2025-03-09

Charles Billingsley

2 Corinthians 5:20-7:16

Roles as Ambassadors of Christ:

1. Preserve the ministry of Reconciliation

2 Corinthians 5:20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

6:1 We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 2 For He says:

“In an acceptable time I have heard you,

And in the day of salvation I have helped you.”

Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

3 We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed. 4 But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses, 5 in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings; 6 by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love, 7 by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, 8 by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; 9 as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed; 10 as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

2. Purpose in their heart to be Real 

11 O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open. 12 You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted by your own affections. 13 Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open.

Your personality + Your talents + Your location + Your Spiritual Gift + God’s Blessing = A changed world

3. Place a priority on Right relationships

14 Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers.

For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? 15 And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? 16 And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said:

“I will dwell in them

And walk among them.

I will be their God,

And they shall be My people.”

It’s important to not be unequally yoked because you will end up in a situation where your worldviews collide. Your convictions don’t match up. Your likes and the things you love will be different. Believers and unbelievers have different goals, different rules, different methods, and serve different masters.

Place a priority on the right relationships.

4. Pursue Righteousness  

17 Therefore

“Come out from among them

And be separate, says the Lord.

Do not touch what is unclean,

And I will receive you.”

18 “I will be a Father to you,

And you shall be My sons and daughters,

Says the Lord Almighty.”

7 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

1 Peter 2:11 (NIV) Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

“Your life as a Christian should make nonbelievers question their disbelief in God.” – Dietrich Bonhoeffer

2 Cor. 7:2 Open your hearts to us. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have cheated no one. 3 I do not say this to condemn; for I have said before that you are in our hearts, to die together and to live together. 4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation.

5 For indeed, when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears. 6 Nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, 7 and not only by his coming, but also by the consolation with which he was comforted in you, when he told us of your earnest desire, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced even more.

5. Practice a Pattern of Repentance 

8 For even if I made you sorry with my letter, I do not regret it; though I did regret it. For I perceive that the same epistle made you sorry, though only for a while.

9 Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing.

6. Produces a life of no regrets!

10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. 11 For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter.

What are the roles of ambassadors for Christ?  

• Preserve the ministry of Reconciliation
• Purpose in their heart to be Real
• Place a priority on Right relationships
• Pursue Righteousness
• Practice a Pattern of Repentance
• Produces a life of no regrets

John 17:13 (the Message)

Now I’m returning to you.
I’m saying these things in the world’s hearing
So my people can experience
My joy completed in them.
I gave them your word;
The godless world hated them because of it,
Because they didn’t join the world’s ways,
Just as I didn’t join the world’s ways.
I’m not asking that you take them out of the world
But that you guard them from the Evil One.
They are no more defined by the world
Than I am defined by the world.
Make them holy—consecrated—with the truth;
Your word is consecrating truth.
In the same way that you gave me a mission in the world,
I give them a mission in the world.

2025-02-23

Jonathan Falwell

2 Cor. 4:7-18 (NKJV) But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. ⁸We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; ⁹persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—¹⁰always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. ¹¹For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. ¹²So then death is working in us, but life in you. ¹³And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, “I believed and therefore I spoke,” we also believe and therefore speak, ¹⁴knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. ¹⁵For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God. ¹⁶Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. ¹⁷For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, ¹⁸while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

Lessons we need to learn

1. We are fragile, He is not

Vs 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us

Vs 7 (NLT) We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.

• We spend a great deal of time concerned over the state of the “vessels” when it is what’s inside that makes all the difference
• Our bodies begin to die the moment we take our first breath
• Hudson Taylor once said, “All God’s giants have been weak men who did great things for God because they reckoned on Him being with them.”^[1]

2. Our tough days are actually our best days

Vss 8-12 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; ⁹persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—¹⁰always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. ¹¹For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. ¹²So then death is working in us, but life in you.

• Notice the contrasts presented in this passage:
  • “hard pressed…yet not crushed”
  • “perplexed, but not in despair”
  • “persecuted, but not forsaken”
  • “struck down, but not destroyed”
• This is a picture of how God takes us THROUGH our most difficult circumstances

Vss 11-12 (NLT) Yes, we live under constant danger of death because we serve Jesus, so that the life of Jesus will be evident in our dying bodies. ¹²So we live in the face of death, but this has resulted in eternal life for you.

• 1:21 For me to live is Christ, to die is gain

3. Our trials are the best preachers we know

Vss 13-15 And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, “I believed and therefore I spoke,” we also believe and therefore speak, ¹⁴knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. ¹⁵For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.

• How we respond to the pain we experience has a direct impact on our ability to shine the light of the Gospel
• Understanding we have nothing to lose and everything to gain dramatically changes our perspective in life

Psalm 116:3 (NKJV) The pains of death surrounded me, And the pangs of Sheol laid hold of me; I found trouble and sorrow.

Psalm 116:15 (NKJV) Precious in the sight of the Lord Is the death of His saints.

4. Our pain is the greatest evidence of our gain

Vss 16-18 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. ¹⁷For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, ¹⁸while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

• Again, Paul reflects back to the “jars of clay” reference from earlier in this passage –
  “outward…is perishing – inward…is being renewed day by day”
• Simon Kistemaker said, “We hold the gospel as it were in clay jars to exhibit the phenomenal power of God, so that everyone may see that not we but God is its source.”[2]
• Our view of the eternal changes everything

Vs 18 (NLT) So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.

Action:

1. Quit complaining, start praising

2. Pray that God will teach you how to leverage your pain

3. Keep eyes fixed on the main thing, not today’s thing

^[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 642.

[2] Hendriksen, W., & Kistemaker, S. J. (2002). New Testament commentary set. Baker Academic.

2025-02-09

Derik Idol

1. There can be wrong way living in a right way church.

2 Corinthians 2:1-4  NKJV
¹ But I determined this within myself, that I would not come again to you in sorrow. ² For if I make you sorrowful, then who is he who makes me glad but the one who is made sorrowful by me? ³ And I wrote this very thing to you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow over those from whom I ought to have joy, having confidence in you all that my joy is the joy of you all. ⁴ For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you, with many tears, not that you should be grieved, but that you might know the love which I have so abundantly for you.

Hebrews 12:11
…No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

2. Right way churches discipline and forgive wrong way living.

2 Corinthians 2:5-7 NKJV
⁵ But if anyone has caused grief, he has not grieved me, but all of you to some extent—not to be too severe. ⁶ This punishment which was inflicted by the majority is sufficient for such a man, ⁷ so that, on the contrary, you ought rather to forgive and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow. 

• Right way living involves forgiving.

• Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. – Luke 17:3

• We don’t pay back others for what they deserve, because God didn’t pay us back for what we deserve.

2 Corinthians 2:8-11 NKJV
⁸ Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love to him. ⁹ For to this end I also wrote, that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things. ¹⁰ Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ, ¹¹ lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.

3. Right Way Living Starts by Saying “YES” to Jesus.

2 Corinthians 2:12-13 NKJV
Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened to me by the Lord,
¹³ I had no rest in my spirit, because I did not find Titus my brother; but taking my leave of them, I departed for Macedonia.

2 Corinthians 2:14-17 NKJV
¹⁴ Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. ¹⁵ For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. ¹⁶ To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things? ¹⁷ For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ.

WHAT DO WE DO?

