THIS IS THE VICTORY

1 JOHN 5:4

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THERE IS VICTORY IN SALVATION

1. There Is Victory in Knowing Who Jesus Is [v. 1, 5]

2. There is Victory in Knowing Jesus [v. 3-4]

3. There is Victory in Knowing We Are the Family of God [v. 1-2]

 

II. THERE IS VICTORY IN SECURITY

1. We Have the Witness of God [v. 6-9]

2. We Have the Witness Within [v. 10a]

3. We Have the Witness of the Word [v. 10b-13]

 

III. THERE IS VICTORY IN SERVICE

1. Serving God in Supplication (Prayer) [v. 14-16, Jm. 5:16]

The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

2. Serving God in Separation “From” [v. 4-5, 16-19, 21, 2 Cor. 6:17]

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,

3. Serving God in Separation “Unto” [v. 20, Acts 13:2, Rm. 1:1-7]

1 THESSALONIANS 4:17, A VERSE TO GO

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. WITH THEM

1. The Old Testament Saints [Mt. 8:11]

And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.

2. The New Testament Saints [Jn. 11: 24]

Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.

3. The Saints of All Ages that Have Gone On Before Us

[v. 13-17]

 

II. WE

1. It is Exclusive – “we” not “them” [v. 12-17]

without Christ, without hope, without God- Revelation 22:15 For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.

2. It is Inclusive – “we which are alive and remain” [v. 17]

not “we the perfect” or “we the Baptists” or “we the snooty”

3. It is Elusive – [v. 17, Mt. 24:36]

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.

Paul expected to be alive, so do I, it’s how Jesus told us to do

 

III. WITH THE LORD

1. Oh-the Privilege to Meet the Lord without Dying [v. 17]

2. Oh-the Passage to Meet the Lord in the Air [v. 17]

3. Oh-the Permanence to Ever Be with the Lord [v. 17]

LET PATIENCE HAVE HER PERFECT WORK

 

Continued from Wednesday, February 04, 2026

JAMES 5:7-11                                     

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. PATIENCE IS NOT INSTANTANEOUS [James 1]

1. Patience is a Premium [1:1-2]

2. Patience is a Product [1:3, Rm. 5:3]

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience

3. Patience is a Process [1:4]

 

 II. PATIENCE IS NOT IMMEDIATE

- why does God make us wait?

1. The Desire may be fine but we’re not actually ready [1 Tm. 3:6] i.e. driving

Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.

-The Motivation may be wrong [Jm. 4:3, Acts 8:18-24]

And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles hands the Holy Ghost was given…

-The Problem of Uncleanness [Ps. 66:18]  - If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:

2. The Waiting Itself is Instructional

-teaching us dependence on God [Ps. 27:14]

Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

-the adventure of faith needs to be savored [Rm. 8:18-25]

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.

3. The Waiting will Benefit Others [Phil. 1:12]

But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;

 

III. PATIENCE IS NOT IRRELEVANT [James 1] - There is a purpose!

1. It will Profit [1:2-3]

2. It will Produce [1:3, Rm. 5:3-5]

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

3. It will Perfect [1:4]

-the purpose of God in our lives may be at stake [2 Cor. 12:7-10]

And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 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. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

WHEN I SURVEY THE WONDROUS CROSS

1 COR. 2:1-2

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

The Cross gives us a vision of:

1. God’s Love [Jn. 3:14-16]

And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

 

2. Christ’s Willingness [John 10:11-18]

I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

 

3. Heaven - eternal Home of Christ and Believers [Lk. 23:39-43]

And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.

