John R. Rice Quotes of the Week

 The angel's message was "tidings of great joy." So we do not wonder that the Gospel is the "Good News," as the Greek word literally means. Then the preacher, the Sunday school teacher, the personal soul winner, the seminary professor, ought always to remember this is not dry-as-dust theology, but this is a glorious, heart-warming, soul-rejoicing thing we deal with when we teach the Word of God and preach the Gospel. Oh, shame that for some preachers and teachers the glow has gone, the honeymoon is over, the thrill has long since given way to the routine matter-of-factness which is far less than the "good tidings of great joy." - John R. Rice [Luke, pg. 71-72]

This message is "to all people." Not to an elite group included, some suppose, in a "limited atonement." No, the "whosoever" in the Gospel is an honest one and the love and grace of God is not limited not is His invitation limited. So, it is "to all people." - John R. Rice [Luke, pg. 72]

This good news is that a Saviour is born! The angel does not announce that this Baby Jesus will change the course of human history. That is incidental. He does not mention that the art, the literature, the education, the benevolences of the whole world will be colored, influenced, and formed by this same Baby Jesus. The angel does not mention that slavery will tend to disappear, that monogyny will take the place of plural wives, that schools, hospitals, orphanages and relief programs around the world will flow forth from the influence of the Child born that day in Bethlehem. Oh, no, all these are incidental to the one great end-the Lord Jesus came to be a Saviour. Christian workers should put first what God puts first. This is why the human name, Jesus, was given Him by the angel, both in speaking to Mary (Luke 1:31) and to Joseph (Matt. 1:21,25), because JESUS means "Saviour." And we miss the whole point of the Scriptures and of the incarnation of the Saviour and His work, if we do not remember that the one thing dearest to the heart of God is to save sinners, and the one principal work of Christians is to win souls to know the Saviour. So one lost sheep is to get more attention than ninety-nine that are safe in the fold, and one sinner repenting brings more joy in Heaven than ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance (Luke 15:1-8). - John R. Rice [Luke, pg. 72-73]

Actually the Scripture does not even discuss Pentecost as the time of "the founding of the church." And we believe that the church which will be called out at the rapture, when Christ comes, will include all the saints of all ages to be called out and assembled in Heaven and so a true ecclesia, a true "church." - John R. Rice [Luke, pg. 105]

Christ turned down [Luke 4:9-13] the invitation, the temptation to "the pride of life," and answered Satan's false use of Scripture with another Scripture, "Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God" (Deut. 6:16).

Let us remember then that no one ought ever try to demonstrate supernatural powers in order to impress men. Those who would talk in tongues or work miracles or take up snakes, or those who would have some other marvelous spiritual successes to gain the applause of men, thus fall to the temptation where Jesus did not succumb. - John R. Rice [Luke, pg. 122-123]

Jesus said, "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."

Note carefully the one great overpowering aim of the Lord Jesus Christ is "to save sinners." So in I Timothy 1:15 Paul tells of that good and worthy proverb that was going around, "This is a faithful saying...that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief." Do not ever mistake it: Jesus did not come into the world to improve society, to establish benevolent institutions, to raise the standards of womanhood, to do away with slavery and polygamy, to refine the arts and cultures. No. It is true that all things things stem from Christ and His influence and from Christianity. If you take out the impact of Christ on literature, art, public morals, and laws and government, you would strike out the very best of our civilization. But that is not what Jesus came for. These things are the incidental by-products. What He really came for is to save sinners! So the Great Commission is all centered on this one main thing-getting people saved and getting them committed, and teaching them to win others. - John R. Rice [Luke, pg. 147-148]

There is no spiritual virtue in fasting itself but only in the attitude of mind that seeks to find God's will and blessing, and thus gladly for a time leave off normal enjoyments and comforts. - John R. Rice [Luke, pg. 151]

THE POWER OF PATIENCE

 

[A Christmas in July Message]

 

LUKE 1:57-80

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

We are often in a hurry. The old saying is often true that “Haste makes Waste.” There are times of course when time is of the essence, but those times are not as often as we suppose. God, however, is never in a hurry. God takes His time. God does it right. God knows just when and where to act. Proverbs 25:11 declares, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.”

 

I. THE FACE OF THE CROWD [v. 57-66]

 

1. The Crowd Rejoices [v. 57-58, Romans 12:15]

 

Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

 

2. The Crowd Assumes [v. 59-62, Proverbs 18:13] Assumption is a dangerous thing.

 

He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.