1. Take sin seriously

2. Remember that right way living involves forgiving

3. Say “YES” to whatever the Lord asked you to do.

2025-01-26

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

2 Corinthians 1:1–11 (NKJV)

Today, we begin a new series as we begin our study of the book of 2 Corinthians. While we call this a book, it is really a letter to the church at Corinth. This church was one which was very important to Paul. He planted this church and had a great love for its people. He wrote several letters to the church; two of which are 1 & 2 Corinthians. The others were letters which were not Scripture, but Paul mentions them in his writings.

Corinth was an important city which was heavily influenced by the paganism and sin which had infiltrated the people. There were numerous temples located here, and the evil of the city had been a pressure point for the church. In fact, 1 Corinthians dealt with many of these issues as Paul corrects the church for its acceptance of pagan and sinful activities. In this letter, Paul makes a personal statement to the church to continue living the right way regardless of the sin which surrounded them.

1. The God of all comfort

Vss 1-3 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in all Achaia: ²Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. ³Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort

• Paul opens this letter as he often did, speaking from authority as an “apostle”
• He makes it clear this letter is to the church in Corinth, but it is for all believers
• While every believer experiences troubles and suffering, Paul quickly points the reader to the hope which is found in the God of all comfort

Douglas Moo says, “All that human beings can know or experience of God is found in Christ, and so Christians, simply by virtue of being Christians, have access to all this knowledge and all these experiences.”[1]

• He clearly points to God as the source of mercy and the God who comforts
• Comfort is not found in anything other than God’s promises and His presence
• Life is never free from trouble, but God can always be counted on to bring His perfect peace

2. You’re not the first and certainly not the last

Vss 4-7 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. ⁵For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. ⁶Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. ⁷And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.

2 Corinthians 1:4–7 (NLT) He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. ⁵For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. ⁶Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. ⁷We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us.

• God will use our sufferings as a “classroom” so we will know how to comfort others
• No matter how great the suffering, the comfort will always be greater
• No one can escape the pain of this world but through God and His love, we can experience the promise of encouragement
• The “community of believers” is the greatest resource on this earth to help us through difficult times
• We can never allow our troubling times to pull us away from our encouraging faith

It is very difficult to be humble if you are always successful, so God chastises us with failure at times in order to humble us, to keep us in a state of humility.[2] – Martin Lloyd Jones

3. God is always faithful

Vss 8-10 For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life. ⁹Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead, ¹⁰who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us

• God is faithful…always!
• Paul shares with the reader how his troubles were many, but His God is greater
• He uses his own story as one to encourage the reader that they are not alone in the suffering

4. You should be faithful too…because it matters!

Vs 11 You also helping together in prayer for us, that thanks may be given by many persons on our behalf for the gift granted to us through many.

• We are called to be faithful in our trust in God
• We are also called to recognize the power of prayer for ourselves and others
• God uses our troubles to strengthen us and use us to help others

1 Peter 5:10 (NKJV)  But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.

Application:

1. Don’t allow your suffering to create “stinking thinking”

2. Take time in the midst of the valley to notice the mountain tops which create the valley

3. Take notice of how God comforts you during your difficult moments so you will be able to encourage others in theirs

[1] Moo, Douglas J. The Letters to the Colossians and to Philemon. The Pillar New Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2008.

[2] Draper, Edythe. Draper’s Book of Quotations for the Christian World. Tyndale House Publishers, 1992.

2025-01-12

Matt Willmington

TRBC MISSION:

Our mission is to change our world by developing Christ-followers who love God and love people

Matthew 22:35-40 CSB And one of them, an expert in the law, asked a question to test him: “Teacher, which command in the law is the greatest?” He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and most important command. The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands.”  (Mark 12:30, Luke 10:27)

Jesus did this – John 14:31 NLT “I will do what the Father requires of me, so that the world will know that I love the Father.”

Command #1 for 2025

HOW DO I LOVE GOD?

·      ALL of you = Heart + Soul + Mind + Strength

·      Love = Affectionate Bond that Blesses

Matthew 3:13-17 CSB (Mark 1:9, Luke 3:21) Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. But John tried to stop him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you come to me?” Jesus answered him, “Allow it for now, because this is the way for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John allowed him to be baptized. When Jesus was baptized, he went up immediately from the water. The heavens suddenly opened for him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming down on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased.”

The Father loves the Son!

Mark 9:7 NLT Then a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my dearly loved Son. Listen to him.” (John 3:35, 5:20, 10:17, 17:23-26)

Baptism = Picture of Loving God

1.    DEVOTE to God – “Follow” (Step Out)

FOLLOW JESUS

1.    Scripture

2.    Prayer

3.    Worship

4.    Community

5.    Serving

6.    Sharing

2.    DIE to self – “Surrender” (Step In)

·      “I’m done, you win” – heart, soul, mind, strength

·      Its SAFE to surrender to God!  Do you let God love you?

·      You can’t devote if you aren’t dying

·      Saved (1 day) moves to Sanctified (every day) 

·      Surrender flag becomes flag of everyday allegiance! 

Luke 9:23 NLT Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.

Jesus did this:

Ephesians 5:2 and walk in love, as Christ also loved us and gave himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God. (Romans 4:25, 8:32, Galatians 2:20)

Wave The White Flag!

2024-12-29

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

As we begin a brand-new year, it is another opportunity to make a difference. Many times, it is difficult to do things differently in the future because we fall back into the old habits of the past. It is certain God wants us all to make this next year count for the Kingdom, how can we make sure we start on the right track?

Scripture: Galatians 5:13–26 (CSB)

1. The struggle is real

Galatians 5:1 (CSB) For freedom, Christ set us free. Stand firm, then, and don’t submit again to a yoke of slavery

• Every Christian struggles with staying on track in their walk with God
• Usually this comes from “falling back” rather than “falling in”
• Recognize God’s gift and call to stay commited to the path

Gal. 5:13-14 (CSB) For you were called to be free, brothers and sisters; only don’t use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love. ¹⁴For the whole law is fulfilled in one statement: Love your neighbor as yourself.

2. The temptation is great

Gal. 5:15-21 (CSB) But if you bite and devour one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another. ¹⁶I say, then, walk by the Spirit and you will certainly not carry out the desire of the flesh. ¹⁷For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want. ¹⁸But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. ¹⁹Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, ²⁰idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, ²¹envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I am warning you about these things—as I warned you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

• Temptation is a real part of our life experience; how we handle it is based not on our ability but our commitment?
• Recognize the obvious!
• The more time we spend in the things that lift us up, the easier it will be to recognize the things that hold us back

3. So make it count

Gal. 5:22-26 (CSB) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things. ²⁴Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. ²⁵If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. ²⁶Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

• A checklist not only for the believer, but a checklist for a great life

So, let’s make this trip count…make a difference!

1. Tune up – vss 19-21

Clean out the things in your life which will derail the trip

• Do this through honest introspection. “What needs to stop?”

Shane Parrish – “Your success in 2025 depends more on what you say NO to than what you say yes to…”

2. Fuel up – vs 1 “stand firm”

Get into the Word (Heb 4:12 “living and powerful”)

• Read the Bible every day! Talk to God every day!

3. Clean up – vss 22-23

Make sure the right things are present in your life to guide the journey

4. Eyes up – vss 24-25

Get rid of the distractions

• This is a practical step to greatness

John Coleman – “Purpose isn’t magic-it’s something we must consciously pursue and create”[1]

Ephesians 5:16-17 (CSB) Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk—not as unwise people but as wise—¹⁶making the most of the time, because the days are evil. ¹⁷So don’t be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

[1] Coleman, J. (2022). HBR Guide to Crafting Your Purpose. Harvard Business Review Press. pg. 3.

