THE EVERLASTING ONE

LUKE 2:21-24

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. SIMEON [2:25-35]

1. He was a Man of Piety [2:25] “the quality of being religious or reverent”

2. He was a Man of Patience & Faith [2:26-29, Titus 2:13,  Jude 1:21]

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

-Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

3. He was a Man of Understanding [2:29-35, 1 Chr. 12:32, Luke 24:44-47]

-And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment.

- And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

 

Yes, Simeon was a man of piety, of patience and faith, of understanding: but he was not the Everlasting One.

 

II. ANNA [2:36-38]

1. She was a Woman of Perseverance and Prayer [v. 36-37]

2. She was a Woman of Praise [v. 38]

3. She was a Woman of Proclamation [v. 38]

 

Yes, Anna was a woman of perseverance, prayer, praise and proclamation- and she was old: but she was not the Everlasting One.

 

III. THE EVERLASTING ONE

1. Forty Days Old & “from of Old, from Everlasting” [2:21-24, Micah 5:2, Habakkuk 1:12]

- But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting .

- Art thou not from everlasting, O LORD my God, mine Holy One? we shall not die. O LORD, thou hast ordained them for judgment; and, O mighty God, thou hast established them for correction.

2. The Consolation of Israel [Lk. 2:25, Is. 40:1-5, 1 Cor. 2:8]

- Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord's hand double for all her sins. The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.

-Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

3. The Lord’s Christ [2:26-29, 11]

4. The Saviour, the Lord’s Salvation [2:30, 3:4-6]

5. A Light to Lighten the Gentiles [2:32, Is. 42:6]

I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;

6. The Glory of Israel [2:32, Is. 60:1-3]

Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.

7. Redemption [2:38, 1 Corinthians 1:30, Hebrews 9:12]

-But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:

- Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

HEY JUDE, HOW CAN I FACE THE NEW YEAR?

Pastor Rick Jackson

Whether it be the New year, a new day, a new job, new challenges or new problems the child of God can face them with a certainty, a peace, a comfort, an assurance with the Lord on his side, at his side and inside!

 

I. FACE THE NEW YEAR WITH THE OLD FAITH [Jude 1-3]

1. Face the New Year with Christ the Saviour [Jude 3-4, 21]

2. Face the New Year with Christ the Keeper [Jude 1, 24; 1 Peter 1:3-5, 2 Tm. 1:12]

-Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

-I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

3. Face the New Year with Christ the Coming One [Jude 14]

 

II. FACE THE NEW YEAR WITH THE OLD BOOK, THE WORD OF GOD

1. Read it Faithfully [Jude 3-5, Isaiah 34:16]

- Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read: no one of these shall fail, none shall want her mate: for my mouth it hath commanded, and his spirit it hath gathered them.

2. Read it Fully [Jude 5, 7, 11, 17-18, Luke 24:25-27]

- Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

3. Read it to Feed [Jude 20, Job 23:12, Acts 20:32, Colossians 2:7]

- Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.

- 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.

- Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.

 

III. FACE THE NEW YEAR WITH THE OLD WAYS [Jeremiah 6:16]

Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.

 

1. Be a Prayer Warrior [Jude 20, Lk 18:1, 1 Th. 5:17, 1 Tim. 2:8]

-And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;

-Pray without ceasing.

-I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.

2. Be a Powerful Witness [Jude 3, 22-23]

3. Be a Persistent Worshipper [1 Tm. 3:15, Acts 14:27, 1 Corinthians 11:17-18, 20, 33-34, 14:23, 26]

-But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.

- And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.

Notice with all the problems the Corinthians had Paul didn’t say stop coming- he merely worked to straighten out the problems.

FOR UNTO YOU

LUKE 2:1-14                                                      

Pastor Rick Jackson

In Philippians 4:8 the Word of God admonishes us, “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.”

 

I. THE TIDINGS

1. They Were “Good Tidings” [v. 10-11, Pr. 25:25]

As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.

2. They Were Joyous Tidings [v. 10, 15:10]

Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

3. They Were Tidings of “Good Will” [v. 14, 2 Pet. 3:9, Jeremiah 29:11]

-The Lord is…  not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

-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.

 

II. THE RECIPIENTS OF THE TIDINGS

1. Shepherds [v. 8, Gen. 46:33-34, 1 Sam. 16:11]

-And it shall come to pass, when Pharaoh shall call you, and shall say, What is your occupation? That ye shall say, Thy servants trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.

- And Samuel said unto Jesse, Are here all thy children? And he said, There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him: for we will not sit down till he come hither.

2. All People [v. 10, Jn. 3:16, 1 Jn. 2:2]

-For God so loved the world…

-And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

3. Men [v. 14, Mt. 4:19] mankind

- And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.

 

III. THE RESPONSE OF THE RECIPIENTS OF THE TIDINGS

1. Alarm (fear) [v. 9, Pr. 9:10]

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

2. Acceptance [v. 15-16, Jn. 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. Action (telling others ) [v. 17-18, Mk. 16:15]

Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

 

WHY CHRISTMAS?

GALATIANS 4:1-7

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

There is a Christmas because:

 

1. There is Sin [v. 1-3, 2 Peter 2:19]

While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome , of the same is he brought in bondage.

 

2. The Time was Right [v. 4a]

 

3. The God of the Bible is Real [v. 4b, Mark 11:22, Heb. 11:6]

- And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.

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

 

4. God Sent Jesus to be the Redeemer [v. 4c, Romans 8:3, 1 John 4:9-10]

In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

 

5. Salvation needed to be Provided [v. 5, 3:13, 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;

 

6. The Holy Spirit is Real [v. 6, Romans 8:9-11]

But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

 

7. Man’s Relationship with God needed to be Restored [v. 6-7, Eph. 2:11-20]

 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby : And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

THE WISE MEN’S 2000-YEAR-OLD CHRISTMAS QUESTION

MATTHEW 2:1-12

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE GOOD [v. 1-2]

1. The Certainty of their Question [Numbers 24:17] “Where is he that is born King of the Jews?”

I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth .

2. The Sincerity of their Question [James 4:17] “for we have seen his star in the east, and are come”

Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

3. The Scope of their Question [2 John 1:9-10] “for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.”

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:

 

II. THE BAD [v. 3-8]

1. The Heart is Troubled that will Not Trust [v. 3, John 14:1, 27]

-Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

-Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

2. The Life is Troubled that Will Not in Faith Follow the Scriptures [v. 4-6, Luke 24:13-27, Heb. 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.

3. The Person is Troubled that Will find Himself Against God [v. 7-8, Ps. 7:11, Romans 8:7]

- God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.

- Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be

 

III. THE BEAUTIFUL [v. 9-12]

1. Following the Light you have is the Path to More Light [v. 9, Jn. 8:12, Jn. 7:17]

- Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

- If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.

2. Following the Lord is the Path to True Joy [v. 10-11, Neh. 8:10, Isaiah 29:19, Mt. 25:21]

- Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.

- The meek also shall increase their joy in the LORD, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.

- His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

3. Following the Leading of the Lord is the Path to True Satisfaction [v. 12, Pr. 3:5-8]

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

REGARDS CONCERNING CHRISTMAS

ROMANS 14:1-12                   

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. ESTEEM THE DAY (Was Jesus Born in December?) [Rm. 14:5]

It is amazing the amount of people, even Christians, who doubt Jesus was born in December. The problem is they are merely repeating a mantra they have heard from others- and the others didn't do their homework!

 

1. Critics Claim It Was Too Cold for the Sheep in Bethlehem’s Field in December when Christ was Born

Were they there then? Have you ever been there?

Dr. Mark Cambron, respected Bible scholar had heard this unsubstantiated claim that it is too cold for the sheep in December. We must remember Israel is not Pennsylvania or West Virginia. Dr. Cambron was at the shepherds’ field in Bethlehem one Christmas eve and noticed there were shepherds present. He asked them, “Why are sheep here and not in folds. Isn’t it too cold?” They replied, “This is when the grass grows best, so we graze here!” Then he noticed the grass was indeed thick and over knee high. Hearsay destroyed by eyewitnesses!

 

2. Critics Claim the Bible Doesn’t Give the Date as December

Well, not in those terms. But- you must rightly divide the Word of God.

-Bible fact # 1 In 1 Chr. 24:1-19 David organized the priests for the Temple. There were 24 orders for the 12 months, two orders per month (v. 18-19). Note in the fourth month, the latter part of the month is the order of Abijah (v. 10).

-Bible fact # 2 In Ex. 12:2, 13:4 God says the month Nisan/Abib is the first month of the Jewish calendar. Nisan falls in our Mar. /Apr. which puts the order of Abijah in our July.

-Bible Fact # 3 Zechariah was serving in July. (Lk. 1:5-7) Not yet 50 but advanced in years (people age differently, in US pioneer days the average lifespan was 35). Luke 1:8-23. He went home in August and John the Baptist was conceived in August or September (Luke 1:24). Elisabeth’s first month would be Sept. or Oct. Her 6th month would be Feb./March. (1:26-36 Mary conceived in Elisabeth’s 6th month so her first month would be March-April. Count it out. April, May, June, July, Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov., December.

Late December is when the shepherds are out in their fields to watch their sheep by night. The night the angels came. Luke 2:8-15. The night, Christ was born. I for one am not going to let the Devil steal my Christmas.

 

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

 

II. REGARD THE DETAILS [Rm. 14:6]

 

1. Some Claim Christmas Trees are of Pagan Origin [Jer. 10:1-4]

-Jeremiah is not talking about Christmas trees [Jer. 10:5-15] He is referring to wooden idols, carved by men, overlaid with gold, etc.

-Christmas trees are actually Christian.

John R. Rice recounts the origin of the Christmas tree: “In the 8th century a missionary named Boniface went to Germany to preach Christ. The Germanic tribes worshipped the oak tree as a symbol of deity. Boniface told them it was a poor symbol for God since it sheds its leaves and appears dead in winter. He told them the tree that should remind them of God was the evergreen. Always green and thriving.”

  “Christmas trees became popular in England primarily through the influence of the German-born, Prince Albert, husband of England’s Queen Victoria. In America the trees were introduced by German immigrants in Pennsylvania.”

-the Christmas tree reminds me of Calvary [Gal. 6:14, 1 Pt. 2:24]

 

2. The Lights Remind Me of Jesus & the Christmas Lights [Mt. 2, Lk. 2] the Star, the Angels

-Jn. 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

-Jn. 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

-1 Jn. 1:5 God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

-Mt. 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

 

3. Critics say giving gifts has become too commercialized [Esther 9:20-22]

It can be but need not be. Besides, since when do we not do right because someone else does it wrong. Many cults have services on Sunday- we still follow the Bible pattern as given in the N.T.

And Mordecai wrote these things, and sent letters unto all the Jews that were in all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, both nigh and far, To stablish this among them, that they should keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth day of the same, yearly , As the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to joy, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them days of feasting and joy, and of sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor.

 

III. EXERCISE YOUR DEVOTION [Rm. 14:17-19]

 

1. Worship in Spirit and truth [Jn. 4:24, Romans 14:17 cp. Luke 2:10-14]

-God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

- For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

-10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

 

2. Be fully persuaded in your own mind. [Rm. 14:5-6]

One man esteemeth one day above another : another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.

 

3. Whatever ye do, do it unto the Lord [Col. 3:17, 23-25]

-And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

-And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily , as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

IT IS THE THOUGHT THAT COUNTS AT CHRISTMAS

PHILIPPIANS 2:1-4

Pastor Rick Jackson

The old saying, “It’s the thought that counts” may have more truth to it than you think. The Christmas spirit begins in the mind of Christ and God, is carried out in the actions of the blessed Trinity and is recorded in the Word of God for our edification. Consider:

1. He that was strong became weak so that we that are weak might become strong. [v. 5-7, 1 Cor. 9:22]

To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.