 

3. The Crowd Fears [v. 63-66, Proverbs 9:10, 14:26]

 

The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy [is] understanding.

In the fear of the LORD [is] strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

 

II. THE PROPHECY OF ZACHARIAS [v. 67-79]

 

1. The Work of God [v. 67-73]

 

2. The Work of the Believer [v. 74-75]

 

3. The Work of John [v. 76-79]

 

III. THE WISDOM OF GOD [v. 80]

 

1. God Has Plans [v. 80, 12-17]

 

2. God Has Patience [v. 80, Gal. 4:4]

 

But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

 

3. God Has Places (for everyone) [v. 80]

 

-          A place of salvation

-          A place of sanctification [including preparation]

-          A place of service [yes- the whole world but individuals to specific places, Jonah to Nineveh, Paul to Macedonia, Philip to the desert. Duration may vary.]

THE POWER OF SUBMISSION [A Christmas in July Message]

LUKE 1:22-56

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE SELECTION OF MARY

 

1. A Pure Daughter of David [v. 24-27, Is. 9:6-7]

 

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

 

2. A Promised Daughter of Destiny [v. 28-33, Gn. 3:15, Is. 7:14, Jeremiah 31:22]

 

And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel .

How long wilt thou go about, O thou backsliding daughter? for the LORD hath created a new thing in the earth, A woman shall compass a man.

 

3. A Perceptive Daughter of Dedication [v. 34-38] looking through the eyes of faith

 

II. THE SENSIBILITY OF MARY

 

1. The Momentum of the Submissive [v. 36-45]

 

2. The Moving of the Spirit [v. 40-41]

 

3. The Message of the Saint [v. 42-45]

 

III. THE SONG OF MARY

 

1. The Song of the Saved Sinner [v. 46-47]

 

2. The Song of the Satisfied Servant [v. 48-54]

 

Matthew 10:25 It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. …

 

3. The Song of the Sacred Scripture [v. 55-56]

 

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

GRACE, GRACE, GOD’S GRACE

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.

2 Corinthians 4:15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.

1 Peter 5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

Years ago I heard pastor Bradley Price, now with the Lord, say, “God has more grace than you will ever need.” That statement is profound in its simplicity and simple in its profundity. It got me to thinking…

 

I. WHAT GRACE IS FOR!

 

1. Grace is for Salvation [ Ephesians 2:5, 8]

 

Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

 

2. Grace is for Sanctification [Acts 20:32]

 

 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

 

3. Grace is for Service [Rom. 12:6, Galatians 1:15-16, Ephesians 3:7-8]

 

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;

But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:

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;

 

II. WHAT GRACE DOES!

 

1. Grace Abounds [Romans 5:20, 2 Corinthians 4:15]

 

Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:

For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.

2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

Ephesians 2:7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

 

2. Grace Reigns [Romans 5:21-6:4, 14-15]

 

3. Grace Humbles [Romans 11:6, 12:3]

 

And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly , according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

 

III. HE GIVETH MORE GRACE… [James 4]

 

1. God Gives More Grace as you Battle the Flesh [1-6a, 2 Corinthians 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.

 

2. God Gives More Grace as you Humble Yourself [v. 6b]

 

3. God Gives More Grace as you Submit to Him [v. 7-10]

John R. Rice Quotes of the Week

Remember that all the reforming in the world does not make a Christian. You can give up the use of tobacco and live a clean, moral life outwardly and still go to Hell. Remember that joining a church or being baptized or quitting outward sins never yet made a Christian. What you need is to be born again, to have a new heart. And the Lord Jesus Christ died for your sins and is willing to forgive you and save you. - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 23]

 

In the Bible there were no women pastors of churches, no women apostles, no women evangelists. Women prophesied; that is, they were filled with the Spirit like other Christians and witnessed for Christ and won souls, but they did not preach in the accepted sense of taking a place of leadership in the church, or preaching in the pulpit. - John R. Rice [Speaking With Tongues, pg. 75]

 