 

4. Hell – Everlasting abode of Christ rejectors [1 Cor. 1:17-18]

-For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

The Gospel is not God hatefully saying, “Turn to Me or I’ll send you to Hell.” The Gospel is God in mercy and grace saying, “You’re already on your way to Hell, Turn to Me, and I will save you.” – unknown

 

5. Sin’s Seriousness [Mt. 26:28, 1 Jn. 4:10]

-For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

–Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

 

6. God’s Power [Rm. 1:16]

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

A man was walking down a street when he noticed in a store window a beautiful painting of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. He stood there gazing at the picture for the longest then realized that a little boy was standing beside him. He patted the little boy on the head and said, "Son, what does that mean?" The little boy said, "Doncha know? That there man is Jesus, an’ the woman that’s crying is His mother, an’ them others is Roman soldiers. They killed Him." The man smiled and then started walking away. In a few moments he heard someone running, turned and saw that it was the little boy. He came running up to the man, out of breath, and said, "Mister, mister, I forgot to tell you that he didn’t stay dead." (Copied)

 

7. God’s Plan [Is. 53]

MATTHEW 6:33, A VERSE TO PERSONALIZE

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE PLAINNESS OF THE VERSE

1. It is Personal “Seek YE first” [Ps. 27:8, Is. 34:16]

-Noone can make these decisions for you

- When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek.

- Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read.

2. It is a Priority “Seek ye FIRST” [Lk. 12:20]

–Foolish to put this off- life is fragile, no promise of later

- But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?

3. It is Practical [v. 25-33] It replaces things you can’t control with one thing you can

 

II. THE PERSON OF THE VERSE

1. This is God’s Kingdom – He Sets the Rules [Ex. 9:29, 1 Cor. 10:26]

-Behold, the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the LORD'S thy God, the earth also, with all that therein is.

-For the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof.

2. This is God’s King – He sets the Reign [Ps. 2:6-12]

Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

3. This is God’s Kindness – [Titus 3:3-8]

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.

 

III. THE PROMISE OF THE VERSE – make pleasing God your business and God will make you His business

1. Eliminates Worry [v. 34, Is. 12:2, 26:3-4]

-Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

-Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:

2. Eliminates Waste [Mt. 16:25]

- For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

3. Eliminates Waffling [Pr. 3:5-7, Isaiah 30:21, Pr. 4:25-27]

- 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.

-And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it”

- Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.

LET PATIENCE HAVE HER PERFECT WORK

JAMES 5:7-11

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. PATIENCE IS NOT INSTANTANEOUS [James 1] – “Lord, give me patience, but hurry!”

1. Patience is a Premium [1:1-2]

2. Patience is a Product [1:3, Rm. 5:3]

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience

3. Patience is a Process [1:4]

 

II. PATIENCE IS NOT IMMEDIATE - why does God make us wait?

1. The Desire may be fine but we’re not actually ready [1 Tm. 3:6] i.e. driving

Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.

-The Motivation may be wrong [Jm. 4:3, Acts 8:18-24]

And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.

-The Problem of Uncleanness [Ps. 66:18]

If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:

2. The Waiting Itself is Instructional

-teaching us dependence on God [Ps. 27:14]

Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

-the adventure of faith needs to be savored [Rm. 8:18-25]

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.

3. The Waiting will Benefit Others [Phil. 1:12]

But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;

 

III. PATIENCE IS NOT IRRELEVANT [James 1] - There is a purpose!

1. It will Profit [1:2-3]

2. It will Produce [1:3, Rm. 5:3-5]

3. It will Perfect [1:4]

-the purpose of God in our lives may be at stake [2 Cor. 12:7-10]

And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 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. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

SIN’S POWER

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. WHAT SIN CAN CAUSE TO HAPPEN

[2 Sam. 11, 12]

1. David’s Sin Caused More Sin

[2 Sam. 11:4-25]

2. David’s Sin Caused Sorrow [2 Sam. 11:26]

3. David’s Sin Caused Blasphemy

[2 Sam. 12:14]

 

II. WHAT SIN CAN DO

1. David’s Sin Brought Ruin to His Family

[2 Sam. 12:14-15, 13:10-22, 32, 37; 15:13-14, 18:33]

