WHEN JESUS CLEANS HOUSE

John 2:12-25

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. WHEN JESUS CLEANS HOUSE IT IS NECESSARY [v. 12-17]

1. The Sad Situation [v. 12-14]

2. The Son’s Solution [v. 15-16]

3. The Scriptural Sanction [v. 17, Ps. 69:9]

For the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up; and the reproaches of them that reproached thee are fallen upon me.

 

II. WHEN JESUS CLEANS HOUSE IT IS NEEDFUL [v. 18-21]

1. The Need is Shown by the Ironic Question [v. 18]

2. The Need is Shown by the Prophetic Answer [v. 19]

3. The Need is Shown by the Spirit’s Explanation [v. 20-21]

Jesus’ answer was “intended to reveal truth to the faithful and to hid it from the hostile.” – H.H. Hobbs

 

III. WHEN JESUS CLEANS HOUSE IT IS KNOWLEDGEABLE [v. 22-25]

1. He Knows the Power of His Word [v. 22]

2. He Knows the Power of His Work [v. 23]

3. He Knows the Pattern of Mankind [v. 24-25]

BROTHERS (AND SISTERS)

JUDE 1:1

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. MEET THE HUMAN AUTHOR’S FAMOUS FULL BROTHER [v. 1]

1. Once an Unbelieving Half-Brother to Jesus, Jude’s Full Brother [Mt. 13:54-58, John 7:1-5]

- And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.

- After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for: he would not walk in Jewry, because, the Jews sought to kill him.  Now the Jews feast of tabernacles was at hand. His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. For there is no man that doeth any thing in secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly . If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world. For neither did his brethren believe in him.

2. Not One of the 12

1] Not the Brother Of John [Mk. 3:17, Acts 12:1-2, 16-17]

-And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder:

-Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.

-But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him , they were astonished. But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.

2] Not James the Less [Mk. 3:18, 15:40]

-And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite,

-There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less (mikros) and of Joses, and Salome;

3. James was Saved after the Resurrection & Served Christ [1 Cor. 15:1-7, James 1:1, Acts 15:13, 21:18, Gal. 1:9, 2:9, 2:12]

Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles.

- James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,

 

II. MEET THE HUMAN AUTHOR

1. Once an Unbelieving Half-Brother to Jesus, James’ Full Brother [Mark 6:3]

Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary , the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.

2. Then a Believer in Jesus Christ [Jude 1:1]

3. Then a Servant of Jesus Christ [Jude 1:1]

 

III. MEET THE OTHER BROTHERS & SISTERS [Jude 1:1]

1. Those Sanctified by Faith in Christ [1 Cor. 1:2, 6:11]

-Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

-And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

2. Those Preserved in Jesus Christ [Jude 1:1, 1 Th. 5:23]

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

3. Those Called to be Saints [Jude 1:1, Rm. 1:1-6]

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name: Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:

REMEMBERING LOT’S WIFE

LUKE 17:26-32

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. MARY, THE WOMAN WHO KNOWN FOR WORSHIPPING JESUS

1. She Sat at Jesus feet to hear His Word [Luke 10:38-42]

2. She Fell at Jesus Feet in Sorrow [John 11:19-36]

3. She Knelt at Jesus feet in Devotion [John 12:1-11]

Mark 14:8-9 She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever  this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.

 

II. ANDREW, THE MAN KNOWN FOR BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS

1. He Brought Family to Jesus [John 1:40-42]

2. He Brought Children to Jesus [John 6:5-9]

3. He Brought Strangers to Jesus [John 12:20-23]

 

III. BE REMEMBERED FOR JESUS IN YOUR LIFE [Mt. 22:34-46]

1. Love Christ Supremely Like Mary [Matthew 22:34-38]

2. Love People to Christ like Andrew [Matthew 22:39-40]

3. Recognize Christ as God Incarnate [Matthew 22:41-46] (note the Trinity here)

BE SOBER

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

When the Bible says “BE SOBER” it does not always refer to alcohol though sometimes it does. It is primarily referring to the thinking process. Of course we know, alcohol inhibits the thinking process. Under the influence of alcohol people do things they should not do, say things they should not say, lose inhibitions, lose the ability to walk straight, talk straight, think straight, ad nauseum. So why does the New Testament tell us to be sober?