Let us thank God for Christian women. God has a place for every one of them, a place of usefulness and happiness, both in the church and in the home. But that place is not the place of leadership over men. And where women usurp a place not intended for them, the result is some false cult, some heresy, some gross confusion. Women have greatly contributed to the confusion and false emphasis in Christian Science so-called, in Unity, in Spiritism, and in speaking in tongues. I do not mean that good Pentecostal people are to be compared with false cults that deny the inspiration of the Bible, the deity of Christ, and salvation by the blood. I only mean that anywhere women step out of their place and go against the command of God, the result is false teaching and harm to the cause of Christ, - John R. Rice [Speaking With Tongues, pg. 76-77]

 

We should not forbid anybody to speak with the miraculous gift of tongues, a gift which the Holy Spirit Himself puts on some individuals in some special times of need, as we are told in several Scriptures. The gift that the Holy Ghost gave some Christians at Pentecost, to give the gospel to others in their own language--no one must forbid that. We must not forbid it even in these modern times. Let the Holy Spirit of God give what He will. The miraculous speaking with new tongues, as promised in Mark 16:17, to certain people of great faith for such matters, let us not forbid. For my part, I do not agree with those who do not accept the authenticity of the last twelve verses of the Gospel of Mark. And if a miracle-working God sees fit to give any of the miracles there promised, let no Christian be unbelieving, let no Christian forbid. If any Christian is given the  wonderful girt to speak the gospel to someone in another language, his own language, and so to win him to Christ, rather let every Christian rejoice and thank God.  - John R. Rice [Speaking With Tongues, pg. 77-78]

 

I would say that if dear people are sometimes misguided, or at least if they do not see the tongues questions as we do, let us insist with brotherly kindness that they follow the restrictions in the Scriptures, and beyond that let us not go! If people follow the rules laid down in the Word of God, they are welcome in our services, and they will, like other Christians, sing and pray and listen and help win souls without disturbing the service and without causing confusion or bringing reproach on the name of Christ and the cause of Christ. - John R. Rice [Speaking With Tongues, pg. 78-79]

 

If we believe that every word in the Scripture is "God breathed" (the word for "inspired" in II Tim. 3:16), and that "every word...proceedeth from the mouth of God" (Matt. 4:4), then we do not need to speculate that Luke copied from Mark or some mysterious, mythical, never-seen manuscript "Q." And in Luke 1:3 Luke tells us that he had "perfect understanding of all things from the very first," but more literally "from above" (the Greek word is anothen). So we can believe that the material came not from scholarly investigation and chasing down of sources but by direct revelation from God. - John R. Rice [Luke, pg. 14]

 

Zacharias and Elisabeth, "were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless." Then when they kept the ceremonial commandments, the ceremonies were not an empty form but pictured the coming Saviour. The passover lamb pictured Christ our Passover. The circumcision of a baby boy pictured the circumcision of heart, regeneration. The work of a priest pictured the priestly work of the coming Saviour. They kept these ceremonies, pointing to Christ, in simple obedience and faith, just as good Christians today take the Lord's supper, pointing back to the death of Christ but not relying upon the ordinance, the ceremony itself, for salvation.  - John R. Rice [Luke, pg. 26]

THE POWER OF PURPOSE

 

[A Christmas in July expanded Message]

 

LUKE 1:8-25

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

 

I. GOD USES PEOPLE

 

1. God Uses Busy People [v. 8-10]

 

2. God Uses Praying People [v. 11-17, 7]

 

Several truths about prayer as taught by Warren Wiersbe-

 

-God answers prayer when we NEED it

-God answers prayer when we least expect it

-God’s delays are not God’s denials

-God’s timetable is perfect

 

3. God Uses Imperfect People [v. 18]

 

II. GOD USES ANGELS

 

1. Angels have Purpose [v. 11-17, Hebrews 1:14]

 

Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

 

2. Angels have Personalities [v. 18]

 

3. Angels have Power [v. 19-20]

 

III. GOD USES HIS PLAN

 

1. God’s Plan is Revealed [v. 13-15]

 

2. God’s Plan is Redemptive [v. 16-17]

 

3. God’s Plan is “Realized” [v. 18-25, Jeremiah 29:11]

 

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

POWER PLANTS [A Christmas in July Message]

LUKE 1:1-15

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE POWER OF INSPIRATION [v. 1-4]

 

1. Better Than Eyewitnesses [v. 1-2, 2 Peter 1:15-21]

 

Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance. For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount.

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

 

2. Better Than Earthly Understanding [v. 3, anothen Jn. 3:3, 31, 19:11, James 1:17, 3:15-17]

 

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly , and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.

Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.

 

3. Better Than Erstwhile Education [v. 4, 1 Jn. 5:9-13]

 

If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

 

II. THE POWER OF PRAYER [v. 5-7]

 

1. Greatest Access involves Being Saved [v. 5-6a, James 5:16]

 

… The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

 

2. Greatest Access involves Being Surrendered [v. 6b]

3. Greatest Access involves Being Specific [v. 7, 13]

 

III. THE POWER OF PURPOSE [v. 8-25]

 

1. God Uses Busy Imperfect People [v. 8-10]

 

2. God Uses Angels [v. 11-20, Hebrews 1:14]

 

Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

 

3. God Uses His Plan [v. 15-25, Jeremiah 29:11]

 

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

BEWARE THE EVIL EYE

MARK 7:14-23

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. IT’S ORIGIN [Dt. 28]

 

1. It Begins with Simple Disobedience [v. 1-2, 14-15,

 

2. It Continues with Sinful Dissatisfaction [v. 45-48]

 

3. It Culminates with Self-Deification [v. 49-58] self on the throne, self-preservation at all costs

 

II. IT’S MANIFESTATION

 

1. Selfishness [Dt. 15:9-15]

 

2. Short-sightedness [Proverbs 28:22]

 

He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

 

3. Small-Mindedness [Mt. 20:1-15]

 

III. IT’S MISTAKES [Lk. 11:28-36]

 

1. Undervalues Living By Faith [v. 28-29]

 

2. Undervalues the Lord’s Person [v. 30-32]

 

3. Undervalues the Significance of being Single-minded [v. 33-36]

 

IV. IT’S MISSES [Matthew 6:33] Look what Jesus taught!

 

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

 

(examples of people who did NOT have an evil eye)

 

1. John the Baptist Did Not Have the Evil Eye [John 3:30]

 

He must increase, but I must decrease

 

2. Paul Did Not Have the Evil Eye [Philippians 3:13-15,  Galatians 2:20]

 

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

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.

 

3. Mary Did Not Have the Evil Eye [Luke 10:38-42]

 

Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

A Dog Tale

 

by Pastor Rick Jackson

Greystoke was our Merle Great Dane. He brought many years of joy and hours of amusement to all of us... but not just us. We had to go out of town for a week so we boarded Stokie with a local vet.

Cecil was the man in charge of the boarded dogs and he and Stokie soon were fast friends. He told me this story:

When I came to feed him I put the bowl on the floor and he just stood there and looked at me. I said, "Go ahead and eat," but he just stared at me. So I thought, "Okay, what's the problem here?" So I figured, okay- he's a tall dog. Maybe he doesn't eat off the floor. So I put the bowl on a stool and he ate it right up. When he finished he knocked the bowl off the stool with his paw telling me, "You can clear the table now."

At night I put an extra blanket in the run for him and he laid right down and went to sleep. First thing in the morning though he did number one on it so I figured he was finished with it for the day. The rest of the week went fine since he let me know what he wanted. I would give him a clean blanket at night and take away the dirty one in the morning after he took care of business. That's a smart dog- he knows what he wants and knows how to ask for it.

And so he did. We may not always know what we want but sometimes we wonder why God doesn't give us something in particular we want or need. It could be that He is just waiting on us to ask. James 4:2 ...ye have not, because ye ask not.

[Greystoke is pictured here with his friends MacDugan and Thunder]

John R. Rice Quotes of the Week

There is nothing in the Bible that justifies a double standard of morals. What is good for a wife is good for her husband morally. If a woman should keep herself clean, then so should a man. If little children would be harmed by tobacco, then so would adults. I have heard preachers denounce women for smoking, but the same preachers thought there was no harm in men smoking [written in 1937]. A double standard is not of God but is a part of this present wicked world. - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 6]

Christian, you are accountable for your influence, and if you sin against the brethren and wound their weak consciences, then you sin against Christ. If using tobacco has a bad influence on others, then it is a sin. If it causes others to use tobacco, when they should not, it is a sin. If it wounds and offends the consciences of others who think you do wrong, and so discourages them and causes them to lose confidence in you, then that is a sin. - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 6]

I believe the use of tobacco is a sin because it enslaves the will and puts one in a yoke of bondage to the lust of the flesh. One of the ways you can know sin is by the way it enslaves. The use of tobacco grows as a habit until one is not free to leave it alone. The thirst for alcoholic liquor grows until the habit of drink is most difficult to break. The use of morphine, heroin or other narcotics is the same way. The habit becomes so fastened on one that it enslaves the will, and a poor victim is often unable to break the habit without special help from God. Gambling grows on one the same way, and the habit becomes difficult to break. Likewise, if one gives way to evil thoughts and lust on the sex matter, it becomes uncontrollable. The whole mind is poisoned and defiled, and one is put in bondage to his lust. All these are illustrations of the way sin works. And the use of tobacco works the same way. It grows upon a man until his will is enslaved. That, to me, is definite proof that the use of tobacco is sin. - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 6-7]

Jesus said in John 8:34, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin." If you have become enslaved by some habit, you are not enslaved by righteousness, but you are enslaved by sin. - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 7]

Did you notice that the enslavement of habit is always in sinful matters and never in righteous matters? No one ever got in such a habit of praying that he could not stop praying. No one ever got in such a pattern of being honest that it made a slave out of him. No one was ever in such a habit of loving God that he loved God too much. No one ever got in such a habit of attending church or winning souls or helping others that he was enslaved by it. Whatever enslaves your mind, your will, your body so that you cannot control yourself and your desires, is evidently a sin. - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 7]

The Bible does not mention tobacco. There was none of it in the Bible lands. It was not known when Christ lived here on earth and when the Bible was written. It came into use among the white people only when they got it from the Indians, after the discovery of America. So the Bible has no law against tobacco, but as Paul said in I Corinthians 6:12, "All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any." We are under grace, not under law, but every Christian should say with Paul, "I will not be brought under the power of any" enslaving habit or drug or lust of the flesh. The enslaving power of tobacco is such that its use is a sin. - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 7]

Pray hard; pray in earnest; pray fervently. If there is anything between you and God, ask Him to remove it. Ask Him to take your body which belongs to Him and to consecrate it to His own service. A Christian ought to be "a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work" (II Tim. 2:21). - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 20]

THE SINISTER SECRETS OF SIN

1 KINGS 3:16-28

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

 

I. THE STORY OF SIN IS A SAD STORY [v. 16-22]

 

Proverbs 20:1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

Hebrews 11:25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;

John 8:44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

 

1. It is a Story of Degradation [v. 16-18]

 

God never intended humans to have to live in sin.

 

2. It is a Story of Disaster [v. 19, Rm. 5:12]

 

3. It is a Story of Deception [v. 20-22]

 

II. THE STORY OF SIN IS A SELFISH STORY

 

1. Willing to Steal [v. 20]

 

2. Willing to Lie [v. 22]

 

3. Willing to Murder [v. 26]

 

III. THE STORY OF SIN DEMANDS A SOVEREIGN SOLUTION [v. 23-28]

 

1. The Sword of Justice [v. 23-25,Proverbs 5:3-4]

 

For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a twoedged sword.

 

2. The Revelation of the Hearts [v. 26-27, Hebrews 4:12]

 

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

 

3. The Testimony of the Believer [v. 28, Acts 4:13]

 

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

THE INCONVENIENCE OF SERVING GOD

 

                                                                Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. “THE INCONVENIENCE OF SERVING GOD” PUTS SOME ON THE DEFENSIVE

 

1. Moses Fussed [Ex. 3-4]

2. Jonah Fled [Jonah 1]

3. Ananias Feared [Acts 9:10-14]

 

II. “THE INCONVENIENCE OF SERVING GOD” SHOWS WE NEED SOME SIMPLE DIRECTIONS

 

1. Don’t Talk Back to God – Talk for God [Ex. 3-4ff.]

2. Don’t “Stop” at a “Yield” Sign [Jonah 2:1-3:3, Romans 6:13, 16, 19]

 

Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.

 

3. Let God & Let God [Acts 9:15-19]

 

III. “THE INCONVENIENCE OF SERVING GOD” FALTERS IN THE FACE OF DEVOTION

 

1. Live by Faith [Habakkuk 2:4, Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11, Hebrews 10:38] The just shall live by faith.

2. Die to Self [John 12:24-25, 1 Corinthians 15:31]

 

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.

I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily .

 

3. Give God the Praise [Psalm 40:3,  Hebrews 13:15, 1 Peter 4:11]

 

And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

 

IV. “THE INCONVENIENCE OF SERVING GOD” IS FOOLISH IN THE FACE OF SOUND DECLARATION S

 

1. It May Not Be Convenient to Serve God BUT It Is Right! [Acts 4: 19-20, Ephesians 6:1]

 

But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

 

2. It May Not Be Convenient to Serve God BUT It Is Reasonable! [Romans 12:1-2]

 

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

 

3. It May Not Be Convenient to Serve God BUT It Is Rewarding! [1 Cor. 15:58,  Hebrews 11:26]

 

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward.

John R. Rice Quotes of the Week

 I know it would be harmful for my six daughters to use tobacco. But if I used tobacco, then my example would teach them that there is no harm in it. So many girls and women do smoke these days that it is very likely some of mine would if they saw their daddy smoking. My wife now nurses our baby girl two months old. (Written November, 1937.) I know it would be harmful to the health of mother and child if my wife used tobacco. But if it is all right for me, it is all right for them. I am accountable for those about me. I believe it is a sin for a Christian to use his influence in a way that will cause others to sin. - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 6]

There is nothing in the Bible that justifies a double standard of morals. What is good for a wife is good for her husband morally. If a woman should keep herself clean, then so should a man. If little children would be harmed by tobacco, then so would adults. I have heard preachers denounce women for smoking, but the same preachers thought there was no harm in men smoking [written in 1937]. A double standard is not of God but is a part of this present wicked world. - John R. Rice [Tobacco, pg. 6]

On the isle of Cyprus, I talked to a beautiful lady who worked for the tour company. I asked, "Are you a Christian?"

"Oh, yes," she said. She was a Greek Catholic, sprinkled when she was a baby, had already learned the catechism, been confirmed, etc.

I said, "I don't mean born a Christian. I mean born again a Christian. I don't mean you have been in the church from babyhood up. I mean have you been born again?"

Her eyes opened wide and she said, "That is something different, isn't it?"

I said, "It sure is."

I thank God she learned what it was and took Christ that day.

How many people are in the church but unsaved! How many people sing in choirs but are unsaved! How many people have been baptized but are unsaved!

There is no way but to come through Jesus Christ and rely on Him. ― John R. Rice [These Had Part When Jesus Died, pg. 8]

Once someone said to me, "Brother Rice, if I thought God would care for a dirty old reprobate like me, I would come in a moment." I quoted to him Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord, though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

He said, "If God will take me, I will come." And he did come to Jesus.

You, too, can come to Christ now. Oh, make sure of salvation! ― John R. Rice [These Had Part When Jesus Died, pg. 14]

Rebellion is an awful sin. The first commandment about duty to any of mankind is to "honour thy father and thy mother." And to honor thy father and thy mother means honor also the schoolteacher, the policeman on the corner, the government. Law and authority are of God and sedition is a terrible sin against God as well as against the government. America has come to a sad point when people feel they can get by with anything against the government, break any kind of law. ― John R. Rice [These Had Part When Jesus Died, pg. 16]

Put it down. The only people who get saved are bad people. The only people who get saved are those who admit they are sinners. ". . .for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." All of us are sinners and if you don't come to face that, you will not be saved. Jesus died to save sinners. So if you are going to get in that line, you must say, "Here I am." ― John R. Rice [These Had Part When Jesus Died, pg. 27]

The truth is, it is not education that makes a fool who says there is no God or does not believe the Bible. A wicked heart says that. If you get to where you know you are a sinner and about to go to Hell, then the kind of Saviour you want is Jesus, the blameless Son of God. ― John R. Rice [These Had Part When Jesus Died, pg. 28] 

Jesus could turn to His tormenters and say, "Which of you convinceth me of sin?" They shut their mouths. And you better shut your mouth, too, who criticize Jesus.

The thief said, "This man did nothing amiss." He accepted the sinless deity of Jesus. And you have to come that way or you don't get salvation. ― John R. Rice [These Had Part When Jesus Died, pg. 28]

3 FACTS ABOUT BROTHER JOE

 Pastor Rick Jackson

Message from a homegoing service

Today we are gathered to pay respect to a man. It doesn't matter what your relationship to Brother Joe was, your presence here today indicates he will be missed. I do not plan on keeping you long this afternoon, but I'd like to share with you three facts about the man I call Brother Joe.