2. David’s Sin Basically Reduced His Influence for Good [16:5-9, 20:1]

3. David’s Sin Brought Regret Over His Infidelity to God [Ps. 51:1-11]

 

III. WHAT REPENTANCE CAN RESTORE [Psalm 51]

1. Repentance Can Restore the Joy of Salvation [v. 12]

2. Repentance Can Restore Some Usefulness of Service [v. 13]

3. Repentance Can Restore Fellowship with the Saviour [v. 15-19]

ROMANS 8:28, A VERSE TO KNOW

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. KNOW THE CERTAINTY EXPRESSED IN THE VERSE

No guesswork, no uncertainty, no hedging, no namby-pamby shillyshallying here.

1. God Cannot Fail [Dt. 31:6, Lam. 3:22]

- Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

- It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.

2. God’s Word Cannot Fail [Lk 16:17]

And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail.

3. God’s Specific Promises Cannot Fail [Is. 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.

 

II. KNOW THE CONDITION EXPLAINED IN THE VERSE-

“to them that love God”

Many people who have no right to this verse try to claim it, others try to apply it to people it doesn’t fit]

1. To Love God One Must Know God [1 Jn. 4:6-10, 13]

-We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 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…Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.

2. Just Saying You Love God is Not Enough [1 Jn. 4:20-21]

If a man say , I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

3. The Proof that you Love God is to Obey Him [1 Jn. 5:1-5, John 14:15, 15:10]

Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

 

III. KNOW THE CHALLENGE EXPOSED IN THE VERSE-

“to them who are called according to His purpose”

1. Unbelievers Are Called to become Believers [Is. 1:18, Mt. 11:28, Acts 17:30; 2 Peter 3:9]

-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.

-Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

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

-The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

2. The Believers Are Called Saints [1 Cor. 1:2, 9]

-Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

-God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

3. The Saints Are Called to be Conformed to God’s Purpose [Rm. 1:7, 8:28-30]

-To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

IN THE HOUR OF EXCEEDING SORROW

 

IN THE HOUR OF EXCEEDING SORROW

MATTHEW 26:30-38

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

This hour was one of extreme physical turmoil. Then and there while facing more. This hour was one of emotional turmoil. Jesus knew of the impending betrayal. Though they had said otherwise Jesus knew of the upcoming desertion. This hour was one of spiritual turmoil. The Holy, harmless, Son of God was about to be made sin for us. He was about to take on not just the sins of the elect, but the sins of the whole world. And the greatest sorrow of all, as He became sin, suffered our Hell, He had to be forsaken of the Father.

So what do we learn from Jesus to do in the hour of exceeding sorrow?

 

I. PETITION

1. Enlist Others [v. 36, 38, 40-41]

2. Pray Earnestly & Often [v. 36, 39, 42, 44]

3. Engage Honestly [v. 39, 42, 44]

 

II. SUBMISSION

1. Pray with an Open Heart [v. 39]

2. Pray with an Open Mind [v. 39]

3. Pray with an Open Will [v. 42, Heb. 5:7, Lk. 22:42-44]

- Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;

- Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.

 

III. REALIZATION

1. Realize the Power of Watching in Prayer [v. 36, 40-41, Col. 4:2]

Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.

2. Realize the Spirit is Willing [v. 41, Rm. 7:22]

For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:

3. Realize the Flesh is Weak – hence the need for prayer

[v. 41, Rm. 7:23-25]

But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin

PRINCIPLES FOR GODLY LIVING

HAGGAI 2:10-23

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE PRINCIPLE OF “UNCLEANNESS” [v. 10-14]

1. Sin Contaminates [v. 10-14, Romans 7:18]

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.

2. Sin Condemns (us to failure) [Is. 64:6]

But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

3.  Sin Conflicts (with God’s blessings) [Is. 59:2]

But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.

 

II. THE PRINCIPLE OF REPENTANCE [v. 15-19]

1. Their Woes Grab Attention [v. 15-19a]

2. The Word Gives Explanation [v. 15-19a, 2 Cor. 6:17, 1 Jn. 1:9]

-Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you

-If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

3. The Lord Gives the Blessing [v. 19b, 2 Chr. 7:14]

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 PRINCIPLE OF FAITHFULNESS [v. 20-23]

1. The Lord Forges the Future [v. 20-22, Dt. 7:9, 1 Cor. 1:9]

- Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;

-God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

2. The Lord Focuses on Faithfulness [v. 23, 1 Cor. 4:1-5]

Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord.

3. The Lord Forgets Not His Own [v. 23, Heb. 6:10]

For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

NO COMPARISON

HAGGAI 2:1-9

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

PROLOGUE – [v. 1-3] We compare without all the facts

 

I. BE STRONG BECAUSE OF:

1. GOD’S PRESENCE [v. 4, Mt. 28:20, Heb. 13:5]

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

- He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

2. GOD’S PROMISE

[v. 5a, Is. 34:16, Gal. 3:17-18, 2 Tim. 1:1, Heb. 10:36]

-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.

-And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

-Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,

-For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

3. GOD’S SPIRIT [v. 5b, Eph. 1:13-14, 4:30]

-In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

-And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

 

II. FEAR NOT BECAUSE OF:

1. GOD’S PLAN [v. 5c-7, Luke 2:9-11, 12:32]

-And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

-Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

 

2. GOD’S PROVISION [v. 8, Ps. 24:1, 1 Pt. 1:3-4]

-The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.

-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

3. GOD’S PLACE [v. 7, 9, Is. 59:20, 60:7]

- And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD

-All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together unto thee, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister unto thee: they shall come up with acceptance on mine altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory.

 

III. BE AT PEACE BECAUSE OF THE LORD OF HOSTS!

1. CHRIST WILL SHAKE THINGS UP! [v. 6-7, Heb. 12:24-27]

And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.

2. CHRIST, THE PRINCE OF PEACE FULFILLED SCRIPTURE AS AN INFANT, A CHILD & AN ADULT [v.7, 9; Is. 9:6, Lk. 2:27, 43-46]

- 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.

3. CHRIST GIVES PEACE [v. 9, John 14:27]

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.

WHAT IS YOUR PROB-A-LUM?

HAGGAI 1

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

The title of this message comes from a video in which a girl toddler is apparently exasperated by her mother and exclaims, “What is your prob-a-lum?” The mother responds “What?” and the girl, now closing her door mutters, “What is your prob-a-lum?” I don’t know the whole story behind that video, but I do know we have a problem, and God addresses it in Haggai chapter 1.

 

I. THE PROBLEM [v. 1-6]

1. A Lack of Interest in God’s Will [v. 1-2]

2. A Lot of Interest in Man’s Comfort [v. 3-4]

3. A Lessening of God’s Blessings [v. 5-6]

 

II. THE SOLUTION [v. 7-11]

1. Do Right [v. 7-8a]

2. Do Right for the Right Reason

[v. 8b, John 15:8, 1 Cor. 10:31, Col. 3:17, 23]

- Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

-Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

- 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;

3. Do Right or Forfeit God’s Blessing [v. 9-11, Mt. 6:33]

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

 

III. THE RESULT [v. 12-15]

1. The Right Attitude Toward the Word [v. 12a]

Acts 8:14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:

Acts 13:7 Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.

1 Thessalonians 2:13 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.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

1 John 2:5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.

1 John 2:14 I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.

2. The Right Attitude Toward the Lord [v. 12b, Pr. 14:26-27]

- In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death

3. The Change God Brings in Our Lives

[v. 13-15, Neh. 8:10, Mk. 12:30]

- 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.

