ISN'T THE LOVE OF JESUS SOMETHING WONDERFUL?

1 JOHN 3

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE EXISTENCE OF THE OLD NATURE IS EVIDENT

1. David Taught It [Ps. 51:5]

Behold, I was shapen in iniquity,; and in sin did my mother conceive me.

2. Paul Taught It [Rm. 5:12-19, 6:6]

- 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: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

- Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

3. John Taught It [1 Jn. 1:8-10]

 

II. THE OLD NATURE EXISTS AFTER SALVATION

1. The Answer is Found in Christ [1 Jn. 3:4-7, Col. 3:1-10]

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another , seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

2. The Adversaries are Invisible [1 Jn. 3:8-11, Eph. 6:10-12]

-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.

3. The Examples are Many [1 Jn. 3:12, Eph. 4:22-27, Col. 3:9-10]

-That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.

- Lie not one to another , seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

 

III. THE OLD NATURE EXITS WHEN CHRIST APPEARS FOR US

1. The World is Ignorant [1 Jn. 3:1]

2. The Child of God is Informed [1 Jn. 3:2]

3. The Believer is Encouraged [1 Jn. 3:3]

NO, NO, NO

LUKE 9: 57-62

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

In 1904 William Borden, heir to the Borden Dairy Estate graduated from a Chicago high school as a millionaire. For a graduation gift his parents gave him a trip around the world. Travelling through Asia, the Middle East and Europe young Borden developed a burden for the world. He wrote home, “I’m going give my life to prepare for the mission field.” When he made this decision he wrote in the back of his Bible,

I. “NO RESERVES.”

1. The Disciple of Christ Must Not TRUST Riches [1 Tm. 6:6-12]

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

2. The Disciple of Christ Must Trust the Word [2 Tm. 3:15-17]

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

3. The Disciple of Christ Must Love Not the World [1 Jn. 2:15] Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

 

Borden went to Yale University for his under-graduate work. When he graduated he received many offers for high paying jobs – all of which he turned down. He entered two more words in his Bible:

II. “NO RETREATS”

1. The Disciple of Christ Must Look “Fit” [Luke 9:62]

And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back , is fit for the kingdom of God.

2. The Disciple of Christ Must Look Forward [Phil. 3:13-14]

-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.

3. The Disciple of Christ Must Look to Christ [Heb. 12:1-4]

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds

 

Completing his studies at Princeton Seminary Borden sailed for China to work with Muslims, stopping in Egypt for some preparation. While there he was stricken with cerebral meningitis and died within a month. “A waste,” some said. Not in God’s plan. In his Bible under the words “NO RESERVES” and “NO RETREATS” he had written:

III. “NO REGRETS”

1. There Can Be No Regrets When Souls Have Been Saved

[Jn. 15:8] Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

2. There Can Be No Regrets When Lives Have Been Changed

[2 Pt. 3: 18] But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

3. There Can Be No Regrets When God is Pleased [Jn. 8:29, 1 Th. 4:1]

-And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.

- Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.

 

THE STORM COMES

Mark 6:45-56

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. HERE THE STORM COMES

1. Jesus Knew about the Storm

[v. 45-48, Job 23:10]

But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

2. Jesus Did Not Prevent the Storm

[v. 46-48, Romans 8:28]

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

3. Jesus Saw Them in the Storm

[v. 48, Genesis 16:13]

And she called the name of the LORD that spake unto her, Thou God seest me: for she said, Have I also here looked after him that seeth me?

 

II. WHEN THE STORM COMES

1. We Can Fear the Unknown [v. 48-49]

2. We Can Fear the Lord [v. 50a]

3. We Can Trust His Word [v. 50b]

 

III. WHAT ABOUT THE STORM COMING

1. The Storm Does Not Continue Forever [v. 51]

2. The Saviour Does Continue Forever

[v. 51-52, Heb. 7:24]

But this man, because he continueth ever , hath an unchangeable priesthood.