2024-12-22

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

All through December, we have been studying the two verses which are often used at this time of year to celebrate the arrival of Jesus on this first Christmas morning. As we have looked at the words in these two verses, we have been reminded of the goodness of God in the midst of the difficulties of life. God promised a coming Messiah who would deliver us all. This is the message of Christmas, but it also the message of hope for all eternity.

Isaiah 9:6–7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. ⁷ Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

1. He is able to calm your heart

Vs 6 For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

• As we discussed a few weeks ago, these words describe who Jesus has always been and who He is to us today
• There is no storm we face He cannot calm
• Numbers 24:17 I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near; A Star shall come out of Jacob; A Scepter shall rise out of Israel, And batter the brow of Moab, And destroy all the sons of tumult.
• This Old Testament prophecy of the coming Messiah is a promise not only to Israel, it is for us as well

2. He is able to see you through

Vs 7a Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice…

• Is your problem too big for God to handle?

Gen. 18:14a Is anything too hard for the Lord?…

• Can you really count on His promises?

Numbers 23:19 God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?

• Do you feel as if there is no way through?

2 Kings 3:18 And this is a simple matter in the sight of the Lord; He will also deliver the Moabites into your hand

• Is life too tough to handle?

Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?

Matthew 19:26 But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

• Is Jesus good at His Word?

Romans 4:21 and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.

• Can He handle all of your needs?

Philippians 4:19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

3. He is able to see you home

Vs 7b … To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

• As we mentioned at the beginning of December, this passage is a picture of Christ’s millennial reign on this earth
• Regardless of the uncertainty and pain of today, the Coming King has prepared a place for us…for all of eternity

Gary Smith writes, “God’s promise to bring peace and justice to this world through the Messiah is also an encouraging message that people can share today, because the political situation in modern times is sometimes about as dark and hopeless as in the days of Isaiah. This good news offers another opportunity for rebellious people to turn from trusting in political alliances, mediums, and the spirits of the dead because God is their only true source of hope.”^[1]

• Revelation 22:12 And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.

^[1] Gary V. Smith, Isaiah 1–39, ed. E. Ray Clendenen, The New American Commentary (Nashville: B & H Publishing Group, 2007), 242.

2024-12-08

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today we continue examining just two verses which are forever linked to this time of year. At Christmastime, we have the opportunity for a great reset in our thinking towards God and His greatest gift. We should determine to use this time to refocus our attention on the GIFT of God rather than being distracted by the gifts of the season.

Isaiah 9:6–7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. ⁷Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

1. The wonder of Christ

Isaiah 9:6b And His name will be called Wonderful…

• Pelé – describes an astonishing thing, something that amazes
• Matthew 7:28 – “…the crowds were astonished at His teaching…”
• One of the greatest mistakes a believer can make is to lose a sense of awe of Christ
• If He was astonishing then, He is more so now!

2. The inspiration of Christ

Isaiah 9:6b … And His name will be called…Counselor…

• yāʿaṣ is actually a verb which indicates it doesn’t just describe Him, it is a picture of what He is continually in our lives
• When we are perplexed as to what we should do in situations in our life, it is not because He has stopped counseling, it is because we have ceased listening
• The counsel we receive from Him inspires us to live better, love better and thrive

3. The power of Christ

Isaiah 9:6b And His name will be called…Mighty God…

• Gibôr (Mighty) – indicates He is our champion, hero and angel
• This description would set Him apart from any other portrayal of foreign deities; namely, He is not one of our gods, but rather the sole deity. The one and only God.
• This leads us to never question His place in our lives. The reason the crowds were astonished at His teaching is because He is unlike any other.

4. The presence of Christ

Isaiah 9:6b And His name will be called…Everlasting Father…

• Ad ‘āḇ – our eternal God, the one who has always been and started it all
• Not only is He mighty, as indicated above, He is forever
• In life, we often see people who rise to power but soon drift away and are forgotten. While their time in leadership was inspiring, we soon lose sight of their impact. With God, this will never happen.

5. The peace of Christ

Isaiah 9:6b And His name will be called…Prince of Peace

• Śar šālôm – chieftain, ruler of rulers, who brings about completeness
• People often find themselves empty, without purpose, drifting through life. Recognizing Him for who He really is the key to eliminating this feeling and finding wholeness.
• The big question remains: how do I do this?

Action:

1. Never lose sight of the goodness of God!

This is only possible through seeking Him daily

• • • Bible reading
    • Devotionals
    • Commentaries
    • Listening
  • The minute you stop taking in more of who He is you will soon stop recognizing Him for what He is!

2. When everything seems difficult, trust His power

Take Him at His word. Trusting God is the first real step towards experiencing “shalom” in life.

• • Stop waiting for proof, He’s already given that to us.

3. When everything seems out of control, count on His peace

“Stop the madness” and listen!

2024-11-24

Pastor Jonathan Falwell / Scott Bullman

 Phil. 4:4-9 (CSB)

As we begin this Thanksgiving week, this is an opportunity to reset our thinking. For all of us, it is time to push out the noise of the world and focus on the presence of Christ.

1. Things are not nearly as bad as you think

Vs 4 Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice!

• Max Anders stated, “Joy reigns in the heart only when Christ is Lord of life. Joy is always in the Lord.”^[1]

2. Trust Him with the difficult moments

Vs 5-6 Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. ⁶ Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

• Graciousness (epieikes) really talks about gentleness and kindness towards others
• There is a great exchange detailed in verse 6 – worry about nothing, pray about everything!
• Vernon McGee recounts this story, “…[someone] came to Dr. G. Campbell Morgan with this question, “Dr. Morgan, do you think we should pray about the little things in our lives?” Dr. Morgan in his characteristically British manner said, “Madam, can you mention anything in your life that is big to God?”^[2]

________________________

• Counting My Blessings
  Father on this side of heaven
  I know that I’ll run out of time
  But I will keep counting my blessings
  Knowing I can’t count that high

Psalm 103:2
² Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:

REMEMBER

• He forgives your sins
• He heals your diseases
• He redeems your life from destruction
• He crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies

Many scholars believe that David wrote Psalm 103 during one of the darkest times of his life.  Sill he sings

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, let ALL that is within me bless His holy name.”

** It’s easy to give thanks during the good times…. but in the tough times, that’s a different story.

The prophet Habakkuk had it right. He said,

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior”  (Habakkuk 3:17-18 NIV)

Paul put it this way:
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks…”
                                                                                          (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Notice it does not say to give thanks FOR everything. There is a big difference. There are a lot of things in life you’re not thankful FOR.  It says IN everything give thanks, because God can bring good even out of bad things.

Your trials are tools in the hands of God, so view your circumstance through the lens of His sovereignty.

Rejoice always…pray without ceasing…in EVERYTHING give thanks!

Tina Dean“When you have the Holy Spirit within you, you are stronger than any fear of heartache you might endure and brighter than any darkness that surrounds you”

 This during a season of deep grief

“God has given us a roadmap for life – it’s the Bible. Every word is true. And, if we trust what God has said, we can trust what God can do.”

That’s true…even in the most desperate situation. – CORY HAMMOCK

________________________

3. Trust Him for the wonderful results

Vss 7-9 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.  ⁸ Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just,whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things. ⁹ Do what you have learned and received and heard from me, and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

• Verse 8 can only describe one thing…the person of Jesus Christ! So, dwell in and on Him.
• As a result, He will always be with you

^[1] Max Anders, Galatians-Colossians, vol. 8, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1999), 261.