 

#1 - BROTHER JOE IS IN HEAVEN

 

He's not here at the funeral home. I went to see Joe early last Saturday and I said, “I hear you want to take a trip.” “Where?” “Home.” He understood immediately and said, “Yes sir.” And we talked about it.

Have you ever gone to someone’s place of work and then found out they weren't there? They had gone home. His body was Joe's place of work but he's not there, he has gone home.

 

2 Cor. 5:6-8 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

 

#2 - BROTHER JOE IS IN HEAVEN BECAUSE HE TRUSTED IN THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

 

Remember what Jesus said in John 14: Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

 

Joe knew he wasn't perfect. He knew the Bible teaches us that "...all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" He understood that "...the wages of sin is death;" and he understood that good news "but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." He knew that if he, or you, or I, didn't get our sin situation resolved we would have to go to the place commonly called Hell. But he knew from the Bible that "... God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." and that by rising on the third day Jesus proved He was who He said He was, God in the flesh and that the payment He had made on the cross was enough to pay for all our sins. And so, knowing these truths, Joe put his faith in the crucified and risen Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

 

Eph. 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

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:

 

#3 - BROTHER JOE IS IN HEAVEN BECAUSE HE TRUSTED THE LORD JESUS CHRIST AND HE WANTS YOU TO TRUST HIM TOO!

 

Joe was interested in souls while he lived down here. He is even more interested now. Some of you relatives and friends who haven't trusted Christ yet. He wants you to trust Christ. Some of you who have trusted Christ but aren't living for Him, he would tell you to turn your life over to Christ and live for Him. You really need to get this settled. It sure would be good if some of you would trust Christ this afternoon. Stop playing with this thing and get it settled.

Rom. 10:9-13 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

THE CHURCH IN TROUBLE LEARNS TO FORGIVE

2 CORINTHIANS 2

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

 

I. THE REPENTING SINNER [v. 1-10]

 

1. The Effect of Carnality [v. 1-4, 1 Cor. 5]

 

2. The Encouragement of Christians [v. 5-8, Mt. 18:15-22]

 

3. The Example of Christ [v. 9-10, 1 Jn. 1:7-9]

 

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another , and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

 

II. THE ROARING SERPENT [v. 11, Mt. 4, Lk. 4]

 

1. Sometimes the Devil Approaches like a Serpent with Subtilty (has God said?, stones to bread) [Gn. 3, Eph. 4: 27]

 

Neither give place to the devil.

 

2. Sometimes the Devil Approaches like a Roaring Lion with Shouting (Worship me) [1 Pet. 5:8]

 

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

 

3. Sometimes the Devil Approaches like an Angel of Light witn Scripture (It is written) [2 Cor. 11:14]

 

Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

 

III. THE RIGHTEOUS SAVIOUR [v. 12-14]

 

1. God Opens the Doors [v. 12, Colossians 4:3]

 

Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

 

2. God Opens Our Hearts [v. 13, 2 Cor. 11:28]

 

Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily , the care of all the churches.

Acts 16:14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

Psalm 119:36 Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.

 

3. God Opens Our Ministries [v. 14, Rev. 3:7-8]

 

And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.

Romans 15:29 And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.

 

IV. THE REDEEMED SERVANT [v. 15-17]

 

1. The Savor of Christ [v. 15] A Garden of Roses, allergic to Easter Lilies

 

2. The Savor of Saints [v. 15-17, Hebrews 4:2]

 

For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.

THE LORD and THE HOUSE

PSALM 127

 

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE LORD BUILT THE HOUSE [v. 1]

 

Contrary to what revisionist historians would have you believe, America was founded as a Christian nation. Consider:

 

1. A House Founded on God’s Word –

 

The Continental Congress- on Sept. 11, 1777 recommended and approved that the Committee of Commerce “import 20,000 Bibles from Holland, Scotland, or elsewhere,” because of the great need of the American people and the great shortage caused by the interruption of trade with England by the Revolutionary War.

 

2. A House Founded on Prayer -

 

I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth, that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? We have been assured, Sir, in the Sacred Writings, that "except the Lord build the House, they labor in vain that build it." I firmly believe this; and I also believe that without His concurring aid we shall succeed in this political building no better, than the Builders of Babel: We shall be divided by our partial local interests; our projects will be confounded, and we ourselves shall become a reproach and bye word down to future ages. And what is worse, mankind may hereafter from this unfortunate instance, despair of establishing governments by human wisdom and leave it to chance, war and conquest.