3. The Saviour’s Work Continues [v. 53-56]

THE DESOLATE HOUSE

MT. 23:38

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

THE DESOLATE HOUSE:

I. IS ALL ABOUT SELF [v. 1-12]

Galatians 2:20 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.

II. IS RELIGIOUS BUT LOST [v. 13-24]

III. IS CONCERNED PRIMARILY WITH APPEARANCE

[v. 25-32]

IV. IS OPPOSED TO GOD’S SERVANTS [v. 33-36]

V. REJECTS CHRIST

[v. 37-39, Mt. 13:14, Mark 4:12, Acts 28:23-27, Is. 6:9-10]

-And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:

-That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.

-And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God , persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not. And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word , Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers, Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive: For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

- And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.

SHALL WE WEAR A CROWN?

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. CROWN DOCTRINE

1. The People of Crowns [1 Cor. 3:1-15]

2. The Place of Crowns [2 Corinthians 5:1-11]

3. The Purpose of Crowns [Rev. 4:10-11]

 

II. CROWNS DETAILED

1. Incorruptible Crown

[1 Cor. 9:24-27, 2 Timothy 2:5]

-for those who got mastery over the old nature, i.e., it pays to live a godly life

2. Crown of Rejoicing [1 Thess. 2:19, Dan. 12:3]

-the Soul-winners Crown

3. Crown of Righteousness

[2 Tm. 4:6-8, 1 Jn. 2:28-29]

-Love Christ’s Coming (not just our disappearing)

4. Crown of Glory [1 Pet. 5:1-4]

-for being willing to feed the flock of God, those who serve Christ faithfully in Christian service

5. Crown of life [James 1:12, Rev. 2:10]

-sometimes called “the martyrs crown”- people who have faithfully endured the trials/testings of life for Jesus

 

III. CROWNS DEEPENED

1. What Sort? [1 Cor. 3:13-15]

2. Whose Seat? [2 Cor. 5:10-12]

3. Who Signified? [Rev. 1:1, 4:10-11, 21:10-14]

THE OTHER SIDE

MARK 5:1

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE CHANGE

1. Untamable by Mankind [v. 1-5, Jm. 3:6-8]

And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

2. Delivered by Jesus [v. 6-15, Rm. 7:24, 2 Tm. 4:18

-O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

-And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

3. Now Open for God’s Business [v. 7, 18-19]

II. THE CHARGE

1. “Come Out” [v. 8-13]

2. “Depart Out” [v. 14-17]

v. 10 the demons liked that country but Jesus made them change houses

v. 17 the people asked Jesus to leave their coasts- he was not good for business

3. “Go Home… and Tell” [v. 17-19]

 

III. THE CHALLENGE

1. It Was Specific [v. 19]

2. It Was Sound [v. 19-20, Ph. 1:23-25]

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;

3. It Was Successful [v. 17, 19-20, 7:31-33]

WONDERFUL GRACE OF JESUS

WONDERFUL GRACE OF JESUS

1 JOHN 3

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. BEHOLD [v. 1]

1. The Manner of Love [John 10:3, Romans 9:25-26]

-he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

- As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.

2. The Master of Love [John 3:16, 1 John 4:10]

-For God so loved the world

3. The Man of Love [Luke 10:22]

All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.

 

II. BELOVED [v. 2]

1. We ARE the Sons of God [Jn. 1:12-13, Rm. 5:1]

- 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: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

-Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ

2. We ARE Going to be Like Him [Rm. 6:5, 1 Cor. 15:49]

-For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:

-And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.

3. We ARE Going to See Him [Job 19:26, 1 Th. 4:17]

-And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God:

-Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

 

III. BELIEVERS [v. 3]

1. Only Believers Have This Hope [Eph. 2:12, 1 Th. 4:13]

-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 I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

2. All Believers Have This High Calling [Philippians 3:14, Hebrews 3:1]

- I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

-Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

3. Believers Will Attain His Likeness [Psalm 17:15]

-As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.

LOVEST THOU ME?