 

I. BE SOBER BECAUSE THE DEVIL IS AFTER YOU [1 Pt. 5:8]

1. You Have a Personal Adversary [Luke 8:12, Eph. 6:11]

-Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.

-Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

2. You Have a Powerful Adversary [Jude 1:9, 2 Timothy 2:26]

-Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.

- And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

3. You Have a Predatory Adversary [Acts 10:38, Jn. 8:44]

-How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

- Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

 

II. BE SOBER BECAUSE THE SAVIOUR IS COMING [1 Th. 5:1-11]

1. No One Knows When He is Coming [v. 1-3]

2. But We Know HE IS COMING [v. 4-5]

3. We Can Be Ready When He Comes [v. 6-11]

 

III. BE SOBER BECAUSE CHRIST’S COMING CHANGES EVERYTHING

1. If Saved, Live Like It! [1 Pet. 1:13-19]

- Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

2. Both Saved and Lost Will Give Account [1 Pt. 4:2-7]

That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead. For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

3. If Lost, Turn to God and Receive Christ [2 Cor. 4:3-7]

But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

HIS NAME IS WONDERFUL [Part 2]

1 JOHN 5:11-21]

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. WORDS THAT ASSURE [v. 10-13]

1. Internalized by Reception [v. 10, Jeremiah 15:16]

Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.

2. Externalized by Writing [v. 11, 13, 2 Tm. 3:16, Rm. 15:4]

graphe; a document, i.e. holy Writ (or its contents or a statement in it), scripture.

-All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

-For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

3. Eternalized by God [v. 11-13, 1:2, 5:20, Ps. 119:89]

-For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.

 

II. PRAYERS THAT ASSURES [v. 14-17]

1. In His Will [v. 14, 3:21-22]

2. In his Time [v. 15]

3. In His Wisdom [v. 16-17, 1 Cor. 11:30-32, Acts 5:1-11 Ananias & Sapphira] Let God be God

For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.

 

III. UNDERSTANDING THAT ASSURES [v. 18-21]

1. The New Nature is Untouched [v. 18, 3:6, 9]

2. The New Nature is Unattached [v. 19]

3. The New Nature is Unavailable [v. 20-21]

COMFORT YE, COMFORT YE MY PEOPLE

ISAIAH 40

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE GREAT COMFORTS [v. 1-11]

1. The Comfort of the Saviour [v. 1-5, Phil. 2:1, 5]

If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, …Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

2. The Comfort of the Scriptures [v. 5-8, Rm. 15:4]

For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

3. The Comfort of the Shepherd [v. 9-11, Jn. 10:11, 14]

-I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

- I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.

 

II. THE GREAT GOD OF COMFORT [v. 12-25]

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

1. The God of Creation [v. 12, 26, 28]

2. The God of Knowledge [v. 13-14, 26-28]

3. The God of Uniqueness [v. 15-25]

 

III. THE GREAT BENEFITS [v. 29-31]

1. Power to the Faint [v. 29a]

2. Strength to Them with No Might [v. 29b, 2 Cor. 12:9, 13:4]

-And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

-For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.

3. Watching Him Work in your Life as you Wait on the Lord [v. 30-31; Ps. 27:14]

- Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

FOOLISH PEOPLE HAVE FOOLISH PROBLEMS

Jeremiah 4:22, 5:4, 5:21,10:8

Lamentations 2:14

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

Allow me to paraphrase something someone said, “Everything happens for a reason. Sometimes the reason is you're foolish and make foolish decisions.” Now that’s true. Let’s tighten it a bit and just say a foolish person is a fool. Fools make foolish decisions and have foolish problems. The Bible has much to say about fools.