^[2] J. Vernon McGee, Thru the Bible Commentary: The Epistles (Philippians/Colossians), electronic ed., vol. 48 (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), 92.

2024-11-10

Charles Billingsley

Matthew 14:22 (NKJV)

22 Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. 23 And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. 24 But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary.

25 Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. 26 And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear.

27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”

28 And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”

29 So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!”

31 And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.

33 Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.”

Where are they?   They are in an area just south of a fishing village called Bethsaida .  (map of Sea of Galilee)

Jesus instructs them to go the the other side – toward Capernaum.  

Matthew 14:22 Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. 23 And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. 24 But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. 

Topography – the Sea of Galilee is below sea level.  

Surrounded by cliffs (some of which are 2,000 ft high)

It is a magnet for storms – cool air flying through the canyons funnels into a narrow throat , hits the warm air over the Sea of Galilee….and it can whip up a massive storm extremely quickly.   

They are headed westward into the wind – and they are getting nowhere.  

1. Stand watch 

25 Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea.

But this is the first time their own lives have been at risk.  And it is going to take them to a whole new understanding of who Jesus is.  

God often allows troubling times in our lives for the purpose of deepening our faith.  

it’s no fun.  And it frustrating, trying, discouraging and can be terrifying, but if He sent you in to the storm, then you can absolutely know that He can also protect you in the storm. 

If your storm is a result of obedience to Christ’s command, then you’ll never have to worry about going under if Jesus said “go over.” – Terry Anderson  

So stand watch.  

Stand watch over what?  

• The truth 

• Your heart  

Proberbs 4:23 (CSB)

Guard your heart above all else,

for it is the source of life.

• Your family

Do not let the winds of culture, the temptation of the evil one, or the weakness of your own convictions allow you to fall.  

1 Corinthians 10:12 Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.

Pray that God will give you the strength to stand watch in the night.

2. Step out of the boat

26 And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. 

27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”

28 And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”   

29 So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus.

Stepping out of the Boat takes: 

A. Courage – 20 seconds of insane courage changed his life.   

B. Requires taking a risk 

1Stand Watch

2Step out of the Boat

3Stay focused on Jesus

30 But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid;

Fear took over!  

The enemy will attack you from every side.  

Often our greatest defeats come right on the heels of our greatest victory.  

But what Peter forgot in that moment and what you and I need to remember in this moment is that He was safer on the water with Jesus – than in the boat without Jesus.  

(30b)  and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!”  

31 And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” 

“Faith and fear are mutually exclusive

Faith cancels fear

Fear cancels faith.  

You are going to either walk in one or the other.  If you walk in faith it will cancel the fear.  But if you walk in fear, it will diminish your faith!”  – Chuck Smith

The disciples had a tendency to over estimate the magnitude of their problem while at the same time underestimate the power of the God.  

Instead of telling God how big your problems are

Start telling your problems how big your God is!  

1. Stand watch

2. Step out of the Boat

3.  Stay focused on Jesus 

4. Jesus will silence the storm 

32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.

33 Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.”

 Colossians 1:15-18 

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.  For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers.  All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.  And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.

2024-10-27

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Genesis 35:1-15

1. Following Him requires preparation

Vss 2-4 And Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, “Put away the foreign gods that are among you, purify yourselves, and change your garments. ³ Then let us arise and go up to Bethel; and I will make an altar there to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and has been with me in the way which I have gone.” ⁴ So they gave Jacob all the foreign gods which were in their hands, and the earrings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the terebinth tree which was by Shechem.

1. Three-part process of following Him

• “put away”
• “purify”
• “change your garments”

1. It is difficult to follow God if you are constantly distracted by the “things” along the way

2. God’s protection is unmatched

Vs 5 And they journeyed, and the terror of God was upon the cities that were all around them, and they did not pursue the sons of Jacob.

1. Though there were many around them who could have attacked, God protected them
2. They were “marked” by the protection of God

Warren Wiersbe stated “When God’s people are doing God’s will in God’s way, they can depend on God’s provision and protection. When we fear God, we need fear no one else.”^[1]

3. Recognize His place in your life

Vss 6-7 So Jacob came to Luz (that is, Bethel), which is in the land of Canaan, he and all the people who were with him. ⁷ And he built an altar there and called the place El Bethel, because there God appeared to him when he fled from the face of his brother.

1. Bethel means “house of God”
2. Jacob built an altar and called “El Bethel” (God of the house of God) recognizing that a place is not nearly as important as the God of the place

4. Know Who He is

Vss 9-11 Then God appeared to Jacob again, when he came from Padan Aram, and blessed him. ¹⁰ And God said to him, “Your name is Jacob; your name shall not be called Jacob anymore, but Israel shall be your name.” So He called his name Israel. ¹¹ Also God said to him: “I am God Almighty.

1. While this might seem a bit obvious, it is vital we always remember who God is before we ever try to figure out who we are

5. Always celebrate His presence

Vss 13-15 Then God went up from him in the place where He talked with him. ¹⁴ So Jacob set up a pillar in the place where He talked with him, a pillar of stone; and he poured a drink offering on it, and he poured oil on it. ¹⁵ And Jacob called the name of the place where God spoke with him, Bethel.

1. This is the first place in Scripture where a drink offering is mentioned
2. Jacob worshipped in this place for he had met with God and wanted to celebrate His presence

Takeaways:

1. It is difficult today to separate ourselves from the temptations of the world but be deliberate in doing so

• You can’t reflect Christ in this world by accident, it takes work

2. Don’t fear the attacks or the criticism of the world, as a follower of Christ you are marked and can’t be harmed

• You may be attacked for your beliefs but God will always protect you

3. Focus more on His presence than yours

• Simply showing up at church is not enough, seek Him

4. Never stop celebrating the goodness of God

• Every time you find yourself discouraged, remember what He’s done in the past to help you recognize what He’s doing now

^[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Authentic, “Be” Commentary Series (Colorado Springs, CO: Chariot Victor Pub., 1997), 69.

2024-10-13

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Genesis 26:12–33

1. Following faithfully will lead to trouble

Genesis 26:12–17 NKJV Then Isaac sowed in that land, and reaped in the same year a hundredfold; and the Lord blessed him. 13 The man began to prosper, and continued prospering until he became very prosperous; 14 for he had possessions of flocks and possessions of herds and a great number of servants. So the Philistines envied him. 15 Now the Philistines had stopped up all the wells which his father’s servants had dug in the days of Abraham his father, and they had filled them with earth. 16 And Abimelech said to Isaac, “Go away from us, for you are much mightier than we.” 17 Then Isaac departed from there and pitched his tent in the Valley of Gerar, and dwelt there.

• Isaac continued to faithfully work within the land that was not yet his which resulted in conflict with others
• Many were jealous and afraid of Isaac’s success, so they wanted him gone
• This is a common theme in our world today; it’s sometimes called the ‘cancel culture’ when the world wants to get rid of someone who is living faithfully

2. Following faithfully will lead to blessing

Genesis 26:18–22 And Isaac dug again the wells of water which they had dug in the days of Abraham his father, for the Philistines had stopped them up after the death of Abraham. He called them by the names which his father had called them. 19 Also Isaac’s servants dug in the valley, and found a well of running water there. 20 But the herdsmen of Gerar quarreled with Isaac’s herdsmen, saying, “The water is ours.” So he called the name of the well Esek, because they quarreled with him. 21 Then they dug another well, and they quarreled over that one also. So he called its name Sitnah. 22 And he moved from there and dug another well, and they did not quarrel over it. So he called its name Rehoboth, because he said, “For now the Lord has made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land.”

