Jesus Clears the Way for World Evangelization

Jesus Clears the Way for World Evangelization

 

John 16:7-16, Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. ⁸ And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

⁹ Of sin, because they believe not on me;

¹⁰ Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;

¹¹ Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

¹² I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. ¹³ Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. ¹⁴ He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. ¹⁵ All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. ¹⁶ A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.

A description of the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of Jesus would be most beneficial especially when considering worldwide evangelization. The work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Lord Jesus began when Joseph has a dream and discovers Mary has conceived a Son by the Holy Spirit (Matt 1:20; Luke 1:35).  Secondly Peter’s preaching in Acts 10:37-38, revealed that Christ was anointed by the Holy Ghost and that the Spirit descended on Him at His baptism (Luke 3:22).  Immediately afterwards the Spirit of God lead Christ into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil (Matt 4:1).   Thirdly, the Lord Jesus was crucified in the power of the Holy Spirit as He offered Himself according to Hebrews 9:14, and Christ was raised from the dead by the power of the Spirit (Rom. 1:4).  Then finally the Lord Jesus commanded His apostles “through the Holy Ghost” (Acts 1:2). Again, the main work and function of the Holy Spirit is in connection with the application of the redemption that has been achieved and worked out by the Son of God, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The importance of John 16:7-16 must be carefully considered to see this invaluable truth. These verses suggest that the very coming and presence of the Spirit in the Church and in the world is a part of the work of applying redemption (making it available) in a general way to all people—the world.  The Lord Jesus in John 16:8-11, teaches the effect the actual coming of the Spirit has upon the world, and the very presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church convicts it of sin, and righteousness, and judgment (Acts 5:29-32). As Father and the Son before Him, the Spirit takes up the work of God’s leadership. This is just one way the Spirit of God will lead our evangelism efforts.  

First is the fact that people did not “believe” on the Lord Jesus— “sin”. Therefore, the Spirit’s coming “reproves” or convicted the world of its complete error when it had denied Jesus of Nazareth; it is proof positive and final that Jesus of Nazareth is the Son of God, the Savior of the world.  The second element deals with “righteousness” because Jesus returns to His Father and is currently unseen. The Father has not only accepted Jesus, but His perfect work at Calvary and the empty tomb also.  In fact, the greatest proof of God’s acceptance of Christ as our “justification” is the sending of the Holy Spirit into this world. The third element deals with the fact that the “prince of this world is judged.” The Spirit’s descent on Pentecost was the final proof that Christ defeated Satan and of the “judgment” pronounced upon him.

This is significant because the Holy Spirit convicts people of God’s coming judgment on them. This judgment is guaranteed because Satan (the “prince of this world”) has now been legally condemned through Christ’s death and resurrection. Those who reject Jesus share the devil's fate, while believers are forgiven. Notice John 16:11,

• “Of judgment”: The Holy Spirit alerts people to God’s final justice and the reality of divine judgment. It does not matter what a person believes is or is not possible…whether they ascribe to absolutes or not. They must deal with conviction and judgment.
• “The prince of this world”: is Satan’s temporary influence and control over the rebellious, ungodly systems of the world. “Prince of this world” implies an evil worldwide kingdom. Satan once led this world’s kingdoms excluding Christ, but now we who have believed on the Lord are now subjects of Christ’s kingdom. Colossians 1:11, says, “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: ¹⁴ In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: ¹⁵ Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:” …. We can celebrate our spiritual transfer from the dominion of darkness (sin and evil) into the light-filled, loving rule of Jesus Christ. Our heavenly Father delivered us from the “power of darkness” and conveyed us into the kingdom of His beloved Son!  
• “Is judged”: The Greek verb is a past-tense, completed action pointing to Jesus ultimately defeating Satan and his condemnation as already settled and cannot be reversed. These are guaranteed realities because of the cross and resurrection of Christ. 

God comforts us believers by revealing that the ultimate enemy, Satan, has already been and is finally defeated. Because the ruler of this world stands condemned, his power over those who trust in Christ is broken. We are free from His control.

Again, the ultimate proof of God’s acceptance of Christ as believers’ justification is the sending of the Holy Spirit. This is why the events of Pentecost are included in a great sequence of historic events, that establish our salvation. The very coming of the Spirit pronounced that there is only one way to salvation, righteousness, and it is through Christ Jesus (1Cor. 1:30). Nothing proclaims this so powerfully as the descent of the Spirit sent by Christ upon the Church on Pentecost.

So, the connection between Satan’s defeat and the coming of the Holy Spirit is set before us in John 16:7-13. The death of Christ at Calvary, His resurrection, and ascension, and His sending of the Spirit soundly declared the defeat of Satan (John 16:11).  Satan is now cast out as the Lord Jesus predicted and no longer controls this world. Satan once held all nations except Israel in a form of spiritual bondage, but Christ has dethroned him and now Christ reigns supreme and is controlling the world. It is incumbent upon Christ’s churches to get the gospel out to the farthest reaches of the earth to “every creature” then (Matt. 28:18-20; Luke 24:46-49; Act 1:8).