 

I. THE FOOL HAS PROBLEMS WITH OTHERS

1. Some Fools Will Not Listen to Instruction [Pr. 1:7, 12:1, 23:9]

- The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

-Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.

-Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.

2. Some Fools Will Not Listen to Their Father [Pr. 15:5, 17:21]

-A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

-He that begetteth a fool doeth it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.

“What kind of life you think it is being the father of a young dummy?”

3. Some Fools Listen to Their Own Heart [Pr. 13:20, 28:26, Jer. 17:9]

-He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

-He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.

-The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?

 

II. THE FOOL HAS PROBLEMS WITH HIMSELF

1. Fools Have a Problem with Their Mouth [Pr. 15:2, 18:6, 29:11]

-the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.

-A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.

-A fool uttereth all his mind

2. Fools Have a Problem with Their Mind [Pr. 1:22, 10:21, 17:10]

-How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?

-fools die for want of wisdom.

-A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.

3. Fools Have a Problem with Maturity [Pr. 10:23, 13:19, 14:9]

- It is as sport to a fool to do mischief:

-the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.

-Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.

 

III. THE FOOL HAS PROBLEMS WITH GOD

1. Some Fools Don’t Believe in God [Ps. 14:1, 92:5-6]

- The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.

- O LORD, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep. A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this.

2. Some Fools Don’t Believe the Bible [Lk. 24:25, Rm. 1:20-22]

– Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:

- For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.

3. Some Fools Don’t Prepare for the Afterlife [Lk. 12:20]

God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?

HIS NAME IS WONDERFUL

1 JOHN 5:1-13

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. BEHAVIOR THAT ASSURES [v. 1-6]

1. Loving Other Children of God [v. 1-2a]

2. Keeping God’s Commandments

[v. 2b-3, John 14:15

If ye love me, keep my commandments.

3. Overcoming the World [v. 4-6]

in context with a sin nature

 

II. WITNESSES THAT ASSURE [v. 6-9]

1. Heavenly Witnesses [v. 6-7]

2. Earthly Witnesses [v. 8]

3. Inscripturated Witnesses [v. 9]

 

III. WORDS THAT ASSURE [v. 10-13]

1. Internalized by Reception [v. 10, Jeremiah 15:16]

Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.

2. Externalized by Writing [v. 11, 13, 2 Tm. 3:16, Romans 15:4]

graphe;  a document, i.e. holy Writ (or its contents or a statement in it):--scripture.

-All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

-For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

3. Eternalized by God [v. 11-13, 1:2, 5:20, Psalm 119:89]

-For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.

THE RIGHTEOUS KIND

DANIEL 3:1-7

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE RIGHTEOUS KIND OF MEN [v. 8-17]

1. The Righteous Kind of Men are not Anarchists [v. 8-12, Gn. 9:6]

a person who rebels against any authority, established order, or ruling power

-Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.                                                                                                                 

2. The Righteous Kind of Men are not Arrogant [v. 13-16]

3. The Righteous Kind of Men are not Atheists [v. 17]

 

 II. THE RIGHTEOUS KIND OF FAITH [v. 17-18]

1. The Righteous Kind of Faith is Personal [v. 17, Rm. 10:9]

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

2. The Righteous Kind of Faith is Loyal [v. 17-18, Rm. 10:10-13]

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

3. The Righteous Kind of Faith is Biblical

[v.17-18, Rm. 10:17, Heb. 11:6]

- So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

- But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

 

 III. THE RIGHTEOUS KIND OF MEN OF FAITH [v. 19-30]

1. The Righteous Kind of Men of Faith Leave the Results with God

[v. 17-18]

2. The Righteous Kind of Men of Faith Look to Jesus [v. 19-25]

3. The Righteous Kind of Men of Faith Live for Jesus [v. 26-30]

 

Proverbs 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

HE DIDN’T KNOW

MARK 10:17-27

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. HE DIDN’T KNOW WHO JESUS IS

1. The Mighty God [v. 17-18, 27; Is. 9:6]

- For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

2. The Lord Christ [Acts 10:36]  (Lord, Liar or Lunatic)

-The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)