• Joseph Stowell said, “One of the rewards of following Christ is the simplicity and wonder it brings to life.”[1]
• Isaac persevered through the challenges and conflicts and God continued to bless him
• Perseverance is the key to impact regardless of the opposition
• God will always bless obedience and faithfulness

3. Following faithfully is the only option

Genesis 26:23–29 Then he went up from there to Beersheba. 24 And the Lord appeared to him the same night and said, “I am the God of your father Abraham; do not fear, for I am with you. I will bless you and multiply your descendants for My servant Abraham’s sake.” 25 So he built an altar there and called on the name of the Lord, and he pitched his tent there; and there Isaac’s servants dug a well. 26 Then Abimelech came to him from Gerar with Ahuzzath, one of his friends, and Phichol the commander of his army. 27 And Isaac said to them, “Why have you come to me, since you hate me and have sent me away from you?” 28 But they said, “We have certainly seen that the Lord is with you. So we said, ‘Let there now be an oath between us, between you and us; and let us make a covenant with you, 29 that you will do us no harm, since we have not touched you, and since we have done nothing to you but good and have sent you away in peace. You are now the blessed of the Lord.’

• Regardless of the opposition, God told Isaac to not be afraid
• This is the same promise God has made to us all
• Charles Spurgeon said, “If we walk before the Lord in integrity, we shall do more to bless our descendants than if we bequeathed them large estates.”[2]

Takeaways:

1. Living a life of faithfulness will likely lead to trouble, live it anyway
2. When others oppose you, don’t fight, live like Christ

Romans 12:18-21 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. ¹⁹ Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. ²⁰ Therefore “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” ²¹ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

3. When the only acceptable response to opposition is compromise – DON’T!

[1] Joseph Stowell, Following Christ (Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Charlotte, NC, 1997.)

[2] Charles Spurgeon, Faith’s Checkbook (Whitaker House Publishers, 1993, Entry on April 25.)

2024-09-29

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Genesis 23:1-19 NKJV

1. True faith leads to a strong witness

Gen. 23:3-6 Then Abraham stood up from before his dead, and spoke to the sons of Heth, saying, ⁴ “I am a foreigner and a visitor among you. Give me property for a burial place among you, that I may bury my dead out of my sight.” ⁵ And the sons of Heth answered Abraham, saying to him, ⁶ “Hear us, my lord: You are a mighty prince among us; bury your dead in the choicest of our burial places. None of us will withhold from you his burial place, that you may bury your dead.”

• After Sarah’s death, Abraham sought to bury her in the land God had promised rather than their ancestral home
  • In primitive times, being buried in a different place than one’s ancestors carried the connotation that one might not be at peace in the afterlife.[1]
• While he referred to himself as a “foreigner and a visitor” it is clear he was regarded highly by the Hittites
  • Vs 6 – my lord…mighty prince
• Kenneth Matthews says, “The Philistine Abimelech recognized that Abraham was a special recipient of divine favor (21:21). As a consequence of his stature, the Hittites exceed his request by granting any selection of “the choicest of our tombs” (v. 6) and assuring him that no one will refuse.”^[2]

2. True faith leads to respect for others

Gen. 23:7-9 Then Abraham stood up and bowed himself to the people of the land, the sons of Heth. ⁸ And he spoke with them, saying, “If it is your wish that I bury my dead out of my sight, hear me, and meet with Ephron the son of Zohar for me, ⁹ that he may give me the cave of Machpelah which he has, which is at the end of his field. Let him give it to me at the full price, as property for a burial place among you.”

• Only time where Abraham bows before the people of Canaan
• He showed respect to the people although God had already promised this land
• While Abraham was clearly showing respect, he also wanted to have a burial place not situated among the Hittites

3. True faith leads to respect FROM others

Gen. 23:10-11 Now Ephron dwelt among the sons of Heth; and Ephron the Hittite answered Abraham in the presence of the sons of Heth, all who entered at the gate of his city, saying, ¹¹ “No, my lord, hear me: I give you the field and the cave that is in it; I give it to you in the presence of the sons of my people. I give it to you. Bury your dead!”

• It is not clear whether Ephron was truly wanting to give the land or whether he was giving in to peer pressure but the message is clear; Abraham was highly regarded in the land
• 1 Timothy 3:7 – Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside
• Ecclesiastes 7:1a A good name is better than precious ointment…
• Proverbs 22:1a A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches…

4. True faith demands integrity

Gen. 23:12-16 Then Abraham bowed himself down before the people of the land; ¹³ and he spoke to Ephron in the hearing of the people of the land, saying, “If you will give it, please hear me. I will give you money for the field; take it from me and I will bury my dead there.” ¹⁴ And Ephron answered Abraham, saying to him, ¹⁵ “My lord, listen to me; the land is worth four hundred shekels of silver. What is that between you and me? So bury your dead.” ¹⁶ And Abraham listened to Ephron; and Abraham weighed out the silver for Ephron which he had named in the hearing of the sons of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, currency of the merchants.

• Abraham was not going to allow the promise of God to be diminished by the people of the land
• Genesis 15:18-21 On the same day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying:

“To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates—¹⁹ the Kenites, the Kenezzites, the Kadmonites, ²⁰ the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Rephaim, ²¹ the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Girgashites, and the Jebusites.”

Takeaways:

1. You are called to be a witness in this world, trust God to accomplish it
2. Show respect to others, regardless of what they believe or how they act
3. Live your life in such a manner that you will be respected in the world

[1] https://hermeneutics.stackexchange.com/

^[2] K. A. Mathews, Genesis 11:27–50:26, vol. 1B, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2005), 318.

2024-09-15

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Genesis 18:16-19

1. Faith Brings Favor

Genesis 18:16-26 Then the men rose from there and looked toward Sodom, and Abraham went with them to send them on the way. ¹⁷ And the Lord said, “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am doing, ¹⁸ since Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? ¹⁹ For I have known him, in order that he may command his children and his household after him, that they keep the way of the Lord, to do righteousness and justice, that the Lord may bring to Abraham what He has spoken to him.” ²⁰ And the Lord said, “Because the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grave, ²¹ I will go down now and see whether they have done altogether according to the outcry against it that has come to Me; and if not, I will know.”

²² Then the men turned away from there and went toward Sodom, but Abraham still stood before the Lord. ²³ And Abraham came near and said, “Would You also destroy the righteous with the wicked? ²⁴ Suppose there were fifty righteous within the city; would You also destroy the place and not spare itfor the fifty righteous that were in it? ²⁵ Far be it from You to do such a thing as this, to slay the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous should be as the wicked; far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” ²⁶ So the Lord said, “If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare all the place for their sakes.”

• God had promised to make Abraham a great nation, here He honors that commitment by sharing his intention with him
• Verse 19 clearly indicates God’s view of Abraham as the reason He shares the punishment to come for Sodom and Gomorrah
• The following negotiation to save them from destruction again indicates God’s view of Abraham

2. Faith Brings Wisdom

Genesis 19:1-3a Now the two angels came to Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gate of Sodom. When Lot saw them, he rose to meet them, and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground. ² And he said, “Here now, my lords, please turn in to your servant’s house and spend the night, and wash your feet; then you may rise early and go on your way.” And they said, “No, but we will spend the night in the open square.” ³ But he insisted strongly…

• Lot was attempting to insert himself into the “leadership” of Sodom as he was “sitting in the gate”
• Yet, Lot also recognized the visitors as “different”
• Even as Lot attempted to fit in, his faith led him to clearly see the identity of his visitors

3. Faith Brings Protection

Genesis 19:9-11 And they said, “Stand back!” Then they said, “This one came in to stay here, and he keeps acting as a judge; now we will deal worse with you than with them.” So they pressed hard against the man Lot, and came near to break down the door. ¹⁰ But the men reached out their hands and pulled Lot into the house with them, and shut the door. ¹¹ And they struck the men who were at the doorway of the house with blindness, both small and great, so that they became weary trying to find the door.

