It is not what you gather but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived. -Sumner Wemp
There is no success without sacrifice. If you succeed without sacrifice it is because someone has suffered before you. If you sacrifice without success it is because someone will succeed after. -Adoniram Judson
If a commission by an earthly king is considered an honour, how can a commission by a Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice? -David Livingstone
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Monday, October 01, 2007
Why is Jesus Christ the Savior every person needs to go to heaven?
Prophesied,
"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign, Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call his name Immanuel" Isa 7:14. "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and his name shall be called...the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace" Isa. 9:6. Notice, a child is born, that is His humanity but a Son is given, John 3:16, that is His deity for He is eternal. "All things were made by Him" John 1:3.
Procedure
"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise. When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost...conceived in her of the Holy Ghost. And he knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS," Mat 1:18, 20, 25. See Lk 1:35. We all have to say, "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me" Ps 51:5. This is absolutely not true of Jesus. Thst is why He could be our Savior.
Perfection
He had to be sinless in His birth and behavior to pay the debt of our sins. "Who (Jesus) did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth" 1 Peter 2:22. "For He (God) hath made him (Jesus) to be sin for us, who (Jesus) knew no sin that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him" 2 Cor. 5:21. "He did no sin" "He knew no sin" No other "religious leader" or person, could ever say such a thing. Hallelujah, what a Savior.
Is He your savior? If not believe He paid your debt too and tell Him you receive him right now.
Write and tell us about it. You are loved by God and me, ABC Sumner Wemp
Father, bless this one reading this and may they be sure they are going to heaven, in Jesus name
"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign, Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call his name Immanuel" Isa 7:14. "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and his name shall be called...the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace" Isa. 9:6. Notice, a child is born, that is His humanity but a Son is given, John 3:16, that is His deity for He is eternal. "All things were made by Him" John 1:3.
Procedure
"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise. When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost...conceived in her of the Holy Ghost. And he knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS," Mat 1:18, 20, 25. See Lk 1:35. We all have to say, "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me" Ps 51:5. This is absolutely not true of Jesus. Thst is why He could be our Savior.
Perfection
He had to be sinless in His birth and behavior to pay the debt of our sins. "Who (Jesus) did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth" 1 Peter 2:22. "For He (God) hath made him (Jesus) to be sin for us, who (Jesus) knew no sin that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him" 2 Cor. 5:21. "He did no sin" "He knew no sin" No other "religious leader" or person, could ever say such a thing. Hallelujah, what a Savior.
Is He your savior? If not believe He paid your debt too and tell Him you receive him right now.
Write and tell us about it. You are loved by God and me, ABC Sumner Wemp
Father, bless this one reading this and may they be sure they are going to heaven, in Jesus name
Sunday, September 30, 2007
THE MORE THINGS CHANGE...
GENESIS 9
Pastor Rick Jackson
There's an old saying- "The more things change, the more they stay the same" and Genesis 9 seems to exemplify the reality of that statement. Though much has changed by the flood yet much has stayed the same. God still hates sin but loves the sinner, the earth is still under the curse of sin and man's old nature is still present. God's Word is still true and God's blessings can be had for the asking! The more things change, the more they stay the same!
I. HUMAN GOVERNMENT ESTABLISHED [v. 1-7]
1. ANIMAL'S RELATIONSHIP WITH MAN [v. 1-2]
2. MAN'S RELATIONSHIP WITH ANIMALS [v. 3-4, I Tm. 4:1-5]
To those who advocate a return to Adam & Eve's eating habits we must note:
-we don't live in a pre-fall situation
-we don't live in a pre-flood situation (more protein may be necessary in this environment))
-we don't live in an idyllic environment (Eskimos would starve if they were vegetarians)
3. MAN'S RELATIONSHIP TO MAN [v. 5-7, Rm. 13:1-7]
II. NOAHIC COVENANT ESTABLISHED [v. 8-17]
1. GOD ESTABLISHES THE COVENANT [v. 8-12]
2. GOD ESTABLISHES THE TOKEN [v. 13-15]
3. GOD ESTABLISHED THE PARAMETERS [v. 16-17]
III. FALLEN CONDITION UNCHANGED [v. 18-29]
1. LACK OF RESTRAINT [v. 18-21]
2. LACK OF RESPECT [v. 22-24]
3. LACK OF REASON [v. 25-29]
There are those who want to say the curse of Canaan was that he was made black. There is no Scriptural grounds for this just as there was none for the mark of Cain earlier. The black races aren't primarily descended through Canaan but rather through Cush, a different child of Ham (10:6). Noah spoke prophetically about the line of Canaan just as Israel (Jacob) would do so later in Genesis.
The Hamites have largely been practically minded (pioneering, exploring, conquering by physicality), the Japhethites have been philosophically minded and the Shemites have been spiritually minded (though all have some characteristics of the other).
Pastor Rick Jackson
There's an old saying- "The more things change, the more they stay the same" and Genesis 9 seems to exemplify the reality of that statement. Though much has changed by the flood yet much has stayed the same. God still hates sin but loves the sinner, the earth is still under the curse of sin and man's old nature is still present. God's Word is still true and God's blessings can be had for the asking! The more things change, the more they stay the same!
I. HUMAN GOVERNMENT ESTABLISHED [v. 1-7]
1. ANIMAL'S RELATIONSHIP WITH MAN [v. 1-2]
2. MAN'S RELATIONSHIP WITH ANIMALS [v. 3-4, I Tm. 4:1-5]
To those who advocate a return to Adam & Eve's eating habits we must note:
-we don't live in a pre-fall situation
-we don't live in a pre-flood situation (more protein may be necessary in this environment))
-we don't live in an idyllic environment (Eskimos would starve if they were vegetarians)
3. MAN'S RELATIONSHIP TO MAN [v. 5-7, Rm. 13:1-7]
II. NOAHIC COVENANT ESTABLISHED [v. 8-17]
1. GOD ESTABLISHES THE COVENANT [v. 8-12]
2. GOD ESTABLISHES THE TOKEN [v. 13-15]
3. GOD ESTABLISHED THE PARAMETERS [v. 16-17]
III. FALLEN CONDITION UNCHANGED [v. 18-29]
1. LACK OF RESTRAINT [v. 18-21]
2. LACK OF RESPECT [v. 22-24]
3. LACK OF REASON [v. 25-29]
There are those who want to say the curse of Canaan was that he was made black. There is no Scriptural grounds for this just as there was none for the mark of Cain earlier. The black races aren't primarily descended through Canaan but rather through Cush, a different child of Ham (10:6). Noah spoke prophetically about the line of Canaan just as Israel (Jacob) would do so later in Genesis.