MARK 14:18-19

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. DO WE HEED THE WARNINGS?

1. The Warning of Being Offended [v. 26-29] skandalizo

2. The Warning of Denial [v. 30-31]

3. The Warning to Pray [v. 32-37]

 

II. DO WE FAIL THE TESTS?

1. Failing to Pray [v. 38-41]

2. Are We Offended? [v. 42-50]

3. Do We Deny Him? [v. 66-72]

 

III. DO WE UNDERSTAND? [JOHN 21]

We don’t always heed the warnings. We often fail the tests, but do we understand?

1. We are His Still [v. 1-14]

2. He Desires Our Love [v. 15-17]

3. He Desires Us to Follow Him Still [v. 18-22, Mt. 4:19]

THE LORD LOOKETH ON THE HEART

LUKE 5:18-26

Pastor Rick Jackson

1 Samuel 16:7 Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

 

I. THE CHARACTERS

1. Four Men Wanted their Friend Healed [v. 17-20, Mk. 2:3]

2. The Friend actually Wanted Salvation [v. 20-25]

3. The Crowd Witnessed God at Work [v. 26]

 

II. THE CRITICS

1. Critics are Like Broken Cisterns [v. 17, Jer. 2:13]

For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.

2. Critics are Like Broken Records [v. 21a]

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

3. Critics are Like a Broken Clock [v. 22b]

Even a broken clock is right twice a day

 

III. THE CHRIST

1. Christ Knows the Thoughts of Men [v. 22]

He knew the critics’ thoughts, the friends’ thoughts, the infirm man’s thoughts.

2. Christ Knows the Limitations of Men [v. 23]

3. Christ Knows What We Need to Know [v. 24-26]

ISN’T HE WONDERFUL?

1 JOHN 2:21-3:2

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE TRUTH OF GOD IS WONDERFUL [1 JOHN 1:21, Ps. 31:5]

Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.

1. The Spirit is Truth [John 14:17, 15:26, 16:13, 1 Jn. 5:6]

- Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

- But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:

- Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth:

-it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.

2. The Bible is Truth [Jn. 17:17, 2 Co. 6:7; Eph. 1:13, 1 Th. 2:13, Jm. 1:18]

- Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

-By the word of truth, by the power of God

-In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation:

-For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

-Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth

3. The Saviour is Truth [Jn. 1:14, 17, 14:6]

-And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth

-For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.

-Jesus saith unto him, I am the way , the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

 

II. THE EXPOSING OF SIN IS WONDERFUL [Jer. 5:30-31]

A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?

1. A Denier that Jesus is the Christ is a Liar & an Antichrist [1 Jn. 2:22]

-the Bible says Jesus is Christ [John 20:31] But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

-the Spirit says Jesus is Christ [Acts 18:5] And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.

-the Father says Jesus is Christ [Acts 2:36] Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

2. A Denier that Jesus is the Christ denies the Father and the Son [v. 22-23a, 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.

3. A Believer in Jesus Christ has the Father and the Son [v. 23b-24]

 

III. THE EXPECTATION OF THE BELIEVER IS WONDERFUL [I JOHN 2]

1. Abide in Truth [v. 24-27, John 3:36]

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

2. Abide in Christ [v. 28]

3. Abide in Confidence [v. 28-29, Jn. 15:4-7]

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

THE PRACTICAL POWER OF JESUS

MATTHEW 12:1-14

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE ACCUSATION OF THE PHARISEES [v. 1-2]

1. The Allowance of the Lord [v. 1] He surely knew they were hungry

2. The Dinner of the Disciples [v. 1]

3. The Perversion of the Pharisees [v. 2]

 

II. THE ANSWER OF THE LORD [v. 3-8]

1. He Cited the Historical Books Concerning David [v. 3-4, 1 Sam. 21]

2. He Cited the Law Pentateuch Concerning the Priests [v. 5-6, Num. 28:9-10]

And on the sabbath day two lambs of the first year without spot, and two tenth deals of flour for a meat offering, mingled with oil, and the drink offering thereof: This is the burnt offering of every sabbath, beside the continual burnt offering, and his drink offering.