• Lot was fully aware of the evil which existed in his adopted hometown
• Lot’s insistence to protect his guests leads to the protection of God Himself

4. Faith Brings A Future

Gen. 19:12-17 Then the men said to Lot, “Have you anyone else here? Son-in-law, your sons, your daughters, and whomever you have in the city—take them out of this place! ¹³ For we will destroy this place, because the outcry against them has grown great before the face of the Lord, and the Lord has sent us to destroy it.” ¹⁴ So Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who had married his daughters, and said, “Get up, get out of this place; for the Lord will destroy this city!” But to his sons-in-law he seemed to be joking. ¹⁵ When the morning dawned, the angels urged Lot to hurry, saying, “Arise, take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be consumed in the punishment of the city.” ¹⁶ And while he lingered, the men took hold of his hand, his wife’s hand, and the hands of his two daughters, the Lord being merciful to him, and they brought him out and set him outside the city. ¹⁷ So it came to pass, when they had brought them outside, that he said, “Escape for your life! Do not look behind you nor stay anywhere in the plain. Escape to the mountains, lest you be destroyed.”

• God made a way of protecting Lot and his family. In part, due to his relationship with Abraham.
• Verse 16 points to a typical response from many of us – “and while he lingered…”
• God’s patience with us in our inclination to linger is an encouraging truth
• God’s desire is to deliver us; at times, even from ourselves

Takeaways:

1. Be deliberate in strengthening your faith as it positions you closer and closer to Him
2. Spend more time looking for the “visitations” of God than the accolades of men
3. Don’t cling to what is and miss what can be

2024-09-01

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Genesis 12-14

1. God’s Call

Gen. 12:1-4 Now the Lord had said to Abram: “Get out of your country, From your family

And from your father’s house, To a land that I will show you. ² I will make you a great nation; I will bless you And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing. ³ I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

• Our introduction to Abraham is somewhat abrupt but significant
• God’s call is not dependent on our status, it is only dependent on our willingness

Vs 4 So Abram departed as the Lord had spoken to him, and Lot went with him. And Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran

Vs 5b and they departed to go to the land of Canaan

Vss 7-9 Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your descendants I will give this land.” And there he built an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him. ⁸ And he moved from there to the mountain east of Bethel, and he pitched his tent with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east; there he built an altar to the Lord and called on the name of the Lord. ⁹ So Abram journeyed, going on still toward the South.

• God’s first promise in verse 1 was to follow Him and He would make Him a “great nation”, His promise here is He will give Abram the land He showed him
• “It is not until there is real separation from the world that fellowship with God is possible” – Arthur Pink[1]
• It is interesting to note that Abram “pitched his tent” with Bethel (house of God) on one side and Ai (to do wrong) on the other. This is clearly a picture of the human condition.

2. Doubt from the Fear of Others

Gen. 12:10-13 Now there was a famine in the land, and Abram went down to Egypt to dwell there, for the famine was severe in the land. ¹¹ And it came to pass, when he was close to entering Egypt, that he said to Sarai his wife, “Indeed I know that you are a woman of beautiful countenance. ¹² Therefore it will happen, when the Egyptians see you, that they will say, ‘This is his wife’; and they will kill me, but they will let you live. ¹³ Please say you are my sister, that it may be well with me for your sake, and that I may live because of you.”

• When famine came to the land God promised Abram, rather than trusting God Abram headed to Egypt
• Abram feared Pharoah and what the Egyptians might do to him
• He found himself in a period of not trusting God and His promises
• Yet, God protected him anyway

Gen. 12:17-18 But the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house with great plagues because of Sarai, Abram’s wife. ¹⁸ And Pharaoh called Abram and said, “What is this you have done to me? Why did you not tell me that she was your wife?

3. Doubt from the Place of Self-Reliance

Gen. 13:14-18 And the Lord said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him: “Lift your eyes now and look from the place where you are—northward, southward, eastward, and westward; ¹⁵ for all the land which you see I give to you and your descendants forever. ¹⁶ And I will make your descendants as the dust of the earth; so that if a man could number the dust of the earth, then your descendants also could be numbered. ¹⁷ Arise, walk in the land through its length and its width, for I give it to you.”

• God promised success beyond imagination in return for his faithfulness
• Abram had the potential to begin a path towards self-reliance
• Yet, Abram did the opposite, he worshipped

¹⁸ Then Abram moved his tent, and went and dwelt by the terebinth trees of Mamre, which are in Hebron, and built an altar there to the Lord.

4. Doubt from the Potential for Greed

Gen. 14:16  So he brought back all the goods, and also brought back his brother Lot and his goods, as well as the women and the people

Gen. 14:21-24 Now the king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give me the persons, and

take the goods for yourself.”

• Abram had to the opportunity to start taking stuff for himself rather than trusting the provision from God
• Yet, Abram remembered the promise God made in the beginning

²² But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have raised my hand to the Lord, God Most High, the Possessor of heaven and earth, ²³ that I will take nothing, from a thread to a sandal strap, and that I will not take anything that is yours, lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich’—²⁴ except only what the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men who went with me: Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their portion.”

Takeaways for today:

1. Work hard to hear His call
2. Don’t allow the noise and distraction to diminish your trust
3. Don’t let the “spoils” of the world tempt you

[1] Pink, Arthur. Gleanings in Genesis, Chicago, Moody Press, 1922, pg. 144.

2024-08-18

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today, we come to the final chapter of the first letter to the church at Corinth. Here, Paul uses his words as a final reminder of what is truly important. His encouragement is to remain faithful and focused on their following of Christ.

1. The importance of generosity

A. Generosity in giving

1 Cor. 16:1-4 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: ² On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. ³ And when I come, whomever you approve by your letters I will send to bear your gift to Jerusalem. ⁴ But if it is fitting that I go also, they will go with me.

• Paul encourages the church to be generous in their giving so the church is able to minister to and reach others
• He lays out a clear statement of the New Testament plan of giving[1]
  • Required – (you must do also – vs 1)
  • Planned – (on the first day of the week – vs 2a)
  • Universal – (let each one of you – vs 2b)
  • Proportionate – (storing up as he may prosper – vs 2c)
  • Generous – (that there be no collections when I come – vs 2d)

B. Generosity in going

Vss 5-8 Now I will come to you when I pass through Macedonia (for I am passing through Macedonia). ⁶ And it may be that I will remain, or even spend the winter with you, that you may send me on my journey, wherever I go. ⁷ For I do not wish to see you now on the way; but I hope to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits. ⁸ But I will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost.

• Paul indicates he will “pass through Macedonia” in order to visit other churches such as Philippi and Thessalonica before coming to Corinth
• Paul had plans, but more importantly, he had sensitivity to going where God leads

2. The importance of discernment

A. Open eyes in ministry

Vss 9-12 For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries. ¹⁰ And if Timothy comes, see that he may be with you without fear; for he does the work of the Lord, as I also do. ¹¹ Therefore let no one despise him. But send him on his journey in peace, that he may come to me; for I am waiting for him with the brethren. ¹² Now concerning our brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to come to you with the brethren, but he was quite unwilling to come at this time; however, he will come when he has a convenient time.

