HINDRANCES TO ANSWERED PRAYER

1 Peter 3:7                                                          

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. HINDRANCES TO ANSWERED PRAYER

1. Wrong Heart [Ps. 66:18, Eze. 14: 3]

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

-Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumblingblock of their iniquity before their face: should I be inquired of at all by them?

2. Wrong Actions [Is. 59:1-2, 1 Pt. 3:7]

-Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.

-Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

3. Wrong Motives [Jm. 4:3] 

Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.

 

II. HOMECOURT ADVANTAGES IN ANSWERED PRAYER

1. Be a Child of God [Heb. 11:4-6] -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. By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

2. Be an Obedient Child of God [Jm. 5:16, 1 Pt. 3:12, 1 Jn. 3: 22, Jn. 15:7]

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

-For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.

-And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.

-If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

3. Keep Short Accounts with God [1 Jn. 1:9]

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

 

III. HELPS IN ANSWERED PRAYER

1. Pray in Faith [Mk. 9:23, Rm. 10:17, Jm. 1:5-7]

-Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

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

-If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.

2. Pray According to the Will of God [1 Jn. 5:14-15, Jn. 14:13, 16:23-24]

-And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

-And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

-And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you , Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.

3. Pray Repetitively Sincerely and Sensitively [Mt. 7:7-8, 2 Cor. 12:7-9]

-Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

-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.

GALATIANS 6:7, A VERSE TO BE AWARE OF

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. WE SHOULD BE AWARE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF DECEPTION

 

1. We Can Deceive Ourselves

[Jer. 17:9, 1 Jn. 1:8, Jm. 1:2]

- The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?

- If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

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

 

2. Others Can Deceive Us

[Mk. 13:6, 1 Jn.3:7, 2 Tm. 3:13]

- Mk. 13:6 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.

-1 Jn.3:7 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.

-2 Tm. 3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

 

3. The Devil Can Deceive Us [Rev. 12:9, 20:10]

-And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

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

II. WE SHOULD BE AWARE OF THE PRIDE OF DECEPTION

1. Pride Says YOU Can Mock God- but you can’t

[Gal. 6:7, Pr. 16:18]

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

2. Pride Says YOU Can Sin & Get by With It – but you cannot [Num. 32:23]

Be sure your sin will find you out.

3. Pride Says You Know Best & God Can’t Use You

[Ex. 3:10-14] false humility

And Moses said unto the LORD, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. And the LORD said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the LORD? Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say. And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him whom thou wilt send. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well.

 

III. WE SHOULD BE AWARE OF THE PRICE OF DECEPTION

1. Corruption [v. 8] decay, i.e. ruin: --corruption

2. No Souls for Our Labor [v. 8]

3. Giving Up Too Soon [v. 9]

THE BRANCH, THE ROOT AND THE INCARNATION

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE BRANCH AND THE ROOT

1. Christ, the Branch of Jesse [Isaiah 11:1, Mt. 22:41-46]

-Note-Jesse was David’s Father

-And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:

-While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, Saying, What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The son of David. He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool? If David then call him Lord, how is he his son? And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions.

2. Christ, the Root of Jesse & David

[Is. 11:10, Rm. 15:8-12, Rev. 5:5, 22:16]

-And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.

-Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people. And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people. And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.

-And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

-I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.

3. Christ, the Branch of David [Jer. 33:15]

In those days, and at that time, will I cause the Branch of righteousness to grow up unto David; and he shall execute judgment and righteousness in the land.

 

II. “THE BRANCH” IN ZECHARIAH 6

1. Pictured [v. 9-11]

2. Priest and King [v. 12-13, Heb. 5:5-6, 7:1]

-So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

-For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;

3. Prophesied [v. 14-15]

 

III. “THE BRANCH” IN THE GOSPELS

1. Matthew Presents Christ as King [Mt. 2:1-2, Jer. 23:5]

- Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

-Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.

2. Mark Presents Christ as the Servant of God [Zech. 3:8]

Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they are men wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the BRANCH.