3. He Cited the Prophets Concentrating on Hosea [v. 7, Hosea 6:6]

For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

4. He Cited His Authority Concerning His Deity [v. 6, 8; Gen. 2:1-3]

Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.

 

III. THE PRACTICING OF WHAT HE PREACHED [v. 9-14]

1. The Pharisees Tried to Trap Jesus [v. 10]

2. The Profit Margin Explained [v. 11-13, James 4:17]

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

3. The Pharisees Dilemma [v. 14]

-they couldn’t argue with the Scriptures Jesus gave

-they couldn’t argue with the Logic Jesus used

-they wouldn’t agree with Jesus

-they resorted to violence

ONE OF THE GREATEST DAYS EVER!

JOHN 20

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. CHRISTIANS ARE INDIVIDUALS [v. 1-11]

1. Mary Wept in Ignorance [v. 1-2]

2. Peter Investigated in Confusion [v. 2-7, 9-10]

3. John Believed in Providence [v. 2-10]

 

II. CHRIST IS UNIQUELY RESPONSIVE [v. 11-18]

1. Jesus Reassured Mary Personally [v. 11-16]

2. Jesus Taught Mary [v. 17]

3. Jesus Commissioned Mary [v. 17-18]

 

III. CHRIST IS RISEN! [v. 19-22]

1. Jesus Restores their Joy

[v. 19-20, John 16:16-22]

2. Jesus Reiterates Their Mission [v. 21]

3. Jesus had Them Receive Their Comforter

[v. 22, 14:16-20, 15:26-27, 7:38-39]

-And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

-But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.

-He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

OH, IT IS WONDERFUL

1 JOHN 1:1-2

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. WE CAN HAVE IT [1 JOHN 1]

1. Full Fellowship [v. 3, 5-7]

2. Full Joy [v. 4, Philippians 3:1, 3, 4:4]

-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.

-For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

-Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.

3. Full Forgiveness and Cleansing [v. 7-10]

 

II. WE HAVE IT [I JOHN 2]

1. Heaven’s Undefeated Lawyer [2:1]

2. His Unlimited Atonement [2:2, 2 Cor. 5:14, Rm. 5:18, Jn. 3:16]

-For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead.

- Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.

3. His Unvarnished Truth [2:3, 2 Tm. 1:12]

 

III. WE CAN KNOW [I JOHN 2]

1. We can Know Him [2:1-3a, 5:13] (that’s relationship)

2. We can Know His Presence [2:3-5, 1:6-7] (that’s fellowship)

3. We can Know His Truth [2:18-21, Jn. 15:13-19, Jm. 4:4] (that’s friendship)

- Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another. If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

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

 

DAVID'S SERVICE, OUR SERVICE

ACTS 13:22-23, 34-36

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE COMPONENTS OF SERVICE

1. A Heart to do God’s Will [v. 22, Rm. 12:1]

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.

2. A Saviour to Trust [v. 23, P3. 63:1]

O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is.

3. A Message to Share [v. 32-35, Ps. 2, Ps. 16:10]

 

II. THE COMPUNCTION OF SERVICE

1. The Will of God [v. 22, 36, Rm. 12:2]

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.

2. General Sanctification [1 Thessalonians 4:3-4]

For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;

3. Specific Tasks [v. 22, 33, 35, Acts 9:6]

And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

 

III. THE COMPLETION OF SERVICE [v. 36]

1. Find the Will of God [point II above]

2. Fulfill the Will of God [v. 22, 25, 27, 29, 33, 2 Tm. 4:6-7]

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

3. Finish the Will of God [2 Tm. 4:7-8]

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

 

“All to Jesus I Surrender”

CHOICES, TRUTHS & DECLARATIONS

Acts 13:1-4, 13-16

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THREE CHOICES

1. God’s Chosen Nation [v. 17-21]

2. God’s Chosen King [v. 22]

3. God’s Chosen Saviour [v. 23-25]

 

