The Hand of God

 

Ezra 7:27-28 "Blessed be the LORD God of our fathers, which hath put such a thing as this in the king's heart, to beautify the house of the LORD which is in Jerusalem: and hath extended mercy unto me before the king, and his counselors, and before all the king's mighty princes. And I was strengthened as the hand of the LORD my God was upon me, and I gathered together out of Israel chief men to go up with me."   The Hand of God   Over and over in the book of Ezra we see the phrase "the hand of God." Behind all that was accomplished through men in this book was God's hand. Here in these verses, Ezra was blessing God for the things that the pagan kings did for the children of Israel. He realized that God was behind it all.   In our lives, too, it is important that the favor we aim to cultivate the most is the favor of God. Much of what the world sees as "success" leans upon cultivating favor with man. Think of the lobbyist in Washington; everything he does hinges upon gaining favor with certain powerful men so that these men can, in turn, help the lobbyist accomplish his particular goal. Now, having favor with men is not inherently wrong. The danger comes when we depend upon the favor of men to meet our needs instead of depending upon our Lord. If we have God's favor, we have all that we need.   In Ezra 6, the pagan king Darius was actually funding the building of the temple in Jerusalem! His decree included not only "the king's goods" and "expenses," but also a promise of safety to those building the temple and a warning of severe punishment to those who would hinder their work (verses 3-12). At first glance, it might appear that the work of God was dependent upon human power; but God's hand was behind even the favor that Darius showed to God's people. Verse 22 says that "the LORD had made them (God's people) joyful, and turned the heart of the king of Assyria unto them, to strengthen their hands in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel." Yes, God uses favor with men-even unsaved men-to further his work, but we must know that all favor with man is God-given. Don't look to people instead of looking to God. Our focus-our aim-should be to have the favor of God! All of our choices and ambitions should be guided by a desire to be in His favor.   How can we have the favor of God? Simply by daily being what we ought to be and doing what we ought to do. Sometimes doing what is right may mean losing the favor of "powerful" men that have resources you think you need; or it may mean that you stay in the background without being noticed by influential people. Don't worry! The only thing you need is the favor of God. In Him, you will have all that you need.       Prayer Requests: 1. Revival services tonight in Martinsville, IN 2. BRR Sign Language School in Salem, VA this week (9/13-20) 3. BRR Youth Conference this weekend (9/18-19) 4. Praise--5 juniors saved at Elementary Retreat and 1 teen saved at West Branch Youth Conferencere!   Check for revival services and events in your area on our website: billriceranch.org

Bill Rice Ranch | 627 Bill Rice Ranch Road | Murfreesboro | TN | 37128

Delight in the Lord

Sumner Wemps Spiritual Encouragement & Motivation  view archive

Delight in the Lord From the writings of Sumner Wemp Sep 14, 2009 Delight in the Lord   "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart." Ps. 37:4   DELIGHT YOURSELF, not deprive yourself or degrade yourself or downcast yourself but "have a good time" IN THE LORD.   What a delight   It is a delight, sheer ecstasy, to win someone to Christ and see them born of God right before your eyes. It is a delight to read the Word of God and see God open a very precious and eternal truth to you. It is a delight to preach or teach and see people transformed into a radiant Christian. It is a delight to go to Church and hear the Word of God proclaimed and your heart stirred to love Jesus more and be filled with joy. David said, "I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart" Ps. 40:8. What a wonderful way to get what you crave and live a fruitful and fulfilling life.   "We write this to make our joy complete" 1 John 1:4.   YOU, full of joy! God does not want us to have a dreary life filled with drudgery and discouragement. He tells about having "fullness of joy." John 16:15, Psalm 16:11. It is one thing to have fleshly fun and another to have fullness of joy for "the joy of the Lord is your strength" Neh. 8:10.   At The Least, ATL, memorize "because you said so, I will" Lk 5:5.   ATL "encourage one another daily" Heb 3:13   ATL "You do not have, because you do not ask God" James 4:2.   ATL "Follow me and I will make you fishers of men" Matt. 4:19   Cut these out, paste, type, print or write them on the back of a business card, to carry with you, memorize and repeat every day for 7 weeks. Then drop these and add 2 more.YOU CAN DO IT.   O dear people, memorize these verses and live a life full of them. all because of Calvary, sumner.   Make you time with the Lord a joy by filling your every thought with his scriptures, and with prayer.

visit my inJesus to check out thousands of groups and messages to learn more about inJesus or start a group    |    Premium Email Templates

IJCWM2H-GA007EM8-OA007GRN-YB007GQ8-2HIJCWM

Powerful Pointers from Proverbs

Proverbs 13

10 Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

15 Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.

16 Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.

18 Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.

King of All the Earth

King of All the Earth   September 14, 2009     "For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding." (Psalm 47:7)     This stirring psalm of praise which celebrates the reign of Christ over all the earth, finds its primary fulfillment in Christ's second coming and full reign over His Kingdom. The reader is exhorted to "sing praises unto our King" (v. 6). The reign of Christ certainly gives cause for celebration. His arrival forces the psalmist to proclaim, "O clap your hands, all ye people" (v. 1).     What has happened to make this Kingship such cause for celebration? After all, "by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible or invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him" (Colossians 1:16). He belongs on the throne. We should expect to find Him there. However, even though there is a sense in which He reigns today, the sad fact remains that another has usurped rule.     This usurper can be none other than Satan, who not only claims rule of the creation for himself, but who spoiled the original perfection of the creation which now "groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now" (Romans 8:22). He has encouraged men to accept the mindless concept of evolution, and even denies Christ recognition as Redeemer, as the humanist's creed "We will save ourselves!" boasts.     But all is not lost! Our text assures us that Christ will reclaim His Kingdom: "He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet. . . . God reigneth over the heathen" (vv. 3, 8). Christ the Creator, the Redeemer, the Heir, has conquered the enemy and soon will assume His rightful throne--"the throne of his holiness" (v. 8), "greatly exalted" (v. 9). Then we shall join the redeemed of the ages, and "shout unto God with the voice of triumph" (v. 1). JDM     Print this article | More Days of Praise articles         Institute for Creation Research | 1806 Royal Lane | Dallas | TX | 75229         Powered by phplist. To subscribe please go to www.icr.org

LESSONS FROM EZRA

 

Lessons from Ezra   Instead of focusing on one particular verse from Ezra, let us look at several important truths from the book as a whole. From the very beginning of the book, we see the truth that God is always in control. Here in Ezra the temple in Jerusalem had been destroyed and the vessels from the temple had been taken by Nebuchadnezzar. The circumstances, at first glance, might have made some wonder if God truly was in control of this situation.   But the very first verse says that "the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia" to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. In the following verses, King Cyrus acknowledges the "LORD God of heaven," both as the One who had given him the kingdoms of the earth in the first place and the One who had told him to have the temple built. Even when life seems to say that God is no longer ruling and has somehow lost control, know that our God is still governing and ruling in the affairs of men.   In chapter 2, teamwork is the theme. There is no way that Ezra could have built the temple by himself! He needed everyone and anyone who was willing to help. You will notice two things in verses 68-69: First, the people offered what they had freely. They were not giving grudgingly out of duty; they were giving what they had because they wanted to give.   Secondly, they gave "after their ability." Each person gave what he could of his own skills and of his own possessions. Not everyone could do or give the same thing-that was not God's way. But when each gave "after their ability," great things were done. In any Christian ministry, the Lord desires to use His people as they work together as a team.   In chapter 3, perspective is the theme (vs. 10-13). When the foundations to the temple were laid, there was a mixture of weeping and rejoicing. The weeping was done by some of the older men who were looking to past memories of the old temple; the shouts of joy and praise to the Lord came from those who were grateful for the great things God was doing right now in their midst. Their vision was toward the future and the new work that could be done for the Lord.   Great things done for the Lord in the past should be remembered but not dwelt upon; it is important that those past victories be used to inspire new works for God. Right perspective is so important-keep your focus on what God is doing and will do in the future while keeping in mind what He has done in the past.   In chapter 4, we are reminded that doing exactly what God wants you to do oftentimes brings opposition. Not everyone will pat you on the back for what you are doing; in fact, sometimes good people will be critical of the work being done. Do not be discouraged! This does not mean that you should quit. If God is ordering your steps, keep doing what you ought.   Finally, chapter 5 brings us back full circle to the truth that God is still in control. Many years after the vessels were taken from the temple by Nebuchadnezzar, they were returned to the new temple by Cyrus, the king of Persia (v.14). God allows "bad" things to happen for a reason, just as he ordains "good" things to happen in His divine plan. Never doubt that God always has and always will rule and govern in the affairs of men. How reassuring to know that He is in control!       Prayer Requests: 1. Revival services tonight in Martinsville, IN 2. BRR Sign Language School in Salem, VA this week (9/13-20) 3. BRR Youth Conference this weekend (9/18-19)   Check for revival services and events in your area on our website: billriceranch.org

Forward email Email Marketing by Bill Rice Ranch | 627 Bill Rice Ranch Road | Murfreesboro | TN | 37128

AREAS DAVID WAS NOT RIGHT WITH GOD

Pastor Rick Jackson

II SAMUEL 11

Sometimes we get the idea if we go to church, pray over our meals, and drop something in the offering plate we can otherwise live any way we desire and God is pleased. The truth is God [Psalm 51:6] "desires truth in the inward parts:" and He wants the inward part to show forth in the outward parts. We have responsibilities which, if not kept, become sin to us and a stumbling block to others. We have to keep our hearts!

A great example of what I am talking about is found in our text. David was not right with God and it showed forth in 5 separate areas of his life. It can just as easily be seen in our lives if we do not consider ourselves, lest we also be tempted.

David was not right with God because he was not right with his responsibilities in the area of:

I. WORK [11:1]

Galatians 6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

Ephesians 4:28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

Colossians 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

1 Thessalonians 4:11 And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

II. MORAL PURITY [11:2-4, Gal. 5:19-26]

Do men have a responsibility to be pure or is that just for women? Purity is for both men and women, girls and boys. Men have to guard their eyes but women must be careful how they dress. The Bible covers both areas of responsibility.

Matthew 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

1 Timothy 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

III. MONEY [11:8, 13]

We should not use our money for wrong things. We should be careful that our money doesn't lead others astray.

Habakkuk 2:15 Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!

Matthew 6:19-20 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

IV. FRIENDSHIP [11:13]

Pr 17:17 A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Pr 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Pr 27:6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

John 15:14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

James 4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

V. HOME [11:26-27]

Malachi 2:15 And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.

Ephesians 5:31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.

1 Peter 3:7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

-----------------------------------

It is a rare thing when a sin stands alone. If it does stand alone it generally doesn't stay that way for long. Let's keep short accounts with God. Let us live as a child of God ought live.

CATCHING MEN

MT. 4:17-22

Pastor Rick Jackson*

I. WE MUST CATCH THEM WITH AN IMPECCABLE LIFE!

1. Jesus Said It! [Mt. 5:16]

2. Paul Said It! [Gal. 2:20, II Cor. 6:17]

3. Peter Said It! [I Peter 3:1-2]

Hypocrites repel men. We must be real. We must be genuine. We must strive to be like the Master!

II. WE MUST CATCH THEM WITH AN UNCHANGED GOSPEL! [I Cor. 15:1-6]

1. Give It Simply! [I Cor. 2:1-2]

2. Give It Powerfully! [I Cor. 2:3-4, Rm. 1:16]

3. Give It Sincerely! [II Peter 1:15-19]

III. WE MUST CATCH THEM WITH A BURDENED HEART!

1. Jesus Had It! [Mt. 9:35-38]

2. Paul Had It! [Rm. 9:1-3, 10:1]

3. Jude Had It! [Jude 20-23]

*adapted from a message by Dr. Lee Roberson

QUESTION OF THE WEEK! - Can you have faith and be rational?‏

Q: Can you have faith and be rational?

A: A person commits the fallacy of bifurcation when he or she claims that there are only two mutually exclusive possibilities—when, in fact, there is a third option. For this reason the fallacy is also known as the either-or fallacy and the false dilemma.

A facetious example is this:

“Either the traffic light is red, or it is green.”

This is obviously fallacious, since the light could be yellow.

A more realistic example is this:
“
Either you have faith or you are rational.”

This commits the fallacy of bifurcation, since there is a third possibility: we can have faith and be rational. In fact, faith is essential in order to have rationality (e.g., to make sense of laws of logic).

“Either the universe operates in a law-like fashion, or God is constantly performing miracles.”

This is also fallacious because a third possibility exists: the universe operates in a law-like fashion most of the time, and God occasionally performs a miracle.

Sometimes the origins debate is framed as “faith vs. reason,” “science or religion,” or the “Bible vs. science.” These are all false dilemmas. Faith and reason are not contrary. They go well together (since all reasoning presupposes a type of faith).

To find out how science and faith are not at odds, despite what many critics claim, read the new article in Dr. Jason Lisle’s Logical Fallacies series: Bifurcation. And for more, read Dr. Lisle’s response in Feedback: The Logic of Belief.

News to Note Quick Look

A skull changes everything: The history of human evolution is clear: we all came from Africa the Middle East Europe. Read more.

Evolution leads to tooth decay: Tooth loss and molecular decay prove Charles Darwin right—or so it has been claimed. Does that mean brushing twice a day keeps evolution away? Read more.

Also:

A zinc world

What they didn’t find

Cured by . . . fat?

And Don’t Miss

Prayer Requests

View the current prayer requests to keep track of and pray for current ministry needs. Thank
you!

Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program

Missionary—for God or for man?

Intelligent Design—good for government schools?

Darwin died—but rejecting what?

Flat earth—and Jewish tradition!

Morality—it’s connected to biblical authority!

After Eden

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 Good Fight

The Good Fight     "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." (1 Timothy 6:12)     Scripture frequently refers to the Christian life and work in athletic or combative terms. When all things are considered, reason compels the Christian to enter into the race and fight.     First, our Commander is worth following. He leads us into battle and stands with us on the front lines receiving the fiercest fire: "Let us run with patience the race. . . . Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross" (Hebrews 12:1-2).     Second, we are well-armed and protected. The "whole armour of God" includes the girdle of "truth," the "breastplate of righteousness," shoes of "the preparation of the gospel of peace," "the shield of faith," "the helmet of salvation," and "the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (Ephesians 6:13-17). The warrior's mouth is filled with prayers and bold speech (vv.18-20); his sword has no scabbard, and his back has no armor, for retreat is unthinkable.     The goal of our fight urges us on. We strive to undermine the kingdom of darkness and to fill it with light. Each must battle on to exalt our Leader and to champion His Word. "Consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds" (Hebrews 12:3).     To the victor belongs the spoils. "To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne" (Revelation 3:21). We no longer will be soldiers, but kings; we will trade our battle armor for robes, washed and made "white in the blood of the Lamb" (Revelation 7:14). Our helmet will be replaced by an "incorruptible" crown (1 Corinthians 9:25)--"a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give |us| at that day" (2 Timothy 4:8). JDM     Print this article | More Days of Praise articles       Institute for Creation Research | 1806 Royal Lane | Dallas | TX | 75229

FW: The Urgency of knowing God!

Sumner Wemps Spiritual Encouragement & Motivation  view archive

The Urgency of knowing God! From the writings of Sumner Wemp God put it there!   These days, with all the emphasis on one's physical fitness, a new organization has sprung up called "Athletics Anonymous."  When you get the urge to play golf, tennis, go power-walking or bicycle riding (or anything else involving a type of physical activity), they send someone over to watch TV with you until the urge passes.   When you get the urge to do something for God and eternity, the devil sends someone over to stick with you until the urge to please God passes. Have you noticed the ads on TV end with an emphatic, CALL NOW! Call while you have the urge. We must do the same with God. You can memorize these verses we are giving. You can witness and win people to Christ. You can read at least 5 chapters in the Bible a day. You can pray for the things God tells us. DO IT NOW. "For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose" Phil 2:13, DO IT NOW! All because God loves YOU.   Prayer:  Father bless your children and may we respond to Your desires. In Jesus name   Do not let the desire/passion to serve Christ pass by but instead act upon that desire.   Click her for the East-West Ministries website.

visit my inJesus to check out thousands of groups and messages learn more about inJesus  |    Premium Email Templates

IJCWM2H-GA007EM8-OA007GRN-QB007GQ8-2HIJCWM

THE HALL OF FAITH [9] THE UNCOMMON COMMON DENOMINATOR

Hebrews 12:1-4

Pastor Rick Jackson

In the Football Hall of Fame the common denominator of all the people represented is football, in the Baseball Hall of Fame its baseball, and so on. In the Hall of Faith you might think the common denominator of all the people represented therein is faith, but you would be wrong, the common denominator of all the people represented in the Hall of Faith is Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ! Without Him there would be nothing.

I. OUR RESPONSIBILITY [v. 1]

1. Lay aside Every Weight

2. Lay aside Every Sin

3. Run with Patience

II. OUR SAVIOUR [v. 2]

1. Jesus is the Author of our Salvation [2:10]

2. Jesus is the Finisher of our Salvation [John 19:30]

When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.

3. Jesus is the King of our Salvation [Hebrews 1:3, 8:1, 10:12]

Matthew 19:28 And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

III. OUR INSPIRATION [v. 3-4]

1. Contemplate what Jesus Did

2. Conquer weary Thoughts

3. Consider the Ultimate [Revelation 2:10]

Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

George J. Scott’s Memorial Service

A memorial service was held on Tuesday, September 8, 2009 at 7:00 pm at Bradford Baptist Church, Starke, FL with Rev. Rick Jackson and Bro. James Parrish officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to assist with funeral cost. Arrangements are under the care and direction of ARCHIE TANNER FUNERAL SERVICES Starke, Fl. 904-964-5757

-

Greeting & prayer- Rick Jackson

-

Amazing Grace- James Parrish

-

Reading of Obituary- Rick Jackson

-

George Julian Scott, age 57, of Starke, FL, passed away on Friday, September 4, 2009. Mr. Scott was born in Gainesville, FL on October 14, 1951 to the late Julian Daniel Scott and Edna Markham Scott. George loved the Lord and was a member of Bradford Baptist Church. He enjoyed attending cookouts and spending time with his family and friends and he loved his grandkids. George was an avid yard sale shopper and he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was preceded in death by his brothers: Edwin, T.D., and Bruce, and his sister: Julia Dee Hooten and eight nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his wife of 20 years: Liz Ann Scott of Starke, FL; his children: Shawn William Scott (Shawna) of Columbus, GA, Marie Manning (Fiancé David) and Robert Doughman (Terri Lynn) of Starke, FL and James Vaughn (Corrina) of Lake Butler, FL. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, brother, Neil Scott, sister, Edwina Willis and numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and friends.

-

Go Up high on That Mountain - James Parrish

-

Message - Pastor Rick Jackson

-

JOHN 13-33, 36-14:6

There are many things I could say today that you would soon forget but I want to draw your attention to the Word of God and if you try these things can give you strength and help not only today but for the rest of your life. For these are not the word of some preacher but the Words of the Lord Jesus Himself concerning the place called Heaven.

Jesus had been with the disciples for about 3 years now and often times they were with Him 24/7. They had grown to depend upon His presence, to enjoy His company, to rely upon His wisdom. They looked to Him when they faced death from a storm at sea, hunger from a hungry crowd, accusations from religious groups, or their own inability to do something they should have been able to do… but couldn’t. Once Jesus asked them if they would leave Him as others had and [John 6:68] Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

And now Jesus says, I’m leaving! [13:33, 36-38] and then he gives Peter even more bad news.

1. Heaven is an Assured Place [v. 1] even for a sinning Christian like Pete!

2. Heaven is an Abundant Place [v. 2a]

3. Heaven is a Distant Place [v. 2b-3]

4. Heaven is a Prepared Place [v. 2c]

-
5. Heaven is a Populated Place [v. 3]

-

6. Heaven is a Reserved Place [v. 4-6]

-

Invitation to accept the blessed Saviour [at least 4 adult men let it be known they were trusting Christ during the service. To God be the glory, great things He hath done!]

-

On the Wings of a Snow White Dove- James Parrish

QUOTES OF THE WEEK!

For the Christian, disappointments may be God's appointments. - J.R. Faulkner

The Devil does not hate you because of what you do, he hates you because of who you are! - Evangelist David Benoit

I don't believe pastors fall because witches and devil worshippers pray against them. It's the prayerlessness of the Church. - Benoit

Only one thing kept me from being a professional ball player- ability. - Benoit

Smiles are contagious: I can see some of you are immune. - Benoit

A lady told a man to move his beer belly out of her way. "That is not a beer belly. I am a Baptist preacher and don't drink!" "Okay then", she replied, "Move that chicken coop!" - Missionary James Ray

[After viewing Lenin's body on display in Moscow] "I call it the gremlin of the Kremlin." - James Ray

He may not be henpecked but he's got chicken house ways about him. - Missionary Ron Corley

Fellowship in the Gospel

Philippians 1:3-5 "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;" Fellowship in the Gospel Paul was a man whose life was centered on the Gospel; it was never far from his mind. Even when he was in prison, he viewed his purpose to be "in the defence and confirmation of the gospel" (verse 7). His perspective was affected by the Gospel, so much so that he even said in verse 12 that his persecution was "unto the furtherance of the gospel." Again in verse 17, he says he was "set for the defence of the gospel." In verse 27, Paul encourages the Philippian believers to live their lives only "as it becometh the gospel of Christ" so that he could see them "striving together for the faith of the gospel." Did you notice a repetition? The Gospel! And these statements are only in chapter one! So look back at our verse this morning, verse 5-he thanked God for their fellowship in the Gospel. There are many things that we can use as a basis for fellowship with other people. Most of these things are superficial. For example, I can have almost instant rapport with someone who has the same interest as I do. I can spend ten minutes talking to a man about the state of Arizona, a place we both find fascinating! I love backpacking, so if I find out you do too, we immediately have a basis of fellowship, however superficial it may be. The danger for all of us is that we can spend our lives "fellowshipping" with people over the trivial things in life, when we should be seeking out those with whom we can have fellowship in the Gospel. I have a pastor friend that is very different from me in many areas; in fact, had we been in college together at the same time, I doubt that we would have been friends. We did not come from similar backgrounds, our interests/hobbies are not the same, and he does not really have a "magnetic personality." But I have found myself repeatedly thanking God for him because he has such a passion to win the lost, because he truly believes that the Gospel can and will change lives. We must not get caught up in making judgments about other Christians solely on the basis of where they went to college, where they grew up, whether they like what we like, whether we have the same personality, etc. Those things are trivial and superficial compared to our true purpose in life-to live and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We need to seek out those around us that are living for this same purpose; that is where the truest and best fellowship can be found! When the Gospel is as important to us as it was to Paul, we will find that our deepest fellowship is with those who love the Gospel. Prayer Requests: 1. Revival services tonight in Flagstaff,AZ; Lyford, IN; Altoona, PA; and Scott, MI 2. Ranch evangelists traveling to services this weekend in Franklin, IN; Flagstaff, AZ; Kingman, AZ; and Huntingdon, PA Check for revival services and events in your area on our website: billriceranch.org

Bill Rice Ranch 627 Bill Rice Ranch Road Murfreesboro TN 37128

THE COMFORTER & HIS WORKING IN US

John 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
John 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 15:26 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:
John 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

Pastor Rick Jackson*

I. WHY DO WE NEED COMFORT?

1. Because of Our Hateful Environment [John 15:18-19]

If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

2. Because of our Hostile Enemy [I Pt. 5:8]

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

3. Because of Our Hurtful Sinful Nature [1 Peter 2:11]

Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;

II. WHAT DO WE HAVE IN THE COMFORTER?

1. A Reality in Our Relationship [Jn. 14:16-18] orphanos= parentless:--comfortless, fatherless

2. A Remembrance of His Word [Jn. 14:26]

3. A Reminder of His Presence [Jn. 15:26, 16:7]

III. WHAT CAN WE DO IN & THROUGH HIM?

1. Comfort as we have been Comforted [2 Corinthians 1:4]

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.

2. Comfort a Repentant Brother [2 Corinthians 2:7]

So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.

3. Comfort by Caring [2 Corinthians 7:6-7]

Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus; And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.
Ephesians 6:22 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts.
Colossians 4:8 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts;

Exemplified in Thessalonians: I Th. 2:11, 3:2, 4:18, 5:11; II Th. 2:17

*adapted from a message I heard Brother J. Don Jennings preach August 1986

THE COMFORTER & HIS WORK

Ecclesiastes 4:1 So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter.
Lamentations 1:9 Her filthiness is in her skirts; she remembereth not her last end; therefore she came down wonderfully: she had no comforter. O LORD, behold my affliction: for the enemy hath magnified himself.
Lamentations 1:16 For these things I weep; mine eye, mine eye runneth down with water, because the comforter that should relieve my soul is far from me: my children are desolate, because the enemy prevailed.
Isaiah 40:1-3 Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the LORD's hand double for all her sins. The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God
John 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
John 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 15:26 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:
John 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

Pastor Rick Jackson

I. THE COMFORTER TESTIFIES (bears witness) [Jn 15:26]

1. He was Sent by Jesus

2. He was Sent from the Father

3. He was Sent as the Spirit of Truth to Testify of Truth

John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
John 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

II. THE COMFORTER TEACHES [Jn. 14:26]

1. As a Member of the Trinity

2. As Omniscient (all knowing) [1 Corinthians 2:10]

But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

3. As the Author of the Holy Bible [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. [also II Tm. 3:16 proving the Holy Spirit is God]

III. THE COMFORTER TARRIES [Jn. 14:16]

1. Like Jesus, the Spirit Loves us [1 John 2:1]

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous

2. Like Jesus, the Spirit comes from the Father [James 1:17]

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

3. Unlike Jesus's Ministry, the Spirit's Ministry is to Tarry [Jn. 16:17]

QUESTION OF THE WEEK! - To what extremes will the human body go?‏

Q: To what extremes will the human body go?

A: You never know what unexpected danger might put your life on the line. But God knows, and He has equipped every human with backup systems that are programmed to respond to all sorts of emergencies.

Astronauts shivering in a broken-down spacecraft far from earth. A woman falling off a cliff. A backpacker encountering a furious bear at a bend in the trail. How could these people possibly survive?

Each depended on incredible biological emergency systems to stay alive.

We live in a cursed world where dangers lurk around every corner. Recognizing the potential threats to our lives, God provided our bodies with contingency plans, ready to activate at a moment’s notice. Whatever extra energy or infusion of chemicals our bodies need, whatever quick changes are required for us to make quick decisions or conserve precious resources, the brain is always ready to act.

The beauty of these emergency systems is that we don’t have to learn them. Every person begins life with these abilities, which are passed down through the generations, originating in our first parents, Adam and Eve.

Researchers are learning more and more about how our brain switches operations when thrown into hazardous situations. You may never face life-threatening situations, or you may face them only once, but in any case, God has equipped you to have a better chance of surviving. Consider just three examples.

Continue reading The Human Body—Wired for Extremes. It’s a sneak-peek article from the October–December issue of Answers magazine.

News to Note Quick Look

Human evolution: A team of researchers has added to our knowledge of the genetic mutation rate in humans, as they report in Current Biology. Read more.

Dog evolution: The many differences in dog fur are reducible to just a few genetic factors, a team reports in Science. So what does that teach creationists about the tricks of biology? Read more.

Also:

Mouse evolution

Zoo evolution?

Bang! Bang! Is intelligent design dead?

And Don’t Miss

Prayer Requests

View the current prayer requests to keep track of and pray for current ministry needs. Thank you!

Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program

Logic—now, could it evolve?

Dogs—how do they evolve?

Evolutionists—do they go to hell?

Salamanders—another living fossil!

A Christian evolutionist—can it be?

After Eden

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 Burdensome Stone

The Burdensome Stone "And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it." (Zechariah 12:3) The tiny land of Israel is an amazing phenomenon, explainable only in biblical terms. It began almost 4,000 years ago with the family of Jacob (or Israel) and his twelve sons. Most of the contemporary nations at the time--Elam, Chaldea, the Hittite empire, and others--have long been extinct as nations, but Israel is alive and well, and is in fact the very hub of international concern. It has, as God prophesied, become a "burdensome stone for all people." Israel has indeed become a unique burden to the nations. The whole Muslim world insists that Israel be destroyed as a nation, but Israel is determined to maintain her present boundaries. For 1,800 years, "the wandering Jew" had no true home, yet survived. In accord with biblical prophecy, she had "become an astonishment, a proverb, and a byword, among all nations whither the LORD shall lead thee" (Deuteronomy 28:37). The city of Jerusalem itself, just since the time of Christ, has been controlled at various times by the Romans, Syrians, Arabs, Crusaders, Egyptians, Persians, and Turks; but never again by the Jews until our own generation. The problem of Israel and Jerusalem is apparently intractable to the other nations of the world and so must be resolved by God. Zechariah 12 also shows that it will indeed be solved "in that day"--the day when Christ returns. At that time, He says: "I will pour upon . . . the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him" (Zechariah 12:10). In that great day, says Paul, "all Israel shall be saved" (Romans 11:26). HMM Print this article More Days of Praise articles Institute for Creation Research 1806 Royal Lane Dallas TX 75229 Powered by phplist. To subscribe please go to www.icr.org/change

QUOTES OF THE WEEK!

The Practical Christian Faith of Robert E. Lee


"I recall a story, that a few years after the [American Civil] war (which is the great chronological epoch in a large part of our country), at the White Sulphur Springs in Virginia, was a venerable man at whom all the people looked with profound admiration, whose name was Robert E. Lee. He was a devout Episcopalian. One day a Presbyterian minister came to preach in the ball-room, according to custom, and he told me this story. He noticed that General Lee, who was a very particular man about all the proprieties of life, came in late, and he thought it was rather strange. He learned afterwards that the General had waited until all the people who were likely to attend the service had entered the room, and then he walked very quietly around in the corridors and parlors, and out under the trees, and wherever he saw a man or two standing he would go up and say gently: ‘We are going to have divine service this morning in the ball-room; won’t you come?’ And they all went. To me it was very touching that that grand old man, whose name is known all over the world and before whom all the people wanted to bow, should so quietly go around, and for a minister of another denomination also, and persuade them to go."
John A. Broadus
Sermons and Addresses, p. 38
(Baltimore: M. H. Wharton & Co., 1886)



Some more quotations from Sermons and Addresses by John A. Broadus--


"It is easy to talk nonsense on the subject of church music. It is very difficult to talk wisely. But I think we sometimes forget in our time that there is a distinction between secular and sacred music. I have seen places where they did not seem to know there was such a distinction." p. 18

"Our advocate [Jesus] does not argue that we are innocent, but confessing our guilt, pleads for mercy to us; and he does not present our merits as a reason why mercy should be shown us, but his merits. . . . And God is made propitious, favorable to us, not when he is willing to save, but when it is made right that he should save us, . . . " pp. 77, 78



"We must be, ought to be, intensely dissatisfied with ourselves; but let us be satisfied with our Savior, and have peace with God through him; not content with the idea of remaining such as we are, but, seeing that the same Gospel which offers us forgiveness and acceptance offers us also a genuine renewal through our Lord Jesus Christ, and promises that finally we shall be made holy, as God is holy, shall indeed be perfect, as our Father in heaven is perfect." pp. 94-5


"Oh, ye people that have to do with the world’s young men, you never know what some little word you speak is going to do I shaping the whole character and controlling the whole life of the man who walks by your side!" p. 172


"But, in one sense, every man is self-educated who is ever really educated at all." p. 251



"[God] can determine better than we, in what ways we shall be most useful. He knows whether it is best for us to labor in one part of his vineyard or another, in one or another sphere and method of Christian exertion." p. 353


"Whatever is worth teaching at all is worth teaching well; and there is no really good teaching without an enthusiastic interest in the subject, and a passionate desire to give the pupil all possible assistance." p. 360



The quotes above were taken from "AS I SEE IT" Volume 12, Number 9, September 2009. AISI is sent free to all who request it by writing to the editor at: DKUTILEK@juno.com. You can be removed from the mailing list at the same address. Back issues sent on request. All back issues may be accessed at http://www.kjvonly.org/ ]



Keep not ill company lest you increase the number. - George Herbert



Difficulties are God's errands; and when we are sent upon them, we should esteem it a proof of God's confidence. - Beecher

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

The life of faith excludes worry. Worry is sin. - Roberson

Chastening, rightly borne, will make strong Christians. - Roberson

Let all things press you to His side. - Roberson

Let me get this straight...We're going to pass a health care plan written by a committee whose head says he doesn't understand it,
passed by a Congress that hasn't read it but exempts themselves from it,
signed by a president that also hasn't read it and who smokes,
with funding administered by a treasury chief who didn't pay his taxes,
overseen by a surgeon general who is obese, and
financed by a country that's nearly broke.
What could possibly go wrong? - Unknown

THE HALL OF FAITH [8] THE NEW WING

Hebrews 12:1

Pastor Rick Jackson

I. A WITNESS OBSERVES:

1. What Others Do [Rm. 1:9, I Th. 2:10]

2. What Others Say [I Th. 2:5]

3. What Others Are [Mt. 23:31]

II. A WITNESS TESTIFIES:

1. What He has Done [Heb. 11:4-5, 39]

2. What He Has Seen [I Jn. 1:2, 4:14, III Jn. 3]

3. What He has Heard [Lk. 4:22]

III. A WITNESS TESTIFIES [GIVES A TESTIMONIAL]:

1. For a Purpose [Jn. 1:7]

2. Of Validity [Jn. 5:31-39]

3. Because of a Relationship [Jn. 15:23-16:3, Acts 5:32]