• As he remains in Ephesus, he is walking through the door the Lord opened for ministry
• He encourages the church to receive Timothy no matter their personal thoughts towards him

B. Open eyes in partnership

Vss 13-18 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. ¹⁴ Let all that you do be done with love. ¹⁵ I urge you, brethren—you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints—¹⁶ that you also submit to such, and to everyone who works and labors with us. ¹⁷ I am glad about the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for what was lacking on your part they supplied. ¹⁸ For they refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men.

• Paul’s encouragement in verses 13-14 is a universal call to action for every church

3. The importance of family

Vss 9-24 The churches of A sia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. ²⁰ All the brethren greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. ²¹ The salutation with my own hand—Paul’s. ²² If anyone does not love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be accursed. O Lord, come! ²³ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. ²⁴ My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.

• The family is the body of Christ
• Verse 22 is a call to faithfulness regardless of the opposition

Action points:

1. Live generously

a. Stuff

b, Self

2, Seek direction

3. Seek others

[1] Adapted from David Jones, Every Good Thing, Lexham Press, 2016.

2024-08-04

Charles Billingsley

1 Corinthians 14 – Confusion in Corinth: Tongues and Prophecy 

1 Corinthians 14 (ESV)

For the last three chapters 12-14 – Paul has been talking about spiritual gifts.  But, the church in Corinth, in addition to the prevalent sin in their midst, in addition to the confusion on gender roles, in addition to the mixing of pagan worship with proper worship, in addition to the sexual promiscuity and sexually charged atmosphere of the culture…in addition to all of this they also had experienced a taste of the God-given spiritual gifts that God used in their midst to bring them edification and instruction.  But, as was their habit, they had begun to misuse some of these gifts either because pride and arrogance or simply out of ignorance.

As a result, confusion ensued.

I want to talk to you today about confusion and chaos that occurs in the context of a worship environment when the gifts of God are misused and misunderstood.

4 key verses to highlight

14:1 Pursue love

¹⁹ Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue.

³³ For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.

⁴⁰ But all things should be done decently and in order.

Elephant Illustration

19th century poet John Godfrey Saxe

“the Blind Men and the Elephant”

It’s a comical retelling of an ancient Hindu folk tale.

It’s the story of 6 blind men, who have never been around or heard of an elephant before, who approach the giant elephant from 6 different angles, and then draw their conclusions about what it is based on their very limited observations.

The first – pushes up against the elephant’s side, making the conclusion that it is a wall.

the second – grabs the elephant’s tusk and determines it is a spear.

The third grabs its trunk and thinks it is a giant snake

the fourth – feels around its massive leg and determines its a tree

The 5th blind man – grabs its huge ear and figures it to be a fan

The 6th – grabs its tail and thinks it is a rope.

Then our poet concludes his poem with these lines:

And so these men of Indostan

Disputed Loud and long,

each in his own opinion

exceeding stiff and strong

though each was partly in the right,

and all were in the wrong!

This is how it is with Bible study sometimes. We must be careful not to take just one verse or even one phrase and build a whole thought or theology around just that without stepping back and seeing the big picture in light of its cultural setting, its historical context, and the translation of the original language. This is especially true when we come to a passage of scripture that is chock full of controversy and interpreted in several different ways by many brilliant theologians.

Paul, in this passage is going to talk specifically about 3 gifts.

The gift of tongues

The gift of the interpretation of tongues

The gift of prophesy.

But the big elephant is this:

³³ For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.

⁴⁰ But all things should be done decently and in order.

So no matter where you stand with these gifts and the manifestation of them, the important thing is the that we understand how to properly conduct ourselves in a public worship setting and that everything we do must be motivated by genuine love.

14:1 Pursue love,

There are gifts of the Spirit and then there is the fruit of the Spirit.

Love is the fruit of the Spirit from which all else flows.

Without love we are sounding brass and clanging cymbals.

If we have a gift of the spirit, but it is not motivated by the fruit of the spirit, namely love, then we are nothing, Paul says!

Love is the fuel that powers our spiritual gifts….a love of God and a geniune love for others.

and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy. ² For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit.

In the church of Corinth something was happening that Paul had to address. They were overemphasizing the gift of tongues and under emphasizing the gift of prophecy. So the very gifts that were meant to encourage the body, had become a point of contention….namely because of the misuse of tongues.

“The Bible does not present us with a private use of tongues for self-edification. When taken in context, 1 Corinthians 14:2 is actually a negative observation of an abuse that was occurring within the Corinthian church. Finally, even if it were conceded that this passage may mean something else, it is never wise to build an entire theology on a questionable passage—especially when there is a more reasonable understanding that is consistent with the rest of the Bible’s teaching on the subject.” – Sean McGowan

There was a rationale behind this statement.  Prophecy was something that could be understood by the congregation thus bringing edification to the body, while tongues without interpretation would be unintelligible to the hearer. This is important for the context of our passage.

So we should define exactly what these things are.

Glossary of Terms:

Spiritual gifts – The gifts mentioned in chapter 12 are specific abilities given by God for the edification of the church.

They include serving, teaching, giving, leading, wisdom, showing mercy, encouragement, and discernment.

Then there are “sign gifts” – tongues, interpretation of tongues, prophecy, and miracles such as healing

^12:7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

¹¹ All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.

Tongues – What is tongues?

The Greek word translated “tongues” literally means “languages.” Therefore, the gift of tongues is speaking praise to God in a language the speaker has never learned in order to minister to someone who does speak that language. The first time this occurs is in Acts 2:1–4. The apostles shared the gospel with the crowds, speaking to them in their own languages. The crowds were amazed: “We hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” (Acts 2:11).

The gift tongues allowed the believer to speak another language in praise unto God.  But without someone else who has the gift of interpretation, then this is a gift that should not be practiced in the fellowship of other believers.

Tongues edifies the individual with a personal, intimate encounter with God in praise.  It is directed to God. But still meant for the edification of the body of Christ.

How important is this gift in modern days?

Has tongues ceased?

Should we all strive to get this gift? Or is it just an emotionally driven expression with no real meaning?

IS it a gift everyone should have? I do not believe so, no.

Is it some mystical utterance?  I do not find any evidence that in scripture that tongues were some sort of babbling gibberish.

It is almost exclusively meant as another language.

Paul was given this gift over and over again in his missionary journeys to speak effectively to other cultures and with other dialects.

Interpretation of Tongues – someone who has the gift of understanding this unknown language while never having learned it before.

Prophecy  – Prophecy is God speaking a word of revelation or instruction through mankind to mankind.

Prophecies were spoken by prophets:

• Prophets could be men or women – both are in NT scripture
• Their words were for edification of the church body
• prophets were not pastors
• prophets announced special messages from God
• prophets were not preachers
• prophecy transitioned out as an active gift because the canon of Scripture was completed.  Today, we believe there are no prophets.
• There are also no apostles – those who knew Jesus, saw Jesus, and who had direct contact with Jesus.
• “The criteria for apostleship included being: (1) a disciple of Jesus during His earthly ministry, (2) an eyewitness of the Resurrection, and (3) called and commissioned directly by Christ. Paul was not a former disciple, and his vision of the resurrected Christ occurred after Jesus’ ascension. Paul was not an eyewitness of the Resurrection in the same way the other Apostles were. Nevertheless, Paul was directly called to the office by Christ. His call was confirmed by the other Apostles, whose apostleship was not in doubt and was authenticated by the miracles God performed through him, attesting his authority as an Apostolic agent of revelation. ” – The Reform Bible – footnotes
• the apostolic age ended when the last known apostle died – John the beloved.
• about 95 A.D.
• Prophecy would then be words from a prophet that edifies the body of Christ.