3. The Great Saviour [Titus 2:13]

Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

II. HE DIDN’T KNOW WHAT HE WAS

1. A Confused Man [v. 15-18]

2. A Condemned Man [v. 19-22, Jn. 3:18]

- He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

3. A Conquered Man [v. 22-24, Heb. 12:1]

-the sin which doth so easily beset us

III. HE DIDN’T KNOW WHO GOD IS

1. The Author of the Book [Colossians 3:16, 2 Tm. 3:16, 2 Pt. 1:21]

-Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

- All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

- For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

2. The Author of the Universe [John 1:1-3]

- In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

3. The Author of Eternal Life [Hebrews 5:9, 12:2]

-And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;

-Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

WONDERFUL WORDS OF LIFE

1 JOHN 4

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE SPIRIT OF GOD

1. The Presence of God [3:24-4:1]

2. The Profession of Christ as God [2:23, 4:2-3, 15; 2 Jn. 7]

3. The Protection of God

-by the Spirit’s Indwelling [4:4, 1 Cor. 6:19]

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

-by the Spirit’s Inspiration [4:5-6, 2 Peter 1:21]

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

 

II. THE LOVE OF GOD

1. Manifested in His Saviour [1 Jn. 4:9]

2. Motivated Him [1 Jn. 4:10, John 3:16]

3. Motivates Us [1 Jn. 4:14, 2 Corinthians 5:14]

For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

 

III. THE LOVE OF GOD AND THE SPIRIT OF GOD

1. Our Means to Love the Brethren [4:7-8]

2. A Means to Know We Know [4:11-13]

3. A Motivation to Be Evangelistic [4:14-17]

DON’T BE DOUBTING THOMAS

JOHN 21:1-3

Pastor Rick Jackson

There are so many “individuals” in the world and it is clear the Lord knows each one. Aren’t you glad we are not all the same? Aren’t you glad the Lord loves you? Aren’t you blessed that Jesus died for you, rose for you, offered you salvation and saved you when you called upon Him? Thomas is definitely an individual. I think he gets a bad rap sometimes. Now, I don’t defend his weakness but do we generally say: “Cussing Cephas” “Noah the drunk” “Momma’s boy Mark” and…, well, you get the idea. Let’s look at this man with fresh eyes in the Scripture.

I. THOMAS WAS A MAN OF CONTRASTS

1. He Could be Dour, but He was Determined [Jn. 11:1-16]

2. He was Ignorant, but He was Interested in Knowing [Jn. 14:1-6]

3. He had Doubts, but He had Hope [John 20:24-26] (he was there)

II. THOMAS WAS NOT PETER, JAMES OR JOHN

1. Christ Chose Thomas [Luke 6:12-16]

And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles; Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes, And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor.

2. Christ Challenged Thomas [John 20:26-30]

3. Christ Changed Thomas [Acts 1:1-14, 2:1-4]

 

III. LESSONS FOR THE THOMASES AMONG US

1. Humbly Use What God has Given You [Rm. 12:3, 2 Cor. 10:13]

-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.

-But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.

2. Work Together as We Grow Together [Ephesians 4:7, 13, 16]

-But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

-Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

-From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part , maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

3. Use the Gifts God has Given You [1 Cor. 12:4-12]

2000 YEARS LATER AND IT’S STILL THE SAME

ACTS 7:51-60

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

Compare the martyrdom of Stephen approximately 2000 years ago with the martyrdom of Charlie Kirk this week and you’ll soon discover that 2000 years later it’s still the same.

 

I. THE WORLD IS STILL THE SAME

1. The World Still Hates Light [John 3:19-20, 1 John 1:5]

-And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

- This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

2. The World Still Hates God’s Saviour [John 15:18, 25]

-If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.

-But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law , They hated me without a cause.

3. The World Still Hates God [John 15:23-24]

He that hateth me hateth my Father also. If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father.