II. THREE TRUTHS

1. Salvation Available for Everyone [v. 26]

2. Salvation Accessed by Faith [v. 27-29, 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. Salvation Allowed through the Gospel [v. 29-30, Rm. 1:16, 1 Cor. 15:1-5ff]

 

III. THREE DECLARATIONS

1. We Have the Good News [v. 31-32]

2. We Have the Great Saviour [v. 33-35]

3. We Have the Great Commission [v. 36-43, Mk. 16:15]

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

THESE THINGS

JOHN 16

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

Over 40 times John’s gospel uses the phrase “these things.”  7 are found one chapter 16 which speaks of men’s ignorance of and God’s knowledge of “these things.” Let us examine these things and see if we can lose some ignorance and gain some knowledge.

 

I. WE DONT ALWAYS KNOW WHAT IS GOOD FOR US [v. 1-15, esp. v. 6-7]

1. Jesus Knows What People Will Do. [v. 1-2]

2. Jesus Knows Why People Do What They Do [v. 3, 2:25, 15:18, 24-25]

3. Jesus Knows What We Will Need [v. 4-15]

 

II. WE DO NOT KNOW ALL FUTURE DETAILS [v. 16-17]

1. We Don’t Know the Rapture Details [Mt. 24:36-42]

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

2. We Don’t Know the Kingdom Details [Acts 1:6-7]

When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord , wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.

3. We Don’t Even Know What Tomorrow Will Bring [James 4:13-14]

Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.

 

III. WE DO NOT KNOW WHAT WE THINK WE DO KNOW [v. 18-33]

1. Our Understanding is Limited [v. 16, 18]

2. Heavenly Resources are Available [v. 13, 15, 19-28]

3. Our Understanding will Ultimately Increase [v. 29-33, 1 Co. 13: 9-12]

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

EVERY KNEE SHALL BOW

Isaiah 45:17-25, Rm. 14:11

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. IN THE LORD JESUS ONLY IS SALVATION

 

1. Individual Jews Shall Be Saved [Is. 45:17, Rm. 1:16]

But Israel shall be saved in the LORD with an everlasting salvation: ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end.

John R. Rice told the story of his friend, Louis Zuckerman. who had spent 8 years in a school of the Talmud preparing to be a Rabbi before leaving Russia for the U.S. In Chicago, this Hebrew scholar taught in the Hebrew Institute. But familiar as he was with the O.T. in the original Hebrew, he had never noticed Micah 5:2, promising that the Messiah should be born in Bethlehem in Judea, until he heard it in the 1st Methodist Church in Dallas, Texas.

He stormed out of the church declaring that the preacher was a liar and was deceiving the people, that no such promise was in the O.T. But back in his room he looked in his Hebrew O.T., and there it was!

As a result of that verse, he was convinced that Christ is the Messiah, and he accepted Him as his Saviour.

 

2. Ignorance is an Enemy of Salvation [Rm. 10:1-15]

 

3. Arrogance is an Enemy of Salvation [Rm. 10:16-21]

 

II. CHRIST IS CREATOR AS WELL AS SAVIOUR

 

1. Jesus Created [Is. 45:18, Jn. 1:1-5]

- For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else.

-In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

 

2. Jesus Calls [Is. 45:19-20, Rm. 10:8,14, 17-21]

 

-I have not spoken in secret, in a dark place of the earth: I said not unto the seed of Jacob, Seek ye me in vain: I the LORD speak righteousness, I declare things that are right. Assemble yourselves and come; draw near together, ye that are escaped of the nations: they have no knowledge that set up the wood of their graven image, and pray unto a god that cannot save.

 

3. Jesus Commands [Is. 45:21-23, Rm. 14:11]

Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me. Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else. I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.

