of Salvation You know when you start studying what the Bible says about salvation, you almost. As you begin plumbing the depths and getting greater understanding, you almost start wondering, man, did I even understand enough of salvation to get saved? But may I bring you back to this simple truth today, you may be wondering even now I didn't understand all of this when I first called on Christ for salvation, but you may not have comprehended all that you received the day you got saved, but you got it all the moment you got the Lord Jesus Christ. In the same book of the Bible, the little book of Hebrews, the Bible talks about the things that accompany salvation. On the day you got saved, you just simply took Christ as your personal savior. But on that day, hallelujah, for that day, the hymn writer said, glad day. Glad day when Jesus washed my sins away on the day you took Jesus Christ as your personal savior. You got all that comes with Jesus Christ. You got so great salvation. In fact, you're gonna spend the rest of your life coming to a deeper understanding of it. And then if that's not enough, when you leave this world. You're gonna go to be with your savior for all of eternity, and I believe we're gonna spend the rest of eternity going deeper and further and higher into an understanding of the God of love. We're just gonna say, for all of eternity, this is so great. That's what the Bible says about our God salvation. Outro and Resources Repeating what other people have said about the Bible is not enough. We must know the biblical reason behind what we believe. We hope you will visit us at etj.bible to access our Library of Bible teaching resources, including book-by-book studies of scripture. You'll also find studies to watch, listen to, or read. We are so grateful for those who pray for us, who share the biblical content and for those who invest to help us advance this ministry worldwide. Again, thank you for listening, and we hope you'll join us next time on enjoying the Journey.
Finally we come to Second Timothy. Paul is now an old man—one who had been over a lot of roads, been to a lot of places. He had been imprisoned, beaten, shipwrecked. Paul may not have lived as many years as some in the Bible, but he put an awful lot of miles on in that period of time. He also changed a lot.The Paul we know in Luke’s early writings—the man who went up to persecute the Christians in Damascus, who was a fanatic in the plainest sense of the word—is the same man who was later so vehement in his defense of Christianity that he made enemies almost as fast as friends, and many people wanted him dead. A lot of people in the Church would not have been that disappointed if something happened to Paul, because he had caused them a lot of trouble.This is the man who, when he and Barnabas had a disagreement on whether to take John Mark with them on a journey, refused to have him. Barnabas wanted him, and the dissension between them was so sharp that they split up entirely. I speculated earlier that I wouldn’t be surprised if Paul was really at fault. Now, later in his life, he’s mellowed; and he tells Timothy to take Mark with him, as profitable for the ministry.I believe that suffering pain and loss, and getting older, brought life into perspective for Paul. You can see the change. It’s a slow change, but it takes place in Paul’s letters; and it’s finally capped in this last, mellow letter of Paul’s life.[Paul_Study_Questions_Link]
The Exhortation and the ExampleThe Ending Encouragements2 Tim 4
Believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith against worldly challenges. Personal experiences of leadership transition highlight fears and the need for practical guidance. Insights from Second Timothy emphasize its teachings for all believers, focusing on faith heritage and the importance of understanding scripture's context. Paul encourages unity, support, and prayer among Christians while inviting non-believers to seek a relationship with Jesus Christ.
"Avoid and Follow" 19 Sinful Signs of the Last Days 9 godly items to imitate 1 sure foundation 2nd Tim. 3
Week 4 | Pillar #1 - The Word Still in Second Timothy, this week we consider the critical importance that the Word of God plays in our lives by looking to an earlier passage. In 3:14-17 Paul describes the power of God's Word to transform our lives and to equip the follower of Jesus with everything he or she requires. No ordinary book, the Bible has the potential to bring wisdom, encourage faith, bring correction and instruction, and most of all lead us into a deepening relationship with God himself! SERIES DESCRIPTION: We live in a culture where what's new is what's best. We like the updates, we like the shiny, we like the brand new. We like the smell of the new car, the peel of the wrapper off the package, of knowing that what we have is the latest and the greatest. To be sure we love the new, but what if the old was actually always the best. For that matter what if the old is actually only what renews, revives, and refreshes. That to be renewed requires going back to what has always worked. In second Corinthians chapter 3 the apostle Paul says these very important words: And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. He's referencing Moses. Moses, who stood on the mountain top and talked directly to God. Moses, whose face shone when he came down and back to his people. Moses, whose life was never the same after he had met with the Lord on high. What if the pathway for our transformation, lay in the same direction. What if what has always worked works for us too. What if our renewal as a church lay in our beholding the Lord! Join us for a series where, as a church, we seek fix our eyes upon the Lord, and we seek to behold his glory and hearing from him directly what the priorities of our church should be. But get ready, because these priorities are nothing new, but they are every bit as transformative as they have always been! Join us as we behold and renew!