We cannot pay this “spiritual debt” simply by giving money for missions and praying for missionaries, even though both of these ministries are important and essential. We must present ourselves to the Lord as living sacrifices (Rom. 12:1-2), available to him for whatever work he wants us to do, starting at home. The first missionaries began their witness right at home in Jerusalem and then enlarged their circle of ministry to include “the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Dr. Oswald J. Smith often said, “The light that shines the farthest will shine the brightest at home.”

“Are people in today’s world lost?” is not an academic question for theologians to debate in some ivory tower. The question is at the heart of the church’s ministry, and the answer to the question is, “Yes, all men without Christ are lost.” And what are you doing about it? Are you paying your debt by sharing the gospel with others? (W. W. Wiersbe)

Certainly, our Lord Jesus cleared the way for worldwide evangelization, and we must recognize our opportunities to share the hope of Christ with others immediately before us and around the world. May we follow carefully the Spirit’s guidance as we steward the gospel to the world. Beloved, this is ‘kingdom’ work and our church’s mission.

 

It is Time to “Christ Up”

 

It is Time to “Christ Up”

Galatians 2:20

Theme: turn to Christ daily for whatever you need to live out God’s interests.

It's time to "Christ" up! You have heard of the phrase, "Man up" before perhaps in the context of a unique challenge to a youth or even to a fully mature man who is presently behaving more like a boy. Basically, we are forcefully encouraged to meet certain expectations...satisfy requirements or secure the necessary strength to elevate our performance. Well with "Christ" up there is a standard...expectation, a requirement. "Christ" is that standard, and this does not involve more self-reliance!

The strength we must summon is not physical and carnal, but totally spiritual and transcendent. At this level "Christ" does the amazing through our spirit's and mostly by His Holy Spirit. The result is God is glorified through "Christ" and we elevate to "Christ Mode" instead of settling for merely what is humanly possible with self-reliance. We intentionally capitulate to our human spirit that was made alive by God, embrace the power of the holy Spirit, and submit our carnal flesh by yielding to divine outcomes instead of mere cultural ideas. We live out the meaning of being a "living sacrifice." Christ is manifested, magnified, and made visible for others to be attracted to Him also.

This idea is offered in Galatians 2:20 which says: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me”. 

Critical Ideas to Capture:

1. “Crucified with Christ”: A believer's old sinful nature is dead, freed from any condemnation of God's law.
2. “Christ liveth in me”: The believer's life is now guided and empowered by Jesus Christ living within us through the incredible power of Holy Spirit, thus eliminating the need for self-reliance and personal isolation.
3. “Live by faith”: The daily life in the physical body ("the flesh") is sustained by faith in Jesus, not by following the law or earning salvation through our activities.

God highlights for us the incredible need to transition from self-reliance to living through Christ’s power. Beloved, it is time to “Christ Up” as we apply this idea to ‘Christian living.’ Make this all-important transition, change, and revolution!

What is self-reliance? The ability to depend on yourself for things instead of relying on others. The self-contained person is independent and autonomous — they take care of themselves.

Proofs of self-reliance are demonstrated through ‘fleshly’ resourcefulness, carnal flexibility, and independent decision-making, and displaying a desire to navigate challenges without relying on or involving others. Some of this is necessary and expected but this becomes dangerous as we promote ‘self-sufficiency’ independent of ‘Christ-reliance’!

What does God afford us is ‘Christ dependency”? Holy and transcendent living is not normal for fallen human beings but is only available to believers who are living sacrifices. Not merely saved individuals—though this should include every believer, but real subjects of the Kingdom of God. That is new wine, new life, new power, new purpose, new freedom, new hope, new significance, new fire, and new people reserved exclusively for the genuinely righteous lifestyle!

This is what holy and transcendent living is like:

Ephesians 5:18-20, And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; ¹⁹ Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; ²⁰ Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Galatians 5:21-26, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. ²² But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, ²³ Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. ²⁴ And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. ²⁵ If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. ²⁶ Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

The believers are deeply spiritual—enthusiastically Holy Spirit dominated! They are intimate with God and experience frequent connection with Him, consistent in life, and often surpass mere religious routines. They typically exhibit high levels of faith, humility, and holiness, prioritizing a direct, personal, and emotional relationship with God over mere formal, ecclesiastical, external, cultural displays of supposed faith. 

Beloved, transcendent living is rising above daily struggles and self-centeredness to experience God’s deeper purpose, joy, and connection to His Kingdom. It involves cultivating awareness of Him through His Word, nurturing agape love, and embracing moments of amazement as He fulfils His will through us. Such lifestyle transforms ordinary existence into a meaningful kingdom-focused journey.

The murky side of self-sufficiency often leads to exhaustion, long-lasting stress, worry, and isolation, as the irrational need to do everything alone causes us to view asking for help as a weakness. We can even regard asking God for guidance and power as an indication of weakness. Such an attitude or mindset can destroy fellowship with God, forfeit Christ’s Kingdom opportunities and dynamics, cripple relationships, hinder teamwork through the church, and cause believers to reject church or pastoral support, leading to emotional coldness and detachment and, in extreme cases, serious spiritual, physical, and mental health crises. 

What are some ways we are resorting to or even choosing self-reliance?

1.      Do we take personal responsibility for outcomes?

2.     Do we resort to the ‘flesh’ to take credit for results?

3.     Do we trust our instincts—feeling, personal ideas—instead of God and His Word?

4.     Are we maintaining emotional independence? You know…regulating our own emotions, validating our own worth, and not relying on God and His people for godly happiness and holiness.

5.     Are we actively solving problems rather than waiting on God for guidance and relying on His help?

These questions aid our self-evaluations before the Lord. It is okay to invite His help as we search our souls (Psalm 139:23-24).

Important factors of transcendent living to include:

• Shift your perspective to moving beyond the ‘ego-self’ or individual, mundane, and self-centered concerns.
• Stay still in God’s presence, being alert to the present opportunities, and noticing what He communicates (His will) to your heart and thoughts.
• Purpose to serve and get involved focusing on helping others, leaving a godly legacy, winning people to Christ, and contributing to God’s kingdom goals through your church.
• Accept and trust God with the way it is. We must intentionally let go of the need to control every outcome and instead trust God’s wisdom with the flow of life.
• Daily incorporate these concepts by applying God’s truth, moments of meditation on God and His Word, standing in awe of His incredible Person, and being watchful of daily life, relationships, fellowship opportunities and work.

Conclusion:

The pathway to realizing this “Christ up” mentality often involve surrendering to the Holy Spirit, forsaking the flesh as unacceptable on this transcendent level, cultivating real spiritual significance, gratitude towards the Lord, and connection with your church’s ministries.

 

God’s Order for Husbands (Part I)

“God’s Order for Husbands” 

1 PETER 3:7

SUBJECT: SUBMISSION AND MARRIAGE

THEME: Each believing husband is to submit to God’s order in his marriage.

RELEVANCE: the best husband first views his marriage as an expression of his submission to the Lord. Abandoning the ‘traditional,’ ‘romantic,’ and ‘institutional’ models of marriage he freely clings to God’s Order. He is not loyal to his wife primarily nor worldly models; the Christian husband is devoted to Christ first—above all. He fully submits to Christ’s authority in his life and seeks to guides his family accordingly.

INTRODUCTION:

Many people including believers did not realize God’s order is fundamentally different from the other popular models for marriage. Further, many have confused God’s order with the other models setting up expectations and ideas that did not come from God at all. Even traditional marriages are just one example of this confusion.

“The traditional marriage model is historically defined as a lifelong, monogamous union between a man and a woman, focused on procreation, shared domestic life, and rigid gender roles, typically with the husband as provider/decision-maker and the wife as caregiver. It emphasizes exclusivity, formal ceremonies, and legal/religious backing.”—AI Overview  

While a great deal of this has Bible origins, it addresses entire cultures/countries from a national perspective and not exclusively believers. It is a model that virtually no one subscribes to anymore because our country and families have changed, divorces are much easier, and sinful choices are far more tolerable in society. People still erroneously associate this approach with God’s prescription, but this is not entirely what God requires.

Then there is the romantic model,

“The romantic model of marriage defines it as a lasting, passionate, and sexual partnership based on deep emotional intimacy, soulmate ideals, and mutual destiny. It prioritizes intense love, affection, and personal fulfillment over practical arrangements, aiming to sustain initial infatuation throughout a lifetime, though it requires intentional nurturing to last.”

“Risk of becoming dependent, jealousy, or disillusionment if the initial intensity fades. It can also be seen as a "flimsy" foundation compared to institutional models if not backed by commitment.”—AI Overview

Unfortunately, this is what the average couple thinks and wants from marriage! The average western individual becomes angry or disillusioned with God and others when what they expected in a relationship does not happen. But God never promised many of these expectations, so how can he be responsible? More importantly, there is no mention of marriage as a divine institution govern by God’s Word, a marriage covenant, identifying Jesus Christ as the supreme Person and real foundation in a believer’s marriage, different and distinct roles, leader and follower instead of partnership, and united holiness and devotion to the Lord over personal happiness. Furthermore, one of the primary reasons marriages exist is to raise children who will serve God with their entire lives. These are the things that should be emphasized and not the overplayed ‘Hollywood version’ that appeals to people’s carnality!

This romantic ideal for marriage has been broadly accepted in the western world and even exalted in our society leading people to believe a lie while blaming God for errors and wrong conceptions.

William Lyon Phelps, said: “The highest happiness on earth is in marriage. Every man who is happily married is a successful man even if he has failed at everything else.”