 

III. BOW THE KNEE TO CHRIST, GOD INCARNATE [Rm. 14]

 

1. The One Who is Lord & Master [Rm. 14:1-8]

 

2. The One Who Died & Rose Again [Rm. 14:9]

 

3. The One Who is the Living Lord & Judge

[Rm. 14:10-12, Is. 45:23-25]

I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear. Surely, shall one say, in the LORD have I righteousness and strength: even to him shall men come; and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed. In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory.

THE BLESSED BOOK

Psalm 138:1-4

Pastor Rick Jackson*

 

I. THE BIBLE IS THE GOD-GIVEN BOOK [2 Tm. 3:16]

 

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

1. It is the Eternal Book [Ps. 119:89]

For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.

2. It is the Everlasting Life Book [John 5:24, 39]

- Verily, verily, I say unto you , He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

- Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.

3. it is the Purifying Book [Ps. 119:11, Acts 15:9]

- Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

- And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

 

 II. THE BIBLE IS THE MAN-BLESSING BOOK [Ps. 1:1-2]

 

1. It Is Precious [Ps. 126:5-6, 139:17, 2 Peter 1:4]

- They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

- How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!

-Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

2. It Is Personal [Ps. 119:18, 140]

- Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.

- Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it.

3. It Is Comforting [Ps. 119:50; Is. 40:1, 61:2; Rm. 15:4]

- This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.

- Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God.

- To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;

- For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

 

III. THE BIBLE IS THE “NO-HOLDS BARRED” BOOK [Is. 58:1]

 

1. It Is An Exposing Book [Ps. 119:130, Heb. 4:12]

- This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.

- 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.

2. It Is an Alarming Book [John 5:45-47, 12:48]

- Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?

-He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.

3. It Is an Uncompromising Book [Jm. 1:17-18]

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

 

*[based on an idea by Lee Roberson]

THREE DAILY SCHEDULES

Psalm 118:24 This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE SINNER'S DAILY SCHEDULE

1. Listen to God [Ps. 19:1-8]

2. Settle Salvation [2 Cor. 6:2]

(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.)

3. Focus on Today [Jm. 4:13-15]

Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.

 

II. THE LORD'S DAILY SCHEDULE! (in part)

1. Add the Church (save sinners) [Acts 2:47]

And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

2. Extend Mercy [Lam. 3:22-23]

It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

3. Extend Benefits [Psalm 68:19]

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.

 

III. THE SAINT’S DAILY SCHEDULE

1. Pray [Mt. 6:9-11]

After this manner therefore pray ye: ...Give us this day our daily bread.

2. Search the Scriptures [Acts 17:11]

These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

3. Die to Self [Lk. 9:23, 1 Cor. 15:31, Ps. 118:24]

-And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

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

-This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

DO WHAT YOU CAN WHILE YOU CAN WITH WHAT YOU CAN

ECCLESIASTES 12

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. BE AWARE [v. 1-7]

 

1. Be Aware Youth Won’t Last [v. 1-2]

2. Be Aware Vitality Won’t Last [v. 3-6]

3. Be Aware Judgement is Coming [v. 7]

 

II. BEWARE [v. 8-12]

 

1. Beware the Wasting of Life [v. 8]

2. Beware the Avoiding of the Word [v. 9-11]

3. Beware the Weariness of the World [v. 12]

 

III. BE WARY [v. 1, 13-14]

 

1. Remember God Now [v. 1]

2. Fear God [v. 13, Ps. 111:10, Pr. 1:7]

-The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do [his commandments:] his praise endureth for ever.

-The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge: [but] fools despise wisdom and instruction.