The Hamites have largely been practically minded (pioneering, exploring, conquering by physicality), the Japhethites have been philosophically minded and the Shemites have been spiritually minded (though all have some characteristics of the other).
REFUGE
JOSHUA 20
Pastor Rick Jackson
Hebrews 6:18 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us
There can be no doubt that the writer of Hebrews intends to make a connection between our refuge, the Lord Jesus, and the cities of refuge in the nation of Israel. John R. Rice reminds us, "It is easy to see why this book is called the epistle to the Hebrews. From beginning to end the discussion is based upon the O.T. and the Hebrews' sacrifices and ceremonies, showing how they point to Christ." So too, do the cities of refuge point to our refuge, the Lord Jesus Christ!
"The names of the six cities are given in Joshua 20:7-8 as Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan. The meanings of these names seem planned especially to foreshadow this spiritual application." -Henry Morris
I. KEDESH means "holy," specifically a holy place. [Eph. 1:3-4, 2:20-22]
II. SHECHEM means "shoulder", the place of burdens.
Matthew 11:28Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Hebrews 6:18That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
III. HEBRON means "association, company, fellowship,"
1 Corinthians 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
1 John 1:3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
1 John 1:6-7 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
IV. BEZER means "strong, inaccessible, a hiding place." [Colossians 3:1-4].
V. RAMOTH means "high place" [Ephesians 2:1-7]
VI. GOLAN means "captive" and this would speak of our being set free from sin and death to become captive to Christ. "When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive" (Ephesians 4:8). [II Cor. 10:1-5]
Pastor Rick Jackson
Hebrews 6:18 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us
There can be no doubt that the writer of Hebrews intends to make a connection between our refuge, the Lord Jesus, and the cities of refuge in the nation of Israel. John R. Rice reminds us, "It is easy to see why this book is called the epistle to the Hebrews. From beginning to end the discussion is based upon the O.T. and the Hebrews' sacrifices and ceremonies, showing how they point to Christ." So too, do the cities of refuge point to our refuge, the Lord Jesus Christ!
"The names of the six cities are given in Joshua 20:7-8 as Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan. The meanings of these names seem planned especially to foreshadow this spiritual application." -Henry Morris
I. KEDESH means "holy," specifically a holy place. [Eph. 1:3-4, 2:20-22]
II. SHECHEM means "shoulder", the place of burdens.
Matthew 11:28Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Hebrews 6:18That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
III. HEBRON means "association, company, fellowship,"
1 Corinthians 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
1 John 1:3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
1 John 1:6-7 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
IV. BEZER means "strong, inaccessible, a hiding place." [Colossians 3:1-4].
V. RAMOTH means "high place" [Ephesians 2:1-7]
VI. GOLAN means "captive" and this would speak of our being set free from sin and death to become captive to Christ. "When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive" (Ephesians 4:8). [II Cor. 10:1-5]
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Q: Did Noah’s Flood cover the whole earth?
A: There are many Christians who have been led to believe that Noah’s Flood was just local. This is because they’ve been indoctrinated by secular scientists and even theologians into the belief that the fossil record is millions of years old—and not a record of the global Flood. But the Bible gives a very clear picture of what’s really happened.
The Bible, the inspired Word of God, tells us in Genesis that the highest hills under the whole of heaven were covered by water. It’s obviously referring to a global event. If the Flood were merely local, why would Noah have had to build an Ark to save himself, his family, and the animals? They could simply have walked to another location where the floodwaters wouldn’t reach. In fact, at the end of the Flood, God put a rainbow in the sky as a sign between God and man that He would never repeat such an event. Humanity has seen numerous local floods since the time of Noah’s day, but we haven’t seen another global flood.
Not only this, but Jesus Christ Himself, in the book of Matthew, used the event of Noah’s Flood as a warning that there was going to be another judgment—but next time by fire. If Noah’s Flood was just a local event, then maybe the coming judgment by fire will be just a local event, too. No, that doesn’t make sense at all!
Was Noah’s Flood worldwide? Yes, it absolutely was!
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
The Bible, the inspired Word of God, tells us in Genesis that the highest hills under the whole of heaven were covered by water. It’s obviously referring to a global event. If the Flood were merely local, why would Noah have had to build an Ark to save himself, his family, and the animals? They could simply have walked to another location where the floodwaters wouldn’t reach. In fact, at the end of the Flood, God put a rainbow in the sky as a sign between God and man that He would never repeat such an event. Humanity has seen numerous local floods since the time of Noah’s day, but we haven’t seen another global flood.
Not only this, but Jesus Christ Himself, in the book of Matthew, used the event of Noah’s Flood as a warning that there was going to be another judgment—but next time by fire. If Noah’s Flood was just a local event, then maybe the coming judgment by fire will be just a local event, too. No, that doesn’t make sense at all!
Was Noah’s Flood worldwide? Yes, it absolutely was!
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
Friday, September 28, 2007
PICTURES OF THE WEEK!
Bessie & Jada in a room that no longer exists as it is in this photo.
Are we flying yet?
Chill Bro! There's other fish in the sea.
Say hello to my adopted big brother. Now step away from my bowl!
This is never going to work out. I'm spotted and you're not.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Incorruptible Things
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" (I Peter 1:18).
Not all the wealth of the world can redeem a single soul, for gold and silver are merely corruptible elements in a world under "the bondage of corruption" (Romans 8:21). Everything in the physical creation is decaying and dying. In fact, one day all these "elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up" (II Peter 3:10). Even the very seeds which transmit life are "corruptible seed" (I Peter 1:23), and all mankind is "corruptible man" (Romans 1:23). Modern science recognizes this universal principle of decay as one of its most basic laws--the law of increasing entropy.
Even in this corruptible world, however, some things are incorruptible. There is the "incorruptible . . . word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever" (I Peter 1:23). Even though "Heaven and earth shall pass away," the words of Christ "shall not pass away" (Matthew 24:35).
We are redeemed, not by silver and gold, but "with the precious blood of Christ" (I Peter 1:19). God Himself is the "uncorruptible God" (Romans 1:23), and He has "begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away" (I Peter 1:3-4). We work, not as others "to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible" (I Corinthians 9:25).
Finally, these dying bodies will themselves be redeemed, "for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality" (I Corinthians 15:52-53). HMM
This information was provided by ICR, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website at www.icr.org.
Not all the wealth of the world can redeem a single soul, for gold and silver are merely corruptible elements in a world under "the bondage of corruption" (Romans 8:21). Everything in the physical creation is decaying and dying. In fact, one day all these "elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up" (II Peter 3:10). Even the very seeds which transmit life are "corruptible seed" (I Peter 1:23), and all mankind is "corruptible man" (Romans 1:23). Modern science recognizes this universal principle of decay as one of its most basic laws--the law of increasing entropy.