Week 3 | Pillar #1 - The Word As the last recorded letter from the Apostle Paul, Second Timothy takes on a deeply personal tone as he addresses his young protégé. Confined once more to prison and facing imminent death, Paul writes to Timothy, reminding him of the core principles of Christian ministry. Ultimately, Second Timothy is a powerful and urgent plea for steadfastness in the gospel despite suffering, and as the letter draws to a close, our passage sees Paul delivering what just might be his most forceful charge ever recorded. SERIES DESCRIPTION: We live in a culture where what's new is what's best. We like the updates, we like the shiny, we like the brand new. We like the smell of the new car, the peel of the wrapper off the package, of knowing that what we have is the latest and the greatest. To be sure we love the new, but what if the old was actually always the best. For that matter what if the old is actually only what renews, revives, and refreshes. That to be renewed requires going back to what has always worked. In second Corinthians chapter 3 the apostle Paul says these very important words: And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. He's referencing Moses. Moses, who stood on the mountain top and talked directly to God. Moses, whose face shone when he came down and back to his people. Moses, whose life was never the same after he had met with the Lord on high. What if the pathway for our transformation, lay in the same direction. What if what has always worked works for us too. What if our renewal as a church lay in our beholding the Lord! Join us for a series where, as a church, we seek fix our eyes upon the Lord, and we seek to behold his glory and hearing from him directly what the priorities of our church should be. But get ready, because these priorities are nothing new, but they are every bit as transformative as they have always been! Join us as we behold and renew!
7 Pictures of the Christian 6 Petitions for the People of God
You can read the whole text here: https://dougapple.blogspot.com/ +++++++ I'm Doug Apple...and my heart is on fire. (Luke 24:32) “For Thine is the kingdom.” That's what it says near the end of The Lord's Prayer. I pray through The Lord's Prayer most days and when I come to this part I expound on it. “Lord, the kingdom is Yours. Everything belongs to You, and I belong to You in your kingdom.” A kingdom implies a king, and Revelation 19:16 says that Jesus is the King of Kings. Psalm 47 says God is the King of all the earth. He reigns over the nations and sits on His holy throne. Isaiah said, “My eyes have seen the King, The LORD of hosts.” And what was Isaiah's response when He saw the King? It was great humility and repentance. He said, “Woe is me, for I am undone!” Isaiah also responded with a great desire to serve the King. In Isaiah 6:8 he said, “Here am I! Send me.” This is a proper response to a king, an offer to serve. So that's what I do when I come to “for Thine is the kingdom.” I say, “Lord, You are the king. I am your servant. I am here to serve as You wish. I'm at your beck and call. I want to do what is my duty to do.” So I am a servant of the King, but I am also a soldier of the King. Second Timothy 2:3-4 says, “endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with civilian affairs, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” I am a soldier of the King. When I roll out of bed each morning I take a knee, point to heaven and say, “Reporting for duty, Sir.” One of the things I like about being a soldier is that I don't have to come up with my own commands. A soldier doesn't wake up and say, “What should I do for the army today?” No. He is a soldier under command. He does what he is told. A soldier also doesn't have to worry about his provisions, his gear, his lodging, his health care, his training. That's all provided as long as he is a soldier under command. So when I pray, “for Thine is the kingdom,” I'm praying, “Lord, I am Your servant and I am Your soldier.” But there's more. I'm not just a servant and I'm not just a soldier. As a Christian I am also a son! I am a CHILD of the King! Galatians 4 says that Jesus came to redeem us so that we can be adopted as sons. We become sons and daughters of the King! It says we become heirs of the King through Christ. First John 3:1 says, “Behold what manner of love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” God is the King, and as believers we are the King's Kids! So when I pray, “for Thine is the kingdom” at the end of the Lord's prayer, I'm saying, “Lord, You are the King. It's Your kingdom, and I am Your servant. I want to do all that is my duty to do. And I am a soldier under command. And I am a son, so happy to be a child of the King, and that You love me and provide for me and lead me, not just as a servant and not just as a soldier, but also as a son. Thank You, Father.” For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. May God bless you today. I'm Doug Apple.
Be Committed Until the End. Paul remembers and reminds Timothy. 5 reminders...
What if the Apostle Paul's last letter were addressed to you? Paul's epistles are among the most important pieces of literature in the world. He wrote his final letter knowing it would be his last, and he chose to communicate with a young Christian leader named Timothy. That's the note we call, "Second Timothy," and we'll be reading it closely in our new series. In these few pages of the New Testament there is Truth for our Toxic Times. While you turn there, Jim will get us started with a story. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS01152025_0.mp3Scripture References: 2 Timothy 1:1-9
In this episode of "Sermon Notes," host Jay Strother and guest Brian Ball delve into the intricate connections between medieval architecture, church leadership, and scriptural teachings. Using the metaphor of "flying buttresses," the episode explores how strategic support structures extend beyond the church walls into the community, similar to relationships in gospel ministry. The discussion encompasses church discipline, the essential role of lesser-known ministries, and the pressing need for prayer and faithfulness to scripture. As they analyze Paul's pastoral letters, particularly Second Timothy, they underscore the importance of contentment, mentorship, leadership development, and combating false teachings within the church. This episode richly intertwines theological insights with practical guidance for contemporary Christian living and leadership, ultimately reinforcing Jesus Christ as the only path to salvation.
Questions about whether a lack of persecution means you're not living a godly life, what to think about your faith if your suffering doesn't bring you closer to God, whether we need to nurture the fruit of the Spirit, and characteristics that separate a disciple from a new convert. Second Timothy 3:12 says that “all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” so if I'm not being persecuted, does that mean I'm not living a godly life? I often hear that people wouldn't trade their suffering because of the closer relationship with God it produced, but my relationship with God didn't improve after I had cancer, and I wish it had never happened. Should I be worried about my faith? Are the fruits of the Spirit automatically received, or do we get a seed of them that we're supposed to nurture and grow to maturity? What characteristics separate a disciple from a new convert?
2024-11-17 The Book Of Second Timothy - Part 8 (Claudio Silveiro) by CHOOSE LIFE Church
William Willimon Changes His Mind -Episode 563 - Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) In his new book Changing My Mind: The Overlooked Virtue for Faithful Ministry, Professor William H. Willimon narrates some of the twists and turns in his own journey as a pastor. The context of ministry continually changes, the surrounding culture changes, and a living God demands constant movement and change. So, the book argues, pastors and preachers must be prepared to change! Some of the current assumptions about how to persevere in ministry need to be questioned. What ideas and approaches do we need to change, in ourselves and in our ministries? And how, exactly, do we change our minds and practices, when we're called to be steady, stable, and sure? The book consists of guidance from an older, experienced pastoral leader to other pastoral leaders, especially young and new ones. Willimon frames the material around the ways he has changed his mind and offers crucial ways that he once thought about ministry compared and contrasted with how he thinks now. He depicts the pastoral vocation as requiring adaptation and revision by its practitioners. Along the way, the book includes conversations with First and Second Timothy as the precursor of this book, an older, experienced pastor (Paul) offering advice to a young, unseasoned pastor (Timothy). William H. Willimon is professor of the practice of Christian ministry at Duke Divinity School and a retired United Methodist Church bishop. A widely published author, preacher, and teacher of preachers, Willimon has written more than eighty books, many of which have been translated into many languages and have sold over a million copies. He is the author of Heaven and Earth: Advent and the Incarnation (Abingdon), The Gospel for the Person Who Has Everything (Paraclete Press), Leading with the Sermon: Preaching as Leadership (Fortress Press), and Aging: Growing Old in the Church (Baker Academic), among others. For twenty years Willimon served as dean of Duke Chapel and professor of Christian ministry at Duke Divinity School. He has served congregations in Georgia and South and North Carolina and is a retired bishop of the North Alabama Conference of The United Methodist Church. Email: Rick@RickLeeJames.com Blessings, Rick Lee James Get the new song - Whatever You Do Up on the Mountain Also, Don't forget to swing by Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, or your favorite streaming platform and hit those follow buttons! By hitting the follow button, you'll stay updated on my latest releases and show your support for my music! I can't wait to meet you Up on the Mountain onJuly 12th. Blessings, Rick Lee James 10% Off Everything Rick Lee James on Band camp Instructions Visit https://rickleejames.bandcamp.com At checkout use code: 10off Advent Hymn (Watching, Waiting, Longing) This song appeared on over 80 Spotify playlists this Advent Season. I want to thank everyone for listening and sharing it this year. Official Music Video: Web Site: https://rickleejames.com PURCHASE ALBUM: www.RickLeeJames.Bandcamp.com SongSelect: https://songselect.ccli.com/Songs/6152291/advent-hymn-watching-waiting-longing Downloadable Charts and More available from LIFEWAYWORSHIP.COM: https://worship.lifeway.com/findAndBuy/songPage/AdventHymn(Watching%2CWaiting%2CLonging)?versionId=93901&rowNum=0&searchString=Advent%20Hymn%20(watching,%20Waiting,%20Longing)#song-Parts Loop Community: https://loopcommunity.com/en-us/songs/advent-hymn-(watching%2C-waiting%2C-longing)-by-rick-lee-james-3892 Endorsements: “A perfect and needed addition to any Christmas playlist this year. Rick Lee James bringing home the Advent Message.” -CCM Magazinehttps://www.ccmmagazine.com/music-video/rick-lee-james-advent-hymn-watching-waiting-longing/ “I love Advent Hymn (Watching, Waiting, Longing), which gives newness to the phrases of Isaiah. Watching, waiting, and longing is what we do now, and these songs help us do that in confidence. I anticipate that this album will be received as a great gift by many who will find their faith nourished and awakened by it.” –Walter Brueggemann (Professor Emeritus of Old Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary) "I've watched Rick grow as an artist and songwriter for many years. Congratulations brother on an excellent independent release." -Paul Baloche (Dove Award Winning Songwriter) "Rick Lee James is a poet and singer. You will not only enjoy listening, you'll be drawn into the source –Jesus." -Mike Harland RICK LEE JAMES INFO Web Sites: https://www.rickleejames.com Get The Single: https://rickleejames.hearnow.com/halls More from Rick Lee James Shine A Light In The Darkness Get The Single: https://rickleejames.hearnow.com/shine-a-light-in-the-darkness Music Video: Rick Lee James Playlist on Spotify: https://t.co/S7nCRl0xqa
William Willimon Changes His Mind -Episode 563 - Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) In his new book Changing My Mind: The Overlooked Virtue for Faithful Ministry, Professor William H. Willimon narrates some of the twists and turns in his own journey as a pastor. The context of ministry continually changes, the surrounding culture changes, and a living God demands constant movement and change. So, the book argues, pastors and preachers must be prepared to change! Some of the current assumptions about how to persevere in ministry need to be questioned. What ideas and approaches do we need to change, in ourselves and in our ministries? And how, exactly, do we change our minds and practices, when we're called to be steady, stable, and sure? The book consists of guidance from an older, experienced pastoral leader to other pastoral leaders, especially young and new ones. Willimon frames the material around the ways he has changed his mind and offers crucial ways that he once thought about ministry compared and contrasted with how he thinks now. He depicts the pastoral vocation as requiring adaptation and revision by its practitioners. Along the way, the book includes conversations with First and Second Timothy as the precursor of this book, an older, experienced pastor (Paul) offering advice to a young, unseasoned pastor (Timothy). William H. Willimon is professor of the practice of Christian ministry at Duke Divinity School and a retired United Methodist Church bishop. A widely published author, preacher, and teacher of preachers, Willimon has written more than eighty books, many of which have been translated into many languages and have sold over a million copies. He is the author of Heaven and Earth: Advent and the Incarnation (Abingdon), The Gospel for the Person Who Has Everything (Paraclete Press), Leading with the Sermon: Preaching as Leadership (Fortress Press), and Aging: Growing Old in the Church (Baker Academic), among others. For twenty years Willimon served as dean of Duke Chapel and professor of Christian ministry at Duke Divinity School. He has served congregations in Georgia and South and North Carolina and is a retired bishop of the North Alabama Conference of The United Methodist Church.Email: Rick@RickLeeJames.comBlessings,Rick Lee JamesVINYL SALETHUNDER by Rick Lee JamesONLY $9.99. (Plus you get a free digital download of the album)VINYL SALE -“KEEP WATCH, DEAR LORD” BY RICK LEE JAMES
In this powerful message based on Second Timothy 2:3, believers are called to endure hardships as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. Drawing parallels to the sacrifices of unknown soldiers, this message emphasizes the resilience and dedication required to follow Christ. Reflecting on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, we are reminded of the countless sacrifices made by those who served without recognition, paralleling the quiet, faithful service of many Christians. The Bible, despite being under attack, remains a living testament to God's enduring truth, providing strength and guidance. Christians are called to face fears with faith, share the gospel, and equip themselves for spiritual battles. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands us to spread the gospel, a task for every believer. Prayer is vital, as it connects us with God and provides strength. Teaching the next generation about God's Word ensures they are prepared for spiritual battles. By enduring hardships, sharing the gospel, and equipping ourselves, we honor the unknown soldiers of faith and fulfill our mission as good soldiers of Christ.
Isaiah 10-14; Psalm 102:13-22; Proverbs 22:1-5; Second Timothy 4
Isaiah 5-9; Psalm 102:1-12; Proverbs 21:26-30; Second Timothy 3
Isaiah 1-4; Psalm 101:16-29; Proverbs 21:21-25; Second Timothy 2
Malachi 1-3; Psalm 101:1-15; Proverbs 21:16-20; Second Timothy 1
“You therefore, my child, be empowered in the grace which is in Christ Jesus; And the things which you have heard from me through many witnesses, these commit to faithful men, who will be competent to teach others also.” (2 Tim. 2:1-2) Starting this week for the next six weeks, we bring you a special series titled, “Becoming a Timothy for the Lord's Recovery,” with speaking from brother Ron Kangas in Tuolumne, California from October 19-21, 2001. By going through Second Timothy verse by verse, brother Ron conveys the heavy burden for us to become a certain kind of person, a Timothy, as the continuation of the present ministry for the Lord's recovery in its final phase. This is message one of six. The original recording can be found at: https://ageturners.org/becoming-a-timothy-for-the-lords-recovery/
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO LIVE A CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE WITH REGARDS TO MONEY?Living a Christian lifestyle with money involves having the right attitude towards it, regardless of the amount one possesses. This perspective transcends the amount of wealth and focuses on the heart and obedience to God's principles on financial management.It's about the attitude and obedience rather than the amount of wealth.Lifestyle controversies often stem from misunderstandings of biblical teachings on wealth.True obedience involves aligning one's financial decisions and lifestyle with biblical convictions. HOW CAN WE INTERPRET THE BIBLICAL RANGE OF WEALTH AND POVERTY?The Bible presents a wide spectrum of financial statuses among believers, from extreme wealth to significant poverty. Key lessons from these narratives emphasize the believers' heart posture and faithfulness in stewardship, rather than the material wealth itself.Scripture showcases both wealthy individuals and those living in poverty, focusing on their faithfulness and heart posture towards God.The widow's mite is highlighted not for her poverty but for her willingness to give all she had, demonstrating an attitude of complete trust and surrender to God.Wealth or poverty is not inherently righteous or sinful; the focus is on one's attitude and actions with what they are given. IS THE PROSPERITY GOSPEL A BIBLICAL MODEL FOR A CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE?The prosperity gospel, which often misinterprets scripture to equate faithfulness with material wealth, is not supported by biblical teachings. The true biblical model emphasizes forgiveness, contentment, and stewardship over material gain.The prosperity gospel misuses scriptures, such as Luke 6:38, which in context, speaks about forgiveness rather than financial blessings.True biblical prosperity is found in spiritual richness and obedience to God's commands, including living a life marked by forgiveness and generosity. WHAT SCRIPTURES OFFER GUIDANCE ON THE APPROPRIATE FINANCIAL LIFESTYLE FOR BELIEVERS?First and Second Timothy provide clear guidance on a Christian's approach to finances, emphasizing the importance of provision for one's family, enjoyment of God's blessings with a giving heart, and contentment regardless of one's financial state.Believers are called to provide for their families, enjoy God's blessings, and live in contentment.Paul's teachings in Philippians show that contentment in Christ transcends financial status, focusing on trust and strength found in God rather than material wealth.A Christian's financial lifestyle is marked by obedience, stewardship, and a heart aligned with God's purposes, rather than the pursuit of wealth for its own sake. WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A CHRISTIAN FINANCIAL LIFESTYLE?A Christian financial lifestyle is characterized by provision for one's family, enjoyment of God's gifts within the context of giving, and contentment with what one has, as instructed in First and Second Timothy and Hebrews.Provision, enjoyment, and contentment are key elements of a Christian financial lifestyle.These principles guide believers to focus on what truly matters: faithfulness in stewardship, generosity, and a heart content with God's provision.The biblical model does not prescribe a specific spending or saving percentage but encourages a prayerful and obedient approach to financial management, seeking God's wisdom and guidance in all things. ON TODAY'S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I discovered an unknown American Express account on my credit report from 2017 that I did not open. What steps should I take to address this issue?I'm nearing retirement and currently contribute 5% to my 401k. Should I increase my contribution to 25-30% to maximize it before I retire?I recently inherited a non-qualified annuity and was given only two options for distribution. Is it possible to leave the annuity in for the life term, and how can I find out more about this?My father gave us a timeshare many years ago, which we no longer want. After failing to exit the timeshare through paid services, we were advised legally to just stop paying the maintenance fee. Is there another solution? RESOURCES MENTIONED:FTC article: What To Know About Credit Freezes and Fraud AlertsRemember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
Embark with us on a transformative expedition to the heart of Chiapas, Mexico, where the road less traveled led us through a tapestry of spiritual encounters and cultural awakenings. Our recent mission trip found us weaving through bustling cityscapes and serene villages, embracing the warmth of newfound friendships and the resilience that comes from unwavering faith. Alongside friends from i6Eight Ministries and immersed in the richness of local life, we witnessed first-hand the stark societal dichotomies and the enduring spirit of communities navigating the complexities of modernity and the Zapatista movement.Our narrative takes a heartfelt turn as we recount the profound connections made within remote villages, where the simplicity of life echoes with the purity of joy found in faith. The unique opportunity to share laughter with local children, preach in humble chapels, and witness the eagerness for biblical understanding left an indelible mark on our souls. Accompanied by Wesley Baker and Pastor Jaime, we traversed language barriers and cultural nuances, celebrating the triumphs of local churches and the significance of equipping local leaders for a future flourishing with spiritual guidance.Concluding with a poignant reflection, we share a powerful sermon on leadership from Second Timothy that resonated deeply with the local pastors, emphasizing the necessity of nurturing the seeds of faith. Join us , and let the stories of Chiapas stir you to engage in the mission of the Gospel.
Today, pastor Lloyd Pulley continues to highlight the first seven verses of Second Timothy, chapter one. We are currently enjoying a look back at the most requested messages from 2023, and the theme here is encouragement, and couldn't we all use a healthy dose of that right now?
Today on Bridging the Gap, we continue a look back at the most requested messages from 2023, with a study in book of Second Timothy. This was the apostle Paul's last letter, and he certainly saved some of the best for last.
Chapter 4
Chapter 3
Chapter 2
Isaiah 10-14; Psalm 102:13-22; Proverbs 22:1-5; Second Timothy 4
Isaiah 10-14; Psalm 102:13-22; Proverbs 22:1-5; Second Timothy 4
Isaiah 10-14; Psalm 102:13-22; Proverbs 22:1-5; Second Timothy 4
Isaiah 5-9; Psalm 102:1-12; Proverbs 21:26-30; Second Timothy 3
Isaiah 5-9; Psalm 102:1-12; Proverbs 21:26-30; Second Timothy 3
Isaiah 5-9; Psalm 102:1-12; Proverbs 21:26-30; Second Timothy 3
Isaiah 1-4; Psalm 101:16-29; Proverbs 21:21-25; Second Timothy 2
Isaiah 1-4; Psalm 101:16-29; Proverbs 21:21-25; Second Timothy 2
Isaiah 1-4; Psalm 101:16-29; Proverbs 21:21-25; Second Timothy 2
Malechi 1-3; Psalm 101:1-15; Proverbs 21:16-20; Second Timothy 1
Malechi 1-3; Psalm 101:1-15; Proverbs 21:16-20; Second Timothy 1
Malechi 1-3; Psalm 101:1-15; Proverbs 21:16-20; Second Timothy 1
Host: Brad McNutt | Released Monday, September 25, 2023 In this episode of The Book Club, Brad reviews Paul’s final inspired letter! We want to hear from you! Email: books@thelightnetwork.tv Voicemail: 903-26-LIGHT (903-265-4448) Subscription Links
Host: Brad McNutt | Released Monday, September 25, 2023 In this episode of The Book Club, Brad reviews Paul’s final inspired letter! We want to hear from you! Email: books@thelightnetwork.tv Voicemail: 903-26-LIGHT (903-265-4448) Subscription Links
The Church can face significant challenges that hinder its mission. To prevent these pitfalls, it must remain steadfast in its original purpose, foster love and unity, resist worldly influences, uphold sound doctrine, engage in outreach, maintain accountability, and embrace necessary adaptation. Loses Sight of Its Purpose: The Church's effectiveness diminishes when it strays from its primary purpose of worshiping God, making disciples, and serving others. The Early Church's devotion to these principles exemplified its success. Fails to Love and Unify: A lack of love, unity, and forgiveness among believers impedes the Church's impact. Jesus emphasized that love for one another is a hallmark of true discipleship, and Ephesians encourages maintaining unity in the Spirit. Embraces the World's Values: Compromising biblical principles for worldly values and practices dims the Church's light. Romans 12:2 urges believers not to conform to the world's standards but to be transformed by God's truth. Neglects Sound Doctrine: Failing to uphold and teach sound biblical doctrine can lead to confusion and doctrinal error within the Church. Second Timothy warns against seeking teachings that suit personal preferences. Neglects Outreach: An insular focus on internal matters can cause the Church to neglect its mission to reach the lost. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 underscores the importance of outreach and ministry to others. Lacks Accountability: A lack of accountability among leaders and members can lead to moral failures and damage the Church's credibility. First Timothy provides guidance on handling accusations within the church. Fails to Adapt: Resistance to necessary change or failing to adapt to evolving needs can hinder the Church's effectiveness. Embracing change and new opportunities can help the Church thrive. The Church must remain true to its original purpose, foster love and unity, resist worldly influences, uphold sound doctrine, engage in outreach, maintain accountability, and embrace necessary adaptation to fulfill its mission effectively in today's world.
“Give heed…to God's economy, which is in faith” (1 Tim. 1:4). “[Hold] the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience” (1 Tim. 3:9). “And confessedly, great is the mystery of godliness: He who was manifested in the flesh” (1 Tim. 3:16). This week we continue the series titled, “A Man of God Caring for the Church of God,” with speaking from brother Ron Kangas on fourteen aspects of a God-man caring for the church of God as revealed in First and Second Timothy. This meeting was held in August 2015 with working saints in Orange County, California. The original recording can be found at: https://livingtohim.com/2015/09/working-saints-fellowship-august-12th-2015/