-And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

GOD LOOKS AT YOUR OFFERING NOT YOU

GENESIS 4:1-9, Exodus 12:13

And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE OBVIOUS TRUTH ABOUT CAIN

1. Cain was a Worshipper [4:3]

2. Cain was a Worker [4:2-3, 3:19]

3. Cain was Willful [4:5-14]

In short, he was like most people.

 

II. THE OFFERING OF CAIN

1. Cain Offered a Cursed Offering

[Gn. 3:17-19, Rm. 8:22]

-And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.

-For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.

2. Cain Offered a Carnal Offering [v. 5-7, Rm. 7:18, 8:8]

-For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing

-So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

3. Cain Offered a Christless Offering [4:3, Jn. 1:29, 1 Cor. 5:7]

- John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

-For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:

 

III. THE OFFERING OF ABEL [Hebrews 11:4]

By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

1. Abel’s Offering was a Bible Offering (faith) [11:4, Rm. 10:17, Gn. 3:21, Is. 61:10]

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

- Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them.

- 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.

2. Abel’s Offering was a Blood Offering [Gn. 4:4, 3:21, Heb. 9:22, 12:24]

-Without shedding of blood is no remission.

- And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.

3. Abel’s Offering was a Witness Bearing Offering [Heb. 11:4]

By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh

 

What is your offering?

RANDOM THOUGHTS MADE LESS SO - Strange Nicknames

An evangelist told me that his kids refer to me as "the applesauce preacher" because I mentioned to them I sometimes eat applesauce on pizza.

I was told by a fellow pastor that his kids refer to me as "the pastor who came to see you" because I visited him in the hospital.

A lady in town refers to me as "Mr. Betterthanideserve" because when people ask me, "how are you?" I respond honestly by saying, "I'm better than I deserve."

A friend of mine, who is now with the Lord, used to call me "Bwudder Wick" because he heard a boy in Tn. call me that. The boy was trying to say "Brother Rick" but it came out somewhat differently.

I have been called worse. I have been called better. Most importantly, God calls me "son" - "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." [John 1:12]

PEACE IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN

JOHN 20:19-26

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. PEACE IN JOHN 14:27

1. Deliberate Peace [v. 16-18, 26-27]

2. Divine Peace [v. 16, 26-27]

3. Different Peace [v. 27, 30, 15:18-19]

 

II. PEACE IN JOHN 16:33

1. Peace in the Word of God [v. 33, Mt. 7:24-26]

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:

2. Peace in the WORD of God [v. 33, 8:58, 1:1-3]

Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.

3. Peace in the Work of God [v. 33, 1 John 5:5]

Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

 

III. PEACE IN JOHN 20

1. Personal Peace in the Day of Fear [v. 19]

2. Personal Peace in the Day of Decision [v. 21]

3. Personal Peace in the Day of Doubt [v. 25-28]

WHAT’S WITH THE STORM?

MATTHEW 14:22-32

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE STORM HAS PURPOSE [v. 22-28]

1. To Remove Our Self-sufficiency [v. 22-24, 2 Cor. 12:9]

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

2. To Reveal Our Saviour [v. 25-27]

3. To Raise Our Sights [v. 28, Ph. 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.

 

II. THE SAVIOUR HAS POWER [v. 25-27]

1. His Walking Speaks of His Calm Demeanor [v. 25-27, Lk. 24:15-17, 25-27]

-And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?

-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.

2. His Walking Speaks of His Confident Deliberation [v. 25]

3. His Walking Speaks of His Casual Demonstration [v. 26-27, Job. 9:2, 8; Ps. 77:19]

-I know it is so of a truth: but how should man be just with God?

-Which alone spreadeth out the heavens, and treadeth upon the waves of the sea.

- Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.