Even in this corruptible world, however, some things are incorruptible. There is the "incorruptible . . . word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever" (I Peter 1:23). Even though "Heaven and earth shall pass away," the words of Christ "shall not pass away" (Matthew 24:35).
We are redeemed, not by silver and gold, but "with the precious blood of Christ" (I Peter 1:19). God Himself is the "uncorruptible God" (Romans 1:23), and He has "begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away" (I Peter 1:3-4). We work, not as others "to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible" (I Corinthians 9:25).
Finally, these dying bodies will themselves be redeemed, "for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality" (I Corinthians 15:52-53). HMM
This information was provided by ICR, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website at www.icr.org.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
3 MORE MINISTRIES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. THE HOLY SPIRIT SPEAKS TO CHRISTIANS
1. THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES [1 Tim 4:1, 2]
2. THROUGH DIRECT LEADING [Acts 8:29, 1 Kings 19:12]
3. THROUGH SHUT DOORS [Acts 16:7]
4. THROUGH PASTORS HE INSTALLS [Acts 20:28]
II. THE HOLY SPIRIT STRENGTHENS CHRISTIANS
1. PRAYER PLAYS A PART [Eph. 3:14-16]
2. FAITH PLAYS A PART [Eph. 3:17, Rm. 10:17, I Th. 5:19, Eph. 4:30]
3. COMPREHENSION IS A RESULT [Eph. 3:18-19]
III. THE HOLY SPIRIT SANCTIFIES (SETS APART) CHRISTIANS
1. POSITIONAL SANCTIFICATION -at salvation
Colossians 1:13Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
I Th. 1:5-6 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost.
1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
2. PROGRESSIVE SANCTIFICATION -ongoing daily, lifelong process of yielding
2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
3. PERFECT SANCTIFICATION -perfect Heavenly body without a sin nature [Eph. 5:26, 27]
I. THE HOLY SPIRIT SPEAKS TO CHRISTIANS
1. THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES [1 Tim 4:1, 2]
2. THROUGH DIRECT LEADING [Acts 8:29, 1 Kings 19:12]
3. THROUGH SHUT DOORS [Acts 16:7]
4. THROUGH PASTORS HE INSTALLS [Acts 20:28]
II. THE HOLY SPIRIT STRENGTHENS CHRISTIANS
1. PRAYER PLAYS A PART [Eph. 3:14-16]
2. FAITH PLAYS A PART [Eph. 3:17, Rm. 10:17, I Th. 5:19, Eph. 4:30]
3. COMPREHENSION IS A RESULT [Eph. 3:18-19]
III. THE HOLY SPIRIT SANCTIFIES (SETS APART) CHRISTIANS
1. POSITIONAL SANCTIFICATION -at salvation
Colossians 1:13Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
I Th. 1:5-6 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost.
1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
2. PROGRESSIVE SANCTIFICATION -ongoing daily, lifelong process of yielding
2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
3. PERFECT SANCTIFICATION -perfect Heavenly body without a sin nature [Eph. 5:26, 27]
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
POEM OF THE WEEK!
THE KING OF DAVID
I am sheltered by the King of light.
I am protected by His unending might.
The darts of the world tho fierce they be,
His strong armor- sufficient for me.
I lean on His everlasting arm,
Under His wings free from harm.
Oh Lord, Thou art a shield unto me,
My only protection comes from Thee.
By Henry Hodges (Trustee of Bradford Baptist Church in Starke, FL. His pastor says he is the poet laureate of BBC... p.s. I am his pastor!)
I am sheltered by the King of light.
I am protected by His unending might.
The darts of the world tho fierce they be,
His strong armor- sufficient for me.
I lean on His everlasting arm,
Under His wings free from harm.
Oh Lord, Thou art a shield unto me,
My only protection comes from Thee.
By Henry Hodges (Trustee of Bradford Baptist Church in Starke, FL. His pastor says he is the poet laureate of BBC... p.s. I am his pastor!)
Monday, September 24, 2007
EARNING A DESK
Back in September of 2005, on the first day of school, Martha Cothren, a social studies school teacher at Robinson High School in Little Rock ,did something not to be forgotten.
On the first day of school, with the permission of the school superintendent, the principal and the building supervisor, she removed all of the desks out of her classroom.
When the first period kids entered the room they discovered that there were no desks.
Looking around, confused, they asked,
"Ms. Cothren, where're our desks?"
She replied, "You can't have a desk until you tell me what you have done to earn the right to sit at a desk."
They thought, "Well, maybe it's our grades."
"No," she said.
Maybe it's our behavior." She told them, "No, it's not even your behavior.
And so, they came and went, the first period, second period, third period. Still no desks in the classroom.
By early afternoon television news crews had started gathering in Ms. Cothren's classroom to report about this crazy teacher who had taken all the desks out of her room.
The final period of the day came and as the puzzled students found seats on the floor of the deskless
classroom.
Martha Cothren said, "Throughout the day no one has been able to tell me just what he/she has done to earn the right to sit at the desks that are ordinarily found in this classroom. Now I am going to tell you."
At this point, Martha Cothren went over to the door of her classroom and opened it.
Twenty-seven (27) U.S. Veterans, all in uniforms, walked into that classroom, each one carrying a school desk. The Vets began placing the school desks in rows, and then they would walk over and stand alongside the wall.
By the time the last soldier had set the final desk in place those kids started to understand, perhaps for the first time in their lives, just how the right to sit at those desks had been earned.
Martha said, "You didn't earn the right to sit at these desks. These heroes did it for you. They placed the desks here for you. Now, it's up to you to sit in them. It is your responsibility to learn, to be good students, to be good citizens. They paid the price so that you could have the freedom to get an education. Don't ever forget it."
By the way, this is a true story.... If you can read this, thank a teacher. If you read it in English, thank a soldier.
Yes, it really is a true story...
http://www.snopes.com/glurge/nodesks.asp
(My thanks to Rose, who sent me this in an email)
On the first day of school, with the permission of the school superintendent, the principal and the building supervisor, she removed all of the desks out of her classroom.
When the first period kids entered the room they discovered that there were no desks.
Looking around, confused, they asked,
"Ms. Cothren, where're our desks?"
She replied, "You can't have a desk until you tell me what you have done to earn the right to sit at a desk."
They thought, "Well, maybe it's our grades."
"No," she said.
Maybe it's our behavior." She told them, "No, it's not even your behavior.
And so, they came and went, the first period, second period, third period. Still no desks in the classroom.
By early afternoon television news crews had started gathering in Ms. Cothren's classroom to report about this crazy teacher who had taken all the desks out of her room.
The final period of the day came and as the puzzled students found seats on the floor of the deskless
classroom.
Martha Cothren said, "Throughout the day no one has been able to tell me just what he/she has done to earn the right to sit at the desks that are ordinarily found in this classroom. Now I am going to tell you."
At this point, Martha Cothren went over to the door of her classroom and opened it.
Twenty-seven (27) U.S. Veterans, all in uniforms, walked into that classroom, each one carrying a school desk. The Vets began placing the school desks in rows, and then they would walk over and stand alongside the wall.
By the time the last soldier had set the final desk in place those kids started to understand, perhaps for the first time in their lives, just how the right to sit at those desks had been earned.
Martha said, "You didn't earn the right to sit at these desks. These heroes did it for you. They placed the desks here for you. Now, it's up to you to sit in them. It is your responsibility to learn, to be good students, to be good citizens. They paid the price so that you could have the freedom to get an education. Don't ever forget it."
By the way, this is a true story.... If you can read this, thank a teacher. If you read it in English, thank a soldier.
Yes, it really is a true story...
http://www.snopes.com/glurge/nodesks.asp
(My thanks to Rose, who sent me this in an email)
Sunday, September 23, 2007
ALONE WITH GOD
GENESIS 8
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. GOD ALONE [v. 1-5]
Who could Noah and his family trust in during this unprecedented activity? Who could have produced this activity? Whose holiness and mercy demanded the activity? Whose grace allowed for the salvation of the human race and the animal kingdom? The answer(s) is of course...God alone!
1. GOD REMEMBERED! [v. 1]
Genesis 19:29 And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in the which Lot dwelt.
Genesis 30:22 And God remembered Rachel, and God hearkened to her, and opened her womb.
Exodus 2:24And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.
1 Samuel 1:19And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the LORD, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and the LORD remembered her.
Psalm 98:3He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God
Revelation 18:5For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.
THE LORD HATH NOT FORGOTTEN... GOD REMEMBERS!
2. GOD RESTRAINS [v. 1b-2]
The events of 7:11 have done their work and now are restrained. It seems that for the time being even what will be considered "normal" rain is likewise restrained.
3. GOD REFORMS [v. 3-5]
Through all this volcanic and hydrological activity the world has been destroyed and remade in a completely different form. It is not as stable as before in terms of weather and tectonic activity.
2 Peter 3:6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished:
Psalm 104:6-9 Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains. At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away. They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them. Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth.
II. NOAH ALONE [v. 6-14]
Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
Genesis 7:23 And every living substance was destroyed which was upon the face of the ground, both man, and cattle, and the creeping things, and the fowl of the heaven; and they were destroyed from the earth: and Noah only remained alive, and they that were with him in the ark.
1. THE RAVEN SCAVENGES [v. 6-7]
2. THE DOVE SEARCHES [v. 8-12]
3. THE DELAY SOLIDIFIES [v. 13-14]
III. FAITH ALONE [v. 15-22]
1. THE DELIVERANCE BY FAITH [v. 15-19, Heb. 11:7]
2. THE DEMONSTRATION OF FAITH [v. 20]
3. THE DELIGHT IN FAITH [v. 21-22]
Hebrews 11:6-7 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. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. GOD ALONE [v. 1-5]
Who could Noah and his family trust in during this unprecedented activity? Who could have produced this activity? Whose holiness and mercy demanded the activity? Whose grace allowed for the salvation of the human race and the animal kingdom? The answer(s) is of course...God alone!
1. GOD REMEMBERED! [v. 1]
Genesis 19:29 And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in the which Lot dwelt.
Genesis 30:22 And God remembered Rachel, and God hearkened to her, and opened her womb.
Exodus 2:24And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.
1 Samuel 1:19And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the LORD, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and the LORD remembered her.
Psalm 98:3He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God
Revelation 18:5For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.
THE LORD HATH NOT FORGOTTEN... GOD REMEMBERS!
2. GOD RESTRAINS [v. 1b-2]
The events of 7:11 have done their work and now are restrained. It seems that for the time being even what will be considered "normal" rain is likewise restrained.
3. GOD REFORMS [v. 3-5]
Through all this volcanic and hydrological activity the world has been destroyed and remade in a completely different form. It is not as stable as before in terms of weather and tectonic activity.
2 Peter 3:6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished:
Psalm 104:6-9 Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains. At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away. They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them. Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth.
II. NOAH ALONE [v. 6-14]
Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
Genesis 7:23 And every living substance was destroyed which was upon the face of the ground, both man, and cattle, and the creeping things, and the fowl of the heaven; and they were destroyed from the earth: and Noah only remained alive, and they that were with him in the ark.
1. THE RAVEN SCAVENGES [v. 6-7]
2. THE DOVE SEARCHES [v. 8-12]
3. THE DELAY SOLIDIFIES [v. 13-14]
III. FAITH ALONE [v. 15-22]
1. THE DELIVERANCE BY FAITH [v. 15-19, Heb. 11:7]
2. THE DEMONSTRATION OF FAITH [v. 20]
3. THE DELIGHT IN FAITH [v. 21-22]
Hebrews 11:6-7 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. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith
ARE YOU A SURVIVOR?
Pastor Rick Jackson
The story is told of the sole survivor of the Jamestown flood. He told anyone who would listen of how he survived the Jamestown flood. He became a Christian and during testimony service he always managed to interweave how he had survived... Eventually the gentleman passed away and being a Christian man went to Heaven. He was excited because now there were a lot of new people to tell how he survived... He asked an angel if they ever had testimony meetings in Heaven and he was delighted to be answered in the affirmative. He asked to be put on the schedule. At the meeting he saw the angel and asked him when he was to speak so he could tell everyone how he survived... The angel checked the schedule and assured him he was on the list with these words, "You will be the second to give your testimony in this meeting---right after Noah!"
No matter what you are going through there is always someone who has had it worse. Most of us haven't begun to suffer as others have, we just seem to like to complain. Andrew Murray, a preacher and author from the 1800s was undergoing some severe trials. As he sought the lord's face in prayer and meditation on the Word of God he said, In Time of Trouble Say
First, God brought me here; it is by His will I am in this strait place: in that I will rest.
Next, He will keep me in His love, and give me grace in this trial to behave as His child.
Then, He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me the lessons He intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He means to bestow.
Last, In His good time He can bring me out again- how and when He knows.
I. REALIZATION
1. "GOD BROUGHT ME HERE"
Jeremiah said, "I AM the man that hath seen affliction by the rod of his wrath. He hath led me, and brought me into darkness, but not into light. He hath set me in dark places, as they that be dead of old. ...He hath hedged me about, that I cannot get out: he hath made my chain heavy. This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. ...It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him." [Lam. 3]
Mordecai reminded Esther, "who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"
2. "IT IS BY HIS WILL I AM IN THIS STRAIT PLACE"
1 Peter 3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
3. "IN THAT FACT WILL I REST"
Psalm 37:7Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
II. ACCEPTANCE
1. "NEXT, HE WILL KEEP ME HERE IN HIS LOVE"
1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Revelation 3:10Because 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.
2. "AND GIVE ME GRACE TO BEHAVE AS HIS CHILD"
Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
2 Thessalonians 2:15-17 Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.
III. ASSURANCE
1. "THEN, HE WILL MAKE THE TRIAL A BLESSING"
Acts 5:41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
2 Thessalonians 1:5 Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:
2. "TEACHING ME THE GRACE HE MEANS TO BESTOW"
2 Corinthians 1:3-5 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. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.
IV. DELIVERANCE
1. "LAST, IN HIS GOOD TIME"
Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
2. "HE CAN BRING ME OUT AGAIN-- HOW AND WHEN HE KNOWS"
Job 13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.
Daniel 3:16-18 Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
In short, Murray reminds us to,
"Say: I am here-
1. By God's appointment
2. In His keeping.
3. Under His training.
4. For His time. "
The story is told of the sole survivor of the Jamestown flood. He told anyone who would listen of how he survived the Jamestown flood. He became a Christian and during testimony service he always managed to interweave how he had survived... Eventually the gentleman passed away and being a Christian man went to Heaven. He was excited because now there were a lot of new people to tell how he survived... He asked an angel if they ever had testimony meetings in Heaven and he was delighted to be answered in the affirmative. He asked to be put on the schedule. At the meeting he saw the angel and asked him when he was to speak so he could tell everyone how he survived... The angel checked the schedule and assured him he was on the list with these words, "You will be the second to give your testimony in this meeting---right after Noah!"
No matter what you are going through there is always someone who has had it worse. Most of us haven't begun to suffer as others have, we just seem to like to complain. Andrew Murray, a preacher and author from the 1800s was undergoing some severe trials. As he sought the lord's face in prayer and meditation on the Word of God he said, In Time of Trouble Say
First, God brought me here; it is by His will I am in this strait place: in that I will rest.
Next, He will keep me in His love, and give me grace in this trial to behave as His child.
Then, He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me the lessons He intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He means to bestow.
Last, In His good time He can bring me out again- how and when He knows.
I. REALIZATION
1. "GOD BROUGHT ME HERE"
Jeremiah said, "I AM the man that hath seen affliction by the rod of his wrath. He hath led me, and brought me into darkness, but not into light. He hath set me in dark places, as they that be dead of old. ...He hath hedged me about, that I cannot get out: he hath made my chain heavy. This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. ...It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him." [Lam. 3]
Mordecai reminded Esther, "who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"
2. "IT IS BY HIS WILL I AM IN THIS STRAIT PLACE"
1 Peter 3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
3. "IN THAT FACT WILL I REST"
Psalm 37:7Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
II. ACCEPTANCE
1. "NEXT, HE WILL KEEP ME HERE IN HIS LOVE"
1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Revelation 3:10Because 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.
2. "AND GIVE ME GRACE TO BEHAVE AS HIS CHILD"
Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
2 Thessalonians 2:15-17 Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.
III. ASSURANCE
1. "THEN, HE WILL MAKE THE TRIAL A BLESSING"
Acts 5:41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
2 Thessalonians 1:5 Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:
2. "TEACHING ME THE GRACE HE MEANS TO BESTOW"
2 Corinthians 1:3-5 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. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.
IV. DELIVERANCE
1. "LAST, IN HIS GOOD TIME"
Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
2. "HE CAN BRING ME OUT AGAIN-- HOW AND WHEN HE KNOWS"
Job 13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.
Daniel 3:16-18 Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
In short, Murray reminds us to,
"Say: I am here-
1. By God's appointment
2. In His keeping.
3. Under His training.
4. For His time. "
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Q: Did Jesus allow for a gap?
A: If you carefully study the words of Jesus, He made it plain that there can’t be a gap of billions of years between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2.
In Mark 10:6, Jesus said, “But from the beginning of creation God made them male and female.” In these very words, Jesus clearly teaches that Adam and Eve were created in “the beginning of the creation”—not after billions of years had passed. Also, the expression “beginning of the creation” rules out any “re-creation” or “second start” as taught by many gap theorists.
The main reason that people try to place a gap between the first two verses of Genesis is to accommodate the supposed billions of years for the earth’s age. When one does this, he is essentially placing more faith in secular (i.e., without God) understanding than in God’s infallible Word.
Jesus made it plain that such a compromise cannot be done! And we should follow His understanding and His words—because, after all, He is the author of creation and the Word made flesh!
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
In Mark 10:6, Jesus said, “But from the beginning of creation God made them male and female.” In these very words, Jesus clearly teaches that Adam and Eve were created in “the beginning of the creation”—not after billions of years had passed. Also, the expression “beginning of the creation” rules out any “re-creation” or “second start” as taught by many gap theorists.
The main reason that people try to place a gap between the first two verses of Genesis is to accommodate the supposed billions of years for the earth’s age. When one does this, he is essentially placing more faith in secular (i.e., without God) understanding than in God’s infallible Word.
Jesus made it plain that such a compromise cannot be done! And we should follow His understanding and His words—because, after all, He is the author of creation and the Word made flesh!
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Look for the ones God has ready
Sumner Wemp (see link at left)
Sep 19, 2007
Look for the ones God has ready.
Every person I have ever led to Christ YOU could have led that person to Christ for they were ready. PLEASE LEARN THIS, You do not talk people into getting saved. One of the biggest fallacies is that you have to be able to answer all their questions and arguments. NO! We are to give them the gospel, the good news, and let God "give them repentance" change their minds and open the eyes of their understanding.
God gives repentance
"The servant of the Lord MUST not strive (quarrel, argue or debate) but in meekness instructing those...peradventure God will give them repentance to acknowledge the truth" 2 Tim 2:24, 25. Witnessing is not the great debate. This is vital to understand if you want to be a soul winner. Repentance is the Greek word "metanoia". "Meta" means "change" and "noia" mean "mind" God must give them repentance, "Change their mind" "to acknowledge the truth." Did you get that, not to turn from sins or turn to God but to "acknowledge the truth". The truth you and I must give them is the gospel, that "God loves you and His Son, the Lord Jesus, suffered and died for our sins, paid the debt in full, rose again and was seen by hundreds. This gospel is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes what He did will get them to heaven and receive the Lord Jesus as their Savior.
Turning from sin
When someone tells a lost sinner he must "turn from your sins" and ...be saved, he is telling a lost person he has to do some work to be saved. That is heresy. How many sins must he turn from or quit before he can be saved? He must be saved and then he can and will turn from sins because he is now saved.. THINK, when he tells that lost person to "turn from sin" how many? Have you ever seen anyone turn from "every" sin before he got saved? The whole key is give them the gospel. If they are not ready, leave them alone and look for someone God has ready and lead them to Christ. More on this next time.
Question: Are you making each day it's own masterpiece? Is your full potential being realized? That is to say are you making the most you can out of each day?
"The world's full of apathy, but I don't care." I care about you, I love you, ABC, Sumner
Enter the drawings for packs of tracts www.sumnerwemp.com . Order some for yourself and church 1-877-872-2871: Go to Feature Section, read a very encouraging article
Sep 19, 2007
Look for the ones God has ready.
Every person I have ever led to Christ YOU could have led that person to Christ for they were ready. PLEASE LEARN THIS, You do not talk people into getting saved. One of the biggest fallacies is that you have to be able to answer all their questions and arguments. NO! We are to give them the gospel, the good news, and let God "give them repentance" change their minds and open the eyes of their understanding.
God gives repentance
"The servant of the Lord MUST not strive (quarrel, argue or debate) but in meekness instructing those...peradventure God will give them repentance to acknowledge the truth" 2 Tim 2:24, 25. Witnessing is not the great debate. This is vital to understand if you want to be a soul winner. Repentance is the Greek word "metanoia". "Meta" means "change" and "noia" mean "mind" God must give them repentance, "Change their mind" "to acknowledge the truth." Did you get that, not to turn from sins or turn to God but to "acknowledge the truth". The truth you and I must give them is the gospel, that "God loves you and His Son, the Lord Jesus, suffered and died for our sins, paid the debt in full, rose again and was seen by hundreds. This gospel is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes what He did will get them to heaven and receive the Lord Jesus as their Savior.
Turning from sin
When someone tells a lost sinner he must "turn from your sins" and ...be saved, he is telling a lost person he has to do some work to be saved. That is heresy. How many sins must he turn from or quit before he can be saved? He must be saved and then he can and will turn from sins because he is now saved.. THINK, when he tells that lost person to "turn from sin" how many? Have you ever seen anyone turn from "every" sin before he got saved? The whole key is give them the gospel. If they are not ready, leave them alone and look for someone God has ready and lead them to Christ. More on this next time.
Question: Are you making each day it's own masterpiece? Is your full potential being realized? That is to say are you making the most you can out of each day?
"The world's full of apathy, but I don't care." I care about you, I love you, ABC, Sumner
Enter the drawings for packs of tracts www.sumnerwemp.com . Order some for yourself and church 1-877-872-2871: Go to Feature Section, read a very encouraging article
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
THE HOLY SPIRIT - THE DIVINE SUPPLIER
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. THE HOLY SPIRIT SUPPLIES HOPE
"Now the God of hope fill you with joy and peace in believing that ye may abound in hope through the power of the Holy Spirit" Rom 15:13.
1. THE DEFINITION OF HOPE-to anticipate with joy!
"In the New Testament it is favorable and confident expectation. It has to do with the unseen and the future, Rom 8:24, 25. Hope describes the happy anticipation of good." -W.E. Vine
In hope of eternal life, which God; that cannot lie, promised before the world began. Titus 1:2
2. THE DYNAMIC OF HOPE-only with the true God!
Remember, that ye being gentiles in the flesh,...were without Christ,,, having no hope and without God (the God of hope) in the world. Eph. 2:12.
The hope of the gospel. Col 1:23.
The hope and resurrection of the dead. Acts 26:3.
The living hope 1 Pet 1:3,
The hope of the glory of God. Rom 5:2.
The blessed hope. Titus 2:13.
3. THE DELIVERER OF HOPE- the sweet Holy Spirit of God [Rm. 15:13]
III. THE HOLY SPIRIT SUPPLIES DELIVERANCE
Philippians 1:19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,
1. A GOOD ACCEPTATION [1:12-18]
Paul's attitude is one of continual rejoicing and of expectation also of God's deliverance. the word salvation apparently refers not to eternal salvation, which of course he already possessed, but deliverance in the sense of release from imprisonment and the custody of the imperial government. -Alfred Martin, Moody Bible Institute
2. A GOOD SUPPLICATION [1:19]
"Ye have not because ye ask not" James 4:2.
Just as Asa was not healed because "in his disease he sought not the Lord, but the physicians" 2 Chron. 16:12. Nothing wrong with going to physicians but you must go to God first and foremost as well. So with our deliverance from problems, too many run to men for help and wisdom but not consciously depending, first and foremost, on the Holy Spirit. -S.W.
3. A GOOD EXPECTATION [1:20]
His circumstances being what they were, he expresses confidence that because of their prayers and "the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ" he will experience salvation. By this he means God's total deliverance, not only spiritual but from the prison. -John F. Walvoord
Learn this, the Holy Spirit can bring about your 'salvation' from what ever problem you have as well. When have you thought about and sought the Holy Spirit ministering to you to bring about your salvation from your problems? I am totally convinced that multitudes of Christians, just do not realize the Holy Spirit's ministry in every thing in our lives. -Sumner Wemp
III. THE HOLY SPIRIT SUPPLIES BOLDNESS
1. IN CONNECTION WITH THE FILLING OF THE SPIRIT [Acts 4:8-13]
2. IN CONNECTION WITH THE WORD OF GOD [Acts 4:29-31]
3. IN CONNECTION WITH PRAYER [Eph. 6:18-20]
Once again I must thank my friend, Sumner Wemp, for much of this material. The Truths I have heard for years but the consolidation and arrangement is largely his. Check out his website using the link in the upper left.
I. THE HOLY SPIRIT SUPPLIES HOPE
"Now the God of hope fill you with joy and peace in believing that ye may abound in hope through the power of the Holy Spirit" Rom 15:13.
1. THE DEFINITION OF HOPE-to anticipate with joy!
"In the New Testament it is favorable and confident expectation. It has to do with the unseen and the future, Rom 8:24, 25. Hope describes the happy anticipation of good." -W.E. Vine
In hope of eternal life, which God; that cannot lie, promised before the world began. Titus 1:2
2. THE DYNAMIC OF HOPE-only with the true God!
Remember, that ye being gentiles in the flesh,...were without Christ,,, having no hope and without God (the God of hope) in the world. Eph. 2:12.
The hope of the gospel. Col 1:23.
The hope and resurrection of the dead. Acts 26:3.
The living hope 1 Pet 1:3,
The hope of the glory of God. Rom 5:2.
The blessed hope. Titus 2:13.
3. THE DELIVERER OF HOPE- the sweet Holy Spirit of God [Rm. 15:13]
III. THE HOLY SPIRIT SUPPLIES DELIVERANCE
Philippians 1:19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,
1. A GOOD ACCEPTATION [1:12-18]
Paul's attitude is one of continual rejoicing and of expectation also of God's deliverance. the word salvation apparently refers not to eternal salvation, which of course he already possessed, but deliverance in the sense of release from imprisonment and the custody of the imperial government. -Alfred Martin, Moody Bible Institute
2. A GOOD SUPPLICATION [1:19]
"Ye have not because ye ask not" James 4:2.
Just as Asa was not healed because "in his disease he sought not the Lord, but the physicians" 2 Chron. 16:12. Nothing wrong with going to physicians but you must go to God first and foremost as well. So with our deliverance from problems, too many run to men for help and wisdom but not consciously depending, first and foremost, on the Holy Spirit. -S.W.
3. A GOOD EXPECTATION [1:20]
His circumstances being what they were, he expresses confidence that because of their prayers and "the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ" he will experience salvation. By this he means God's total deliverance, not only spiritual but from the prison. -John F. Walvoord
Learn this, the Holy Spirit can bring about your 'salvation' from what ever problem you have as well. When have you thought about and sought the Holy Spirit ministering to you to bring about your salvation from your problems? I am totally convinced that multitudes of Christians, just do not realize the Holy Spirit's ministry in every thing in our lives. -Sumner Wemp
III. THE HOLY SPIRIT SUPPLIES BOLDNESS
1. IN CONNECTION WITH THE FILLING OF THE SPIRIT [Acts 4:8-13]
2. IN CONNECTION WITH THE WORD OF GOD [Acts 4:29-31]
3. IN CONNECTION WITH PRAYER [Eph. 6:18-20]
Once again I must thank my friend, Sumner Wemp, for much of this material. The Truths I have heard for years but the consolidation and arrangement is largely his. Check out his website using the link in the upper left.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
From a Chaplain in Iraq
I recently attended a showing of "Superman 3," here at LSA Anaconda. We have a large auditorium we use for movies, as well as memorial services and other large gatherings. As is the custom back in the States, we stood and snapped to attention when the National Anthem began before the main feature. All was going as planned until about three-quarters of the way through the National Anthem the music stopped. Now, what would happen if this occurred with 1,000 18-22 year-olds back in the States? I imagine there would be hoots, catcalls, laughter, a few rude comments; and everyone would sit down and call for a movie. Of course, that is, if they had stood for the National Anthem in the first place.
Here, the 1,000 Soldiers continued to stand at attention, eyes fixed forward. The music started again. The Soldiers continued to quietly stand at attention. And again, at the same point, the music stopped. What would you expect to happen? Even here I would imagine laughter, as everyone finally sat down and expected the movie to start.
But here, you could have heard a pin drop. Every Soldier continued to stand at attention. Suddenly there was a lone voice, then a dozen, and quickly the room was filled with the voices of a thousand Soldiers, finishing where the recording left off:
"And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?"
It was the most inspiring moment I have had here in Iraq. I wanted you to know what kind of Soldiers are serving you here.
Written by Chaplain Jim Higgins on 5/14/07. LSA Anaconda is at the Balad Airport in Iraq, north of Bagdad.
Remember them as they fight for you! Pass this along (originally sent to me as an email) as a reminder to others to be ever in prayer for all our soldiers serving us here at home and abroad... For many have already paid the ultimate price....
Here, the 1,000 Soldiers continued to stand at attention, eyes fixed forward. The music started again. The Soldiers continued to quietly stand at attention. And again, at the same point, the music stopped. What would you expect to happen? Even here I would imagine laughter, as everyone finally sat down and expected the movie to start.
But here, you could have heard a pin drop. Every Soldier continued to stand at attention. Suddenly there was a lone voice, then a dozen, and quickly the room was filled with the voices of a thousand Soldiers, finishing where the recording left off:
"And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?"
It was the most inspiring moment I have had here in Iraq. I wanted you to know what kind of Soldiers are serving you here.
Written by Chaplain Jim Higgins on 5/14/07. LSA Anaconda is at the Balad Airport in Iraq, north of Bagdad.
Remember them as they fight for you! Pass this along (originally sent to me as an email) as a reminder to others to be ever in prayer for all our soldiers serving us here at home and abroad... For many have already paid the ultimate price....
Monday, September 17, 2007
Quotes of the week!
"Joining a church will no more make you a Christian than joining the Elks will make you an elk."
Good tactics can save even the worst strategy. Bad tactics will destroy even the best strategy. - George S. Patton
In preparing for battle I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensible. - Dwight D. Eisenhower
"Do all the witnessing you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as you can." -Sumner Wemp
Good tactics can save even the worst strategy. Bad tactics will destroy even the best strategy. - George S. Patton
In preparing for battle I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensible. - Dwight D. Eisenhower
"Do all the witnessing you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as you can." -Sumner Wemp
Sunday, September 16, 2007
ALL ABOARD?
GENESIS 7
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. THE BOARDING [V. 1-9]
1. FIRST "COME" [v. 1] Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
He didn't say, "Go into the ark..." God was going to be with him!
2. FURTHER COMMANDMENTS [v. 2-4]
Not a contradiction of 6:19-20, this allowed for sacrifice [8:20] and quicker replenishment of certain animals (which can now be eaten after the flood)
The week may have been a last opportunity for sinners, a chance for Noah and family to get the animals arranged or even an opportunity to mourn Methuselah [Genesis 50:10] And they came to the threshingfloor of Atad, which is beyond Jordan, and there they mourned with a great and very sore lamentation: and he made a mourning for his father seven days.
3. FAITHFUL COMMITMENT [v. 5-9]
II. THE BEGINNING OF THE END
1. THE TIMING [v. 10-11a]
The Flood happened approximately 1650 years after Creation (Creation was approximately 6000 years ago, the Flood 4500 years ago, Abraham 4000 years ago, Moses 3500 years ago, David 3000 years ago, Isaiah 2700 years ago, Paul 2000 years ago)
2. THE TRIGGER [v. 11b]
Volcanic activity, earthquakes, etc. (remember the Tsunami after an underwater earthquake)
3. THE TOTALITY [v. 11c-12]
The activities on earth seemed to have "punctured" the equilibrium of the canopy. [1:6-8, 2:5]
III. THE BIBLE ACCOUNT
1. THE SURVIVORS [v. 13-15]
2. THE SECURITY [v. 16]
When God shuts the door... Revelation 3:7 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; Revelation 3:8 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. Isaiah 22:22 And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open. Ezekiel 44:2 Then said the LORD unto me; This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter in by it; because the LORD, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it, therefore it shall be shut.
3. THE SURGE [v. 17-24]
-the Flood was world-wide
-the Flood is responsible for the majority of coal beds, layers of earth, oil deposits, topography
-the Flood is recounted in almost every culture on earth though they generally have their facts confused
-those that deny the Flood (lost or saved) are on sinking sand
Matthew 24:37-39 But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
2 Peter 3
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. THE BOARDING [V. 1-9]
1. FIRST "COME" [v. 1] Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
He didn't say, "Go into the ark..." God was going to be with him!
2. FURTHER COMMANDMENTS [v. 2-4]
Not a contradiction of 6:19-20, this allowed for sacrifice [8:20] and quicker replenishment of certain animals (which can now be eaten after the flood)
The week may have been a last opportunity for sinners, a chance for Noah and family to get the animals arranged or even an opportunity to mourn Methuselah [Genesis 50:10] And they came to the threshingfloor of Atad, which is beyond Jordan, and there they mourned with a great and very sore lamentation: and he made a mourning for his father seven days.
3. FAITHFUL COMMITMENT [v. 5-9]
II. THE BEGINNING OF THE END
1. THE TIMING [v. 10-11a]
The Flood happened approximately 1650 years after Creation (Creation was approximately 6000 years ago, the Flood 4500 years ago, Abraham 4000 years ago, Moses 3500 years ago, David 3000 years ago, Isaiah 2700 years ago, Paul 2000 years ago)
2. THE TRIGGER [v. 11b]
Volcanic activity, earthquakes, etc. (remember the Tsunami after an underwater earthquake)
3. THE TOTALITY [v. 11c-12]
The activities on earth seemed to have "punctured" the equilibrium of the canopy. [1:6-8, 2:5]
III. THE BIBLE ACCOUNT
1. THE SURVIVORS [v. 13-15]
2. THE SECURITY [v. 16]
When God shuts the door... Revelation 3:7 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; Revelation 3:8 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. Isaiah 22:22 And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open. Ezekiel 44:2 Then said the LORD unto me; This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter in by it; because the LORD, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it, therefore it shall be shut.
3. THE SURGE [v. 17-24]
-the Flood was world-wide
-the Flood is responsible for the majority of coal beds, layers of earth, oil deposits, topography
-the Flood is recounted in almost every culture on earth though they generally have their facts confused
-those that deny the Flood (lost or saved) are on sinking sand
Matthew 24:37-39 But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
2 Peter 3
WHAT “AS” THE WORLD ARE YOU DOING?
I CHRONICLES 13
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. DAVID DISPLEASED THE LORD [v. 1-13]
1. David’s idea [v. 1-6]
-David wanted to do a good thing
-He consulted other men. Proverbs 11:14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.
-He didn’t consult the Lord.
Deuteronomy 32:28 For they are a nation void of counsel, neither is there any understanding in them.
Psalm 16:7 I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.
Psalm 33:11 The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
Psalm 119:24 Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counselors.
2. David’s plan [v. 7-8]
-David followed the way of the world.
I Sam. 6:7-8 Now therefore make a new cart, and take two milch kine, on which there hath come no yoke, and tie the kine to the cart, and bring their calves home from them: And take the ark of the LORD, and lay it upon the cart; and put the jewels of gold, which ye return him for a trespass offering, in a coffer by the side thereof; and send it away, that it may go.
-Israel always wanted to be like the world
I Samuel 8:5 And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.
Some Christians want to be like the world but that is not God’s will for our lives.
Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
-He had much zeal
Romans 10:2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.
-He ignored God’s Word which said the Levites were to bear the ark on their shoulders. Proverbs 16:25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
3. David’s disaster [v. 9-13]
-David was partially responsible for Uzza’s death [v. 9-10]
“It’s never right to do wrong in order to do right.” God’s Word was at stake!
-David got mad at God though he was at fault [v. 11]
-David feared [v. 12-13]
II. DAVID CONSIDERS THE LORD [13:14-14:1-2]
1. Obed-edom, a Levite (I Chr. 26), was blessed [v. 14]
2. David realized his position [14:1-2a]
Ephesians 2:10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
3. David observed the undeserved blessing of God [v. 2b, Romans 4:6-7]
Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.
III. DAVID PLEASES THE LORD
1. David consults the Lord [14:10, 14, 17]
2. David studies the Word [15:2, 11-13]
3. David is in the place of blessing [15:25-26]
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. DAVID DISPLEASED THE LORD [v. 1-13]
1. David’s idea [v. 1-6]
-David wanted to do a good thing
-He consulted other men. Proverbs 11:14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.
-He didn’t consult the Lord.
Deuteronomy 32:28 For they are a nation void of counsel, neither is there any understanding in them.
Psalm 16:7 I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.
Psalm 33:11 The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
Psalm 119:24 Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counselors.
2. David’s plan [v. 7-8]
-David followed the way of the world.
I Sam. 6:7-8 Now therefore make a new cart, and take two milch kine, on which there hath come no yoke, and tie the kine to the cart, and bring their calves home from them: And take the ark of the LORD, and lay it upon the cart; and put the jewels of gold, which ye return him for a trespass offering, in a coffer by the side thereof; and send it away, that it may go.
-Israel always wanted to be like the world
I Samuel 8:5 And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.
Some Christians want to be like the world but that is not God’s will for our lives.
Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
-He had much zeal
Romans 10:2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.
-He ignored God’s Word which said the Levites were to bear the ark on their shoulders. Proverbs 16:25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
3. David’s disaster [v. 9-13]
-David was partially responsible for Uzza’s death [v. 9-10]
“It’s never right to do wrong in order to do right.” God’s Word was at stake!
-David got mad at God though he was at fault [v. 11]
-David feared [v. 12-13]
II. DAVID CONSIDERS THE LORD [13:14-14:1-2]
1. Obed-edom, a Levite (I Chr. 26), was blessed [v. 14]
2. David realized his position [14:1-2a]
Ephesians 2:10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
3. David observed the undeserved blessing of God [v. 2b, Romans 4:6-7]
Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.
III. DAVID PLEASES THE LORD
1. David consults the Lord [14:10, 14, 17]
2. David studies the Word [15:2, 11-13]
3. David is in the place of blessing [15:25-26]
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