3. Luke Presents Christ as Man [Zech. 6:12]

-Jesus refers to Himself as “the Son of Man” 25+ times in Luke

- And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD:

4. John Presents Christ as God [Is. 4:2, John 1:14, 17:24]

- In that day shall the branch of the LORD be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them that are escaped of Israel.

- 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.

-Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

DIRECTIONS FOR LIVING LIFE’S JOURNEY

Deuteronomy 4

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE REVELATION – The BIBLE –

Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth

1. The Primacy of the Word

[v. 1-6, Pr. 30:5-6, Rev. 22:18-19]

- Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

- For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

2. The Privilege of the Word [v. 7-9a, Rm. 3:1-2]

- What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

3. The Potential of the Word [v. 9b-20]

 

II. THE RESPONSIBILITY [v. 21-31]

1. Of Godly Leaders [v. 21-22, James 3:1]

My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.

2. Of God’s People [v. 23-28, 1 Pt. 3:15-17]

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

3. Of Backsliders [v. 29-31, Rev. 7:14]

v. 30 is the first mention of the Tribulation

And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

III. THE REASONABLENESS [v. 32-49]

1. Remember [v. 32-40]

v. 37 is the first time God was said to love men – showed previously but not said

2. Refuge [v. 41-43]

3. Repetition [v. 44-49]

PHILIPPIANS 4:6, A VERSE TO INTERNALIZE

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. THE POSITIVE POINTS OF A NEGATIVE – “Be careful for nothing but in everything”

1. It is Positive in Its Uniqueness – relinquish worry

2. It is Positive in Its Universality – really exclusive [Mt. 6:25-33, Rm. 8:31-39]

-Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

- If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather , that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written , For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

3. It is Positive in Its Underlying Grace – realize Omnipotence – it is inclusive here – everything [3:20-21, 4:4-7, 13, 19, 23]

 

II. THE PARTS OF A WHOLE – “by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving”

1. Prayer – emphasizes devotion- be trusting who He is

2. Supplication – emphasizes details- be thorough – should we bring God small or big problems? Clue- there are no big problems to Him

3. Thanksgiving – emphasizes dedication- be trusting what He does is right

 

III. THE PROFOUNDNESS OF ITS SIMPLICITY – “let your requests be made known unto God”

1. Its Demand of Getting Personal – you must pray, you must decide, you must ask, you must seek

2. Its Demonstration of God’s Power – to God, your Creator, your Heavenly Father

3. Its Destruction of Grand Pettiness – pity parties vs. grace, mercy & love

ONE FOOT IN THE GRAVE, ONE FOOT IN GLORY

PSALM 61

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

     The Bible is very clear that our life on earth is tentative, temporal, and tightly tethered to the grave. Our life is spoken of as a vapor, like the grass that today is and tomorrow is tossed into the fire. That soon most of us will be unremembered by the generations to come. But God.

     The Christian lives that short life here, that one foot in the grave while having one foot in glory. He is already a child of God, a possessor of a royal priesthood, a heavenly citizenship and a home being prepared by Christ Himself.  As I read this Psalm, the title I have given the message popped into my mind. By God’s grace I can communicated it to you in this service.

 

I. THE “WHO” OF BOTH PLACES [v. 1-2]

1. The One Who Intelligently Hears My Cry [v. 1]

2. From His Throne He Attends unto My Prayer [v. 1, 66:19]

3. Lead Me to the Rock that is Higher than I

[v. 2, Dt. 32:4, Jn. 1:1-3]

-He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.

-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.

 

II. THE WHY OF BOTH PLACES [v. 3-5]

1. He has been both Shelter and a Strong Tower Here [v. 3]

2. I Will Abide with Him Forever [v. 4, 1 Th. 4:17]

-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.