3. Face God [v. 14, Lk. 12:4-5]

-And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

IN GOD'S GOOD TIME

GN. 15:13-16, EX. 2:23

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. WHEN IT WAS TIME FOR THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL

1. God Heard [Ex. 2:23-24]

2. God Remembered [Ex. 2:24]

3. God Looked with Respect [Ex. 2:25]

 

II. WHEN IT WAS TIME FOR MOSES

1. God Called [Ex. 3:1-4] note-God had heard now God called Moses

2. God Reminded [Ex. 3:5-6] note-God had remembered now God reminded Moses

3. God Commissioned [Ex. 3:7-10] note-God had looked now God sent Moses

 

III. WHEN IT WAS TIME FOR ENCOURAGEMENT

1. The Encouragement of God’s Presence [Ex. 3:11-12a, Mt. 28:20]

lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

2. The Encouragement of God’s Promise [Ex. 3:12b, Mt. 28:19-20]

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:

3. The Encouragement of God’s Person [Ex. 3:13-22, Mt. 28:18-20]

-And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

HANDLING CHASTENING THE GRACE WAY

HEBREWS 12:1-4

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. WHY DOES GOD CHASTEN CHRISTIANS?

1. We are His Children [v. 5, 7-9, Jn. 1:12]

2. We are Loved [v. 6, Pr. 13:24]

He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

3. We are Profited by Chastening [v. 10-11]

 

II. WHY DO CHRISTIANS COMPLAIN?

1. They Forget God’s Word [v. 5, Pr. 3:11-12]

My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

2. They Forget God’s Position [v. 7-9]

3. They Forget God’s Purpose [v. 9-11, Rm. 8:29]

For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren

 

III. WHAT SHOULD CHRISTIANS DO?

1. Prayer and Praise [v. 12]

2. Walk the Straight Path [v. 13-14]

3. Remember, it’s Given not Earned, it’s Grace not Works [v. 15-29]

THE LAST ENEMY THAT SHALL BE DESTROYED

1 CORINTHIANS 15:22-26

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

The Bible says death is an enemy. We sometimes hear people say “For the Christian death is but the doorway to Heaven” but that is wrong. Christ is the door to Heaven, we give death too much credit when we say something like that. Let’s see what the Bible says.

 

I. DEATH IS AN ENEMY [1 Cor. 15:26]

1. Death is a Cause of Mourning [Gen. 49:33-50:11]

2. Death is a Consequence of Sin [Rm. 5:12, 6:23]

3. Death has a Continuance of its Reign [Rm. 5:14, 17, 21; 6:16]

 

II. DEATH, IN ITS 3 FORMS, IS SEPARATION

1. Physical Death- the Separation of the Soul/Spirit from the Body

[Lk. 16:22-23] And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

2. Spiritual Death- the Separation of the Soul from God [Is. 59:2]

Your iniquities have separated between you and your God

3. The “Second Death”- the Separation of the Soul from God Eternally in the Lake of Fire [2 Th. 1:9, Rev. 20:14]

- Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;

- And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

 

III. CHRIST GAINED VICTORY OVER DEATH [Rm. 8:34-39]

1. Victory over Physical Death [Rm. 6:9, 1Cor. 15:54-55]

So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

2. Victory Over Spiritual Death [Eph. 2:1, 13]

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

-But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

3. Victory over the Second Death [James 5:20, Rev. 20:6]

-Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.

-Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power.

Jesus said in Jn. 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

WHICH MAN IS THE MAN?

 

2 Sam. 12:1-7

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE MAN YOU ARE:

1. Is a Sinner by Birth [Ps. 51:5]

Behold, I was shapen in iniquity,; and in sin did my mother conceive me.

2. Is a Sinner by Choice [2 Sam. 12:7, 9]

-And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul;

-Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.

3. Is a Saint by Reception [Rm. 4:4-8, Jn. 1:12]

Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 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.

 

II. THE MAN OF SIN: [2 Th. 2]

1. Revealed Between the Rapture and the Touchdown Coming [2 Th. 2:1-3, 5-8a]

2. Revels in Self and Rebellion [2 Th. 2:3a-4]

3. Ruins Himself and Others by Following Satan [2 Th. 2:8-12]

 

III. THE MAN YOU NEED:

1. Christ is The Man by Incarnation [Phil. 2:4-8]

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

2. Christ is The Man by His Vicarious Death [1 Tm. 2:5-6]

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

3. Christ is the Man by His Victorious Resurrection [1 Cor. 15:12-23]

Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming.