The Webster Bible Church Podcast

Transforming Truth: Forsake toxic cravings and find true contentment in Christ.

Toxic Cravings 1 Timothy 6:3-5, 9-10

"And in their greed they will exploit you with false words." - 1 Peter 2:3

Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. - 2 Timothy 4:2-3 NLT

True Contentment 1 Timothy 6:6-8

But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. 1 Timothy 6:6-8

Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness! ... We all come to the end of our lives as naked and empty-handed as on the day we were born. We can't take our riches with us. Ecclesiastes 5:10,15 NLT

And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him. Hebrews 9:27-28 NLT

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." - Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:24)

Transformative Truth: God is a Father who eagerly welcomes His wayward children home.

Act 1 - The Selfish Son (vv 11- 20a)

Act 2 - The Forgiving Father (vv 20b - 24)

Act 3 - The Begrudging Brother (vv 25 - 32)

Lessons from the Older Brother

Lessons from the Father

Lessons from the Younger Son

Transformative Truth: Glorify God by being the best employee you can.

The Conscientious Christian Employee 1 Timothy 6:1-2

Glorify God by being the best employee you can.

The Precept (v. 1a)

“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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” - Jesus Christ (Matt. 11:28-30)

Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free. - Ephesians 6:5-8

Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality. - Colossians 3:22-25

The Purpose (v. 1b)

Bondservants are to be submissive to their own masters in everything; they are to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior. - Titus 2:9-10

The Prohibition (v. 2a)

The Perspective (v. 2b)

1. Be compliant.

2. Be courteous.

3. Be credible.

4. Be committed.

5. Be Christ-like.

Transformative Truth: Be good to your elders while remaining godly yourself.

1. Reward them generously (vv. 17-18)

2. Discipline them properly (vv. 19-21)

3. Appoint them carefully (vv. 22-25)

1. Reward them generously (vv. 17-18)

Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you. - Hebrews 13:17

2. Discipline them properly (vv. 19-21)

a. Protect elders from unsubstantiated accusations

3. Appoint them carefully (vv. 22-25)

Be good to your elders while remaining godly yourself.

Transformative Truth: Churches flourish when their members treat one another like family.

1. Love one another like family (vv. 1-2).

2. Look after those who have no family (vv. 3-16).

a. widows needing support (vv. 3-8)

God in his holy dwelling is a father of the fatherless and a champion of widows. - Psalm 68:5

b. widows offering service (vv. 9-16)

1. The principle of discrimination

2. The principle of dignity

Churches flourish when their members treat one another like family.

Transformative Truth: Go all out for God, and you’ll be forever glad you did.

1. Make God’s word your manual for life. 1 Timothy 4:11

2. Set an example for believers to follow. 1 Timothy 4:12

When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am. So let no one despise him. Help him on his way in peace, that he may return to me, for I am expecting him with the brothers. - Paul the Apostle (1 Corinthians 16:10-11)

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. Colossians 3:12-14

3. Stay the course, showing others the way. 1 Timothy 4:13-15

They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense so that the people understood the reading. Nehemiah 8:8

4. Remain vigilant, in view of the glorious outcome. 1 Timothy 4:16

Transforming Truth: Train yourself for godliness, which brings both temporal and eternal benefits.

Train yourself for godliness because it benefits you both today and forever.

The Measure of Godliness 1 Timothy 4:6

The Mandate for Godliness 1 Timothy 4:7

The Motivation for Godliness 1 Timothy 4:8-10

All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. 1 Corinthians 9:25

Train yourself for godliness because it benefits you both today and forever.

Transformative Truth: False teachers forbid good things God created for our enjoyment.

Bad Doctrine 1 Timothy 4:1-3a

Many will turn away from the faith ... and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Matthew 24:10-11

These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. John 14:25-26

I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. 2 Corinthians 11:3

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone into the world. 1 John 4:1

Benevolent God 1 Timothy 4:3b-5

False teachers forbid good things God created for our enjoyment.

Pray that God's people would walk worthy of the Lord.

The Reason

The Request

The Result

1. It is a pleasing walk.

2. It is a productive walk.

3. It is a progressive walk.

4. It is a powerful walk.

5. It is a praise-filled walk.

Always thanking the Father. He has enabled [us] to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:12-14 NLT

Providence (vv. 22-27)

Praise (vv. 28-33)

Prophecy (vv. 34-36)

Transformative Truth: True godliness springs from a heartfelt confession of Jesus’ supremacy.

He was manifested in the flesh.

He was vindicated by the Spirit.

He was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He is Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 1:4

He was seen by angels.

He was proclaimed among the nations.

He was believed on in the world.

He was taken up in glory.

Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.

Transformative Truth: God is in the house and wants his truth upheld!

The Significance of the Church 1 Timothy 3:14-15

The Supremacy of Jesus Christ 1 Timothy 3:16

Because God's children are human beings-made of flesh and blood-the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Hebrews 2:14

Transformative Truth: Deacons must exemplify the character expected of all Christians.

If anyone speaks, let it be as one who speaks God's words; if anyone serves, let it be from the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:11

The Requirements 1 Timothy 3:8-12

All glory to God, who is able to make you strong, just as my Good News says. This message about Jesus Christ has revealed his plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time, but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith. Romans 16:25-26

We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. We have depended on God's grace, not on our own human wisdom. That is how we have conducted ourselves before the world, and especially toward you. - Paul the Apostle 2 Corinthians 1:12

The Reward 1 Timothy 3:13

Transformative Truth: Overseeing the church is excellent work, which requires men of excellent character.

1. Overseeing the church is an excellent work.

Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. Acts 20:28

You know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lose their value. It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God. 1 Peter 1:18-19

Overseeing the church is excellent work, which requires men of excellent character.

2. Overseers must be men of excellent character.

Above reproach

The husband of one wife

Sober-minded, Self-controlled, Respectable

Hospitable

Able to teach

He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instructions in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. Titus 1:9

Not a drunkard

Not violent

Gentle

Not quarrelsome

Not a lover of money

Must manage his own household well ...

Not a recent convert

Be well thought of by outsiders

Transformative Truth: Worship God joyfully, for we have many reasons to rejoice!

Worship God joyfully, for we have many reasons to rejoice!

1. Shout to the Lord! Psalm 100:1a

This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God's wonderful grace. Colossians 1:6

2. Serve the Lord! Psalm 100:2a

3. Sing to the Lord! Psalm 100:2b

4. Know the Lord! Psalm 100:3

We believe that there is one, and only one, living and true God: an infinite, intelligent Spirit, the Creator and Ruler of heaven and earth. He is inexpressibly glorious in holiness, and worthy of all honor, confidence, and love. He eternally exists in three persons, who are equal in every divine perfection, and who execute distinct but harmonious roles in the work of creation, providence and redemption.

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my other's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous-how well I know it. Psalm 139:13-14

5. Praise the Lord! Psalm 100:4a

6. Thank the Lord! Psalm 100:4b

7. Bless the Lord! Psalm 100:4c-5

Transformative Truth: How men and women behave in church impacts global evangelism.

Men and Prayer 1 Timothy 2:8

Women and Propriety 1 Timothy 2:9-15

Concluding Counsel (A - B - C)

Align yourself with Scripture, not culture.

Beware of compromise and excessive cushion.

Celebrate the complementary contributions of both sexes to the body of Christ.

Transformative Truths: Prayer requires no special skill, secret method, specific place, posture, language, or time. The key to prayer is a heart and mind trained to bring everything in thought and life before the throne of God. No one on their deathbed ever complained of having prayed too much. Let prayer always be your first resort.

Sermon Outline: 1 - The Priority of prayer 2 - The Power of prayer 3 - The Pleasure of prayer 4 - The grand Purpose of prayer 5 - The Person of prayer 6 - The Empowerment of prayer

Transformative Truth: The truth of the gospel is worth fighting for.

Exhortation 1 Timothy 1:18-19a

A "good conscience" is a state in which one's moral self-evaluation accurately registers that one has been obedient to God.

"A bad conscience is the mother of all heresies."

Excommunication 1 Timothy 1:19b-20

The truth of the gospel is worth fighting for.

"The time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing." - Paul the Apostle 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Transformative Truth: As we guard the gospel, let us celebrate the gospel.

Gratitude 1 Timothy 1:12

1 Tim. 1: 12: "because he judged me faithful"

1 Cor. 7:25: "one who by the Lord's mercy is trustworthy"

Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart. 2 Corinthians 4:1

Grace 1 Timothy 1:13-14

"I myself was convinced that I ought to do many things in opposing the name of Jesus of Nazareth. And I did so in Jerusalem. I not only locked up many of the saints in prison after receiving authority from the chief priests, but when they were put to death I cast my vote against them. And I punished them often in all the synagogues and tried to make them blaspheme, and in raging fury against them I persecuted them even to foreign cities." - Paul the Apostle Acts 26:9-11

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. Titus 3:4-5

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved.... Ephesians 2:4-5

Gospel 1 Timothy 1:15

Glory 1 Timothy 1:17

Transformative Truth: The law restrains sinners, but only the Lord redeems them.

8 Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. 9 For the commandments, "You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet," and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." 10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Romans 13:8-10

"Paul reserves the word 'fulfill' for Christian experience; only Christians, as a result of the work of Christ and through the Spirit, can 'fulfill' the law." - Douglas J. Moo

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." - Jesus Christ John 13:34

"Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." - Hebrews 13:4 NIV

The Primacy of the Gospel 1 Timothy 1:11

The law restrains sinners, but only the Lord redeems them.

"But I consider my life of no value to myself; my purpose is to finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God's grace." - Paul the Apostle Acts 20:24

Transformative Truth: Oppose whatever draws people away from gospel truth.

The Commission 1 Timothy 1:3-4

29 I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. 31 So be on your guard! Acts 20:29-31 NIV

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don't belong to him and he isn't their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. The hired hand runs away because he's working only for the money and doesn't really care about the sheep. John 10:11-13 NLT

Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have received that you have heard from me. 2 Timothy 1:13

But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. Titus 2:1

I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. 1 Timothy 3:14-15

The Contrast 1 Timothy 1:3-5

"Love is the overflow of joy in God which gladly meets the needs of others." - John Piper

It was not so much that they set out to be heretical. They simply wanted to "go deeper" into the Scriptures. They wanted to go beyond the "simple" exegesis of Paul, and by giving the people and events allegorical meaning, simple stories would reveal fantastic truths. They did not set out to abandon the gospel ... but in fact their progressive accretions smothered the gospel. -Hughes and Chapell

Transformative Truth: A healthy church thrives on the blessings of salvation.

1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope. 2 To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Timothy 1:1-2

1 Paul came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was Jewish and a believer but whose father was a Greek. 2 The believers at Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him. 3 Paul wanted to take him along on the journey, so he circumcised him because of the Jews who lived in that area, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. 4 As they traveled from town to town, ... the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers. Acts 16:1-4a, 5

28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. 29 I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. 31 So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. 32 "Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. Acts 20:28-32

Grace

"Greetings!" "Grace!" (charein) (charis)

Mercy

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

Peace

Transformative Truth: Rescuing lost people requires our compassionate, prayerful participation in God’s mission.

1. DIVINE PERSPECTIVE Matthew 9:37

2. DILIGENT PRAYER Matthew 9:38

3. DIVERSE PERSONNEL Matthew 10:1-4

Transformative Truth: God’s Word is meant to transform us, not just inform us.

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he gave us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 into an inheritance that is undying, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. 5 Through faith you are being protected by God's power for the salvation that is ready to be revealed at the end of time. 1 Peter 1:3-5

Like newborn babies, crave the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow up into salvation - if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. 1 Peter 2:2-3

God's Word is meant to transform us, not just inform us.

1. Take out the trash! James 1:21a

Put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. 1 Peter 2:1

But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language out of your mouth. Colossians 3:8

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me, and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting! Psalm 139:23-24

2. Take in the truth! James 1:21b

3. Take on the traits! James 1:22-27

God's Word is meant to transform us, not just inform us.

Transformative Truth: The righteous King’s rule brings both blessing and judgment..

The Public Address 2 Samuel 23:1-7

When one rules justly over men, ruling in the fear of God, he dawns on them like the morning light, like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning, like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth.

Ruler over mankind - righteous! Ruler - fear of God!

God promised this Good News long ago through his prophets in the holy Scriptures. The Good News is about his Son. In his earthly life he was born into King David's family line, and he was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He is Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 1:3-4

The righteous King's rule brings both blessing and judgment.

The Private Charge 1 Kings 2:1-9

When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. 2 Samuel 7:12

When I was a son with my father, tender and precious to my mother, he taught me and said, "Your heart must hold on to my words. Keep my commands and live." Proverbs 4:3-4

The righteous King's rule brings both blessing and judgment.

The Promised Kingdom 1 Kings 2:10-12

Transformative Truth: Rebel-sinners stand in need of mercy from the rightful King.

Self-Advancement 1 Kings 1:1-10

Sovereign Appointment 1 Kings 1:11-40

On that day living water will flow out from Jerusalem, and the LORD will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one LORD, and his name the only name. Zechariah 14:8, 9

Settled Arrangement 1 Kings 1:41-53

The Lord is God and has given us light. Bind the festival sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar. Psalm 118:27

Rebel-sinners stand in need of mercy from the rightful King.

For this reason God highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow- in heaven and on earth and under the earth- and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11

The Sinful Act 2 Samuel 24:1-9

The Sincere Confession 2 Samuel 24:10

Sin is costly, but because of God's mercy we can be forgiven and enjoy fellowship with him.

The Severe Consequences 2 Samuel 24:11-17

The Sacrificial Offerings 2 Samuel 24:18-25

Propitiation: a sacrifice that bears God's wrath to the end and in so doing changes God's wrath toward us into favor.

Sin is costly, but because of God's mercy we can be forgiven and enjoy fellowship with him.

Transformative Truth: "The strength of God's kingdom rests in the Lord, not in us"

1. Great Human Accomplishments (vv.8-12)

2. Great Human Devotion (vv. 13-17)

3. More Great Human Accomplishments (vv. 18-23)

4. The Problem with Human Heroes (vv. 24-39)

Transformative Truth: "The One worthy of all praise is Yahweh, the great deliverer."

1. The Deliverance of the Lord

2. The Righteousness of the Servant?

3. The Splendor of the Lord

4. The Victory of the King

5. The Reign of the Messiah

Transformative Truth: "Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins." - Hebrews 9:22

1. The Beauty of Clarity (vv. 1-2)

2. The Brutality of Atonement (vv. 3-9)

3. The Blessing of Covenant (v. 7)

4. The Pathos of Love (vv. 10-14)

5. The Blissfulness of Security (vv. 15-22)

Human sin reduces instability, but God's kingdom never collapses.

The Rebellion of Sheba (vv. 1-2)

The Ruination of Victims (v. 3)

The Ruthlessness of Joab (vv. 4-13)

The Reaction of the People (vv. 14-22)

The Recovery of David’s Kingdom (vv. 23-26)

No king but Christ is perfectly victorious.

Confrontation 2 Samuel 19:1-8a

Conflict 2 Samuel 19:8b-15, 41-43

Concessions 2 Samuel 19:16-40

No king but Christ is perfectly victorious.

Transformative Truth: The preserving of God’s kingdom involves the perishing of its enemies.

For the LORD had ordained to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, so that the LORD might bring harm upon Absalom. 2 Samuel 17:14

A BITTERSWEET VICTORY 2 Samuel 18

Tension 2 Samuel 18:1-4

Triumph 2 Samuel 18:6-18

The preserving of God’s kingdom involves the perishing of its enemies.

Tears 2 Samuel 18:19-33

Transformative Truth: No human wisdom, insight, or plan can succeed against the Lord.

Ahithophel's Counsel 2 Samuel 17:1-4

Hushai's Counterplan 2 Samuel 17:5-13

The Lord's Control 2 Samuel 17:14-23

There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD. Proverbs 21:30 NIV

Transformative Truth:

God uses even our enemies to fulfill his good purposes for us.

ZIBA: The Ready Opportunist 2 Samuel 16:1-4

SHIMEI: The Relentless Critic 2 Samuel 16:5-14

But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." Galatians 3:13

AHITHOPHEL: The Ruthless Traitor 2 Samuel 16:15-23

"Thus says the Lord, 'Behold, I will raise up evil against you out of your own house. And I will take your wives before your eyes and give them to your neighbor, and he shall lie with your wives in the sight of this sun. 12 For you did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel and before the sun.'" - The Lord God (2 Sam. 12:11-12)

God uses even our enemies to fulfill his good purposes for us.

Rebellion 2 Samuel 15:1-12

Those who serve themselves are not submitted to God's will.

Retreat 2 Samuel 15:13-37

"I expect and hope that I will not fail Christ in anything but that I will have the courage now, as always, to show the greatness of Christ in my life here on earth, whether I live or die. To me the only important thing about living is Christ, and dying would be profit for me." - Paul the Apostle Philippians 1:20-21 NCV

Those who serve themselves are not submitted to God's will.

Transformative Truth: Passive parenting leads to painful consequences.

His Return 2 Samuel 14:1-24

His Recalcitrance 2 Samuel 14:25-32

His Restoration 2 Samuel 14:33

Passive parenting leads to painful consequences.

Transforming Truth: The Lord is in control even when it seems like He isn't.

Amnon's Passion 2 Samuel 13:1-22

Absalom's Revenge 2 Samuel 13:23-33

David's Grief 2 Samuel 13:34-39

Transformative Truth: God loves his children too much to leave us in our sin.

Pursuing Grace 2 Samuel 12:1-9

Painful Grace 2 Samuel 12:10-15

Do not despise the Lord's instruction, my son, and do not loathe his discipline; for the Lord disciplines the one he loves, just as a father disciplines the son in whom he delights. Proverbs 3:11-12

No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11

Pardoning Grace 2 Samuel 12:13-14

Powerful Grace 2 Samuel 12:15-31

a. His concern for his child 2 Samuel 12:15b-23

b. His compassion for his wife 2 Samuel 12:24-25

c. His conquest over his enemies 2 Samuel 12:26-31

The godliest saint is still susceptible to the most grievous sins.

The Context 2 Samuel 11:1-2

The Crime 2 Samuel 11:3-4 The Coverup 2 Samuel 11:5-25

The Commentary 2 Samuel 11:26-27

Five Realities to Consider

Our inclination toward laxity.

Our obsession with sex.

Our Abuse of Power.

Our Accountability to God.

Our Hope in Christ.

The King's Kindness Is Despised 2 Samuel 10:1-4

Despising the kindness of God's king leads to terrible consequences.

The King's Compassion Is Aroused 2 Samuel 10:5

The King's Enemies Combine Forces 2 Samuel 10:6-8

The King's Armies Fight Courageously 2 Samuel 10:9-12

The King's Victory Is Secured 2 Samuel 10:13-19

Transforming Truth: "God has restored us and given us a seat at His table through His Son."

1. A Picture of Grace

2. The Scope of Grace

Transforming Truth: "Believers are blessed by God to be a blessing to others."

David's Victories (vv. 1-6)

David's Spoils (vv. 7-14)

David's Officials (vv. 15-18)

Hebrews 13:20-21 / Ezek. 34:11-16

"But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you; how much less this house that I have built?" - King Solomon (1 Kings 8:27)

"And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever." 2 Samuel 7:16

The Prayer of Gratitude 2 Samuel 7:18-29

God has built an eternal house through his Son, King Jesus.

1. Cultivate a heart for service

2. Contemplate the grace of God.

3. Communicate the gospel of God

1. We are to seek the Lord's presence reverently.

Then David said that no one but the Levites may carry the ark of God, for the Lord had chosen them to carry the ark of the Lord and to minister to him forever. 1 Chronicles 15:2

2. We are to celebrate the Lord's presence joyfully.

The Lord is to be worshiped reverently and joyfully.

1. The new birth is a must.

And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience - among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. Ephesians 2:1-4

Apart from the new birth . . .

a. We are dead in our trespasses and sins (Eph. 2:1-2).

b. We are by nature children of wrath (Eph. 2:3).

c. We love darkness and hate the light (John 3:19-20).

d. We are unable to submit to God or please God (Rom. 8:7-8).

e. We are unable to accept the gospel (Eph. 4:18; 1 Cor. 2:14).

f. We are unable to come to Christ or embrace him as Lord (John 6:44, 65; 1 Cor. 12:3).

g. We are slaves to sin (Rom. 6:17).

h. We are slaves to Satan (Eph. 2:1-2).

i. No good thing dwells in us (Rom. 7:18).

BUT GOD, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved.... Ephesians 2:4-5

Diagnosis: Dead in Sin Remedy: Life with Christ

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3

2. The new birth is a miracle.

a. God regenerates.

(1) God ransomed us by the blood of Jesus (1 Peter 1:18-19).

(2) God raised Jesus from the dead (1 Peter 1:3-5).

God supernaturally gives us life by connecting us to the resurrected Christ - through faith.

(3) God called us into union with Christ (1 Peter 1:23-25).

Note: Post the following highlights on one slide at the same time for the sake of review-- 2. The new birth is a miracle. God regenerates. We respond.

God supernaturally gives us life by connecting us to the resurrected Christ - through faith.

Now you can have real love for everyone because your souls have been cleansed from selfishness and hatred when you trusted Christ to save you; so see to it that you really do love each other warmly, with all your hearts. 1 Peter 1:22 The Living Bible

The Covenantal King 2 Samuel 5:1-5

The Conquering King 2 Samuel 5:6-25

God is bringing the promised kingdom to its appointed consummation.

1. Unity comes by following one king.

2. Different situations require different strategies and constant dependence on the Lord.

3. Christ alone is the perfect king.

4. The kingdom comes in stages.

There was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. And David grew stronger and stronger, while the house of Saul became weaker and weaker. 2 Samuel 3:1

The Murder of Ishbosheth 2 Samuel 4

The Cowardly Conspirators 2 Samuel 4:1-7a

The Spiritual Spin 2 Samuel 4:7b-8

They come with blood on their hands but theology on their lips, expecting that the latter will magically bleach the former. Murder always seems more pleasant when wrapped in religious considerations.

No amount of spin can justify a sin.

The Righteous Retribution 2 Samuel 4:9-12

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, didn't we prophesy in your name, drive out demons in your name, and do many miracles in your name?' Then I will announce to them, 'I never knew you. Depart from me, you lawbreakers!'" Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:21-23)

God overlooked people's ignorance about these things in earlier times, but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent of their sins and turn to him. For he has set a day for judging the world with justice by the man he has appointed, and he proved to everyone who this is by raising him from the dead. Acts 17:30-31

1. The promises of God require patience and purity on our part.

2. It's never right to do wrong in order to get a chance to do right.

3. Gratitude begets fidelity.

One sentence that sums up the main point of the sermon: God wants each of you to find your place in raising up the next generation of missionaries to reach the unreached for His glory. An additional text that would complement the sermon (if you have one in mind): Romans 15:14-21 Outline: I. God has given each believer at least one spiritual gift to serve and encourage others. II. God’s Spirit will guide you in how to influence others to serve Him. III. God will encourage you as you pour your life into the lives of others. IV. What would have happened if Barnabas wasn’t willing to reach out to Paul?

Transformative Truth: Learning to fight for the faith is much more than most of us are equipped to do unless we are prepared for real battle. Jude 3

Outline: The Person, 1-2 The Purpose, 3 The Perpetrators, 4 The Penalty, 5-7 The Personalities, 8-10 The Practical Jokes/imposters, 11 The Pictures, 12-13 The Preacher, 14-16 The Prophecy and Predictions, 17-19 The Principles, 20-21 The Pursuit, 22-23 The Promise, 24 The Point, 25

Transformative Truth: "God's plans will come about despite people's (and our) sinful actions."

Abner Joins David (vv. 1-21)

Abner Murdered (vv. 22-30)

Abner Mourned (vv. 31-39)

Transformative Truth: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5)

1. A Faithful Beginning (2 Samuel 2:1-7)

2. An Unfaithful Beginning (2 Samuel 2:8-11)

3. A Tale of Two Armies (2 Samuel 2:12-32)

1. The Grievous Report

2. The Godly Response

a. David's sorrow 2 Samuel 1:11-12

The more we love, the more we grieve.

b. David's standard (vv. 13-16)

(1) Words designed to please people will eventually hurt you, not help you.

(2) A godly person will not only adhere to God's standard but also hold others to account.

This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. Ephesians 4:13

c. David's song 2 Samuel 1:17-27

"A lament is a formal expression of grief or distress, one that can be written, read, learned, practiced, repeated." --Dale Davis

The more we love, the more we grieve.

God saves from his wrath those who trust in Christ.

The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So the Lord said, "I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created-and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground-for I regret that I have made them." Genesis 6:5-7

But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God. Noah had three sons: Shem, Ham and Japheth. Genesis 6:8-10

By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7

1. He responded to God's word.

By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. Hebrews 11:7a

2. He rebuked the world.

"I am not what I ought to be, I am not what I want to be, I am not what I hope to be in another world. But still I am not what I once used to be, and by the grace of God I am what I am." - John Newton

3. He received God's righteousness.

By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7

I am not ashamed of the gospel [good news], because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed - a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Romans 1:16-17

God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21

1. Saul had a royal beginning.

2. Saul had a rebellious bent.

If you will fear the Lord and serve him and obey his voice and not rebel against the commandment of the Lord, and if both you and the king who reigns over you will follow the Lord your God, it will be well. But if you will not obey the voice of the Lord, but rebel against the commandment of the Lord, then the hand of the Lord will be against you and your king. 1 Samuel 12:14-15

3. Saul died in a ruinous battle.

Defeat 1 Samuel 31:1

Death 1 Samuel 31:2-6

This God – his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. Psalm 18:30

Displacement 1 Samuel 31:7

Disgrace 1 Samuel 31:8-10

Derring-Do 1 Samuel 31:11-13

The Lord rescues his people and recovers what's been lost.

The Loss Suffered 1 Samuel 30:1-6a

The Lord Sought 1 Samuel 30:6b-8

The Loved Ones Saved 1 Samuel 30:9-20

What you do really matters.

The Loot Shared 1 Samuel 30:21-30

Now the Philistines had gathered all their forces at Aphek. And the Israelites were encamped by the spring that is in Jezreel. 1 Samuel 29:1

Dissension 1 Samuel 29:1-5

Dialogue 1 Samuel 29:6-10

Deliverance 1 Samuel 11

Pure Animosity DEATH

Pure Approval DILEMMA

Mixed Feelings / Friction DELIVERANCE

Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. John 3:36

When we get ourselves into a fix, God is still faithfully at work.

Nothing is so utterly miserable than finding in the hour of greatest need that you had long ago placed yourself beyond the sound of God's voice and that you are totally alone. --Ralph Davis

Listen to the Lord before it's too late.

Desperation 1 Samuel 28:1-15

Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the Lord. So the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse. 1 Chronicles 10:13-14

Dread 1 Samuel 28:16-20

Darkness 1 Samuel 28:21-25

At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o'clock. Then at three o'clock Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" which means "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" Mark 15:33-34

1. The Conception of Jesus

2. The Consternation of Joseph

3. The Confirmation of the Angel

4. The Compliance of Joseph

Jesus' royal credentials uniquely qualified him as God's anointed King.

Christ = Messiah

Prophetic Statements

1. The Messiah would be of the seed of Abraham, through whom all the nations of the earth will be blessed (Gen. 22:18).

2. The Messiah would be a descendant of David, and God would establish the throne of his kingdom forever (2 Sam. 7:16).

Purposeful Summary

Matthew 1:7-8 "and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asaph, and Asaph the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah."

Why the Shortened Genealogy?

Symmetry

Significance of David

Simplicity

Jeremiah 22:24-30 (New Living Translation) "As surely as I live," says the Lord, "I will abandon you, Jehoiachin son of Jehoiakim, king of Judah. Even if you were the signet ring on my right hand, I would pull you off. I will hand you over to those who seek to kill you, those you so desperately fear - to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon and the mighty Babylonian army. I will expel you and your mother from this land, and you will die in a foreign country, not in your native land. "You will never again return to the land you yearn for. "Why is this man Jehoiachin like a discarded, broken jar? Why are he and his children to be exiled to a foreign land? "O earth, earth, earth! Listen to this message from the Lord! "This is what the Lord says: 'Let the record show that this man Jehoiachin was childless. He is a failure,?for none of his children will succeed him on the throne of David?to rule over Judah.'"

Matthew 1:12-16 And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ.

Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ Matthew 1:16

Personal Consideration

1. Do you recognize Jesus as God's anointed King?

2. Do you revere Jesus as your King?

God graciously uses people as "stop signs" on our path toward sin.

Despicable Ingrate 1 Samuel 25:2-11

David's Indignation 1 Samuel 25:12-13, 21-22

Divine Intervention 1 Samuel 25:14-20, 23-44

God graciously uses people as "stop signs" on our path toward sin.

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Galatians 6:7-8

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:9-10

This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" - and I am the worst of them all. 1 Timothy 1:15

Giving thanks is not primarily an outflow of our experience but an expression of our faith.

1. What are we being called to do?

2. Who are we to give thanks to?

3. Where are we to give thanks?

4. Why should we give thanks?

The Incident in the Cave 1 Samuel 24:1-7

God is my helper. The Lord keeps me alive! May the evil plans of my enemies be turned against them. Do as you promised and put an end to them. … I will praise your name, O Lord, for it is good. For you have rescued me from my troubles and helped me to triumph over my enemies. Psalm 54:4-7

Be careful how you interpret life’s circumstances, lest you substitute your will for God’s in any given situation.

The Interaction with the King 1 Samuel 24:8-22

Vengeance is the Lord’s, not yours – so live accordingly.

The Lord helps and upholds his people.

1. God interacts with us 1 Samuel 23:1-14

And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22

Now that we know what we have—Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God—let’s not let it slip through our fingers. We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help. Hebrews 4:14-16

Saul said, “Let’s chase the Philistines all night and plunder them until sunrise. Let’s destroy every last one of them.” His men replied, “We’ll do whatever you think is best.” But the priest said, “Let’s ask God first.” So Saul asked God, “Should we go after the Philistines? Will you help us defeat them?” But God made no reply that day. 1 Samuel 14:36-37

2. God invigorates us 1 Samuel 23:15-18

Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable? Proverbs 20:6

When we [Paul and Timothy] arrived in Macedonia, there was no rest for us. We faced conflict from every direction, with battles on the outside and fear on the inside. But God, who encourages those who are discouraged, encouraged us by the arrival of Titus. 2 Corinthians 7:5-6

3. God intervenes for us 1 Samuel 23:19-29

1. Nob: The Place of Provision

2. Gath: The Place of Panic

3. Cave of Adullam: The Place of Prayer

Even in their most desperate moments, the Lord doesn't let go of his servants.

4. Moab: The Place of Providence

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. ... And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. - Hebrews 11:1, 6

5. Forest of Hereth: The Place of Protection

Behold, the days are coming when I will cut off your strength and the strength of your father's house, so that there will not be an old man in your house. ... The only one of you whom I shall not cut off from my altar shall be spared to weep his eyes out to grieve his heart, and all the descendants of your house shall die by the sword of men. 1 Samuel 2:31, 33

Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God," for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. James 1:13

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." - Joseph (Genesis 50:20)

"Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by God's deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him." - Peter the Apostle (Acts 2:22-24)

Even in their most desperate moments, the Lord doesn't let go of his servants.

Even in their most desperate moments, the Lord doesn't let go of his servants.

1. Nob: The Place of Provision

2. Gath: The Place of Panic

3. Cave of Adullam: The Place of Prayer

Even in their most desperate moments, the Lord doesn't let go of his servants.

He keeps all his bones; Not one of them is broken. - Psalm 34:20 -

"All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away." - Jesus Christ (John 6:37)

The Security of Covenant 1 Samuel 20:1-42

True security is found in The New Covenant established not by man, but by God through His Son.

1. The Covenant Provides Help in the Midst of Uncertainty

2. The Covenant Is A Vehicle for Uncommon Faithfulness

3. The Covenant Demands Costly Commitment

4. The Covenant Provides Peace in the Middle of Confusion

God has many ways of preserving his people.

1. Saul tried to get the Philistines to kill David, but they were defeated by him.

2. Saul tried to get Jonathan to kill David, but he delighted in him.

We must be willing to hear reason, and to take all reproofs and good advice even from our inferiors, parents from their own children. How forcible are right words! - Matthew Henry

God has many ways of preserving his people.

3. Saul tried to kill David himself, but David dodged him.

4. Saul tried to use Michal to kill David, but she delivered him.

5. Saul tried to kill David again, but the Holy Spirit disabled him [Saul].

"O my Strength, I will sing praises to you, for you, O God, are my fortress, the God who shows me steadfast love." Psalm 59:17

During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Hebrews 5:7

Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne. Hebrews 12:1b-2

Whereby, so sweetly love burns in us ... We could never bend to any envy.... - Dante Alighieri "The Divine Comedy"

How we react to a peer's success reveals our character.

THE INSIDIOUS EVIL OF ENVY 1 Samuel 18:1-16

"Envy is the painful and oftentimes resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by someone else." - Jerry Bridges

Two Conditions That Tempt Us To Envy

1. We tend to envy those with whom we most closely identify.

2. We tend to envy in them the areas we value most.

How we react to a peer's success reveals our character.

Befriending the Lord's Servant 1 Samuel 18:1-5

1. It was a spiritual love.

2. It was a steadfast love.

3. It was a selfless love.

Our Lord has thus shown his love to us, that he stripped himself to clothe us, emptied himself to enrich us; nay, he did more than Jonathan: he clothed himself with our rags whereas Jonathan did not put on David's. - Matthew Henry

I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. Isaiah 61:10

How we react to a peer's success reveals our character.

Begrudging the Lord's Servant 1 Samuel 18:6-16

Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless and seek the life of the upright. Proverbs 29:10

Whereby, so sweetly love burns in us ... We could never bend to any envy....

1. Recognize the sovereignty of God.

2. Remember we're all on the same team.

3. Realize your own potential and opportunities.

And when he [God] had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, of whom he testified and said, "I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after my heart, who will do all my will." Acts 13:22

Encountering the Enemy

1. Invasion 1 Samuel 17:1-3

"Sin has a tendency to exert an ever-increasing power on us if it is not resisted on every occasion." - Jerry Bridges

2. Intimidation 1 Samuel 17:4-11

The difference between courage and cowardice is the presence of God.

Experiencing the Victory

1. David's Trip 1 Samuel 17:12-22

2. David's Trust 1 Samuel 17:23-47

He was not discouraged by the hurtful remarks of a bitter brother 1 Samuel 17:28-30

He was not dissuaded by the human reasoning of a carnal king.

He was not deterred by the hollow rants of a defeated foe 1 Samuel 17:41-47

3. David's Triumph 1 Samuel 17:48-58

For God's honor to be upheld, the enemy must be silenced.

The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8

Because God's children are human beings - made of flesh and blood - the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying. Hebrews 2:14-15

For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God. 1 John 5:4-5

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Soft Music for a Hard Heart 1 Samuel 16;14-23

1. The Plague of a Harmful Spirit

2. The Presence of the Holy Spirit

And David had success in all his undertakings, for the LORD was with him. 1 Samuel 18:22

Spirit-filled believers are God's instruments of blessing to others.

"Believers keep the world from drowning in its own vomit, which, strangely enough, it craves." - Dale Ralph Davis

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Romans 15:4

And they sang in a mighty chorus: "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!" Revelation 5:12

God often uses the least likely to accomplish his purposes.

ONLY A BOY NAMED DAVID

1. "Stop mourning and get moving."

And Samuel said to Saul, "You have done foolishly. You have not kept the command of the LORD your God, with which he commanded you. For then the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. But now your kingdom shall not continue. The LORD has sought out a man after his own heart, and the LORD has commanded him to be prince over his people, because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you." 1 Samuel 13:13-14

"I have provided for myself a king." Versus "Make them [the people] a king."

2. Stop judging by appearances and develop a God-perspective.

For the eyes of the LORD roam throughout the earth to show himself strong for those who are wholeheartedly devoted to him. 2 Chronicles 16:9

This is the LORD's declaration: I will look favorably on this kind of person: one who is humble, submissive in spirit, and trembles at my word." Isaiah 66:2

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord's favor has come.... Isaiah 61:1-2

He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Isaiah 53:2-3

Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure. All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him." Matthew 11:25-27

God often uses the least likely to accomplish his purposes.

[God] has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:13-14

[Jesus] is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment. 1 Thessalonians 1:10

This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me. 1 Corinthians 11:25

The Essence of the Lord's Supper

The Lord's Supper is a thankful remembrance of Christ and his death, symbolized by the bread and cup, that nourishes us spiritually, brings us into communion with God and one another, and fills us with joyful anticipation of the glory to come.

1. The Lord's supper is a thankful remembrance of Christ and his death.

2. The Lord's Supper nourishes us spiritually.

Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. John 6:53-57

3. The Lord's Supper brings us into communion with God and one another.

The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation [koinonia, "sharing, communion, fellowship"] in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17

But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. For in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you.... When you come together, it is not the Lord's supper that you eat. 1 Corinthians 11:17-18, 20

For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. 1 Corinthians 11:29

Walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:2

4. The Lord's Supper fills us with a joyful anticipation of the glory to come.

Key Errors Concerning the Lord's Supper

1. Transubstantiation

He did not enter heaven to offer himself again and again.... But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the age to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.... Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many. Hebrews 9:25-26, 28

2. Consubstantiation

3. The Mere Memorial View

Our Experience of the Lord's Supper

The Lord's Supper is a thankful remembrance of Christ and his death, symbolized by the bread and cup, that nourishes us spiritually, brings us into communion with God and one another, and fills us with joyful anticipation of the glory to come.

1. 1-14 / There are UNIVERSAL & UNRELENTING temptations. 2. 15-16 / There are UNFILLABLE voids in people’s souls. 3. 18-19 / There are UNFATHOMABLE mysteries in life. 4. 21-23 / There are UNFITTING realities in life. 5. 24-28 / There is UNTAPPED wisdom in Creation all around you. 6. 29-31 / There are UNLINKED similarities in life. 7. 32-33 / There are UNAVOIDABLE consequences to our thoughts and actions.

Understanding the Ordinances: Baptism Part 2

Jesus came and said them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:18-20

The Essence of Christian Baptism

Baptism is the church's act of affirming a believer's profession of faith in Christ with the symbolic application of water.

Key Errors Concerning Christian Baptism

1. The Roman Catholic View

Ex opere operato "by the work worked"

Because baptism was considered to effect the forgiveness of sins, and because infants are born with Adamic guilt and corruption (original sin), they must be baptized in order to be saved. With this theology firmly in place by the beginning of the fifth century, infant baptism became the official practice of the church. - Gregg R. Allison

For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift - not from works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

2. The Lutheran View

Of Baptism they teach that it is necessary to salvation, and that through Baptism is offered the grace of God, and that children are to be baptized who, being offered to God through Baptism are received into God's grace. - The Augsburg Confession Article 9, "Of Baptism"

3. The Reformed Paedobaptist View

10 So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. 11 When you came to Christ, you were "circumcised," but not by a physical procedure. Christ performed a spiritual circumcision - the cutting away of your sinful nature. 12 For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead. Colossians 2:10-12 NLT

Entrance into Old Covenant community

Involuntary Physical External

Entrance into New Covenant community

Voluntary Spiritual Internal

Baptism is the church's act of affirming a believer's profession of faith in Christ with the symbolic application of water.

Our Experience of Christian Baptism

1. Baptism honors the Lord.

2. Baptism strengthens your faith.

3. Baptism helps you share your faith.

And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. ... And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. Acts 2:42, 46-47

"If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples." - Jesus Christ (John 8:31)

There were many priests under the old system, for death prevented them from remaining in office. But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf. Hebrews 7:23-25 NLT

There is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:5

You yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:5

Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." Matthew 26:26-28

1. The Essence of Baptism

Baptism is the church's act of affirming a believer's profession of faith in Christ with the symbolic application of water.

Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. Romans 6:3-4

Baptism ... now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 3:21

God has revealed Himself through General Revelation in creation and through Special Revelation in the Scriptures.

General Revelation

Special Revelation

True, lasting contentment is found in the refuge of Christ and the joy that the Lord provides.

1. The Place of Refuge (v.1)

2. The Voice of Confidence (vv.2-8)

3. The Path of Life (vv. 9-11)

"The tendency of modern times has been to take punishment out of eternity or eternity out of punishment." - John Gerstner

The Eternal State We believe that God will raise the dead bodily and judge the world, assigning the unbeliever to condemnation and eternal conscious punishment and the believer to eternal blessedness and joy with the Lord in the new heaven and the new earth, to the praise of His glorious grace.

What happens at one's death? Does Hell even exist? What happens in Hell? Questions from Skeptics

Revelation 20:1-15

What happens at one's death?

The rich man also died and was buried, and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. And he called out, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame. Luke 16:22-24 (ESV)

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10 (ESV)

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 1 Peter 2:24 (ESV)

Does Hell even exist?

And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. Matthew 25:46 (ESV)

Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. Matthew 7:13-14 (ESV)

What happens in Hell?

Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.' Matthew 7:21-23 (ESV).

Questions Raised by Skeptics How does God's nature and His attributes reconcile with the Biblical concept of Hell?

Is God unjust to send "good" people to Hell?

How then shall we live, in light of the reality of Hell?

Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV)

"If sinners be damned, at least let them leap to Hell over our dead bodies. And if they perish, let them perish with our arms wrapped about their knees, imploring them to stay. If Hell must be filled, let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions, and let not one go unwarned and unprayed for." Charles Spurgeon

Our collaborative service for Christ strengthens our solidarity in Christ.

Paul's Co-laborers Romans 16:1-16, 21-23

Prisca Romans 16:3-5

Mary Romans 16:6

Junia Romans 16:7

Tryphena, Tryphosa, and Persis Romans 16:12

Mother of Rufus Romans 16:13

Julia and Nereus' sister Romans 16:15

Our collaborative service for Christ strengthens our solidarity in Christ.

Paul's Caution Romans 16:17-19

Scope them out.

Stay away from them.

Paul's Confidence Romans 16:20-21

... In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39

Paul's Conclusion Romans 16:25-27

God strengthens us through the gospel.

The gospel centers on Jesus Christ.

The gospel is for all nations.

Paul's Affirmation Romans 15:14

Paul's Accomplishments Romans 15:15-19

"... to the nations ... and to the distant islands that have not heard of my name or seen my glory. They will proclaim my glory among the nations. And they will bring all your people, from all the nations, to my holy mountain in Jerusalem as an offering to the Lord...." Isaiah 66:19-20

Paul's Ambition Romans 15:20-29

Paul's Appeal Romans 15:30-33

Be ambitious for the Lord in collaboration with his church.

Follow Jesus' example by pleasing your neighbor for God's glory.

The Precept Romans 15:1-2

"The stronger ... anyone is in Christ, the more bound he is to bear with the weak."

The Pattern Romans 15:3-4

May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

Encouragement + Endurance = Hope

The Purpose Romans 15:5-12

1. Christ came to confirm the promises of God.

Remember that Christ came as a servant to the Jews to show that God is true to the promises he made to their ancestors. Romans 15:8 NLT

... You are included in the covenant God promised to your ancestors. For God said to Abraham, "Through your offspring all the families on earth will be blessed." When God raised up his servant, Jesus, he sent him first to you people of Israel, to bless you by turning each of you back from your sinful ways. Acts 3:25-26 NLT

2. Christ came to combine our praise to God.

The Prayer Romans 15:13

Christian liberty is to be governed by love.

1. For the sake of your brother

2. For the sake of Christ's bride

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied." - Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:6)

"I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on faith." - Paul the Apostle (Phil. 3:9-10 NLT)

Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:15 NLT

Show the Royal Standard pic

Christian liberty is to be governed by love.

3. For the sake of God's blessing

Since God welcomes us, we should welcome one another.

The Problem

The Prescription

To the strong: Welcome your weaker brother (v. 1). Do not despise him (vv. 3a, 10b).

To the weak: Stop passing judgment (vv. 3b, 4a, 10a)

Should a man not lay his hand upon his mouth before he criticizes his brethren? When we pass swift, uninformed, unloving and ungenerous judgments, surely we have forgotten that if we speak evil of them, at the same time we speak evil of the Lord whose name they bear.

The Principles

1. God welcomes all believers. Romans 14:3

2. The Lord upholds every believer. Romans 14:4

3. The Lord is sovereign over every believer. Romans 14:5-9

"To deny the lordship of Jesus Christ in the life of any believer is to subvert the full work, power, and purpose of His crucifixion and resurrection."

4. The Lord alone will judge each believer. Romans 14:10-12

Since God welcomes us, we should welcome one another.

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:34-35

Love Your Neighbor Romans 13:8-10

"Paul reserves the word 'fulfill' for Christian experience; only Christians, as a result of the work of Christ and through the Spirit, can 'fulfill' the law." - Douglas J. Moo

Look to Yourself Romans 13:11-14

1. Wake up!

2. Get dressed.

3. Walk properly.

Love others today by clothing yourself with Christ.

Submit to governing authorities, for they are God's servants for our good.

Our Responsibility to Submit to Governing Authorities

The Reasons to Submit to Governing Authorities

1. They have been established by God.

"From his fellow man I will require a reckoning for the life of man. Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image." Genesis 9:6

2. They have been empowered to punish.

Submit to governing authorities, for they are God's servants for our good.

3. Our reluctance/refusal to submit to governing authorities.

1. (v. 14) The Command: A Call to Divine Love

2. (v.15-18) The Caution: Persecution’s Peculiar Temptations

3. (v. 19-20) The Commitment: Living out This Divine Love

4. (v. 21) The Conquering Principle: Overcoming evil with good

Believers are to use their gifts humbly and corporately to build up the body of Christ and bring glory to God.

True worship entails dedicating your whole self to God.

"I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." - Jesus Christ (John 13:34-35)

Love one another genuinely, like Jesus, from the inside out.

Therefore, be imitators of God, as dearly loved children, and walk in love, as Christ also loved us and gave himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God. - Ephesians 5:1-2

"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends." - John 15:12-13

1. Our allegiance (v. 9)

2. Our affection (v. 10)

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. - Romans 12:10 NIV

3. Our actions (vv. 11-13)

The temptation to lose steam in our lifelong responsibility to reverence God in every aspect of our lives, to become lazy and complacent in our pursuit of what is "good, well pleasing to God, and perfect," is a natural one - but it must be resisted. - Douglas Moo

"treating a person, perhaps a stranger, nobly and magnanimously in the context of one's home, joyfully seeking to bring that person refreshment."

Love one another genuinely, like Jesus, from the inside out.

"Believers are to use their gifts humbly and corporately to build up the body of Christ and bring glory to God."

1. Think Rightly About Ourselves Romans 12:3

2. Think Rightly About Fellow Believers Romans 12:4-5

3. Think Rightly About our Gifts Romans 12:6-8

True worship entails dedicating your whole self to God.

1. The Appeal Romans 12:1

True worship entails dedicating your whole self to God.

2. The Admonition Romans 12:2a

"Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold."

We all, with unveiled faces, are looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord and are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory; this is from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18

But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:14

3. The Aftereffect Romans 12:2b

True worship entails dedicating your whole self to God.

What is Truth?

Then Pilate said to him, "So you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world-to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice."Pilate said to him, "What is truth?"

After he had said this, he went back outside to the Jews... John 18:37-38

None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one. Romans 3:10-12

And a ruler asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" And Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.'" And he said, "All these I have kept from my youth." When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich. Luke 18:18-23

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved - and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, Ephesians 2:4-8

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.' Matthew 7:21-23

Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?-unless indeed you fail to meet the test! 2 Corinthians 13:5

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. 1 John 5:13

1 - You Believe

if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. Romans 10:9-10

2 - Your Life Is Changed

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17

In him [him being Christ] you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:13-14

3 - Your Love Is Active

Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. 1 John 4:11-12

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25

4 - You Face Persecution

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted 2 Timothy 3:2

5 - Your Conduct Increasingly Pleases God

No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God. 1 John 3:9

Seeing Jesus alive was the last thing his followers expected to see.

Vs. 1: Mary "saw that the stone had been taken away."

Vs. 5: John "saw the linen cloths lying there."

Vs. 6: Peter "Peter saw the linen cloths lying there..." (3 slide series)

Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying apart from the other wrappings. John 20:6 NLT

He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, "Thus it is written that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead...." Luke 24:45-46

"Hosanna in the highest!"

As it is written, '"God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that would not see and ears that would not hear, down to this very day." Romans 11:8 (cf. Isa. 29:10; Deut. 29:4)

God's Glorious Plan Romans 11:11-36

Providential Strategy Romans 11:11-16

This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God's wonderful grace. Colossians 1:6 NLT

Privileged Status Romans 11:17-24

"Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a people producing its fruits." Jesus Christ (Matt. 21:43)

So also Abraham "believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham. Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: "All nations will be blessed through you." So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. Galatians 3:6-9 NIV

Promised Salvation Romans 11:25-32

Praise God for his marvelous plan to save all Israel!

Praise-filled Summary Romans 11:33-36

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9