I therefore beg leave to move that henceforth prayers imploring the assistance of Heaven, and its blessings on our deliberations be held in this Assembly every morning before we proceed to business, and that one or more of the clergy of this city be requested to officiate in that service. - Benjamin Franklin- At the Federal Convention of 1787

 

3. A House Founded on Christian Principles –

 

The highest glory of the American Revolution was this: it connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity. - John Quincy Adams -6^th President, son of 2^nd President John Adams- July 4, 1821 [200 years ago today!]

 

 

II. THE LORD MUST KEEP THE CITY [v. 1]

 

1. The Nation Must Maintain Relationship [Psalm 33:12]

 

Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.

 

2. The Nation Must Maintain Righteousness [Proverbs 14:34, 16:12]

 

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

It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.

 

3. The Nation Must Maintain Revival [2 Chronicles 7:13-14]

 

If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

 

III. THE LORD MUST KEEP THE HOME

 

1. The Folly of Labor Without the Lord [v. 2]

 

2. The Folly of Family Without Faith [v. 3-5]

 

3. The Folly of Going Without God [v. 1-5]

John R. Rice Quotes of the Week

 Notice Philippians 4:6, 7 again. "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." That is the way it ought to be. Take it to God and have peace. ― John R. Rice [Why Pray?, pg. 18]

Notice "in every thing." Pray for what? For everything you want- "let your requests be made known unto God." Someone says, "Brother Rice, you are not supposed to pray for what you want, only for what you need." You are mistaken. Pray for whatever you want. "Be careful for nothing; but IN EVERY THING by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." ― John R. Rice [Why Pray?, pg. 18]

In John 15:7, "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." Ask anything you want? That is what the Lord says.

"But you might not always be in the will of God." I ought to pray and want the will of God. And if I am wrong, He will show me. When I come to pray, I'm not trying to twist God's arm to get something He wouldn't want to give. Rather, I'm coming to say, "Lord, this is what I want and I'm going to talk about it and if that isn't right, You show me, and fix my wanter, so I will want what You want me to pray for." But a Christian ought to ask for everything he wants from God. ― John R. Rice [Why Pray?, pg. 19]

Suppose it turns out that you are not in the will of God? Well, if you wait on God's doorstep, He will show you about that.

Paul said, "Lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh. . .I besought the Lord thrice that it might depart from me." He said, "There is a stake in my flesh. It's from the Devil and it tempts me and bothers me. Lord, take it away."

The Lord seemed to say, "Well, Paul, what do you want?"

"I want to be a good preacher. I want to represent God. I want souls saved. I want revival."

"Well, Paul, it is better if you have a great big God and a little Paul. My strength is made perfect in weakness. Paul, you run better when you are scared anyway. I won't take away the thorn, but I will give you grace every day to bear it."

So Paul said, "All right Lord, just hand that prayer back and I'll change it. Instead of asking You to remove it, most gladly will I rather glory in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in. . .necessities. . .in distresses [in the things I need] . . .for when I am weak, then am I strong."

― John R. Rice [Why Pray?, pg. 19-20]

You can pray and if God has something better, He can show you and you can change your prayer to fit the will of God. Go to God's doorstep and plead with Him and He will guide you in your prayer. ― John R. Rice [Why Pray?, pg. 20]

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

You can have peace and joy and be happy all the time if you pray through about things and thank God for them, and let the peace of God keep you like a garrison of soldiers, protected from trouble all the time. ― John R. Rice [Why Pray?, pg. 20]

In Acts 1:8 we read, "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you." Here the Lord is saying that the way to have that power is to tarry. They did. Acts 1:14 tells us, "These all [the apostles are named] continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren." They waited upon the Lord, and God, in lovingkindness came to bless them. He came to give power, and they had three thousand souls in a day. You needn't tell me God has changed. He is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. You needn't tell me God has some cheaper way to have mighty power. He hasn't. It is the same plan-to wait on God, to seek His face, to turn from your wicked way. Importunity and supplication, seek His face, wait upon the Lord-that is the way to have the power of God, blessed Holy Spirit power, the fullness of the Spirit for witnessing. ― John R. Rice [Why Pray?, pg. 24]