I am sorry but ‘the highest happiness on earth’ is in Jesus Christ and not even a great marriage can compare! Just because a person claims they are following God’s prescription does not mean they are!

Then there is also the institutional model for marriage:

The institutional model of marriage defines it as a formal, socially regulated union based on law, religion, and custom, prioritizing permanency, childrearing, and mutual obligations over individual feelings. It links couples to broader social structures, networks, and norms, serving as a pillar for stability and family life. Historically and sociologically, this model views marriage as a tool for social stability and the transition of individuals into families of procreation.—AI Overview 

Western governments tend to favor this type of union because it supports stability, the workforce, and paying taxes. Unfortunately, many Christians see this as God’s idea, or they accept these designs supposing they originated with God. In many respects this is not a Bible based marriage either because the primary concern is with an institution and not necessarily Christ. There is also no requirement to be born again…saved. Husbands, we cannot focus on this as our model or template either.

Additionally, some husbands are trying to guide their marriages to realize these cultural ideas and are failing because these concepts cannot be obtained or sustained. What should husbands be focused on then? What are God’s expectations for husbands? Again, God is not addressing Himself to every man, just those male believers who are “husbands”. I will extend this to include men interested in becoming a husband under God’s authority. I will look primarily at 1 Peter 3:7 and address Christian husbands from the Word. We’ll discover that husbands are to live in submission to the Lord Jesus in marriage.

The scriptures clearly teach Christ exercises authority over men in a special way, the Christian male gender most particularly.

1 Cor 11:3, But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.

Eph 5:21-23, Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. ²² Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. ²³ For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Also see Phil 2:10-11.

Husbands are the spiritual heads of their household, which does not merely give him special privileges but special responsibilities. God expects husbands to be spiritual leaders at home; the husband is to love his wife. Wives are to respect and voluntarily submit (yielding rights and loosing self) herself to her own husbands’ leadership (Eph. 5:22-24), and husbands are to sacrificially love their wives (wanting the best for her spiritually), nurturing her like Christ loved the church (Eph. 5:25-30). The “one flesh” union (Eph. 5:31) emphasizes the primacy of the marriage commitment, exclusivity it requires, mutual satisfaction, and oneness.  

From these familiar verses we can see the two pillars of orderly churches—authority and submission to that authority (leadership and followership). It is impossible to have a well-functioning church or Christian home where these two principles are not observed. One of the great relationships involving authority and subjection is that of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Christian MAN. Therefore, it is impossible for a husband to have a well-ordered home without being in submission to his Lord, Jesus Christ.

How do we submit to a well-ordered home govern by God? 1 Peter 3:7, repeats this same concept of ‘submission’ by using the phrase, “Likewise, ye husbands”. “Likewise,” refers to God’s previous instructions to wives to submit to their husbands, but now he counsels the husbands to do the very same thing…be in subjection to Christ. Accordingly, the husband focuses on separation from his parents to take the leadership role in the new home, permanent union with his wife and then meaningful care for his family, intimacy and procreation with his wife to support the plan of God, and authentic transparency with each other for spiritual advancement (Gen. 2:23-25; Eph. 5:30-33). The local church supports and informs this union further ensuring the execution of God’s will as indicate in the Bible.  

What again is God’s Order? This means that we inherit the Kingdom of God by faith becoming citizens of God’s eternal dominion, enjoying His presence, authority, and blessings (1 Cor. 6:9-11; Gal. 5:19-25). We are faithful disciples, living righteously, and overcoming sin; we have not merely ‘entered’ the Kingdom through initial conversion. We enjoy a deepening experiential relationship with God, transforming our lives to reflect His character, leading to greater rewards and participation in His rule. It is God’s plan for us to tell each person of the hope of Jesus Christ in the gospel (Matt. 28:19-20; Jn. 20:21-23). As genuine believers (disciples), we are honored to serve God to achieve this end—God rules in our lives as we are devoted to his purpose. We must present ourselves, our families (the people in our care), and our resources to execute God’s kingdom agenda (Matt. 4:17; 5:3, 10; 6:13; Luk. 17:20-21; Rom. 14;17; 2Tim. 4:18; Jam. 2:5; 2 Pet.1:11). Therefore, we place ourselves on the altar of God’s will (Rom. 12:1-2), give our families to this undertaking, and steward our belongings to administrate our portion of God’s plan. The goal is to execute God’s plan demonstrating His order, rule, and authority over our lives. 

The Bible ideally regards marriage as a holy union, lifelong covenant established by God between one man and one woman, designed for companionship in the Lord, cooperation, and matrimonial unity. It represents the relationship between Christ and his bride, the church, emphasizing faithfulness, sacrificial love, respect, and leaving parents to form a new family unit.

Yes, 1 Peter 3:7, is only one verse, but it is commanding, thorough, and filled with divine wisdom capsulated in four precious percepts for Christian husbands. As Christian male spouses, we must accept the authority of God for the advancement of His kingdom through our marriages. Beloved, neither traditional, romantic, nor institutional models bring about such results! Executing God's precious will must be our focus.

A Pure Offering

 

A Pure Offering

Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 5:25-27; 1 John 2:15-16

The concept of a pure offering is roundly depicted and afforded in Scripture, and God rejects any offering of the wrong qualities or nature. This can be seen in Abel and Cain’s offerings in Genesis chapter 4 with God’s acceptance of Abel’s blood sacrifice and His rejection of Cain’s formidable efforts. In Revelation chapter 21 we witness the perfect New Jerusalem ornamented in the astounding beauty of holiness prepared for the Lord God descending from Heaven. God rejects wrong worship, and He accepts worship that aligns with His values.

It is in Ephesians 5 we find Christ’s example and the following encouragements,

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; ²⁶ That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, ²⁷ That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (Ephesians 5:25-27)

We see this illustrates that the church, as a glorious spotless pure bride, is to be presented to Christ without even a wrinkle, denoting complete holiness and purity. Such commitment models this love to husbands for their wives, reflecting the Lord’s self-sacrificing, altruistic, and transformative impact on such relationships. Our work as minister of Christ is thus outlined and our task toward the church is given design and purpose. We are also smitten with the fact that Christ desires a holy virgin for a permeant wife.

Clearly, God prizes holiness, purity, cleanness, and spotlessness in His people and their services; any believer who presumes to make an offering to Him must undertake to ensure it is free of any contaminations. This is at the very least an expression of Christ’s transformative work in us. With a measure of confidence in Christ, we can so present ourselves to Christ to execute any aspect of His will. This is the standard though…we are so accustomed to hurrying to say, ‘but we are not perfect yet’ or that we are ‘extremely flawed at our best.’ While these observations are true of us, the standard expectations of God are not reduced or eliminated in light of our imperfections. He really wants and deserves a ‘pure offering.’ Great is our need to live and serve in the power of the Holy Spirit! Much else can be said about either of these passages, but the striking emphasizes of a pure offering is worth pondering further.

From God’s perspective purity is a state of being free from sin and moral corruption; this is a tell-tale sign of real holiness and sanctity. Purity encompasses both our outward actions and the conditions of our hearts and minds. We can see this clearly depicted in, Matthew 5:8, where God stipulates, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Therefore, God calls believers to pursue purity in thoughts, actions, and intentions, reflecting His own holiness and righteousness in our endeavors. God is obviously doing a transformative work in such lives and services. In addition, these believers are roundly assured of seeing God! Beloved, not just ‘any old thing’ is ‘good enough’ for God!

Then Romans 12:1, is so encouraging saying, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”

Our Lord emphasizes the importance of dedicating ourselves as a form of worship…this is how we do acceptable worship to our Lord. God calls us to present our bodies as “living sacrifices”, which is living according to methods and conditions that honors Him and reflects His gracious mercies. Not merely a worship service or a song, but a lifestyle of devotion to Him. Our minds and bodies must be pleasing to the Lord as we make offerings and sacrifices of ourselves and our substance to Him. He mandates a transformation of the mind, urging us to reject worldly patterns and discern His “good, acceptable, and perfect will” (Rom. 12:2). Such transformation is essential for living a life that fall in line with God’s purposes and offering sacrifices expressive of His values.

Again, as Christ’s people, the only satisfactory worship is to offer ourselves wholly and entirely to the Lord. We are to be under God’s control, our yet-unredeemed bodies can and must be yielded to Him as “instruments of righteousness” (Romans 6:12-13; 8:11-13). Reflecting on the incredible ultimate sacrifice of Jesus for us and our sins, a complete self-sacrifice is only “reasonable.”

Beloved, we should live…breath in, exist, function, serve, and offer ourselves in the eternal flames of a “living sacrifice.” It is here that right motives are embraced, the pursuit of God-honoring purposes are incorporated, actions that mirror Christ once-and-for-all sacrifice of Himself for our sins are followed, and we afford precisely what God requires as He has need of us or it. We afford God a platform for His fire and offerings! It is in this space we realize our great purpose, true freedom, real power, and the kingdom of God over us! We sustain brilliant testimonies to His love, sacrifice, salvation, and faithfulness. We blend our motivations with His; we become whatever He requires; we donate and render anything He would use. We live for such sacrifices unto Him!

So, what exactly does a ‘living sacrifice’ look like anyway? Well Romans 12:2, explains, we are not to ‘conform’ to this world’s expectations. This ‘world’ (1 John 2:15-16) consists of the “lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.” So, the “lust of the flesh” stemming from our fallen sinful nature, includes anything that appeals to our appetites. These very strong, inordinate desires are often associated with sinful behaviors and cravings that draw us away from a godly life. They may involve excessive desires for food, drink, sex, and anything else that gratifies our physical needs. It encompasses not only sexual lust but also other sinful desires such as jealousy, pride, and idolatry. This is the struggle between earthly wants and spiritual living. Ultimately, it represents the conflict between following our base instincts and obeying God’s higher morality.

The “lust of the eyes” refers to our covetous desires or longings for things that we see, often leading to sinful thoughts or actions. “Lust of the eyes” certainly involves materialism, coveting whatever we see that we don’t have and envying those who have what we want. It implies a craving that goes beyond mere approval, turning into a godless fixation on material assets, physical attractions, or prohibited wants. This is a temptation to desire what belongs to others or to indulge in visual pleasures that are not morally acceptable.

Then there is the “pride of life” which is any ambition that feeds our pride, puffs us up on a pedestal, and puts us on the throne of our own lives. This is the temptation and desire for power, personal recognition, self-aggrandizement, and personal glory. It encompasses a self-centered opinion of our life, identity, and achievements, often leading to arrogance and a sense of superiority based on material possessions and social status. God sees such persons as opposing Him as they emphasize worldly values over spiritual ideas. Beloved, we are not to permit the world to press us into its mode!

Furthermore, purity certainly involves parting with uncleanness and comprehensive consecration to God (2 Cor. 6:14-7:1). We are to be holy “in all manner of conversation [behavior],” so that everything we do reflects the holy character of God. To such dedicated believers, there is no such thing as ‘secular’ and ‘sacred.’ All of life is holy as we live in pursuit of glorifying God. Even such ordinary activities as eating and drinking can be done to the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31). If something cannot be done to the glory of God, then we can be sure it must be out of the will of God. You see holiness and purity address every area of our existence without exceptions.

Beloved, casual…unholy attitudes and lifestyles dominate the ‘Christian’ scene anymore. There is little regard for truly holy purity. We water down the requirements of God to avoid offending mere people! Though there are deeply committed followers of Christ, so many remain halfhearted in their pursuits for personal holiness. It is disturbing how there seems to be little interest in understanding holiness from a Bible-based perspective. Thank God there are those willing to stand on God’s promises, share their faith with the unsaved, worship God consistently, and serve others sacrificially. However, so many professing believers want God’s blessings, but they care little for his holiness or anything regarding His plan. Furthermore, many folks seem to be more concern with what they can get away with…is this okay or is that permissible? The interest is not on how much closer we can get to godliness, but how much closer we can get to worldliness.

Titus 1:15-16, says, “Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. [16] They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.”  

 I am merely repeating what God already said, and I am immensely humbled by this opportunity! There is a serious problem with such carelessness about God and the things pertaining to the Lord. Disrespectful attitudes toward God and a lifestyle devoted to Him can be seen in every sector of our culture. Oh, this fallen Adamic dismissive spirit in me! It’s a major mistake invading into politics, entertainment, sports, fashion, the internet, science, music, and even in modern ‘Christianity.’ Let me be the first to admit that I find these ideas extremely challenging and even intimidating. I confess myself unworthy and grossly unqualified in myself…no matter what my status is or my accomplishments are! A holy reverence has been erected in my very soul, and I will not deny it! Repentance…though it is necessary will take some serious courage to be truly counter-cultural, but God calls us to do just that. I am supremely thankful for Christ Jesus my Lord.

Yes, as a perceptive believer you understand this is a peerless opportunity afforded us. Before we can proceed though, we must examine ourselves to ensure we are ready to act. Ask yourself these searching questions. Do I regularly under-value the freedoms of knowing, approaching, and serving God? Do I take holy opportunities for granted or possibly disrespect them frequently? Do I casually dismiss responsibilities God considers vital? Would I be comfortable with God treating me, the way I routinely treat Him? Obviously, faithful devotion and purity of heart are roundly important to our great God, but are such pure sacrifices something I cherish?

Jesus’ Sermon on Anxiety

 

MATTHEW 6:24-34

SUBJECT: WORRY/ ANXIETY

THEME: Jesus assured us we can trust God in anxious times; by faith we can attack our anxiety instead of having an anxiety attack!

RELEVANCY: We will miss out on the primary purposes of life if we waist them worrying and scurrying around trying to take care of basic needs.  Instead of worrying, we need to be seeking the living God, and progressively realizing His righteousness in our own spiritual development.  God promises to take care of the rest of our needs as we make Him the priority of our lives.

LESSON:

1.     Our World Is Filled with Anxious People.  It doesn’t seem to matter in which profession or area they work—business, education, ministry, politics, parenting—people are anxious about the future, unseen dangers, personal status and approval, their health, and their general ability to work and succeed in life. Many are anxious about the state of their souls and whether they are in right standing with God. Even Christians have these concerns.

2.     In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Dealt with Anxiety More than Any Other Topic:

a.     Matthew 6:28-34, And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: [29] And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [30] Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? [31] Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? [32] (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. [33] But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [34] Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

b.     In this passage Jesus strikes at the tendency to center our lives around food and clothing, thus missing life’s real meaning. The problem is not so much what we eat and drink today, but what we shall eat, drink, and wear ten, twenty, or thirty years from now. Such worry for the future is sin because it denies the love, wisdom, and power of God. It denies the love of God by implying that He doesn’t care for us. It denies His wisdom by implying that He does not know what He is doing. And it denies His power by implying that He isn’t able to provide for our needs.

3.     The Words Anxious and Anxiety Aren't Found in the Bible.

a.     We don’t even find the word worry in our Bible. But, the concept of anxiety is found throughout the New Testament. In this passage you find the phrase “taking thought,” “take no thought” or “take ye thought.” (Vs. 25, 27, 28, 31). Issues such as these that Jesus raised aren’t even to enter our minds, but if they do, we are to give them no lodging. That is, “Don't give it a second thought,” or “It isn't worth thinking about.” 

b.     The problem is that this type of concern causes us to devote our finest energies to making sure we will have enough to live on.  Then before we know it, our lives have passed, and we have missed the central purpose for which we were made.  God did not create us in His image with no higher destiny than that we should consume food.  We are here to love, worship, and serve Him and to represent His interests on earth.  Our bodies are intended to be our servants, not our masters.

4.     And Yet, How Many of Us Spend Anxious Moments Pondering What We Will Eat, Drink, or Wear? How will we meet other daily practical and material needs in our lives? After all, food, drink, and clothing are some of our most basic needs. And that is the point that Jesus is making: God knows our basic needs. He is capable of meeting them, and He desires to meet them.

5.     “Learning to Trust God”

a.     “I felt like I was hanging onto the end of a long rope. There was nothing around me or under me that I could see. But I was being asked to let go of the rope. God was saying to me, ‘I will catch you.’ All I needed to do was trust him.”

b.     “Trust God. It seems like it should be a simple thing to do. But it is a lifelong struggle for most of us. Each day we discover new meanings to that little phrase. Each day we discover again how hard it is to do.

c.     People from dysfunctional families have learned from experience that people are not always trustworthy. Promises are broken. Responsibilities are avoided.

d.     In many ways we transfer these experiences of broken trust into our relationship with God. Even though the Bible proclaims God’s faithfulness and even though our personal experience of God may have shown him to be faithful in the past, we still struggle to trust him.

e.     Many people from dysfunctional homes will read “take no thought” or simply do not worry and will immediately feel guilty and ashamed of their anxieties. They will feel less spiritual and more depressed. It is very important to help each other focus on what Jesus is really saying here. When Jesus says “take no thought,” he is not saying “don't pay any attention to your needs.” Neither is he saying “your needs don't matter.” Nor is his purpose to merely say “shame on you for worrying.” (Dale and Juanita Ryan)

6.     Instead, Jesus assumes that worry is part of our daily experience and reminds us that God pays attention to the things that concern us.

a.     Jesus reminds us that God takes seriously His responsibility to care for His creatures and His children.

b.     In addition, while taking seriously our concerns (God knows your need), Jesus calls us to a perspective that takes us beyond ourselves into the life of Faith/Trust and God’s kingdom.

7.     As Believers we must recognized each of the following points: Matthew 6:25-34

a.     There’s more to life than the things we usually worry about (vs. 25)

b.     God feeds the birds and dresses the flowers and will also care for us (vs. 30)

c.     We are valuable to God (vs. 26, 30)

d.     Worrying is ineffective (vs. 27)

e.     God knows our needs (vs. 32)

f.      God invites us to focus on the concerns of His kingdom (vs.33)

CONCLUSION: If you have a loss of interest in life—a loss of enthusiasm, a loss of productivity and energy, a loss of output—consider whether you have developed an attitude of anxiety. If so, it's up to you to take action to break the hold that worry has over you. God will help you, but you must face what you have allowed to develop in your life and take action to counteract your response of worry and anxiety.

As believers we cannot tolerate any anxiety relative to our salvation in Jesus Christ. Remember when we are born again, at least four things happen. First, our sins were forgiven. When we received Christ, He forgave our sins, past, present and future, as far as our eternal destiny is concerned. Of course, sin has earthly consequences (Hebrews 12:5–11), and will influence our eternal rewards (2 Corinthians 5:10). But they will never keep us out of Heaven (Romans 5:20–21). Why? Because Jesus “bare our sins in His own body on the tree [cross]” (1 Peter 2:24). Because sin causes death, either we will die for our sins, or else we must accept Christ, who substitutes His death as the payment for our sins. So, if Christ has paid for our sins and we have accepted His payment, then we cannot pay for them also. Whether or not we as a new Christian can sense an immediate forgiveness for sins or not, we can rest on the promise of God that our sins have been blotted out. We dare to believe such an unbelievable thing because the Bible literally expresses this truth. Ephesians 1:7 says, “In whom [Christ] we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.” Then, in Ephesians 4:32 we read, “And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Yes, the first, wonderful thing that happens to us when we are born again is that our sins are forgiven.