3. Trust & Receive [v. 4-5, 1 Pt. 2:1-10]

 

III. THE WHAT OF BOTH PLACES [v. 6-8]

1. Service Before [v. 6]

2. Eternity Beckons [v.7]

3. Praise in Both [v. 8]

DEALING WITH THE DEVIL

1 PETER 5:8

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. REMEMBER

1. His Power – do not underestimate the Devil, nor overestimate yourself [Jude 8-9, 1 Cor. 10:12]

-Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.

-Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

2. His Character – he is a liar and quite clever [Jn. 8:44]

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

3. His Goal – [2 Cor. 2:11, 4:3-4, 11:3-4]

-Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

- But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

-But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.

 

II. RECOGNIZE

1. His Weakness [James 4:7]

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

2. His Wiles [Eph. 6:11, 2 Cor. 11:14] “methodeia” LION-obvious, SERPENT-subtle, ANGEL OF LIGHT

- Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil

-And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

3. His Wish [Luke 22:31]

And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:

 

III. RESIST

1. In the Faith [1 Pet. 5:6-9]

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

2. In Humility [James 4:6-10] “pride” is one of Satan’s devices

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

3. In God’s Provision [Eph. 6:10-18, Mt. 4, Lk. 4]

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

1 TIMOTHY 3:16, A VERSE TO SUMMARIZE

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. NO CONTROVERSY [1 Tm. 3:16]

1. It is Great – the greatest subject (salvation) “discussed” by the greatest Highest Authority

2. It is a Mystery – a truth unknowable by human reasoning but only be revelation of God

3. The Mystery of Godliness- how can man be godly, how can God justify sinful man

 

II. GOD WAS MANIFEST IN THE FLESH [1 Tm. 3:16]

1. The Incarnation of Christ [1 Peter 1:20]

Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you

2. The Substitutionary Death of Christ [1 John 3:5]

And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.

3. The Resurrection of Christ [John 21:14]

This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.

 

III. JUSTIFIED IN THE SPIRIT [1 Tm. 3:16]

1. Conceived by the Holy Ghost [Matthew 1:20]

the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.

2. Empowered by the Holy Ghost [John 3:34]

For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.

3. Raised by the Holy Ghost [Rm. 8:11]

But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

 

IV. SEEN OF ANGELS [1 Tm. 3:16]

1. Worshipped at His Birth [Heb. 1:6]

when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.

2. Aided in His Life [Luke 22:43]

And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.

3. Announced His Resurrection [Luke 24:23]

And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive.

 

V. PREACHED UNTO THE GENTILES, BELIEVED ON IN THE WORLD [1 Tm. 3:16]

1. A Universal Situation [Romans 3:23]

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

2. A Universal Saviour [Hebrews 2:9]

But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.

3. A Universal Salvation [Romans 10:13]

For  whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

 

VI. RECEIVED UP INTO GLORY

1. The Risen Lord [Luke 24:34]

Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.

2. The Glorified Saviour [John 12:16]

These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him.

3. The Coming King [Rev. 19:11-16]

And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

3 WHO DISAPPOINTED PAUL

GALATIANS 2:11-14, 3:1-4, 4:8-16

Pastor Rick Jackson

 

I. JOHN MARK

1. He had Gone with Paul & Barnabas as an Assistant [Acts 12:25-13:5]

2. He had Left Them Abruptly Disappointing Paul [Acts 13:13, 15:35-40]

3. He Redeemed Himself in Paul’s Eyes [Col. 4:10, 2 Tm. 4:11]

- Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him)

-Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.

 

II. DEMAS

1. Once Considered a Co-Worker [Phile. 1:24]

-Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

2. Considered a Christian Brother though apparently Not a Worker [Col. 4:10-14]

-Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;) And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me. Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis. Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.

3. Called Out as a Carnal Christian [2 Tm. 4:10]

-For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.

 

But the biggest disappointment to the Apostle Paul is found in Romans 7

III. PAUL HIMSELF

1. A Weak Man [Rm. 7:14-17]

2. A Wretched Man [Rm. 7:18-24]

3. But a Willing Man [Rm. 7:25, 18, 8:1-14]

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.