Wednesday, March 31, April 7th & April 14th 2010
THE FIRST WORD
Luke 23:33-34 -- When they came to the place called "The Skull," they nailed Jesus to the cross there, and the two criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Jesus said, "Forgive them, Father! They know not what they do."
THE SECOND WORD
Luke 23:39-43 -- One of the criminals hanging there threw insults at him: "Aren't you the messiah? Save yourself and us!" The other one, however, rebuked him, saying: "Don't you fear God? Here we are all under the same sentence. Ours, however, is only right, for we are getting what we deserve for what we did; but he has done no wrong." And he said to Jesus, "Remember me, Jesus, when you come as King!" Jesus said to him, "I tell you this: Today you will be in Paradise with me."
THE THIRD WORD
John 19:25-27 -- Standing close to Jesus' cross were his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. Jesus saw his mother and the disciple he loved standing there; so he said to his mother, "Woman, here is your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Here is your mother." And from that time the disciple took her to live in his home.
THE FOURTH WORD
Mark 15: 33-34 -- And when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, "Elo-i, elo-i, lama sabach-thani?" which means, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
THE FIFTH WORD
John 19:28 -- After this Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the scripture), "I thirst."
THE SIXTH WORD
John 19:29-30 -- A bowl was there, full of cheap wine mixed with vinegar, so a sponge was soaked in it, put on hyssop and lifted up to his lips. When Jesus had received the wine, he said, "It is finished."
THE SEVENTH WORD
Luke 23:46 -- Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, "Father, into thy hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last.
Join Senior Pastor, Bryant McNeal in Bible Study
Bible Study - Wednesday's @ 7pm
Friday, March 26, 2010
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Identifying satan to Overcome Issues, Habits, and Hang-ups
Teacher: Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, March 24 2010
satan is the chief enemy of every believer. We as the Body of Christ must uncover, reveal, and expose the plot and tactics of satan who comes with one mission and that is to kill, still and destroy. We give praise to God who has given us victory over satan as we walk in God’s word. Understand as you read, that the enemy’s name is not even worthy to be capitalized.
1. He will provoke you to do and to make many unwise decisions (I Chronicles 21:1-14)
_____________________________________________
2. satan is there when you present yourself to God (Job 1:6)
_____________________________________________
3. satan will try to destroy your worship relationship with God (Matthew 4:10)
_____________________________________________
4. satan works with backup (Matthew 12:26)
_____________________________________________
5. satan lives in the wilderness, where you must go to understand the protection, power, and Spirit of God (Mark 1:13)
_____________________________________________
6. satan is a lier (Acts 5:3)
_____________________________________________
7. satan is under our feet (Romans 16:20)
_____________________________________________
8. satan likes to gain the advantage (II Corinthians 2:11)
_____________________________________________
9. satan looks like an angel of light (II Corinthians 11:14)
_____________________________________________
10. satan will hinder you (I Thess. 2:18)
_____________________________________________
11. satan comes to destroy the people of this age (I Timothy 5:15)
_____________________________________________
Take a moment to identify and defeat satan in the following areas listed below:
Your Health:
Your Money:
Your Personal Life:
Your Marriage:
Your Children:
Your Job:
Your Mind:
Your Emotions:
Your Goals:
Your Dreams:
Your Church:
Your Mouth:
Your Decisions:
Your Past:
Your Family:
YOU HAVE ALREADY DEFEATED THE ENEMY IN THE WORD OF GOD!
Wednesday, March 24 2010
satan is the chief enemy of every believer. We as the Body of Christ must uncover, reveal, and expose the plot and tactics of satan who comes with one mission and that is to kill, still and destroy. We give praise to God who has given us victory over satan as we walk in God’s word. Understand as you read, that the enemy’s name is not even worthy to be capitalized.
1. He will provoke you to do and to make many unwise decisions (I Chronicles 21:1-14)
_____________________________________________
2. satan is there when you present yourself to God (Job 1:6)
_____________________________________________
3. satan will try to destroy your worship relationship with God (Matthew 4:10)
_____________________________________________
4. satan works with backup (Matthew 12:26)
_____________________________________________
5. satan lives in the wilderness, where you must go to understand the protection, power, and Spirit of God (Mark 1:13)
_____________________________________________
6. satan is a lier (Acts 5:3)
_____________________________________________
7. satan is under our feet (Romans 16:20)
_____________________________________________
8. satan likes to gain the advantage (II Corinthians 2:11)
_____________________________________________
9. satan looks like an angel of light (II Corinthians 11:14)
_____________________________________________
10. satan will hinder you (I Thess. 2:18)
_____________________________________________
11. satan comes to destroy the people of this age (I Timothy 5:15)
_____________________________________________
Take a moment to identify and defeat satan in the following areas listed below:
Your Health:
Your Money:
Your Personal Life:
Your Marriage:
Your Children:
Your Job:
Your Mind:
Your Emotions:
Your Goals:
Your Dreams:
Your Church:
Your Mouth:
Your Decisions:
Your Past:
Your Family:
YOU HAVE ALREADY DEFEATED THE ENEMY IN THE WORD OF GOD!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
The 8 Levels of Praise & Worship
Teacher: Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, March 17th 2010
The Hebrew has eight words or levels of praise and worship, each one is distinctive and yet complimentary of the other. For study purposes I want to put them in alphabetical order; Barak, Halal , Shabach, Tehillah, Towdah, Yadah, Karar and Zamar.
Let us now take our time to explore further. Let us begin with the word BARAK.
Barak
The word Barak means to kneel or bow and bless God, to give reverence to God as an act of adoration. It is done with an attitude of anticipation. Throughout the Old Testament this word is continually used. Thoughts on the word 'bless' bring to mind all God through His Son Jesus Christ has done for us in the past and what He is doing presently. However, have we ever stopped to wonder how we can bless God? David in psalm 103: 1-2 tells us how, when he says: 'bless the Lord, o my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name...." . [Some bible translations use the word praise.] David continues on, by recalling and distinguishing all God has done. “Barak” praise can also be used as a form of prayer, as the word suggests kneeling and blessing God in worship or devotion. The song "father, we love you, we praise you, we adore you" is an expression of “Barak praise”. Scriptures to study are: Ps. 72:9 and Ps. 95.6.
Halal
Halal means to be boastful, excited and enjoying the greatness and goodness of God. It is the root word for hallelujah. While in this mode you are celebrating God in very much the same way you do when your local ‘soccer team’ or favourite contestant wins. It’s amazing how much energy goes into this display. Well, ‘halal’ is the way Christians should celebrate God’s goodness every day. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 104 -106 are good illustrations of this, 2 Chron. 20:19-21-21, Psalm 22:22-26, 111:1-3.
Shabach
This word Shaback is best illustrated in Psalm 117:1; 'o praise the lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.' As it is used here it means to speak highly of, to address in a loud tone, to command triumph, glory and to shout. This category of praise is also pictured in psalm 63:4. Terry Law in his book "the power of praise and worship" says this type of praise "makes the devil shut up". Scriptures to study are: Psalms 47:1, 63:3-4, 32:11, 65:13, 117:1, 35:27, 145:4, 147:12, 132:9.
Tehillah
Tehillah relates to singing and for all intents and purposes means singing our halals. Tehillah is portrayed in psalm 22:3 states that God dwells in the praises of Israel . [Most refer to it as “his people”.] It refers to a special kind of singing that is unrehearsed, unprepared and which today is referred to as "singing in the spirit". This exhibition of praise brings unity into the congregation and allows God to move in miraculous ways. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 34:1, 40:3, 66:2, 100:4, 22:3, 9:14, 33:1, 65:1, 147:1-2, 149:1-2, Isaiah 61:3 and 2 Chronicles 20:22.
Towdah
Towdah translated means 'thanksgiving' and involves the raising of hands in adoration. It suggests an attitude of sacrificial praise. In other words, we give thanks and praise before we receive from the Lord, and/or delivered out of a situation. We rejoice and thank God for his promises. Our praise and thanksgiving become a sacrifice unto the Lord when we are ill or in dire straits. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 50:14, 95:2, Colossians 4:2, 1 Timothy 4:4-5, Isaiah 51:3 and Amos 4:5.
Yadah
Yadah means to worship with extended hands and it signifies a deep surrender to God and a heart that desires to pay tribute to Him. Scriptures for study are: Psalms 100:4, 134:2, 27:1, 28:7, 33:2, 42:5, 44:8, and 141:2.
Zamar
In the Hebrew language there are several musical verbs, but the one that is predominant throughout the book of Psalms is called ‘Zamar’. It demonstrates music in praise to God and advocates that praise and music are similar. In the Old Testament the Hebrews used music as an expression of praise and worship. The popular praise & worship chorus: "let everything that has breath praise the lord" is really Psalm 150 set to music. Scriptures for study are: Psalms are 92:1-3, 81:1-2, and 1 Chronicles 15:16.
Karar
Karar is the Hebrew word for "dance". We should dance before the Lord like King David did in the Bible. The Bible says according to the following: Ps 149:3 - "Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp." Ps 150:4 - "Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs." Ecclesiastes 3:4 - "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance."
While I have shown the meaning of each level or word, it should be noted that in a lot of cases the levels are combined. A mixture of Barak, Karar and Zamar praise can be found in Psalms 98, 95 134 and 145. In Psalm 50 you will find a mix of Towdah and Yadah.
Written by: Ps. Rhema Williams
Edited by: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, March 17th 2010
The Hebrew has eight words or levels of praise and worship, each one is distinctive and yet complimentary of the other. For study purposes I want to put them in alphabetical order; Barak, Halal , Shabach, Tehillah, Towdah, Yadah, Karar and Zamar.
Let us now take our time to explore further. Let us begin with the word BARAK.
Barak
The word Barak means to kneel or bow and bless God, to give reverence to God as an act of adoration. It is done with an attitude of anticipation. Throughout the Old Testament this word is continually used. Thoughts on the word 'bless' bring to mind all God through His Son Jesus Christ has done for us in the past and what He is doing presently. However, have we ever stopped to wonder how we can bless God? David in psalm 103: 1-2 tells us how, when he says: 'bless the Lord, o my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name...." . [Some bible translations use the word praise.] David continues on, by recalling and distinguishing all God has done. “Barak” praise can also be used as a form of prayer, as the word suggests kneeling and blessing God in worship or devotion. The song "father, we love you, we praise you, we adore you" is an expression of “Barak praise”. Scriptures to study are: Ps. 72:9 and Ps. 95.6.
Halal
Halal means to be boastful, excited and enjoying the greatness and goodness of God. It is the root word for hallelujah. While in this mode you are celebrating God in very much the same way you do when your local ‘soccer team’ or favourite contestant wins. It’s amazing how much energy goes into this display. Well, ‘halal’ is the way Christians should celebrate God’s goodness every day. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 104 -106 are good illustrations of this, 2 Chron. 20:19-21-21, Psalm 22:22-26, 111:1-3.
Shabach
This word Shaback is best illustrated in Psalm 117:1; 'o praise the lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.' As it is used here it means to speak highly of, to address in a loud tone, to command triumph, glory and to shout. This category of praise is also pictured in psalm 63:4. Terry Law in his book "the power of praise and worship" says this type of praise "makes the devil shut up". Scriptures to study are: Psalms 47:1, 63:3-4, 32:11, 65:13, 117:1, 35:27, 145:4, 147:12, 132:9.
Tehillah
Tehillah relates to singing and for all intents and purposes means singing our halals. Tehillah is portrayed in psalm 22:3 states that God dwells in the praises of Israel . [Most refer to it as “his people”.] It refers to a special kind of singing that is unrehearsed, unprepared and which today is referred to as "singing in the spirit". This exhibition of praise brings unity into the congregation and allows God to move in miraculous ways. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 34:1, 40:3, 66:2, 100:4, 22:3, 9:14, 33:1, 65:1, 147:1-2, 149:1-2, Isaiah 61:3 and 2 Chronicles 20:22.
Towdah
Towdah translated means 'thanksgiving' and involves the raising of hands in adoration. It suggests an attitude of sacrificial praise. In other words, we give thanks and praise before we receive from the Lord, and/or delivered out of a situation. We rejoice and thank God for his promises. Our praise and thanksgiving become a sacrifice unto the Lord when we are ill or in dire straits. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 50:14, 95:2, Colossians 4:2, 1 Timothy 4:4-5, Isaiah 51:3 and Amos 4:5.
Yadah
Yadah means to worship with extended hands and it signifies a deep surrender to God and a heart that desires to pay tribute to Him. Scriptures for study are: Psalms 100:4, 134:2, 27:1, 28:7, 33:2, 42:5, 44:8, and 141:2.
Zamar
In the Hebrew language there are several musical verbs, but the one that is predominant throughout the book of Psalms is called ‘Zamar’. It demonstrates music in praise to God and advocates that praise and music are similar. In the Old Testament the Hebrews used music as an expression of praise and worship. The popular praise & worship chorus: "let everything that has breath praise the lord" is really Psalm 150 set to music. Scriptures for study are: Psalms are 92:1-3, 81:1-2, and 1 Chronicles 15:16.
Karar
Karar is the Hebrew word for "dance". We should dance before the Lord like King David did in the Bible. The Bible says according to the following: Ps 149:3 - "Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp." Ps 150:4 - "Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs." Ecclesiastes 3:4 - "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance."
While I have shown the meaning of each level or word, it should be noted that in a lot of cases the levels are combined. A mixture of Barak, Karar and Zamar praise can be found in Psalms 98, 95 134 and 145. In Psalm 50 you will find a mix of Towdah and Yadah.
Written by: Ps. Rhema Williams
Edited by: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Friday, March 5, 2010
5 Great Bible Covenants
Teacher: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, March 10th 2010
In form, a covenant is an agreement between two people and involves promises on the part of each to the other. The concept of a covenant between God and His people is one of the central themes of the Bible. In the Biblical sense, a covenant implies much more than a contract or a simple agreement between two parties. The word for "covenant" in the Old Testament also provides additional insight into the meaning of this important idea. It comes from a Hebrew root word that means "to cut." This explains the strange custom of two people passing through the cut bodies of slain animals after making an agreement (cf. Jer. 34:18). A ceremony such as this always accompanied the making of a covenant in the Old Testament. Sometimes those entering into a covenant shared a meal, such as when Laban and Jacob made their covenant (Gen. 31:54).
Abraham and his children were commanded to be circumcised as a "sign of covenant" between them and God (Gen. 17:10-11).
At Sinai, Moses sprinkled the blood of animals on the altar and upon the people who entered into covenant with God (Exo. 24:3-8).
The Old Testament contains many examples of covenants between people who related to each other as equals. For example, David and Jonathan entered into a covenant because of their love for each other -- this agreement bound each of them to certain responsibilities (1 Sam. 18:3).
The remarkable thing is that God is holy, omniscient, and omnipotent; but He consents to enter into covenant with man, who is feeble, sinful, and flawed. In this article, we want to examine five great covenants of the Bible.
1. God's Covenant With Noah
Centuries before the time of Abraham, God made a covenant with Noah, assuring Noah that He would never again destroy the world by flood (Gen. 9).
Noah lived at a time when the whole earth was filled with violence and corruption -- yet Noah did not allow the evil standards of his day to rob him of fellowship with God. He stood out as the only one who "walked with God" (Gen. 6:9), as was also true of his great-grandfather Enoch (Gen. 5:22). "Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations" (Gen. 6:9).
The Lord singled out Noah from among all his contemporaries and chose him as the man to accomplish a great work.
When God saw the wickedness that prevailed in the world (Gen. 6:5), He told Noah of His intention to destroy the ancient world by a universal flood. God instructed Noah to build an ark (a large barge) in which he and his family would survive the universal deluge. Noah believed God and "according to all that God commanded him, so he did" (Gen. 6:22).
Noah is listed among the heroes of faith. "By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith" (Heb. 11:7).
With steadfast confidence in God, Noah started building the ark. During this time, Noah continued to preach God's judgment and mercy, warning the ungodly of their approaching doom. Peter reminds us of how God "did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly" (2 Pet. 2:5).
Noah preached for 120 years, apparently without any converts. At the end of that time, "when ... the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah ... eight souls were saved through water" (1 Pet. 3:20).
People continued in their evil ways and ignored his pleadings and warnings until the flood overtook them. When the ark was ready, Noah entered in with all kinds of animals "and the Lord shut him in" (Gen. 7:16), cut off completely from the rest of mankind.
Noah was grateful to the Lord who had delivered him from the flood. After the flood, he built an altar to God (Gen. 8:20) and made a sacrifice, which was accepted graciously, for in it "the Lord smelled a soothing aroma" (Gen. 8:21).
The Lord promised Noah and his descendants that He would never destroy the world again with a universal flood (Gen. 9:15). The Lord made an everlasting covenant with Noah and his descendants, establishing the rainbow as the sign of His promise (Gen. 9:1-17).
Another part of the covenant involved the sanctity of human life, i.e., that "whoever sheds man's blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man" (Gen. 9:6). Every time we see a rainbow today we are reminded of that agreement -- this covenant has not been done away with. As long as God still sends rainbows after a storm, capital punishment will still be a part of God's law for the human race.
2. God's Covenant With Abraham
In making a covenant with Abraham, God promised to bless his descendants and make them His own special people -- in return, Abraham was to remain faithful to God and to serve as a channel through which God's blessings could flow to the rest of the world (Gen. 12:1-3).
Abraham's story begins with his passage with the rest of his family from Ur of the Chaldeans in ancient southern Babylonia (Gen. 11:31). He and his family moved north along the trade routes of the ancient world and settled in the prosperous trade center of Haran, several hundred miles to the northwest.
While living in Haran, at the age of 75, Abraham received a call from God to go to a strange, unknown land that God would show him. The Lord promised Abraham that He would make him and his descendants a great nation (Gen. 12:1-3). The promise must have seemed unbelievable to Abraham because his wife Sarah was childless (Gen. 11:30-31; 17:15). Abraham obeyed God with no hint of doubt or disbelief.
Abraham took his wife and his nephew, Lot, and went toward the land that God would show him. Abraham moved south along the trade routes from Haran, through Shechem and Bethel, to the land of Canaan. Canaan was a populated area at the time, inhabited by the war-like Canaanites; so, Abraham's belief that God would ultimately give this land to him and his descendants was an act of faith.
The circumstances seemed quite difficult, but Abraham's faith in God's promises allowed him to trust in the Lord. In Genesis 15, the Lord reaffirmed His promise to Abraham. The relationship between God and Abraham should be understood as a covenant relationship -- the most common form of arrangement between individuals in the ancient world. In this case, Abraham agreed to go to the land that God would show him (an act of faith on his part), and God agreed to make Abraham a great nation (Gen. 12:1-3).
In Genesis 15 Abraham became anxious about the promise of a nation being found in his descendants because of his advanced age -- and the Lord then reaffirmed the earlier covenant. A common practice of that time among heirless families was to adopt a slave who would inherit the master's goods. Therefore, because Abraham was childless, he proposed to make a slave, Eliezer of Damascus, his heir (Gen. 15:2). But God rejected this action and challenged Abraham's faith: "'Look now toward heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them.' And He said to him, 'So shall your descendants be'" (Gen. 15:5).
Abraham's response is the model of believing faith: "And he believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness" (Gen. 15:6). The rest of Genesis 15 consists of a ceremony between Abraham and God that was commonly used in the ancient world to formalize a covenant (Gen. 15:7-21). God repeated this covenant to Abraham' son, Isaac (Gen. 17:19). Stephen summarized the story in the book of Acts 7:1-8.
3. The Mosaic Covenant
The Israelites moved to Egypt during the time of Joseph. A new Pharaoh came upon the scene and turned the Israelites into common slaves. The people cried out to the God of their forefathers. "So God heard their groaning, and God remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob" (Exo. 2:24). After a series of ten plagues upon the land of Egypt, God brought the Israelites out "of Egypt with great power and with a mighty hand" (Exo. 32:11).
Three months after leaving the land of Egypt, the children of Israel camped at the base of Mount Sinai (Exo. 19:1). God promised to make a covenant with the Israelites (Exo. 19:3-6). Before they even knew the conditions of the contract, the people agreed to abide by whatever God said (Exo. 19:8).
This covenant was between God and the people of Israel -- you and I are not a party in this contract (and never have been). The Ten Commandments are the foundation of the covenant, but they are not the entirety of it.
After giving the first ten commands, the people asked the Lord to speak no more (Exo. 20:18-20). Moses then drew near to the presence of God to hear the rest of the covenant (Exo. 20:21). After receiving the Law, Moses spoke the words of the covenant to all of the people, and the people agreed to obey (Exo. 24:4).
Moses then wrote the conditions of the covenant down, offered sacrifices to God, and then sprinkled both the book and the people with blood to seal the covenant (Exo. 24:8).
This covenant between God and the people of Israel was temporary -- God promised a day when He would make a new covenant, not only with Israel but also with all mankind. "Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah -- not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people" (Jer. 31:31-34).
4. God's Covenant With David
Another covenant was between God and King David, in which David and his descendants were established as the royal heirs to the throne of the nation of Israel (2 Sam. 7:12-13).
This covenant agreement reached its fulfillment when Jesus, a descendant of the line of David, was born in Bethlehem. The gospel of Matthew starts off by showing Christ was "the Son of David" (Matt. 1:1), and thus He had the right to rule over God's people. Peter preached that Jesus Christ was a fulfillment of God's promise to David (Acts 2:29-36).
5. The Covenant Of Christ
The New Testament makes a clear distinction between the covenants of the Mosaic Law and the covenant of Promise. The apostle Paul spoke of these "two covenants," one originating "from Mount Sinai," the other from "the Jerusalem above" (Gal. 4:24-26). Paul also argued that the covenant established at Mount Sinai was a "ministry of death" and "condemnation" (2 Cor. 3:7, 9).
The death of Christ ushered in the new covenant under which we are justified by God's grace and mercy -- it is now possible to have the true forgiveness of sins. Jesus Himself is the Mediator of this better covenant between God and man (Heb. 9:15). Jesus' sacrificial death served as the oath, or pledge, which God made to us to seal this new covenant.
The "new covenant" is the new agreement God has made with mankind, based on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The concept of a new covenant originated with the promise of Jeremiah that God would accomplish for His people what the old covenant had failed to do (Jer. 31:31-34; Heb. 11:7-13). Under this new covenant, God would write His Law on human hearts.
When Jesus ate the Passover meal at the Last Supper with His disciples, He spoke of the cup and said, "this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins" (Matt. 26:28). Luke's account refers to this cup as symbolizing "the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you" (Luke 22:20).
When Paul recited the account he had received concerning the Last Supper, he quoted these words of Jesus about the cup as "the new covenant in My blood" (1 Cor. 11:25).
The Epistle to the Hebrews gives the new covenant more attention than any other book in the New Testament. It quotes the entire passage from Jeremiah 31:31-34 (Heb. 8:8-12). Jesus is referred to by the writer of Hebrews as "the Mediator of the new covenant" (Heb. 9:15; 12:24). The new covenant, a "better covenant ... established on better promises" (Heb. 8:6), rests directly on the sacrificial work of Christ.
The new covenant accomplished what the old could not, i.e., the removal of sin and cleansing of the conscience (Heb. 10:2, 22). The work of Jesus Christ on the cross thus makes the old covenant "obsolete" (Heb. 8:13) and fulfills the promise of the prophet Jeremiah.
Conclusion
Unlike the Mosaic covenant, the new covenant of Jesus Christ is intended for all mankind -- regardless of race. In the Great Commission Jesus sent His apostles into the entire world so they could tell the story of the cross (Luke 24:46-47; Matt. 28:18-20). The gospel call extends to every man and woman today!
Bible Study Outline By: David Padfield
Wednesday, March 10th 2010
In form, a covenant is an agreement between two people and involves promises on the part of each to the other. The concept of a covenant between God and His people is one of the central themes of the Bible. In the Biblical sense, a covenant implies much more than a contract or a simple agreement between two parties. The word for "covenant" in the Old Testament also provides additional insight into the meaning of this important idea. It comes from a Hebrew root word that means "to cut." This explains the strange custom of two people passing through the cut bodies of slain animals after making an agreement (cf. Jer. 34:18). A ceremony such as this always accompanied the making of a covenant in the Old Testament. Sometimes those entering into a covenant shared a meal, such as when Laban and Jacob made their covenant (Gen. 31:54).
Abraham and his children were commanded to be circumcised as a "sign of covenant" between them and God (Gen. 17:10-11).
At Sinai, Moses sprinkled the blood of animals on the altar and upon the people who entered into covenant with God (Exo. 24:3-8).
The Old Testament contains many examples of covenants between people who related to each other as equals. For example, David and Jonathan entered into a covenant because of their love for each other -- this agreement bound each of them to certain responsibilities (1 Sam. 18:3).
The remarkable thing is that God is holy, omniscient, and omnipotent; but He consents to enter into covenant with man, who is feeble, sinful, and flawed. In this article, we want to examine five great covenants of the Bible.
1. God's Covenant With Noah
Centuries before the time of Abraham, God made a covenant with Noah, assuring Noah that He would never again destroy the world by flood (Gen. 9).
Noah lived at a time when the whole earth was filled with violence and corruption -- yet Noah did not allow the evil standards of his day to rob him of fellowship with God. He stood out as the only one who "walked with God" (Gen. 6:9), as was also true of his great-grandfather Enoch (Gen. 5:22). "Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations" (Gen. 6:9).
The Lord singled out Noah from among all his contemporaries and chose him as the man to accomplish a great work.
When God saw the wickedness that prevailed in the world (Gen. 6:5), He told Noah of His intention to destroy the ancient world by a universal flood. God instructed Noah to build an ark (a large barge) in which he and his family would survive the universal deluge. Noah believed God and "according to all that God commanded him, so he did" (Gen. 6:22).
Noah is listed among the heroes of faith. "By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith" (Heb. 11:7).
With steadfast confidence in God, Noah started building the ark. During this time, Noah continued to preach God's judgment and mercy, warning the ungodly of their approaching doom. Peter reminds us of how God "did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly" (2 Pet. 2:5).
Noah preached for 120 years, apparently without any converts. At the end of that time, "when ... the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah ... eight souls were saved through water" (1 Pet. 3:20).
People continued in their evil ways and ignored his pleadings and warnings until the flood overtook them. When the ark was ready, Noah entered in with all kinds of animals "and the Lord shut him in" (Gen. 7:16), cut off completely from the rest of mankind.
Noah was grateful to the Lord who had delivered him from the flood. After the flood, he built an altar to God (Gen. 8:20) and made a sacrifice, which was accepted graciously, for in it "the Lord smelled a soothing aroma" (Gen. 8:21).
The Lord promised Noah and his descendants that He would never destroy the world again with a universal flood (Gen. 9:15). The Lord made an everlasting covenant with Noah and his descendants, establishing the rainbow as the sign of His promise (Gen. 9:1-17).
Another part of the covenant involved the sanctity of human life, i.e., that "whoever sheds man's blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man" (Gen. 9:6). Every time we see a rainbow today we are reminded of that agreement -- this covenant has not been done away with. As long as God still sends rainbows after a storm, capital punishment will still be a part of God's law for the human race.
2. God's Covenant With Abraham
In making a covenant with Abraham, God promised to bless his descendants and make them His own special people -- in return, Abraham was to remain faithful to God and to serve as a channel through which God's blessings could flow to the rest of the world (Gen. 12:1-3).
Abraham's story begins with his passage with the rest of his family from Ur of the Chaldeans in ancient southern Babylonia (Gen. 11:31). He and his family moved north along the trade routes of the ancient world and settled in the prosperous trade center of Haran, several hundred miles to the northwest.
While living in Haran, at the age of 75, Abraham received a call from God to go to a strange, unknown land that God would show him. The Lord promised Abraham that He would make him and his descendants a great nation (Gen. 12:1-3). The promise must have seemed unbelievable to Abraham because his wife Sarah was childless (Gen. 11:30-31; 17:15). Abraham obeyed God with no hint of doubt or disbelief.
Abraham took his wife and his nephew, Lot, and went toward the land that God would show him. Abraham moved south along the trade routes from Haran, through Shechem and Bethel, to the land of Canaan. Canaan was a populated area at the time, inhabited by the war-like Canaanites; so, Abraham's belief that God would ultimately give this land to him and his descendants was an act of faith.
The circumstances seemed quite difficult, but Abraham's faith in God's promises allowed him to trust in the Lord. In Genesis 15, the Lord reaffirmed His promise to Abraham. The relationship between God and Abraham should be understood as a covenant relationship -- the most common form of arrangement between individuals in the ancient world. In this case, Abraham agreed to go to the land that God would show him (an act of faith on his part), and God agreed to make Abraham a great nation (Gen. 12:1-3).
In Genesis 15 Abraham became anxious about the promise of a nation being found in his descendants because of his advanced age -- and the Lord then reaffirmed the earlier covenant. A common practice of that time among heirless families was to adopt a slave who would inherit the master's goods. Therefore, because Abraham was childless, he proposed to make a slave, Eliezer of Damascus, his heir (Gen. 15:2). But God rejected this action and challenged Abraham's faith: "'Look now toward heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them.' And He said to him, 'So shall your descendants be'" (Gen. 15:5).
Abraham's response is the model of believing faith: "And he believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness" (Gen. 15:6). The rest of Genesis 15 consists of a ceremony between Abraham and God that was commonly used in the ancient world to formalize a covenant (Gen. 15:7-21). God repeated this covenant to Abraham' son, Isaac (Gen. 17:19). Stephen summarized the story in the book of Acts 7:1-8.
3. The Mosaic Covenant
The Israelites moved to Egypt during the time of Joseph. A new Pharaoh came upon the scene and turned the Israelites into common slaves. The people cried out to the God of their forefathers. "So God heard their groaning, and God remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob" (Exo. 2:24). After a series of ten plagues upon the land of Egypt, God brought the Israelites out "of Egypt with great power and with a mighty hand" (Exo. 32:11).
Three months after leaving the land of Egypt, the children of Israel camped at the base of Mount Sinai (Exo. 19:1). God promised to make a covenant with the Israelites (Exo. 19:3-6). Before they even knew the conditions of the contract, the people agreed to abide by whatever God said (Exo. 19:8).
This covenant was between God and the people of Israel -- you and I are not a party in this contract (and never have been). The Ten Commandments are the foundation of the covenant, but they are not the entirety of it.
After giving the first ten commands, the people asked the Lord to speak no more (Exo. 20:18-20). Moses then drew near to the presence of God to hear the rest of the covenant (Exo. 20:21). After receiving the Law, Moses spoke the words of the covenant to all of the people, and the people agreed to obey (Exo. 24:4).
Moses then wrote the conditions of the covenant down, offered sacrifices to God, and then sprinkled both the book and the people with blood to seal the covenant (Exo. 24:8).
This covenant between God and the people of Israel was temporary -- God promised a day when He would make a new covenant, not only with Israel but also with all mankind. "Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah -- not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people" (Jer. 31:31-34).
4. God's Covenant With David
Another covenant was between God and King David, in which David and his descendants were established as the royal heirs to the throne of the nation of Israel (2 Sam. 7:12-13).
This covenant agreement reached its fulfillment when Jesus, a descendant of the line of David, was born in Bethlehem. The gospel of Matthew starts off by showing Christ was "the Son of David" (Matt. 1:1), and thus He had the right to rule over God's people. Peter preached that Jesus Christ was a fulfillment of God's promise to David (Acts 2:29-36).