 

II. THE WILL OF GOD IS STILL THE SAME

1. It is still the Will of God that All Should Be Saved [2 Peter 3:9]

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

2. It is still the Will of God that All Believer’s Be Set Apart [1 Thessalonians 4:3]

For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

3. It is still the Will of God that All Believer’s Be Surrendered [James 4:13-17]

Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

 

III. THE WORD OF GOD IS STILL THE SAME

1. The Warning of Judgment is still the same [Rm. 3:10-12, 23, 6:23]

-As it is written , There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

- For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

-For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

2. The Way of Justification is still the same [Rm. 4:5-6, 24-25]

-to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,

- But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

3. The Willingness of Jesus is still the same [Rm. 5:6-8, 10:9-13]

-For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

-That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

ISN'T THE LOVE OF JESUS SOMETHING WONDERFUL?

1 JOHN 3

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE EXISTENCE OF THE OLD NATURE IS EVIDENT

1. David Taught It [Ps. 51:5]

Behold, I was shapen in iniquity,; and in sin did my mother conceive me.

2. Paul Taught It [Rm. 5:12-19, 6:6]

- Wherefore , as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

- Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

3. John Taught It [1 Jn. 1:8-10]

 

II. THE OLD NATURE EXISTS AFTER SALVATION

1. The Answer is Found in Christ [1 Jn. 3:4-7, Col. 3:1-10]

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another , seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

2. The Adversaries are Invisible [1 Jn. 3:8-11, Eph. 6:10-12]

-Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

3. The Examples are Many [1 Jn. 3:12, Eph. 4:22-27, Col. 3:9-10]

-That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.

- Lie not one to another , seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

 

III. THE OLD NATURE EXITS WHEN CHRIST APPEARS FOR US

1. The World is Ignorant [1 Jn. 3:1]

2. The Child of God is Informed [1 Jn. 3:2]

3. The Believer is Encouraged [1 Jn. 3:3]

NO, NO, NO

LUKE 9: 57-62

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

In 1904 William Borden, heir to the Borden Dairy Estate graduated from a Chicago high school as a millionaire. For a graduation gift his parents gave him a trip around the world. Travelling through Asia, the Middle East and Europe young Borden developed a burden for the world. He wrote home, “I’m going give my life to prepare for the mission field.” When he made this decision he wrote in the back of his Bible,

I. “NO RESERVES.”

1. The Disciple of Christ Must Not TRUST Riches [1 Tm. 6:6-12]

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

2. The Disciple of Christ Must Trust the Word [2 Tm. 3:15-17]

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

3. The Disciple of Christ Must Love Not the World [1 Jn. 2:15] Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

 

Borden went to Yale University for his under-graduate work. When he graduated he received many offers for high paying jobs – all of which he turned down. He entered two more words in his Bible:

II. “NO RETREATS”

1. The Disciple of Christ Must Look “Fit” [Luke 9:62]

And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back , is fit for the kingdom of God.

2. The Disciple of Christ Must Look Forward [Phil. 3:13-14]

-Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

3. The Disciple of Christ Must Look to Christ [Heb. 12:1-4]

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds

 

Completing his studies at Princeton Seminary Borden sailed for China to work with Muslims, stopping in Egypt for some preparation. While there he was stricken with cerebral meningitis and died within a month. “A waste,” some said. Not in God’s plan. In his Bible under the words “NO RESERVES” and “NO RETREATS” he had written:

III. “NO REGRETS”

1. There Can Be No Regrets When Souls Have Been Saved

[Jn. 15:8] Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

2. There Can Be No Regrets When Lives Have Been Changed

[2 Pt. 3: 18] But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

3. There Can Be No Regrets When God is Pleased [Jn. 8:29, 1 Th. 4:1]

-And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.

- Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.

 

THE STORM COMES

Mark 6:45-56

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. HERE THE STORM COMES

1. Jesus Knew about the Storm

[v. 45-48, Job 23:10]

But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

2. Jesus Did Not Prevent the Storm

[v. 46-48, Romans 8:28]

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

3. Jesus Saw Them in the Storm

[v. 48, Genesis 16:13]

And she called the name of the LORD that spake unto her, Thou God seest me: for she said, Have I also here looked after him that seeth me?

 

II. WHEN THE STORM COMES

1. We Can Fear the Unknown [v. 48-49]

2. We Can Fear the Lord [v. 50a]

3. We Can Trust His Word [v. 50b]

 

III. WHAT ABOUT THE STORM COMING

1. The Storm Does Not Continue Forever [v. 51]

2. The Saviour Does Continue Forever

[v. 51-52, Heb. 7:24]

But this man, because he continueth ever , hath an unchangeable priesthood.

3. The Saviour’s Work Continues [v. 53-56]

THE DESOLATE HOUSE

MT. 23:38

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

THE DESOLATE HOUSE:

I. IS ALL ABOUT SELF [v. 1-12]

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

II. IS RELIGIOUS BUT LOST [v. 13-24]

III. IS CONCERNED PRIMARILY WITH APPEARANCE

[v. 25-32]

IV. IS OPPOSED TO GOD’S SERVANTS [v. 33-36]

V. REJECTS CHRIST

[v. 37-39, Mt. 13:14, Mark 4:12, Acts 28:23-27, Is. 6:9-10]

-And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:

-That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.

-And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God , persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not. And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word , Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers, Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive: For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

- And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.

SHALL WE WEAR A CROWN?

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. CROWN DOCTRINE

1. The People of Crowns [1 Cor. 3:1-15]

2. The Place of Crowns [2 Corinthians 5:1-11]

3. The Purpose of Crowns [Rev. 4:10-11]

 

II. CROWNS DETAILED

1. Incorruptible Crown

[1 Cor. 9:24-27, 2 Timothy 2:5]

-for those who got mastery over the old nature, i.e., it pays to live a godly life

2. Crown of Rejoicing [1 Thess. 2:19, Dan. 12:3]

-the Soul-winners Crown

3. Crown of Righteousness

[2 Tm. 4:6-8, 1 Jn. 2:28-29]

-Love Christ’s Coming (not just our disappearing)

4. Crown of Glory [1 Pet. 5:1-4]

-for being willing to feed the flock of God, those who serve Christ faithfully in Christian service

5. Crown of life [James 1:12, Rev. 2:10]

-sometimes called “the martyrs crown”- people who have faithfully endured the trials/testings of life for Jesus

 

III. CROWNS DEEPENED

1. What Sort? [1 Cor. 3:13-15]

2. Whose Seat? [2 Cor. 5:10-12]

3. Who Signified? [Rev. 1:1, 4:10-11, 21:10-14]

THE OTHER SIDE

MARK 5:1

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE CHANGE

1. Untamable by Mankind [v. 1-5, Jm. 3:6-8]

And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

2. Delivered by Jesus [v. 6-15, Rm. 7:24, 2 Tm. 4:18

-O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

-And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

3. Now Open for God’s Business [v. 7, 18-19]

II. THE CHARGE

1. “Come Out” [v. 8-13]

2. “Depart Out” [v. 14-17]

v. 10 the demons liked that country but Jesus made them change houses

v. 17 the people asked Jesus to leave their coasts- he was not good for business

3. “Go Home… and Tell” [v. 17-19]

 

III. THE CHALLENGE

1. It Was Specific [v. 19]

2. It Was Sound [v. 19-20, Ph. 1:23-25]

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;

3. It Was Successful [v. 17, 19-20, 7:31-33]

WONDERFUL GRACE OF JESUS

WONDERFUL GRACE OF JESUS

1 JOHN 3

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. BEHOLD [v. 1]

1. The Manner of Love [John 10:3, Romans 9:25-26]

-he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

- As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.

2. The Master of Love [John 3:16, 1 John 4:10]

-For God so loved the world

3. The Man of Love [Luke 10:22]

All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.