As believers, the basis of our reconciliation is our union with Christ, the foundation of all spiritual growth. Second Corinthians 3:18, says, “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” Those of us linked with Christ will demonstrate growing Christ-like qualities here on earth, and one day will be transformed fully into His likeness.

Of course, we don’t always feel very Christ-like and can become anxious about it. We see the hidden lust, the secret surges of selfishness and pride, the flashes of anger or the smoldering envy. Aware of our commitment to self-determination, self-protection, and self-gratification, we know our own hearts. But God knows our frame. He is mindful that we are but dust (Psalm 103:14) and takes care of that now. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). And eventually we will stand before Him, rid of these sin-corrupted bodies, never to sin again (Romans 8:23). There is no reason to be anxious about our souls and ultimate future when we know Christ Jesus as Savior.

Restoration Will Come

ROMANS 11:1-2a

SUBJECT: ISRAEL’S FUTURE

THEME: God will regather, redeem, restore, and return to reign over the nation of Israel.

INTRODUCTION: The nation of Israel will be saved by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (New Covenant) and according to the covenant of God to Abraham. Therefore, Israel’s rejection is not permanent and certainly not final—she has a brilliant future before her. Like the rest of the world her hope is in Christ Jesus.

In many regards, Israel’s history and future serves as an object lesson teaching us something about God’s grace, wisdom, power, and faithfulness. The following passages outline God’s future plans for the Nation of Israel. Today, they are an unbelieving nation; a people who have rejected the Gospel of Jesus Christ. According to God’s dispensational management, they have been temporarily set aside (Rom. 11:1-2). However, everything God promised Israel will be fulfilled within the context of her national experience. Israel will be saved nationally and spiritually by the grace of Almighty God; this is the profound eschatological reality—a clear fact of Scripture.

LESSON:

Is There a Biblical Foundation for Israel’s Restoration in the Future?

The Scriptural and Theological Foundation for the Restoration of the Nation of Israel is Abundant and Strong.

Here is what we know from clear statements in the Word of God:

1. We Know the People of Israel Will Be Regathered

Matt 24:31, And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect [Israel] from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

Deut 30:3-6, That then the LORD thy God will turn thy captivity, and have compassion upon thee, and will return and gather thee from all the nations, whither the LORD thy God hath scattered thee. 4, If any of thine be driven out unto the outmost parts of heaven, from thence will the LORD thy God gather thee, and from thence will he fetch thee: 5, And the LORD thy God will bring thee into the land which thy fathers possessed, and thou shalt possess it; and he will do thee good, and multiply thee above thy fathers. 6, And the LORD thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live. (Ezek. 20:33-44)

2. We Know the Nation of Israel Will Be Redeemed

Rom 11:26-27, And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: 27, For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.

Isa 45:17, But Israel shall be saved in the LORD with an everlasting salvation: ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end.

Isa 54:5-10, For thy Maker is thine husband; the LORD of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called. 6, For the LORD hath called thee as a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit, and a wife of youth, when thou wast refused, saith thy God. 7, For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. 8, In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer. 9, For this is as the waters of Noah unto me: for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee. 10, For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.

3.  We Know the Kingdom of Israel Will Be Restored

Dan 7:17-18, These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth. 18, But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever.

Dan 7:22, Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom.

Dan 7:27, And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.

4. We Know the True King of Israel Will Return

Isa 9:6-7, For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7, Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (Matt. 24:29-31)

CONCLUSION:

If you take the Word of God as the final authority, then restoration will come to the nation of Israel. Yes, restoration will come! This study simply permits the holy Scriptures to speak with brilliant clarity. The truth that Israel has a promising national future cannot be denied. God will regather, redeem, restore, and return to reign over the nation of Israel in the person of Jesus Christ. Nothing in Scripture can be more certain than this. To believe these teachings is to believe the Lord God Almighty who promised such developments thousands of years ago.

Nations, regimes, and terrorist organizations may oppose and attack Israel today, but the nation will not ultimately be destroyed. Hitler’s Nazi’s could not cancel this promise! The world cannot prevent these developments no matter how they use the United Nations to oppose Israel. Israel will ultimately be sustained by a faithful God who keeps covenant and promises!

Our Lord God can be trusted; He is supremely faithful to His Word. Go ahead and trust Him; it is entirely safe. Trust Him as Savior and Lord. Trust Him as your Source of everything—your Provider. Acknowledge Him as your Creator…the one to whom you are accountable. Take His promises to heart and walk in the power they avail…the grace He wills for you. Each of us should be daily hanging on to some specific promise God made in the Scriptures. Even if it is as basic as 1 John 1:9, its God’s promise to you and me for forgiveness, cleansing, restoration, and renewed fellowship. So, again go ahead and take Him at His Word. It is entirely safe to do so.