5. The Covenant Of Christ
The New Testament makes a clear distinction between the covenants of the Mosaic Law and the covenant of Promise. The apostle Paul spoke of these "two covenants," one originating "from Mount Sinai," the other from "the Jerusalem above" (Gal. 4:24-26). Paul also argued that the covenant established at Mount Sinai was a "ministry of death" and "condemnation" (2 Cor. 3:7, 9).
The death of Christ ushered in the new covenant under which we are justified by God's grace and mercy -- it is now possible to have the true forgiveness of sins. Jesus Himself is the Mediator of this better covenant between God and man (Heb. 9:15). Jesus' sacrificial death served as the oath, or pledge, which God made to us to seal this new covenant.
The "new covenant" is the new agreement God has made with mankind, based on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The concept of a new covenant originated with the promise of Jeremiah that God would accomplish for His people what the old covenant had failed to do (Jer. 31:31-34; Heb. 11:7-13). Under this new covenant, God would write His Law on human hearts.
When Jesus ate the Passover meal at the Last Supper with His disciples, He spoke of the cup and said, "this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins" (Matt. 26:28). Luke's account refers to this cup as symbolizing "the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you" (Luke 22:20).
When Paul recited the account he had received concerning the Last Supper, he quoted these words of Jesus about the cup as "the new covenant in My blood" (1 Cor. 11:25).
The Epistle to the Hebrews gives the new covenant more attention than any other book in the New Testament. It quotes the entire passage from Jeremiah 31:31-34 (Heb. 8:8-12). Jesus is referred to by the writer of Hebrews as "the Mediator of the new covenant" (Heb. 9:15; 12:24). The new covenant, a "better covenant ... established on better promises" (Heb. 8:6), rests directly on the sacrificial work of Christ.
The new covenant accomplished what the old could not, i.e., the removal of sin and cleansing of the conscience (Heb. 10:2, 22). The work of Jesus Christ on the cross thus makes the old covenant "obsolete" (Heb. 8:13) and fulfills the promise of the prophet Jeremiah.
Conclusion
Unlike the Mosaic covenant, the new covenant of Jesus Christ is intended for all mankind -- regardless of race. In the Great Commission Jesus sent His apostles into the entire world so they could tell the story of the cross (Luke 24:46-47; Matt. 28:18-20). The gospel call extends to every man and woman today!
Bible Study Outline By: David Padfield
Thursday, March 4, 2010
7 Churches of Asia Minor
(Book of Revelation)
EPHESUS: THE APOSTOLIC (POWERFUL) CHURCH
"Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God." (Revelation 2:1-7)
_____________________________________
SMYRNA - THE SUFFERING CHURCH
"And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt
of the second death" (Revelation 2:8-11)
_____________________________________
PERGAMOS - THE COMPROMISED CHURCH
“And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I
give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it" (Revelation 2:12-17)
_____________________________________
THYATIRA - THE CHURCH SETTLED IN SIN
“And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to
your works. But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” (Revelation 2:18-29)
_____________________________________
SARDIS - THE DEAD CHURCH
"And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches" (Revelation 3:1-6)
_____________________________________
PHILADELPHIA - THE FUNDAMENTAL CHURCH
"And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. He that hath an ear, let
him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches" (Revelation 3:7-13)
_____________________________________
LAODICEA - THE CHURCH CHRIST SPEWS OUT
"And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit
saith unto the churches" (Revelation 3:14-22)
_____________________________________
I have a question:
Which Church are you?
Your Answer:_________________________
EPHESUS: THE APOSTOLIC (POWERFUL) CHURCH
"Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God." (Revelation 2:1-7)
_____________________________________
SMYRNA - THE SUFFERING CHURCH
"And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt
of the second death" (Revelation 2:8-11)
_____________________________________
PERGAMOS - THE COMPROMISED CHURCH
“And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I
give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it" (Revelation 2:12-17)
_____________________________________
THYATIRA - THE CHURCH SETTLED IN SIN
“And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to
your works. But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” (Revelation 2:18-29)
_____________________________________
SARDIS - THE DEAD CHURCH
"And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches" (Revelation 3:1-6)
_____________________________________
PHILADELPHIA - THE FUNDAMENTAL CHURCH
"And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. He that hath an ear, let
him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches" (Revelation 3:7-13)
_____________________________________
LAODICEA - THE CHURCH CHRIST SPEWS OUT
"And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit
saith unto the churches" (Revelation 3:14-22)
_____________________________________
I have a question:
Which Church are you?
Your Answer:_________________________
Paul Anointed to Publicly Rebuking Demonic Compliment & keep Godly Kingdom Integrity
Acts Chapter 16
“Paul Anointed to Publicly Rebuking Demonic Compliment & keep Godly Kingdom Integrity”
Please read & fill in the blanks: Acts 16:16-21
The Excellence of Discerning your Environment both spiritual and natural!
Verse: 16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:
17 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the _______ of the _______ ______ ______, which shew unto us the way of salvation. 18 And this
did she ______ _______. But Paul, being grieved, turned and _______ to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to _____ ______ of her. And he _____
_____ the same hour. 19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the
rulers, 20 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly _______ ______ _______, 21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.
Notice:
Jesus treated cases of demonic possession as realities. He is not only described as "rebuking," "commanding," and "casting out" the unclean spirits, but His direct addresses to them are recorded. In (Mark 5:8-12) and (Matt. 8:28-32) Jesus addresses the demons who are called "Legion," commanding them to leave and finally granting them permission to enter a nearby herd of swine. Again , He directly addressed the unclean spirit: "Be quiet, and come out of him!"
Acts 19:15 – Demons should know your name and should see you as a threat!
“And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?”
Mark 3:15 – You must have the Power of God backing you – to cast out demons! “And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast of devils”
Read: Matt 12:22-37 / Mark 3:19-30 / Luke 11:14-20 More
Information of Demons:
Demon-possessed
Demon – Possessed: "to be under the power of a demon," rendered "demon possessed" or "demoniac").
A term frequently used in the NT of one under the influence of a demon. The verb "to be demonized" occurs, in one form or another, seven times in Matthew, four times in Mark, once in Luke, and once in John.
He is not only described as "rebuking," "commanding," and "casting out" the unclean spirits, but His direct addresses to them are recorded. In (Mark 5:8-12) and (Matt. 8:28-32) Jesus addresses the demons who are called "Legion," commanding them to leave and finally granting them permission to enter a nearby herd of swine. Again , He directly addressed the unclean spirit: "Be quiet, and come out of him!"
Clearly demonism was regarded by our Lord as reality.
Satan
Satan: The chief of fallen spirits. Satan is also called the devil, the dragon, the evil one, the angel of the abyss, the ruler of this world, the prince of the power of the air, the god of this world, Apollyon, Abaddon, Belial, and Beelzebub. But Satan and the devil are the names most frequently given.
Satan is mentioned first in the book of (Job 1:6-12; 2:1-7). He appears with the sons of God (angels), among whom he no longer has any rightful place; he arbitrarily roams about and seeks his own but is still used as a servant by God, on whom he remains dependent. His independent activity in this passage is mainly that of the spy of evil, of the accuser of man to God.
Job was delivered into the hands of Satan for testing. Satan's intention was to prove that Job had strings attached to his love for God. Job was faithful.
In the OT Satan never appears openly as the enemy of God Himself. One scholar said it this way, "Though he has his special purposes and aims, he is yet the servant of God for punishment or trial, the asserter or executor of the negative side of the divine justice."
In the NT there is mention of many evil spirits, with Satan as their head (Mt 8:28; 9:34; 12:26; Lk 11:18-19). Jesus said the enemy is the devil (13:19,39; Mark 4:15), and that Satan was a murderer from the beginning (Jn 8:44), the enemy and falsifier of God's Word (Mt 13:19,39); that he aroused hatred to Jesus and put treason into the heart of Judas (Jn 13:27, 6:70; Lk 22:53); that the prince of this world is already judged by Christ, or, as Luke puts it, Satan falls "from heaven like lightning" (10:18).
God will allow rebelion to run its full course and defeat it.
The Devil Is Defeated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
“Paul Anointed to Publicly Rebuking Demonic Compliment & keep Godly Kingdom Integrity”
Please read & fill in the blanks: Acts 16:16-21
The Excellence of Discerning your Environment both spiritual and natural!
Verse: 16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:
17 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the _______ of the _______ ______ ______, which shew unto us the way of salvation. 18 And this
did she ______ _______. But Paul, being grieved, turned and _______ to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to _____ ______ of her. And he _____
_____ the same hour. 19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the
rulers, 20 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly _______ ______ _______, 21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.
Notice:
Jesus treated cases of demonic possession as realities. He is not only described as "rebuking," "commanding," and "casting out" the unclean spirits, but His direct addresses to them are recorded. In (Mark 5:8-12) and (Matt. 8:28-32) Jesus addresses the demons who are called "Legion," commanding them to leave and finally granting them permission to enter a nearby herd of swine. Again , He directly addressed the unclean spirit: "Be quiet, and come out of him!"
Acts 19:15 – Demons should know your name and should see you as a threat!
“And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?”
Mark 3:15 – You must have the Power of God backing you – to cast out demons! “And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast of devils”
Read: Matt 12:22-37 / Mark 3:19-30 / Luke 11:14-20 More
Information of Demons:
Demon-possessed
Demon – Possessed: "to be under the power of a demon," rendered "demon possessed" or "demoniac").
A term frequently used in the NT of one under the influence of a demon. The verb "to be demonized" occurs, in one form or another, seven times in Matthew, four times in Mark, once in Luke, and once in John.
He is not only described as "rebuking," "commanding," and "casting out" the unclean spirits, but His direct addresses to them are recorded. In (Mark 5:8-12) and (Matt. 8:28-32) Jesus addresses the demons who are called "Legion," commanding them to leave and finally granting them permission to enter a nearby herd of swine. Again , He directly addressed the unclean spirit: "Be quiet, and come out of him!"
Clearly demonism was regarded by our Lord as reality.
Satan
Satan: The chief of fallen spirits. Satan is also called the devil, the dragon, the evil one, the angel of the abyss, the ruler of this world, the prince of the power of the air, the god of this world, Apollyon, Abaddon, Belial, and Beelzebub. But Satan and the devil are the names most frequently given.
Satan is mentioned first in the book of (Job 1:6-12; 2:1-7). He appears with the sons of God (angels), among whom he no longer has any rightful place; he arbitrarily roams about and seeks his own but is still used as a servant by God, on whom he remains dependent. His independent activity in this passage is mainly that of the spy of evil, of the accuser of man to God.
Job was delivered into the hands of Satan for testing. Satan's intention was to prove that Job had strings attached to his love for God. Job was faithful.
In the OT Satan never appears openly as the enemy of God Himself. One scholar said it this way, "Though he has his special purposes and aims, he is yet the servant of God for punishment or trial, the asserter or executor of the negative side of the divine justice."
In the NT there is mention of many evil spirits, with Satan as their head (Mt 8:28; 9:34; 12:26; Lk 11:18-19). Jesus said the enemy is the devil (13:19,39; Mark 4:15), and that Satan was a murderer from the beginning (Jn 8:44), the enemy and falsifier of God's Word (Mt 13:19,39); that he aroused hatred to Jesus and put treason into the heart of Judas (Jn 13:27, 6:70; Lk 22:53); that the prince of this world is already judged by Christ, or, as Luke puts it, Satan falls "from heaven like lightning" (10:18).
God will allow rebelion to run its full course and defeat it.
The Devil Is Defeated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Old Testament Feast in the Bible
1. Feast of Tabernacles:(Ex 23:16; 34:22, Lev 23:33-36; 39-43; Num 29:12-32; Deut 16:13-16; Ezra 3:4); and (Zech 14:16,18-19)
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2. Feast of Pentecost “Fest of Weeks” 50 days after Passover begins. Ex. 23:18, 34:22, Lev. 23:15-21, Num. 28:26-31, Deut. 16:9-12
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3. Feast of Dedication: II Chronicles 7:9 / John 10:22
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4. Feast of Lots: Purim (Heb. purim, "lots,")
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5. Feast of Trumpets: This festival is mentioned in (Lev 23:24-25,27-32) and (Num 29:1-40)
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2. Feast of Pentecost “Fest of Weeks” 50 days after Passover begins. Ex. 23:18, 34:22, Lev. 23:15-21, Num. 28:26-31, Deut. 16:9-12
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3. Feast of Dedication: II Chronicles 7:9 / John 10:22
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4. Feast of Lots: Purim (Heb. purim, "lots,"
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5. Feast of Trumpets: This festival is mentioned in (Lev 23:24-25,27-32) and (Num 29:1-40)
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Areas To Be Tested & Held Accountable For at the Judgment Seat of Christ
1. Hebrews 6:10; Matthew 10:41-42
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2. Hebrews 13:17; James 3:1
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3. I Corinthians 12:4; 11; II Timothy 1:6; I Peter 4:10
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4. I Corinthians 16:2; II Corinthians 9:6-7; I Timothy 6:17-19
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5. Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 4:5; I Peter 1:17
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6. Matthew5:11-12; Mark 10:29-30; Romans 8:18; II Corinthians 4:17; I Peter 4:12-13
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7. I Corinthians 9:24; Philippians 2:16; Philippians 3:13-14; Hebrews 12:1
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8. I Corinthians 9:25-27
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9. Proverbs 11:30; Daniel 12:3; I Thessalonians 2:19-20
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10. James 1:2-3; Revelation 2:10
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11. II Timothy 4:8-9
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12. Acts 20:26-28; II Timothy 4:1-2; I Peter 5:2-4
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2. Hebrews 13:17; James 3:1
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3. I Corinthians 12:4; 11; II Timothy 1:6; I Peter 4:10
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4. I Corinthians 16:2; II Corinthians 9:6-7; I Timothy 6:17-19
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5. Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 4:5; I Peter 1:17
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6. Matthew5:11-12; Mark 10:29-30; Romans 8:18; II Corinthians 4:17; I Peter 4:12-13
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7. I Corinthians 9:24; Philippians 2:16; Philippians 3:13-14; Hebrews 12:1
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8. I Corinthians 9:25-27
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9. Proverbs 11:30; Daniel 12:3; I Thessalonians 2:19-20
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10. James 1:2-3; Revelation 2:10
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11. II Timothy 4:8-9
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12. Acts 20:26-28; II Timothy 4:1-2; I Peter 5:2-4
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The Power of Reconciliation
II Corinthians 5:18-21
“18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
Matthew 6:12
“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”
Matthew 6:14-15
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Mattew 18:21-22
“21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”
Mark 11:25
“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”
Luke 6:37
“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:”
2Co 2:10 -
“To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;”
“18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
Matthew 6:12
“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”
Matthew 6:14-15
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Mattew 18:21-22
“21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”
Mark 11:25
“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”
Luke 6:37
“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:”
2Co 2:10 -
“To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;”
The Power of a Teachable Spirit
I often hear people say: “LORD take me to another level” but I never hear people say: “LORD enlarge me to be more teachable”. Our next level is linked to us having a greater and enlarged teachable spirit to be able to receive instructions, wisdom, correction, and guidance in righteousness. If you join a church and have a pastor or a mentor please go to receive – and with this comes treasures forever more.
Here are scriptures to get you started:
Ac 28:31 -
Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
Ro 2:21 -
Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?
Ro 12:7 -
Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
1Co 2:13 -
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
1Co 4:17 -
For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.
1Co 14:19 -
Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
Ga 6:6 -
Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
Eph 4:11 -
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
2Ti 1:11 -
Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
2Ti 2:2 -
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
2Ti 2:24 -
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
2Ti 4:3 -
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
Col 1:28 -
Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
Question & Answer:
1. ”Why” is it difficult for people to be teachable, not looking at the teacher but rather focusing “on the why” regarding the person and their inadequacies?
2. How do a person reach a better mindset regarding being more teachable?
3. Can you be an effective teacher and not be teachable?
4. Does the Kingdom of God need teachable people? Why?
5. Should the pastor be teachable?
6. Should every leader in life be teachable?
7. Is it a fact that, teachable people are normally very humble? Why?
8. Should everyone be yielded to listen and be submitted to receive the doctrine or “teaching” of a “better and more excellent way” outlined by the Bible regarding our life? Why?
9. Do teachable people make great leaders? Why?
* What can you do for the rest of this year, that would cause you to be more teachable in order to grow to another level in God:
Here are scriptures to get you started:
Ac 28:31 -
Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
Ro 2:21 -
Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?
Ro 12:7 -
Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
1Co 2:13 -
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
1Co 4:17 -
For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.
1Co 14:19 -
Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
Ga 6:6 -
Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
Eph 4:11 -
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
2Ti 1:11 -
Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
2Ti 2:2 -
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
2Ti 2:24 -
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
2Ti 4:3 -
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
Col 1:28 -
Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
Question & Answer:
1. ”Why” is it difficult for people to be teachable, not looking at the teacher but rather focusing “on the why” regarding the person and their inadequacies?
2. How do a person reach a better mindset regarding being more teachable?
3. Can you be an effective teacher and not be teachable?
4. Does the Kingdom of God need teachable people? Why?
5. Should the pastor be teachable?
6. Should every leader in life be teachable?
7. Is it a fact that, teachable people are normally very humble? Why?
8. Should everyone be yielded to listen and be submitted to receive the doctrine or “teaching” of a “better and more excellent way” outlined by the Bible regarding our life? Why?
9. Do teachable people make great leaders? Why?
* What can you do for the rest of this year, that would cause you to be more teachable in order to grow to another level in God:
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
Who is the Holy Spirit?
Holy Spirit is a person and not a force.
Characteristics of Holy Spirit:
• Omniscient, Intelligence (1 Cor 2:10-11)
• Omnipotent, creator (Gen 1:2)
• Omnipresence (Ps 139:7)
• Wisdom (Isa 40:13)
• Holiness (Luke 11:13)
• Feelings (Eph 4:30)
• Will (1 Cor 12:11)
Works of Holy Spirit:
• Teaches (John 14:26)
• Guides (Rom 8:14)
• Commissions (Acts 13:4)
• Commands (Acts 8:29)
• Restrains (Gen 6:3)
• Intercedes (Rom 8:26)
• Speaks (john 15:26, 2 Pet 1:21)
Man’s response to Holy Spirit:
• Obeyed (Acts 10:19-21)
• Lied to (Acts 5:3)
• Resisted (Acts 7:51)
• Revered (Ps 51:11)
• Blasphemed (Matt 12:31)
• Grieved (Eph. 4:30)
• Outraged (Heb 10:29)
Holy Spirit is an equal in deity with the Father and the Son and not a subordinate:
• Named with other persons of Trinity (Acts 5:3-4, Matt 28:19, 2 Cor 13,14)
• All knowing, all powerful, eternal (see Characteristics above)
• Begetting Christ (Luke 1:35)
• Convicting men (John 16:8)
• Regenerating men (John 3:5-6)
• Comforting / helping (John 14:16)
• Interceding (Rom 8:26-27)
• Sanctifying (2 Thess 2:13)
Holy Spirit is a person and not a force.
Characteristics of Holy Spirit:
• Omniscient, Intelligence (1 Cor 2:10-11)
• Omnipotent, creator (Gen 1:2)
• Omnipresence (Ps 139:7)
• Wisdom (Isa 40:13)
• Holiness (Luke 11:13)
• Feelings (Eph 4:30)
• Will (1 Cor 12:11)
Works of Holy Spirit:
• Teaches (John 14:26)
• Guides (Rom 8:14)
• Commissions (Acts 13:4)
• Commands (Acts 8:29)
• Restrains (Gen 6:3)
• Intercedes (Rom 8:26)
• Speaks (john 15:26, 2 Pet 1:21)
Man’s response to Holy Spirit:
• Obeyed (Acts 10:19-21)
• Lied to (Acts 5:3)
• Resisted (Acts 7:51)
• Revered (Ps 51:11)
• Blasphemed (Matt 12:31)
• Grieved (Eph. 4:30)
• Outraged (Heb 10:29)
Holy Spirit is an equal in deity with the Father and the Son and not a subordinate:
• Named with other persons of Trinity (Acts 5:3-4, Matt 28:19, 2 Cor 13,14)
• All knowing, all powerful, eternal (see Characteristics above)
• Begetting Christ (Luke 1:35)
• Convicting men (John 16:8)
• Regenerating men (John 3:5-6)
• Comforting / helping (John 14:16)
• Interceding (Rom 8:26-27)
• Sanctifying (2 Thess 2:13)
The Power of Prosperity is: Love
1. I Kings 5:3 (Solomon the King truly loved the Lord with high degree)
“And Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father: only he sacrificed and burnt incense in high places.”
2. I Kings 5:4 (Solomon the King was faithful and committed at bring burnt offerings and offering them in high degree)
“And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar.”
3. I Kings 5:5 (The Lord sought out Solomon to give him the desires of his heart for his faithfulness and giving heart of excellence)
“In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.”
4. I Kings 5:9 (Solomon asked for wisdom and God gave him wisdom and prosperity due to Solomon’s love toward God)
“Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people? 10 And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. 11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; 12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. 13 And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.”
5. Matthew 6:21 / Luke 12:34 (Solomon’s heart was totally toward God and God’s heart was totally toward Solomon’s desire) Here is a scripture that speaks toward the revelation of the heart:
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
6. Luke 6:38 (We must give out of love like God gave out of love to save us by offering the greatest offering – His only Son “Jesus Christ” for our sins and eternal life / This is the Power of GIVING) John 3:16
Please review this scripture:
“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”
7. Genesis 26:12 – (You must love to sow in order to expect a good harvest)
“Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him.”
8. Ecclesiastes 10:19 – (Money answereth all things regarding the good supply of this world but God answereth all concerns that things cannot solve)
God comes first regarding all concerns and money comes according to its intended purpose of things (which comes from God) regarding the desires and necessities of this world:
“A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things.”
1Corinthatins 13:13 – (Charity/Love is the greatest gift of all that produces and becomes the vain by which prosperity follows) LOVE!
“And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.”
“And Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father: only he sacrificed and burnt incense in high places.”
2. I Kings 5:4 (Solomon the King was faithful and committed at bring burnt offerings and offering them in high degree)
“And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar.”
3. I Kings 5:5 (The Lord sought out Solomon to give him the desires of his heart for his faithfulness and giving heart of excellence)
“In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.”
4. I Kings 5:9 (Solomon asked for wisdom and God gave him wisdom and prosperity due to Solomon’s love toward God)
“Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people? 10 And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. 11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; 12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. 13 And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.”
5. Matthew 6:21 / Luke 12:34 (Solomon’s heart was totally toward God and God’s heart was totally toward Solomon’s desire) Here is a scripture that speaks toward the revelation of the heart:
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
6. Luke 6:38 (We must give out of love like God gave out of love to save us by offering the greatest offering – His only Son “Jesus Christ” for our sins and eternal life / This is the Power of GIVING) John 3:16
Please review this scripture:
“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”
7. Genesis 26:12 – (You must love to sow in order to expect a good harvest)
“Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him.”
8. Ecclesiastes 10:19 – (Money answereth all things regarding the good supply of this world but God answereth all concerns that things cannot solve)
God comes first regarding all concerns and money comes according to its intended purpose of things (which comes from God) regarding the desires and necessities of this world:
“A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things.”
1Corinthatins 13:13 – (Charity/Love is the greatest gift of all that produces and becomes the vain by which prosperity follows) LOVE!
“And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.”
The Power of the Mind
You Need a HEAD Check!
Discovering the Power of the Mind to overcome the waves of this world to give God the glory!
Php 4:8 - (We must be sure to steward the way the we think)
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Eph 3:20 - (Asking & Thinking work together in the plan of God)
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
1Pe 4:12 – (The scriptures are also designed to cultivate your thinking about even trials that come)
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
Lu 12:40 - (Jesus is coming soon at an hour you think not)
Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.
Joh 16:2 - (Make sure your thinking regarding God is TRUE)
They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.
Ro 12:3 – (Don’t blow yourself up, you may not be all of that like you think)
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
Ac 17:29 – (Don’t put God in the same category with money and silver, He’s bigger then that)
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.
Jer 29:11 – (God wants you to think of yourself like He does toward you)
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
Jer 17:9 – (Only God can reveal the true nature of the heart of mind)
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
Ro 1:28 - (This is the worst mental condition in the world)
And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient (or holy, lawful, just, appropriate);
Ro 7:25 – (We must serve the Lord with our Mind, Heart & Soul)
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Ro 7:23 - (The Mind Vs. the Flesh at war)
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
Ro 8:5 – (The Mind of the Flesh Vs. the Spirit)
For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
Ro 8:7 – (The carnal mind is an enemy to the will go God and has not hope)
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.
Ro 12:16 - (Operate in Unity of Mind)
Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
Ro 15:6 - (One Mind to Glorify God)
That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Php 2:5 – (You must possess the Mind of Christ)
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Discovering the Power of the Mind to overcome the waves of this world to give God the glory!
Php 4:8 - (We must be sure to steward the way the we think)
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Eph 3:20 - (Asking & Thinking work together in the plan of God)
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
1Pe 4:12 – (The scriptures are also designed to cultivate your thinking about even trials that come)
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
Lu 12:40 - (Jesus is coming soon at an hour you think not)
Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.
Joh 16:2 - (Make sure your thinking regarding God is TRUE)
They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.
Ro 12:3 – (Don’t blow yourself up, you may not be all of that like you think)
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
Ac 17:29 – (Don’t put God in the same category with money and silver, He’s bigger then that)
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.
Jer 29:11 – (God wants you to think of yourself like He does toward you)
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
Jer 17:9 – (Only God can reveal the true nature of the heart of mind)
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
Ro 1:28 - (This is the worst mental condition in the world)
And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient (or holy, lawful, just, appropriate);
Ro 7:25 – (We must serve the Lord with our Mind, Heart & Soul)
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Ro 7:23 - (The Mind Vs. the Flesh at war)
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
Ro 8:5 – (The Mind of the Flesh Vs. the Spirit)
For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
Ro 8:7 – (The carnal mind is an enemy to the will go God and has not hope)
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.
Ro 12:16 - (Operate in Unity of Mind)
Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
Ro 15:6 - (One Mind to Glorify God)
That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Php 2:5 – (You must possess the Mind of Christ)
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
The Responsibility of Stewardship in the Kingdom
The Church * The Apostle * Their Wealth
Acts 4:32-37
Acts 4:32 – (The Church must operate in the Power of Unity having one heart and one soul toward the vision having all things in common concerning the mission)
32. Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.
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Acts 4:33 – (The Apostle is a church planter (Ex. Paul) called to do the work of ministry to spread the gospel of the glorious power of Jesus Christ)
33. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.
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Acts 4:34 – (Christians are ordained to be wealthy, to have both lands and houses to offer unto God’s work/Church as they also live a prosperous life)
34. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,
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Acts 4:35 – (The People of God took care of the Man of God (Apostle or Pastor) first and then took care of their house)
35. and laid them at the apostles' feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.
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Acts 4:36 – (The Feet of the Preacher is precious in the sight of God because the call of carrying the Gospel from people to people comes with great blessings and with great opposition to which it is holy and customary to lay money at the Apostles feet)
36. And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37.having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.
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Acts 4:32-37
Acts 4:32 – (The Church must operate in the Power of Unity having one heart and one soul toward the vision having all things in common concerning the mission)
32. Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.
_______________________________________________
Acts 4:33 – (The Apostle is a church planter (Ex. Paul) called to do the work of ministry to spread the gospel of the glorious power of Jesus Christ)
33. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.
_________________________________________________
Acts 4:34 – (Christians are ordained to be wealthy, to have both lands and houses to offer unto God’s work/Church as they also live a prosperous life)
34. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,
__________________________________________________
Acts 4:35 – (The People of God took care of the Man of God (Apostle or Pastor) first and then took care of their house)
35. and laid them at the apostles' feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.
___________________________________________________
Acts 4:36 – (The Feet of the Preacher is precious in the sight of God because the call of carrying the Gospel from people to people comes with great blessings and with great opposition to which it is holy and customary to lay money at the Apostles feet)
36. And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37.having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.
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Exposing the 7 idols that hinder a Person from being a committed Tither
Theme Scripture: Malachi 3:8
1. The idol of: YOU!
Eze 6:5 – (There is nothing wrong with you but you can’t make yourself into a god) “And I will lay the dead carcases of the children of Israel before their idols; and I will scatter your bones round about your altars.”
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2. The idol of: a CAR!
Ps 106:36 – (There is nothing wrong with a car but don’t make a god out of it)“And they served their idols: which were a snare unto them.”
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3. The idol of: HAIR & NAILS!
Le 19:4 – (There is nothing wrong with hair and nails but don’t make a god out of them) “Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God.”
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4. The idol of: SHOPPING!
Ps 115:4 – (There is nothing wrong with “things” but don’t make a god out of them) “Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands.”
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5. The idol of: FOOD!
Isa 2:8 - (There is nothing wrong with food but don’t make a god out of it)
“Their land also is full of idols; they worship the work of their own hands, that which their own fingers have made: “
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6. The idol of: a HOUSE!
De 29:17 – (There is nothing wrong with a house but don’t make a god out of it)
“And ye have seen their abominations, and their idols, wood and stone, silver and gold, which were among them)”
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7. The idol of: SIN! (ex. Internet surfing etc.)
Isa 45:16 – (There is nothing wrong with technology but don’t make a god out of them)
“They shall be ashamed, and also confounded, all of them: they shall go to confusion together that are makers of idols.”
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The Definition of “Idolatry” is: blind or excessive devotion to something. / Read: Matthew 6:33
1. The idol of: YOU!
Eze 6:5 – (There is nothing wrong with you but you can’t make yourself into a god) “And I will lay the dead carcases of the children of Israel before their idols; and I will scatter your bones round about your altars.”
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2. The idol of: a CAR!
Ps 106:36 – (There is nothing wrong with a car but don’t make a god out of it)“And they served their idols: which were a snare unto them.”
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3. The idol of: HAIR & NAILS!
Le 19:4 – (There is nothing wrong with hair and nails but don’t make a god out of them) “Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God.”
_____________________________________________
4. The idol of: SHOPPING!
Ps 115:4 – (There is nothing wrong with “things” but don’t make a god out of them) “Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands.”
_____________________________________________
5. The idol of: FOOD!
Isa 2:8 - (There is nothing wrong with food but don’t make a god out of it)
“Their land also is full of idols; they worship the work of their own hands, that which their own fingers have made: “
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6. The idol of: a HOUSE!
De 29:17 – (There is nothing wrong with a house but don’t make a god out of it)
“And ye have seen their abominations, and their idols, wood and stone, silver and gold, which were among them)”
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7. The idol of: SIN! (ex. Internet surfing etc.)
Isa 45:16 – (There is nothing wrong with technology but don’t make a god out of them)
“They shall be ashamed, and also confounded, all of them: they shall go to confusion together that are makers of idols.”
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The Definition of “Idolatry” is: blind or excessive devotion to something. / Read: Matthew 6:33
Overcoming Being Offended
“Overcoming being Offended” is a subject that most Christians struggle with. All believers will be offended be people in general whether Christian or not. We must look at the bigger picture that God is counting on us not to engage in the spirit of being offended. Most of the time we are offended over trivial issues.
It’s time to grow up!
Scripture References:
Proverbs 18:19 -
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
Matthew 24:10 -
And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
Matthew 26:31 -
Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.
Matthew 26:33 -
Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.
What can you do to overcome being offended?
It’s time to grow up!
Scripture References:
Proverbs 18:19 -
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
Matthew 24:10 -
And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
Matthew 26:31 -
Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.
Matthew 26:33 -
Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.
What can you do to overcome being offended?
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