 

III. THE SAINTS HAVE POTENTIAL [v. 26-33]

1. To Overcome Fear [v.25-27, Luke 12:7, 32; Rm. 8:15]

-But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

-Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

- For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father

2. To Work in His Power [v. 28-31, Acts 1:8

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

3. To Worship Jesus as God [v. 27, 32-33, John 8:58, 14:12]

-For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father

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

“THE FAITH” IS

ACTS 3:16, 6:7, 13:8, 14:22, 16:5, 24:24

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. “THE FAITH” IS SIMPLE

1. We Earned a Wage [Rm. 3:23, 6:23]

- For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

- For the wages of sin is death;

2. Christ Paid The Debt [Rm. 6:23, 5:6-8]

- For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

- For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

3. Christ and His Payment Must Be Received [Rm. 5:11, Jn. 1:12, Heb. 4:2]

- And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

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

- For 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.

 

II. “THE FAITH” IS SATISFYING

1. God is Satisfied [1 John 4:10]

-Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

2. The Debt is Satisfied [1 Jn. 2:2]

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

3. The Debtor is Satisfied [Psalm 17:15]

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

 

III. “THE FAITH” IS SURE

1. The Faith is Made Sure by the Promise [Heb. 6:17]

Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:

2. The Faith is Made Sure by the Attributes of God [Heb. 6:18-19]

That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;

3. The Faith is Made Sure by the Completed & Continuing Work of Jesus Christ [Heb. 6:19-20]

 Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

A SPIRITUAL NEW YEAR

EX. 12:1-2

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. TRUE SPIRITUALITY BEGINS WITH A SACRIFICE [Ex. 12:3-5]

 

1. A Lamb [v. 3, Hebrews 9:22]

…without shedding of blood is no remission.

2. The Lamb -v. 4, Jn. 1:29, 35-36]

-The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

- Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!

3. Your Lamb [v. 5, Jn. 1:10-14]

He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 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. 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.

 

II. TRUE SPIRITUALITY BEGINS WITH SALVATION [Ex. 12:6-20]

 

1. The Blood Must Be Applied [v. 6-7, Rev. 1:5-6]

And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

2. The Change is Activated [v. 8-14, Rm. 6:1-4]

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid . How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

3. The Character Should be Observed [v. 15-20, Rm. 6:11-13]

Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.  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.

 

III. TRUE SPIRITUALITY BEGINS WITH THE SAVIOUR [Ex. 12:21-28]

 

1. He is The Substitute [v. 21-22, Is. 53:4-6]

Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

2. He is The Sovereign [23-27, Rev. 1:5-8]

And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

3. He is Worthy of Our Worship [v. 27, Rev. 1:17-18]

And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore , Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

THE BEST OF THE BEST

LUKE 15:22, 1 COR. 12:31

-the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:

-But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE BEST METHOD OF TEACHING IS BY REPETITION

repetition until it is a habit, you don’t have to think about it, 2 X 2=4, “How do you spell relief?”

 

1. Given to Israel [Dt. 6:1-9]

Now these are the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go to possess it: That thou mightest fear the LORD thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son's son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged. Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey. Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

 

2. Given in Nature [Ps. 19:1-6]

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork . Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.

 

3. Given in Scripture [Isaiah 28:10, 13] Ex. - the Gospels

-For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:

-But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.

 

II. THE BEST SUBJECT IN THE WHOLE WORLD IS YOUR ETERNAL DESTINY [salvation] there is nothing to compare it

 

1. It Establishes Your Relationship with God [Jn. 1:12-13]

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.

 

2. It Establishes Your Relationship with Others [1 Jn. 1:6-7]

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.

 

3. It Establishes your Responsibility to God and Man

[Rm. 1:14-16, 12:1]

-I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

- 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.

 

III. THE BEST SET OF TEXTBOOKS IN THE WHOLE WORLD ARE CONTAINED IN THE BIBLE [66 Books]

 

1. The Only Books That Are 100% Truth [Jn. 17:17]

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

 

2. The Only Books 100% by God [2 Tm. 3:16]

All scripture is given by inspiration of God

 

3. The Only Books 100% Profitable [2 Tm. 3:16-17]

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.