JOHN R. RICE QUOTES OF THE WEEK

 Do not allow your child to attend a modernistic church which would break down his faith in the Bible and in Christ. There are churches in cities and towns all over America that are not worthy of the name. They call themselves churches, they claim to be Christian institutions, yet they do not believe any of the fundamental doctrines of the Bible, they do not have any of the essential characteristics of Christianity. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 315]

A man who does not believe that Jesus is the virgin-born Son of God, does not trust in the atoning death of Christ for his salvation, is not a Christian even though he may wear priestly garb and stand behind a sacred pulpit and pretend to preach the gospel. All modernist preachers, who deny the inspiration of the Bible, deny the essential deity of Jesus Christ, deny His miracles, deny His virgin birth, deny His bodily resurrection, deny the need for a new birth, deny the fact of Heaven and Hell, are, in the words of Jesus Christ Himself, "blind leaders of the blind." They are "false prophets which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves" (Matt. 7:15). To sit under the influence and teaching of such men in the pulpit is a sin. It is painful and wrong for an adult who is already truly converted. It is utterly disastrous and inexcusable to leave a child to be influenced by such an ungodly pretender to Christianity. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 315]

2 John 1:10-11 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

It is wrong to support infidels, deniers of the deity of Christ, with your money or with your presence. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 316]

We are not to be unequally yoked with the unconverted [2 Cor. 6:14-18].

Certainly that would mean that in any spiritual context we are not to have fellowship with enemies of Christ and the Bible, deniers of "the faith," those who do not hold to the historic Christian faith. We are not to receive them in fellowship as Christians, not support them as prophets, not receive them in our churches for membership, not receive them as teachers in our colleges or seminaries, not promote their ministries or their books or their institutions.

And since marriage is also a spiritual institution, we are commanded not to yoke up with unbelievers in marriage. - John R. Rice [I Am A Fundamentalist, pg. 23]

When I say we should love good Christians and have fellowship with them, I do not mean fellowship with infidels, fellowship with modernists, fellowship with liberals. I do not ask from others nor do I offer them fellowship if they do not believe the Bible is the very Word of God, if they do bot accept that Jesus Christ as the virgin-born Son of God dying an atoning death, raised bodily from the dead, coming again. I am pleading for fellowship with Christians, not with any of the Devil's crowd, not with false prophets and false cults. - John R. Rice [I Am A Fundamentalist, pg. 32]

The Bible has so clearly warned us against being yoked up with unbelievers and having fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, that I urge you solemnly, do not count a man a Christian when he does not hold to the historic Christian faith. Even if the man is a bishop in your denomination, or a professor in a seminary of your denomination, I beg you, never support him, do not give him a penny that endorses him, do not count him a Christian, do not support him nor condone his sin.

But with born-again, Bible-believing Christians, I urge you to have fellowship. - John R. Rice [I Am A Fundamentalist, pg. 32]

Christians should not attend churches that deny the deity of Christ, that deny the inspiration and integrity of the Bible, that deny the essential tenets of historic Christianity. And if you bring your children up in such an atmosphere, in such a modernistic church, you may be responsible for the eternal damnation of their souls, and you are almost certain to have a part thus in the wreck of their faith. Do not take your children to a modernistic church and do not allow them to go.- John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 315-316]

TO FEAR OR NOT TO FEAR. . . .

MATTHEW 10:24-28

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

When I was a kid my friends and I liked to watch scary movies with couch pillows to hide behind. Mind you the scary movies we watched were mild compared to today’s fare but nevertheless we were scared. Of what are you afraid?

 

I. DON’T FEAR THE FICTIONAL

 

1. Man Made myths - Frankenstein’s monster, Vampires, Zombies, Freddy, Jason. Etc. [1 Corinthians 8:4]

 

We know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.

 

2. Man Made Religions - Buddhism, Islam, etc.  [1 Corinthians 10:19-20]

 

What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing? But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.

1 Corinthians 12:2 Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.

2 Corinthians 6:16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said , I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

 

3. Man Mutilated Truths - Angels, Demons, Witches, “Christian” cults [Colossians 2:18]

 

Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,

 

II. DON’T FEAR THE LIMITED

 

1. Lies About Your Person [v. 24-26]

 

2. Physical Threats for Jesus Sake [v. 27-28a]

 

3. Being Forgotten [v. 29-31]

 

III. DO FEAR TRUE DANGERS

 

1. Rejecting the One True God [v. 28b]

 

2. Rejecting the Gospel of God [v. 28c]

 

3. Rejecting the Service of God [v. 32-42]

It is a matter of perspective

After a tragedy people are often heard to say, “Where is God?” Some foolishly charge God with wrongdoing or lack of right doing. I guarantee you that every child of God who died on 9-11, every Christian who died in any war, accident or what have you knows exactly where God is! It is those left behind who ignorantly question what they don’t understand. It is those who in some cases are willingly ignorant that charge God foolishly. Those who know their Bibles know exactly where God is.

The story is told of a little boy playing with blocks. His father was an unbeliever and when the boy went out for a moment the father made the blocks spell out, “God is nowhere” When the little boy came back in a read the blocks he made a space in one of the words changing it into two words. The father saw the change… where it had said, “God is nowhere” it had been changed to “God is now here”. It is a matter of perspective.

DON’T BE A PROFANE PERSON

GENESIS 25:27-34, 27:34-41, 28:6-9, HEBREWS 12:14-17

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

God’s Word declares that Esau was a profane person. Profane is not a common adjective in our time but it is an apt one. “Profane” means a thorough secularization, someone who is profane has no place for God but are open to everyone and everything else. The profane person was unable, unworthy, and even unwilling to enter a sacred place. Esau was such a man- godless, without God, without thought of God or without caring what God may say about aspects of his life. The life of Esau is a great warning about losing so much to gain so little.

 

I. WHAT DID ESAU LOVE? The answer is simple- Esau loved Esau.

 

1. Self-centered [John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.]

 

1 Corinthians 15:31 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.

Mark 8:35 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.

 

2. Self-confident [James 4:6]

 

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

Psalm 34:2 My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.

Psalm 49:6 They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;

Psalm 94:4 How long shall they utter and speak hard things? and all the workers of iniquity boast themselves?

 

3. Self-indulgent [2 Timothy 3:1-4]                           

 

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

 

 

II. WHAT DID ESAU LACK?

 

1. Discernment [2 Corinthians 4:18]

 

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

 

-He could not discern true quality- the difference between the passing and the permanent. He, like many others, sacrificed the eternal on the altar of the immediate.

-He could not discern true value- the difference between the “pricey” and the priceless. “He is no fool who gives up that which he cannot keep for that which he cannot lose.”

 

2. Devotion [Deuteronomy 6:5] He recognized no cause but his own.

 

And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.

 

3. Discipline [Deuteronomy 6:6] He recognized no authority except his own.

 

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:

 

III. WHAT DID ESAU LOSE?

 

1. He Lost the Delight & Blessing He Could Have Been to Others [Gn. 26:34-35]

 

2. He Lost the Earthly Destiny that Could Have Been His [Heb. 12:16-17]

 

He wept but- Not because he was a sinner but because he was a loser

Not because he sold the birthright but because he lost it

Not because of his sin but because of his loss

 

3. He Lost the Eternal Destiny that Could Have Been His [Heb. 11:20-21, 12:14-16]

HIS WAY IS THE HIGH WAY

MT. 16:13-25, Isaiah 55:8-9

 

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE WAY OF CONFUSION [v. 13-21]

 

1. The World‘s Ignorance [v. 13-14, 1 Corinthians 2:14]

 

But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

 

2. The Christian’s Confession [v. 15-16, Rm. 10:9]

 

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

 

3. The Father’s Revelation [v. 17-21, John 5:23]

 

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

Hebrews 10:29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

 

II. THE WAY OF CONVENIENCE [v. 22-23]

 

1. Christian’s Can Fall into Fleshly Pride [Proverbs 16:18]

 

Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

 

2. Christian’s Can Give Heed to the Devil’s Doctrines [Gal., 1 Timothy 4:1]

 

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

 

3. Christian’s Can Fall Sway to the World’s Thinking [Colossians 2:8, 20]

 

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances,

 

III. THE WAY OF THE CROSS [v. 21-25]

 

1. Is The Way of Jesus [v. 21, 1 Peter 2:21] For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

 

2. It is the Way of Denial [v. 24]

 

3. It is the Way of Death to Self [v, 24b-25, Jn. 12:24-25]

 

Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.

JOHN R. RICE QUOTES OF THE WEEK

 Little children cannot understand all the table talk of their elders, yet in enlightened homes children learn to sit nicely at the table, learn to eat quietly, and to be cheerful and happy in the fellowship of older people without disturbing the happiness of the family or embarrassing guests. Certainly the same principle obtains in the matter of public worship. Do not wait until the child understands all about theology, or can understand the discourse of the pastor before you take him to church. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 312]

The aim of parents and of the Sunday School ought to be to establish such a habit of regular Sunday School and church attendance that the child will never be willing to miss the Christian fellowship, the spiritual refreshing, and the worship of God each Sunday in his church, or wherever he may be. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 313]

It is equally important that the child should feel that the church comes before the school, comes before play, comes before visiting. Even in vacation time a child should be taught very carefully to maintain a custom of attending church, even if it must be away from the home church. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 313]

Parents should not send the children to Sunday School or church alone. A child may go to church and feel that the Sunday School and church service are all right for a child, but the boy will think, "When I get big like Dad, I will stay at home as he does, or play golf, or go fishing on Sunday." The father and mother must set the example in worshipful attendance, in happy fellowship at the church, in liberal giving. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 313-314]

Make sure that the church is always "talked up" at home. How many parents have ruined the influence of the church over their own children by their careless criticism of the minister, of some church official, or of Christians who attend the services! Let it always be understood that the church, while not perfect, is God's own institution, and that a certain reverence is due to any true house of God and any true minister of God. Let it be understood that ministers are human, but that as a class they are the cleanest and most unselfish set of men on earth, and that ministers ought be defended by godly people everywhere. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 314]

It is true, as has been said a million times, no doubt, that, "There are too many hypocrites in the church." Since the church is full of human beings, naturally that is true. There are also too many hypocrites in the lodges, too many hypocrites in business, too many hypocrites in the schools. Judas Iscariot was a hypocrite among the first twelve apostles. And there are no doubt many insincere people in churches today, many unconverted people. But the fact yet remains that any child will be better influenced on the whole by a church where the gospel is preached and the Bible is believed than he will be in the public school or by his playmates. It is wicked and foolish and disastrous to criticize and break down the confidence of a child in God's institution, the church, which ought to be to him such a blessing and comfort and strength, such a medium of Christian cooperation and fellowship and service. Stand by the church. Do not criticize it before the children! - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 314]

Put the church before the school. Instead of leaving the children at home to do their lessons on Sunday night, or on week nights when revival services or Bible conferences or prayer services are on at the church, let the children postpone their lessons and come to the house of God. What they ill get by the gospel preaching, the sweet singing, and by seeing souls saved in the church will be worth more to them than anything they would learn in school. That their souls may be saved if they are not already Christians, and that their hearts may be revived if they are Christians, it is important that young people regularly attend the house of God, that they attend revival services and Bible conference programs. Let the church, after the home, be first in the heart and mind of the child. It is rare that children cannot do their necessary school work and yet have time for the services at the church. But let amusement and social affairs and even the necessary work of the schools come second to that of the church. Let the children be taught, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matt. 6:33). - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 314-315]

The world never burned a casual Christian at the stake. - John R. Rice [according to azquotes]

Waiting

Ah, when I think of this modern age,

How far we have come from the printed page.

Things that previously were found in books,

Now call us, audibly, to give them a look.

We have faxes, and moderns, and gadgets galore,

Sold by the piece, the lot, or the store.

Palm sized gadgets and laptops too,

Make desktops something that many eschew.

We download books and read them all right,

Or choose to listen and thus save our sight.

Like Buck Rodgers, Sulu, or good Captain Kirk,

we can communicate by giving our wrists a slight jerk.

Flip open our phone and even have mail,

Makes the old postman seem like a snail.

With all this we've mentioned it must seem like baiting,

Where did I come up with the odd title...Waiting?

Copyright ©2006 Frederick A. Jackson

THE PSALM 100 CHRISTIAN

 

                                                       PSALM 100                                                          

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE EXPRESSION OF REDEMPTION [v. 1-2]

 

1. The Universal Noise [v. 1, Psalm 66:1]

 

Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands:

Psalm 95:1 O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.

Psalm 95:2 Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.

Psalm 98:4 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.

Psalm 98:6 With trumpets and sound of cornet make a joyful noise before the LORD, the King.

 

2. The Unique Combination [v. 2a, Psalm 84:10]

 

For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.

 

3. The Unspeakable Access [v. 2b, Hebrews 4:16]

 

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

 

II. THE BLESSING OF THE HIGHEST [v. 3] “Blessed by the Best”

 

1. He is God [1 Kings 18:39] in the days if Elijah:

 

And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.

 

2. He is Creator [Hebrews 1:2]

Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;

 

3. He is Redeemer [Psalm 78:35]

 

And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer.

Isaiah 41:14 Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.

 

III. THE ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE [v. 4-5]

 

1. For His Goodness [v. 4-5, Romans 2:4]

 

Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

 

2. For His Mercy [v. 5, 1 Chronicles 16:34 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.

 

2 Chronicles 5:13 It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the LORD;

2 Chronicles 7:3 And when all the children of Israel saw how the fire came down, and the glory of the LORD upon the house, they bowed themselves with their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.

2 Chronicles 7:6 And the priests waited on their offices: the Levites also with instruments of music of the LORD, which David the king had made to praise the LORD, because his mercy endureth for ever, when David praised by their ministry; and the priests sounded trumpets before them, and all Israel stood.

2 Chronicles 20:21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever.

Ezra 3:11 And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.

Romans 15:9 And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name.

 

3. For His Truth [v. 5, Psalm 96:13,  Psalm 98:3]

 

Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.

He 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

Much ado about nothing... or... maybe not

I routinely sell items on several websites. I like doing this for several reasons. It reduces clutter in my household and it provides a little extra cash flow at the same time. With every order sold I enclose a business card with my contact information on it so the buyer can, well, contact me, should the need arise. Now being a pastor my business card has church information printed on the front and a clear Gospel presentation on the back... but it still is "my" card.

I sold a book some time back and very quickly mailed it out to the buyer. I am always striving to go above and beyond and try to mail orders out the same or next business day (well before required by the listing website). I will sometimes ship 1st class instead of media mail if the cost isn't too prohibitive even though the buyer has only paid for the latter. Of course, I enclosed my business card.

Each of these websites has a place to give feedback concerning transactions. This particular website goes with a 5 point system. 5 being the highest. For my efforts in getting this person their book so quickly I got this feedback:

4 out of 5: "Religious business card enclosed. I did not like that."

To which I replied, Seller Response: "I enclose my business card with my information on it in case someone needs to contact me. How silly would it be for me to not use my own business card? How insecure do you have to be to be offended when a person encloses their business card? I am sorry they were so easily offended but I do not think its fair to rate me lower simply because they don't like my business card."

Now this may seem like much ado about nothing but is it? I routinely get business cards when I purchase on these sites, I get religious material sent to me, etc. I don't get bent out of shape about it and I don't "grade" the person on that but grade them rather on what you might expect: was the item as advertised, was it shipped in a timely fashion, etc.

If they send me religious material or even secular material I don't want I just toss it in file 13 and move on. So why would a person give less than excellent feedback when they got excellent service? Is it because they are insecure in their spiritual state and don't like to be reminded of it? Could it be they are under conviction of the Holy Spirit and it is hard to "kick against the pricks" (Acts 9:5)? Is it because they are so blinded by Satan that they must call evil good and good evil? Is it as John 3:19-20 puts it: And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

Hmmm. Makes you think doesn't it?

HOW TO GROW RIGHT SPIRITUALLY

 Pastor Rick Jackson

EPH. 3:14ff.

Growth is natural but not all growth is good growth. We want our gardens to grow but we don't want big weeds (which is growth but not the right kind). We all need to grow but we need to grow in the right ways.

I. WE MUST GROW RIGHT INDIVIDUALLY

1. It begins with salvation by grace (Eph. 2:8-9)

2. It "buds" as we serve in good works (Eph. 2:10-13)

3. It builds as we are strengthened by being grounded (Eph. 3:14-21)

II. WE MUST GROW RIGHT COLLECTIVELY

1. It should be with the correct foundation (Eph. 2:19-22)

2. It should be with the correct faith (Eph. 4:1-6)

3. It should be with the correct form (Eph. 4:11-16)

III. WE MUST GROW RIGHT INFLUENTIALLY

1. By walking away from the old life (Eph. 4:17-22)

2. By walking in the new life (Eph. 4:23-29)

3. By walking the Spirit life (Eph. 4:30-5:1)

LIVING THE LIFE

                                                           GAL. 2:20, 1 SAMUEL 17

 

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

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. ACCEPT WHAT YOU ARE [v. 26, 29-36, 39]

 

1. Consider the Divine Acceptance [John 1:12, 2 Corinthians 6:2]

 

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)

 

2. Consider the Divine Activity [Ephesians 1:6, 2 Corinthians 5:17]

 

To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

 

3. Consider the Divine Appointment [v. 16-23, 2 Corinthians 5:18-21]

 

And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Remember-God could have anyone He wanted where you are [Esther 4:14] …and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?

 

II. USE WHAT YOU HAVE [v. 40, 49-51]

 

1. By Divine Expertise - all we have, He gave us [1 Corinthians 4:7]

 

For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?

 

2. By Divine Enablement - all we can do, He enables us [1 Corinthians 15:10]

 

But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

 

3. By Divine Excellence [2 Corinthians 4:5-7]

 

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness , hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

 

III. GIVE GOD ALL THE GLORY [v. 45-47]

 

1. His Power [v. 37, Acts 1:8]

 

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me …

 

2. His Plan [Is. 55:8, 1 Corinthians 1:26-28]

 

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.

For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:

 

3. His Purpose [1 Corinthians 1:29-31]

 

That no flesh should glory in his presence . But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

I WAS ONLINE BEFORE BEING ONLINE WAS COOL

According to the latest studies over 85% of Americans have access to the internet. They can do this at home, at work, at school, at the library and a few other places making this number a reality. Like any other tool the internet can be used for good and it can be used for evil. 

Less than 35 years ago my wife talked me into getting her a computer, less than 30 years ago my wife talked me into getting the internet, less than 25 years ago my wife talked me into buying stuff online. I'm kind of scared to see what she will talk me into next.

Long before Al Gore invented the internet (and Queen Elizabeth II invented the microwave) you could be online with a source of information greater than the worldwide web. People could and still can have direct access to Almighty God. So I ask you, are you online with God?



I. THE BEGINNINGS


1. The ISP (Inner Service Provider) is God (Rm. 4:24-5:11)

2. The Password is Jesus (Rm. 10:9-13)

3. The Online helper is the Holy Spirit (Rm. 8:1-16)



II. THE BARRIERS

1. Sin can mar the connection (I Jn. 1:5-10)

2. Satan wants to hack the control (I Pet. 5:8)

3. Worldly virus can corrupt the data (Mark 4:19, I Jn. 2:15)

III. THE BASICS

1. Kneemail (Acts 21:5, Eph. 3”11-21, Heb. 12:12)

2. Text messages (Is. 34:16)

3. Forward information (Mt. 28:18-20)

John R. Rice Quotes of the Week

 Where it is revered and taught and believed and followed, the Bible is certainly the most potent civilizing influence in the world. It is the most powerful influence both for morals and happiness. It is not simply the church which is uplifting and blessed in its influence on human society; but it is the church as it teaches and preaches and practices the Bible, as it knows the Christ of the Bible, as it has the salvation and life offered in the Bible, and as it promotes the righteousness of God revealed there. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 263]

Christianity is the religion of a Book, the Bible. The Christ of Christianity is the Christ of the Bible, the Messiah, foretold in the Old Testament, the Jesus of the Gospels, the Lord Jesus Christ of the Epistles, the virgin born Son of God. There is no authentic Christianity which does not accept the infallible authority of the Bible. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 263-264]

The home is the best place in the world to teach the Bible. THAT IS WHERE GOD PUTS THE RESPONSIBILITY. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 says, "And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." Note the divine language says, "Thy children." The teaching is to be done "when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." That is a clear picture of parents teaching the Word of God to their children in the home. And it is a picture of such diligent, earnest, line-upon-line, precept-upon-precept teaching, woven through all the fabric of home life, as could not be adequately done anywhere else but in the home. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 264-254]

Often Sunday School teachers are worldly or even unconverted, and are so woefully unfit to understand or teach the child about God. Spiritual truths are spiritually discerned, and one who is not taught by the Holy Spirit of God cannot understand and cannot successfully or even safely teach others to understand Bible truth. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 266-267]

I was a strong, rather impatient and hot-tempered boy of about seventeen, though a Christian, when my father taught me a great lesson from Scripture. I had been rough to my team on the farm, and he simply said, "Son, the Bible says, 'A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel' " (Prov. 12:10). That simple word went to my heart with such force that one hearing of the verse printed it indelibly on my mind. I never consciously memorized it, but from that time on I remembered it. And I saw that true mercy and kindness in the heart would be reflected in the way I treated the dumb brutes God had given into my care. How powerful those few words from God's Scripture! - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 275-276]

Until little children reach the time when they know right from wrong, and so become accountable sinners, or course they are kept safe. After they know themselves to be sinners, after they are sinners by choice as they were before sinners by nature, children are lost sinners, aliens from God, and need to be saved the same as any other unconverted, lost sinner. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 279]

It is my own conviction that not even the junior church, as good as it is, can take the place of the public preaching service in which little children sit by mothers and fathers and learn to become cooperating members of society while they hear sweet songs and understand what they can of the services. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 312]

THE "FINAL" WORDS OF THE APOSTLE PAUL

2 Corinthians 13:11

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. PERFECT WORDS [2 Corinthians 13:11]

 

Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.

Be Well Adjusted [repaired, realigned]

 

II. POWERFUL WORDS [Ephesians 6:10]

 

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Be Well Strengthened

 

III. SAFE WORDS [Philippians 3:1]

 

Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.

Be Well Pleased & well pleasing

 

IV. PRAISEWORTHY WORDS [Philippians 4:8]

 

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Be Well Thinking

 

V. PRAYERFUL WORDS [2 Thessalonians 3:1]

 

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:

Be Well Prayed Up

FEELINGS [not the song]

 Someone wrote in regard to yesterday's blog, "One question I have for you though - what do you mean by 'feelings'. I agree with you that when our feelings conflict with clear scripture there is a problem, but as you know I put a lot of stock in being led by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost and I know you do to (as I remember that is how you determined you were called to the ministry)."

Here's my response. No names have been given because it just isn't necessary!

How are you feeling? (Just kidding.) As you may have surmised I was not saying all feelings are wrong. Likewise not all feelings are right. Specifically (as you said and I had pointed out) when feelings conflict with Scripture or fact then feelings are unreliable. "Feelings come and feelings go, and feelings are deceiving. I'll put my faith in God's own Word, naught else is worth believing." 

I talk to a lot of people who "feel" they must do something to earn righteousness to go to Heaven but God's Word says "All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags" (Is. 64:6).

"As it is written, There is none righteousness, no, not one" (Rom. 3:10). 

"...for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe "(Gal. 3:21b-22). 

So no one is righteous and can gain Heaven by the law but only by believing in the atoning work of God incarnate, Jesus Christ. Feelings to the contrary are generated by the world, the flesh, or the devil.

Are all feelings wrong? As long as feelings are controlled by the Word of God and not vice-versa we can use them. I may feel like punching the lights out of an idiot that desperately deserves it but facts may prevent that (he's stronger than me) or the Scriptures forbid it (Vengeance is mine saith the Lord, I will repay). But feelings can be a positive thing, I have deep feelings for my wife of over 40 years. Praise God for feelings!

Oh, and for the record, No, feelings did not lead me into the ministry. The definite call of God led me to the ministry. Feelings really had little to do with it, except I "felt" I must respond to His call in the affirmative. What about the call? "Did He speak to you?", you may ask. Well, that will have to wait for another blog. At least that's how I feel about it.

THE DECEPTION OF SELF

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. [1 John 1:8]

Oftentimes we do things by feelings instead of by faith (according to God's Word- Rm. 10:17) or by fact (empirical not subjective). When we justify these things in a manner that is not Biblical (i.e., not following Scriptural guidelines) we hurt others, our testimony, and ultimately our relationship with the Lord.

As a pastor I have to deal with people wanting to get married more often than I would like (quite frankly, doing marriages is nerve wracking). In the course of premarital counseling I sometimes find out that one of the couple is a believer and the other is an unbeliever which is clearly forbidden in the Word of God (2 Co. 6 among many others). Of course, I have decline to perform these ceremonies since they are blatantly against what I stand for as a servant of God. As you might expect not everyone understands or appreciates my Biblical stand.

Some act as if it is something personal involved in my decision. I suppose it is personal that I want to be Scriptural and they don't but that's not what I mean. Some have tried to tell me they prayed about it and God said it was okay. God said it? He spoke to them? No, but they "feel" it is alright. Ah, the crux of the matter. When feelings go against the Word our feelings are wrong. If we think otherwise, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 

Suppose we have said we will do something that is not wrong but we later feel we shouldn't do it. Then by God's grace we should go to those we have given our word to and explain that we'd like to back out gracefully. If they want to know why, we should tell them. If they hold us to our word we should do it (Ps. 15:4). Again I am not talking about something we know to be wrong, should that happen, we show them by the Word why it is wrong and decline on Scriptural grounds. What we should not do is leave them hanging wondering what happened. They will go off wondering for a long time what did they do wrong and perhaps agonizing needlessly when the fault is our own. Well aren't our feelings real? Well they "feel" that way don't they? But lets not be so arrogant as to think that are feelings are the same as faith or fact.

Is it easy? Not always. Is it right? It's always right to do right. But as someone said, "It's never right to do wrong in order to do right." If we think otherwise, well, we deceive ourselves.

[4-13-'06]

"I SING THE MIGHTY POWER OF GOD"

LUKE 9:37-44

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

Creation. Revelation. Redemption. The exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. We ought be “amazed at the mighty power of God” and be in wonder “ at all things which Jesus did.” This message is less than a ripple made by throwing a pebble in the ocean of God’s works. What does He do?

 

I. HE EVANGELIZES THE LOST

 

1. By Giving Salvation [Rm. 1:16]

 

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

 

2. By Giving Sight [Acts 26:14-18]

 

And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

 

3. By Giving Sonship [John 1:12]

 

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

 

II. HE EMPOWERS THE LIFE

 

1. Through Him we can Overcome Circumstances [Rm. 15:13]

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

 

2. Through Him we can Overcome Infirmities [2 Cor. 12:9]

 

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

 

3. Through Him we can Overcome Fear [2 Tm. 1:7]

 

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

 

III. HE ENABLES THE LOWLY

 

1. To Witness [Acts 1:8, 4:29, 31]

 

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

 

2. To Minister Our Gifts [Eph. 3:7-8]

 

Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

 

3. To Stand [Eph. 6:10-17]

 

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

WHEN IS IT ENOUGH , OR WHAT IS ENOUGH?

2 CHRONICLES 15-16

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

When have we served the Lord enough? When have we tried to live right for enough time? When have we been faithful enough? Here in 2 Chronicles we find a man that seemed to think that he had served God long enough. That he had trusted God long enough. Let us see how that worked out for him and his people.

 

I. GOD WILL BLESS [15:1-7]

 

1. People [v. 1-2, Psalm 29:11]

 

The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace.

 

2. Faith [v. 3-4, Rom. 10:17, Hebrews 10:23, 11:6]

  

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

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)

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.

 

3. Righteousness [v. 5-7, Proverbs 14:34]

 

Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

 

II. GOD EXPECTS [15:8-16]

 

1. People to Hear His Word [v. 8a, James 1:21]

 

Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

 

2. People to Heed His Word [v. 8b, James 1:22, Joshua 22:5]

 

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.

 

3. People to Hold His Word [v. 9-16, Acts 5:20, Philippians 2:16]

 

Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.

Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

 

III. GOD KNOWS [15:17-19, 16:1-14]

 

1. Our Hearts [15:17-19, Psalm 7:9]

 

Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins.

Proverbs 17:3 The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts.

1 Thessalonians 2:4 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.

 

2. Our Frame [16:1-10, Psalm 103:14]

 

For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.

 

3. Our End [16:11-14, 1 Peter 4:17]

 

For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

John R. Rice Quotes of the Week

 It is often insisted upon that in these modern days of liberty and equality no woman could keep her self respect and live in a home and not be counted equal with her husband in authority. But the same woman who objects to being under the authority of her husband attends clubs of which she is not president. She works in a church of which she is not the pastor. She is a citizen of a government where others rule over her. Even the policeman on the corner can command her to stop or go, turn left or right, or may hail her to court where she is as helpless as a child before the law. Men, too, cannot avoid authority over them. Other members of the club, the church, the citizens are often as good, or as wise, or as well pleasing as the president of the club, the pastor of the church, or the judge of the court. Men who work for salaries or wages, and women too, must take orders from those in authority. And sensible people can be happy in doing so. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 108]

When a husband's love for his wife is based upon her youth, her charm, her beauty, these, alas, all too soon fade away, and such frivolous love cannot resist the effect of time, temper, poverty and age. But the woman who is adorned with that beauty of the heart, which does not fail with age, "even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price," attracts amd makes sure of her husband's unfailing love. A husband cannot but give such a wife, not only the thrill of young love, and the passion of maturity, but the steadfastness of real respect and admiration through the years. Men and women who take the places God assigned them may expect that reward of virtue, that blessing of God, a love which does not wither when hair turns white or when bodily passions pass away! But the rebellious wife and the slacker husband give wings to love and speed it away. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 111-112]

"Honour thy father and thy mother" comes before "Thou shalt not kill." It comes before "Thou shalt not commit adultery." This is the very first of the commands about human relationships. After one is right with God and pleases God, the next most important thing in all the world is to be right with one's own father and mother. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 217-218]

It is notable that one of the Ten Commandments, that regarding the Sabbath, is not repeated in the New Testament. In fact, Colossians 2:14-17 plainly lists the Sabbath along with other ceremonial laws which were nailed to the cross of Christ. They were "the shadow of things to come." The ceremonial law is not binding on New Testament Christians, and the Sabbath sums up, in some sense, the ceremonial law. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 218]

"Honour thy father and thy mother." In the magnificent Epistle to the Ephesians (Eph. 6:1-3) this command is quoted and re-enforced. It is as much a New Testament command as an Old Testament command. Throughout the New Testament it is clearly taken for granted that the morality involved in this fifth commandment is binding on Christians. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 218]

From long experience in dealing with troubled human hearts, with sinful human lives and entangled human relationships, I can say that the man who reveres his father and his mother is much more likely to have a normal attitude toward matters of sex and marriage. The man who reveres his mother will be more likely to revere his sister. One who reveres his mother and sister will certainly be more likely to revere other women. The godly influence of a mother who has been greatly honored and strictly obeyed by her son has been illustrated many, many times within my own experience. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 229-230]

A praying father and mother are important. A father and mother who demand and receive respect and honor are even more important! And that is because making children obedient is more important than asking God to do what we would not do. I believe in prayer when it is backed up by obedient action. I do not believe that God pays much attention to the prayers of a father and mother who will not do what God said about making their children obedient. - John R. Rice [The Home, pg. 231-232]

WHY DO SOME CHRISTIANS LEAVE JESUS?

JOHN 6

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

We are not implying that Christians leave Jesus and then are no longer saved. We are simply stating the sad truth that some of God’s children decide to leave off following Jesus and decide instead to act like the Devil’s children- at least in some areas of their lives.

 

I. THE WAY IS CLEAR

 

1. Believe [v. 24-29]

 

2. Come [v. 30-35]

 

3. Security [v. 36-40]

 

II. THE TRUTH IS THE LIFE

 

1. Christ’s Deity is Foundational [v. 41-46]

 

2. Christ’s Death is Foundational [v. 47-52]

 

3. Christ’s Resurrection is Foundational [v. 53-58]

 

III. THE PEOPLE ARE FICKLE

 

1. Christ Offends Some in His Narrowness [v. 59-61, Matthew 7:14]

 

Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

 

2. Christ Offends Some in His Uniqueness [v. 62-66]

 

3. Christ Offends Some in His Necessity [v. 67-71, Acts 4:12]

 

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

SURPRISES IN HELL

 

PROVERBS 15:8-11  

                                       

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. MANY WILL BE SURPRISED AT SOME PEOPLE WE SEE IN HELL

 

1. Religious People [Luke 18:9-14]

 

And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

 

2. So-called Christians [Mt. 7:22-23]

 

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them , I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

 

3. So-called Good People [Rm. 2:1-16, 3:1-20]

 

II. MANY WILL BE SURPRISED AT SOME PEOPLE WE DON’T SEE IN HELL

 

1. Infamous Sinners [Dan. 4: 37, 5:18-22] some would be surprised Andrew Jackson isn’t there

 

Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all whose works are truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase.

O thou king, the most high God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and glory, and honour: And for the majesty that he gave him, all people, nations, and languages, trembled and feared before him: whom he would he slew ; and whom he would he kept alive ; and whom he would he set up ; and whom he would he put down . But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him: And he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling was with the wild asses: they fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will. And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this;

 

2. Murderous Sinners [Moses, David, Saul of Tarsus]

 

3. Outrageous Sinners [1 Cor. 6:9-11]

 

Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be? not deceived: neither: fornicators, nor, idolaters, nor, adulterers, nor, effeminate, nor, abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

 

III. MANY WILL BE SURPRISED AT SOME THINGS IN HELL

 

1. Fire Without Light [Matthew 8:10-12, 22:12-14, 25:29-33, 41, 46]

 

When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen.

For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.

Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:

And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

 

2. Punishment Without End [Mt. 25: 41, 46]

 

Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:

And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

 

3. Judgment Without Escape [Revelation 19:20, 20:10, 14-15, 21:8]

SURPRISES IN HEAVEN

Revelation 8:1   And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour.

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

Here our text describes a future heavenly event that will surprise or stun Heaven’s occupants into silence. Some people may be surprised that there are surprises in Heaven. Here are just a few.

 

I. WE WILL BE SURPRISED AT SOME PEOPLE WE SEE IN HEAVEN

 

1. Some Saved People Don’t Live Right [Gn. 19, 2 Peter 2:7]

 

And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked:

 

2. Some Saved People Backslide [2 Samuel 11:1, Romans 4:6-8]

 

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. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.

 

3. Some Saved People Belong to Heretical Groups [Galatians 1:6-9, 3:1-3]

 

I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?

 

II. WE WILL BE SURPRISED AT SOME PEOPLE WE DON’T SEE IN HEAVEN

 

1. Some Lost people Claim to be Saved [Mt. 7:21, John 6:29]

 

Matthew 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

 

2. Some Lost People Preach [Mt. 7:22a]

 

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name?

 

3. Some Lost People Do Good Works in Jesus Name [Mt. 7:22b-23]

 

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them , I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

 

III. WE WILL BE SURPRISED AT SOME THINGS IN HEAVEN

 

1. Ignorance [Revelation 6:9-10]

 

And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?

 

2. Judgment [Romans 14:10]

 

But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

 

3. Tears [Revelation 7:17, Revelation 21:4]

 

For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.