2. He that was rich became poor so that we that are poor might become rich [v. 6-7, 2 Cor. 8:9]

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

3. The Son of God became the Son of Man so that the sons of men might become the sons of God [v. 7-8, Heb. 1:1-3, 2:9-10; Jn. 1:12]

- God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 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; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

- But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

- 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:

4. He that was alive DIED so that we that are dead might become alive [v. 8, 1 Th. 4:14, 5:10; Eph. 2:1]

-For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

-Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

-And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins:;

 

5. He that was righteous became sin so that we that are sinners might become righteous [v. 8, 2 Co. 5:21]

-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.

 

 If you have never been saved- accept Christ as Saviour and give Him the satisfaction of saving your soul [Isaiah 53:11]

-He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.

If you are saved- give yourself to Christ to live for Him [Rm. 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.

LUKE’S 2000-YEAR-OLD CHRISTMAS QUESTIONS

LUKE 1

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE BELIEVABILITY OF GOD’S WORD

1. The Security of God’s Word [v. 1-4]

2. The Steadfastness of Gabriel’s Word [v. 5-20, Heb. 2:2-4]

For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?

3. The Sinfulness of Scoffers [v. 18-25, Ps. 1:1-2]

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

 

II. THE BLESSEDNESS OF FAITH

1. The Access of Faith [v. 26-30]

2. The Acceptance of Faith [v. 31-37]

3. The Accounting of Faith [v. 38-40, Heb. 11:19]

Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.

 

III. THE BENEFITS OF LIVING BY FAITH

1. Causes Joy among believers [v. 41-45]

2. The Lord is Magnified [v. 46-50]

3. The Word of God is Confirmed [v. 51-55]

THE LAST OF THE SIX GREAT JUDGMENTS – THE GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGMENT

REVELATION 20

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE TIME OF THE JUDGMENT

1. After the “Little Season” [v. 1-3, 7-9]

2. After the Millennium [v.4- 5]

3. After the Devil is Judged [v. 10]

 

II. THE SUBJECTS OF THE JUDGMENT

1. The Unsaved Dead [v. 4-6]

2. Every Unsaved Person-Small or Great [v. 11-13]

3. Anyone Whose Name is not in the Lamb’s Book of Life [v. 15]

 

III. THE BASIS AND RESULT OF THE JUDGMENT

1. By their Record [v.12, Matthew 5:20-30, 12:36-37]

2. By their Works [v. 12-13]

3. By their Absence [v. 14-15]

ISAIAH’S 2700-YEAR-OLD CHRISTMAS QUESTION

ISAIAH 7:13

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE CRITICAL SITUATION [v. 1-7]

1. The Country’s Leadership had Gone Bad [v. 1]

2. The Country’s Confidence had Fallen [v. 2]

3. The Country’s Only Hope Had Spoken [v. 3-7]

 

II. THE GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY [v. 8-11]

1. Israel’s End Foretold [v. 8-9a]

2. Ahaz’s Chance Explained [v. 9b, Mark 11:22]

 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.

3. God’s Offer Extended [v. 10-11]

 

III. ONCE THE OFFER IS MADE, IT’S ALL IN THE RESPONSE [v. 12-14]

1. Rebellion Robs [v. 12a]

2. Religion Warps [v. 12b]

3. Jesus Saves [v. 13-14, Mt. 1:18-25]

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, , and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.

THE LAME MAN MEETS THE KIND KING

2 SAMUEL 9                                      

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE LAME MAN

1. Helpless From a Fall [v. 1-3, 4:4]

2. Homeless from Two Falls [v. 4] -his grandfather’s fall from favor with God, his father’s fall in battle

3. Hopeless from the Fall [v. 5-8]

 

II. THE KIND KING

1. He Sought for One to Bless [v. 1-3]

2. He Sent for Him [v. 4-5]

3. He Shewed Kindness for Another [v. 1, 6-13]

 

III. THE LAMER PEOPLE, THE KINDER KING

1. We were Helpless from a Fall, but God Sought Us [Rm. 5:12, 8]

- Wherefore , as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

- But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

2. We were Homeless but God Sent for Us [Acts 17:30, Is. 1:18, Mt. 11:28, John 14:2-3]

- And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

- 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.

- Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

- 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.

3. We were Hopeless but God shewed us Kindness for Christ’s Sake [Titus 3:3-8, Ephesians 2:12, 4:32]

- For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, 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; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

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

- And be ye kind one to another , tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

THE SIXTH GREAT BIBLE JUDGMENT - THE JUDGEMENT OF FALLEN ANGELS

Rev. 20

Pastor Rick Jackson

We have been studying the 6 Great Bible Judgments. We have covered the Believer’s Sin, the Believer’s Service the Nation of Israel, the Judgment of Gentile Nations, and now we come to the Judgment of Angels, specifically, fallen angels.

 

I. The Time -

1. After the Tribulation [Rev. 20:4]

2 Apparently Before the Great White Throne Judgment [Rev. 20:10-11]

And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.

3. In Association with the Lord Jesus Christ [Rev. 2:26-27, 3:21]

Mt. 19:27-28 - Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

Rm. 16:20 - And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly . The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

II. The Subjects 

1. The Bible Speaks Sparingly of Our Participation [1 Cor. 6:3]

Know ye not that we shall judge angels?

2. Some Fallen Angels are already “Incarcerated” [2 Pet. 2:4, Jude 6]

-For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;

- And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.

NOTE: similar to Christians going “Home” early [1 Cor. 11:30-32]

3. Good Angels [like the Judgement for Believer’s Service]?

 

III. The Basis & Result [Ez. 28:12-19,

1. Angels “Fell” Joining the Rebellion Against God [Rev. 12:3-4]

- And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.

2. Demons Fell for Satan’s Trafficking (fallen angels) [Ezekiel 28:11-19]

3. Fallen Angels will Be with Satan Forever [Rev. 20:10, Matthew 25:41]

- And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

-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:

THE PRODIGAL

THE PRODIGAL

LUKE 15:11-32

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE DECEPTION [15:11-16]

1. The Deception of the Heart [15:11-12, 18:24-27]

2. The Deception of the World [15:13-14, 9:25]

3. The Deception of the Devil [15:15-16, 8:5, 11-12]

 

II. THE DECISION [15:17-20]

1. He Came to Himself [15:17-19]

2. He Came to Jesus [15:18-19, 1-10]

3. He Came to His Father [15:20]

 

III. THE DETAILS [15:20-32]

1. Face the Future as a Son [15:20-24] I why didn’t he get a bath first - he had been washed in the blood

2. Face the Future as an Heir [15:22]

- Isaiah 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.

- Ephesians 6:15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.

3. Face the Future Critics as a Twice-born Person [15:25-32]

DAVID'S 3000-YEAR-OLD CHRISTMAS QUESTION

 

DAVID’S 3000-YEAR-OLD CHRISTMAS QUESTION

Hebrews 2:6

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him?

 

I. DAVID’S WORSHIP PROMPTED THE QUESTION [Psalm 144:1-2]

 

1. He Worshipped God for His Empowerment for Battle [v. 1]

2. He Worshipped God for His Empowerment for Living [v. 2]

3. He Worshipped God for His Salvation [v. 2]

 

II. DAVID’S WONDERMENT PROMPTED THE QUESTION [Psalm 144:3-15]

 

1. It is Wondrous that God would even Acknowledge Man [v. 3-4]

2. It is Wondrous that God would Visit Blessings on Man [v. 3, 5-15]

3. It is Wondrous that God would Redeem man [v. 2, 7, 10-11]

 

III. DAVID’S WITNESS EXPANDED THE QUESTION [Hebrews 2]

 

1. Salvation is Personal [v. 1-4]

2. Salvation is a Person [v. 5-9a]

3. Salvation is Purposeful [v. 9-18]