 

II. BELOVED [v. 2]

1. We ARE the Sons of God [Jn. 1:12-13, Rm. 5:1]

- But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

-Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ

2. We ARE Going to be Like Him [Rm. 6:5, 1 Cor. 15:49]

-For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:

-And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.

3. We ARE Going to See Him [Job 19:26, 1 Th. 4:17]

-And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God:

-Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

 

III. BELIEVERS [v. 3]

1. Only Believers Have This Hope [Eph. 2:12, 1 Th. 4:13]

-That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

- But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

2. All Believers Have This High Calling [Philippians 3:14, Hebrews 3:1]

- I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

-Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

3. Believers Will Attain His Likeness [Psalm 17:15]

-As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.

LOVEST THOU ME?

MARK 14:18-19

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. DO WE HEED THE WARNINGS?

1. The Warning of Being Offended [v. 26-29] skandalizo

2. The Warning of Denial [v. 30-31]

3. The Warning to Pray [v. 32-37]

 

II. DO WE FAIL THE TESTS?

1. Failing to Pray [v. 38-41]

2. Are We Offended? [v. 42-50]

3. Do We Deny Him? [v. 66-72]

 

III. DO WE UNDERSTAND? [JOHN 21]

We don’t always heed the warnings. We often fail the tests, but do we understand?

1. We are His Still [v. 1-14]

2. He Desires Our Love [v. 15-17]

3. He Desires Us to Follow Him Still [v. 18-22, Mt. 4:19]

THE LORD LOOKETH ON THE HEART

LUKE 5:18-26

Pastor Rick Jackson

1 Samuel 16:7 Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

 

I. THE CHARACTERS

1. Four Men Wanted their Friend Healed [v. 17-20, Mk. 2:3]

2. The Friend actually Wanted Salvation [v. 20-25]

3. The Crowd Witnessed God at Work [v. 26]

 

II. THE CRITICS

1. Critics are Like Broken Cisterns [v. 17, Jer. 2:13]

For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.

2. Critics are Like Broken Records [v. 21a]

“Critics are a dime a dozen. Any fool can criticize.” -Lee Roberson

3. Critics are Like a Broken Clock [v. 22b]

Even a broken clock is right twice a day

 

III. THE CHRIST

1. Christ Knows the Thoughts of Men [v. 22]

He knew the critics’ thoughts, the friends’ thoughts, the infirm man’s thoughts.

2. Christ Knows the Limitations of Men [v. 23]

3. Christ Knows What We Need to Know [v. 24-26]

ISN’T HE WONDERFUL?

1 JOHN 2:21-3:2

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE TRUTH OF GOD IS WONDERFUL [1 JOHN 1:21, Ps. 31:5]

Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.

1. The Spirit is Truth [John 14:17, 15:26, 16:13, 1 Jn. 5:6]

- Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

- But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:

- Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth:

-it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.

2. The Bible is Truth [Jn. 17:17, 2 Co. 6:7; Eph. 1:13, 1 Th. 2:13, Jm. 1:18]

- Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

-By the word of truth, by the power of God

-In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation:

-For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

-Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth

3. The Saviour is Truth [Jn. 1:14, 17, 14:6]

-And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth

-For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.

-Jesus saith unto him, I am the way , the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

 

II. THE EXPOSING OF SIN IS WONDERFUL [Jer. 5:30-31]

A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?

1. A Denier that Jesus is the Christ is a Liar & an Antichrist [1 Jn. 2:22]

-the Bible says Jesus is Christ [John 20:31] But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

-the Spirit says Jesus is Christ [Acts 18:5] And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.

-the Father says Jesus is Christ [Acts 2:36] Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

2. A Denier that Jesus is the Christ denies the Father and the Son [v. 22-23a, John 5:23]

That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.

3. A Believer in Jesus Christ has the Father and the Son [v. 23b-24]

 

III. THE EXPECTATION OF THE BELIEVER IS WONDERFUL [I JOHN 2]

1. Abide in Truth [v. 24-27, John 3:36]

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

2. Abide in Christ [v. 28]

3. Abide in Confidence [v. 28-29, Jn. 15:4-7]

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.