Prophecy and Tongues were two different gifts.

When someone speaks in tongues, they were not speaking a prophesy.  They were speaking a praise to God in a language others could not understand.

Prophecy is much more than just foretelling the future.  It was more of a special declaration for  a certain time…a word of instruction for the people of God in that moment.

Remember, this was before they had the full Bible to read from.

^{3 (NKJV)} But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.

^{3 (ESV)} On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation.

Upbuilding – Edification – to build up

Encouragement – Exhortation  – to stir up

Consolation – Comfort – to cheer up

The gift of prophecy – or in this day would be preaching or teaching is to do 3 things:

Build up, stir up, and cheer up!

⁴ The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. ⁵ Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up.

There are three predominant views to the use of these “sign” gifts of the spirit.  

Cessationism – belief that since the NT is complete now, these sign gifts are no longer needed.  The gifts have ceased altogether, or at least except in a rare miraculous moment.  

Paul says in 13:8 that tongues and prophecies will cease. The big debate is when?

Cessationists would say they have – since the end of the Apostolic age or within a few years after.

Denominations that hold to this belief would be most Baptists, and there are many different types of Baptists, Anglicans, Lutherans, Reform, some independents, and Presbyterians.

Continuationism – Continuationists—those that believes the charismatic “sign” gifts still continue—come in all denominational shapes and sizes.  Assembly of God, pentecostal, Church of God, many non-denominational churches, some Methodists, and even Catholics, are in the continuationist camp.

Continuationists argue that there is no reason to maintain that the gifts of the Holy Spirit have ceased, regardless of whether they believe that said gifts should be expected in the modern church or not.

Sensationalism – You’ve seen these people on tv, I’m sure. Not only is this camp Continuationists, they would go so far as to say that if you don’t speak in tongues, then you have never really been baptized by the Holy Spirit.

These are the churches, where if it’s not getting a little weird and highly charged with emotions and excitement and strande things aren’t happening, then the Spirit isn’t moving yet.

No matter where you stand in this spectrum, it is not a hill worth dying on.  We don’t have to see eye-to-eye on every doctrinal issue. We can all find common ground in doctrines that have no controversy about them at all.

But we do need to agree on the essential doctrines:

Jesus is Lord

Jesus has conquered sin, death, hell and the grave

Jesus is the only way of salvation and therefore the only way to heaven.

God is creator and sustainer and master of all that there is and He is sovereign over all.

On and on we could go.  These are the pillars of our belief and they are what unifies the body of Christ across the globe and for centuries.

The position of this church and the seminary at LIberty is that of cessation.  We would say that the “sign gifts” have ceased because the word of God is complete, and throughout the history of the church, they are not mentioned again after the church fathers (about 400 ad) until the coming of the charismatic movement at the turn of the 20th century.

They are not mentioned again in scripture after about 57 ad.

(1 Corinthians)

Nevertheless, we are also aware that:

God can do anything, at anytime, in any place and through anyone He chooses. 

So as cessassionists, we do not deny that God still moves in miraculous ways, anoints his servants for service, heals those who are sick and does marvelous and indescribable things.   

You are free to disagree.

But if you do practice tongues, make sure you at least do it in a Biblical way – the way Paul lays out right here in Chapter 14

⁶ Now, brothers,

^{if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? 7} If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? ⁸ And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle?

⁹ So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air. ¹⁰ There are doubtless many different languages in the world, and none is without meaning, ¹¹ but if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker a foreigner to me.

(The word for foreigner is an onomatopoeia – Barbaros – where we get the word Barbarian.   The Greeks believed their language was the best in the world.  and so when someone else spoke another language it sounded like – bar bar bar bar ….)

In college I had to take a few phonetic courses in which I learned how to pronounce and speak Italian, French and German.   But even though I could pronounce it, I had no idea what it meant.

No matter where you stand on this issue.  Paul has a word for all of us:

¹² So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.

¹³ Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret. (Because not even the speaker of the words was able to understand them. )

“Paul is saying those with the ability to speak in tongues should ask God to give them the gift of interpretation, as well. Otherwise, they will be limited to using their gift of tongues only in prayer to God, who will understand what they are saying even if they do not.”

¹⁴ For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays but my mind is unfruitful. ¹⁵ What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also.

Paul is saying that he will only pray and sing with words he understands. If in a church service, he will only pray in tongues if he himself—or someone else—is able to interpret what is being said. Otherwise, the mind will be left out of the process. It is important to Paul that the mind stay engaged in these matters.

(all of this is under our control.  It is happening under the control of our own thoughts and actions!)

¹⁶ Otherwise, if you give thanks with your spirit, how can anyone in the position of an outsider ^{say “Amen” to your thanksgiving when he does not know what you are saying? 17} For you may be giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not being built up. ¹⁸ I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. ¹⁹ Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue.

The Gifts of the Spirit never contradict the fruit of the Spirit

What is the fruit of the spirit?

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

²⁰ Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature. ²¹ In the Law it is written, “By people of strange tongues and by the lips of foreigners will I speak to this people, and even then they will not listen to me, says the Lord.” ²² Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers, while prophecy is a sign not for unbelievers but for believers.

In verse 21 Paul quoted from Isaiah 28:11-12

Paul is stating that just as God used the oppression and the foreign language of invaders to bring  a warning of judgement on the nation of Judah, so he would use this gift of tongues in the church of Corinth to warn the the unbelieving Jews that certain judgement was coming…and indeed it did come just 13 years later when the Romans sacked Jerusalem and dispersed the Jews for hundreds of years…..all the way until 1948 after WWII.

²³ If, therefore, the whole church comes together and all speak in tongues, and outsiders or unbelievers enter, will they not say that you are out of your minds? ²⁴ But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, ²⁵ the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you.

We have witnessed this time and time again right here in this room.

²⁶ What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. ²⁷ If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret. ²⁸ But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God. ²⁹ Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said.

(who are the “others”?  is it just the other prophets?  no.   Paul says anyone can prophesy.   Or is it the elders? One the primary roles of the elders is to preserve doctrine)

Qualifications for being elder: 1 TImothy 3

• Blameless as a steward of God, above reproach.
• Faithful husband to his wife.
• Temperate, sober, vigilant.
• Sober-minded, prudent.
• Of good behaviour, orderly, respectable.

³⁰ If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent. ³¹ For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged, ³² and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets. ³³ For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.

As in all the churches of the saints, ³⁴ the women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says. ³⁵ If there is anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church.

Whenever we come to a passage of Scripture like this, we must look at it in the full context of all of scripture.

We need also to remember the context in which Paul is addressing the church of Corinth.

There are at least 5 different interpretations or views of what Paul was talking about here.

1. There are some who even debate these verses were added at a later date.
2. There are those who believe Paul is quoting what the Corinthians were saying and he is rejecting what they said.
3. There is a view that this is not about women at all.  But rather, it is about those who are educated speaking out vs. those who were not educated who shouldn’t speak out.

4. There is the utter silence view –  where a woman is not allowed to be heard at all – announcements, singing, speaking, or whatever.

5. The judging prophesy view – anyone – man or woman – can prophecy.   But when it comes time to make the final decision – the authority goes to the male leadership.

It was quite common for someone to give a prophecy in a church service.  And after someone gave that prophecy – there would be a moment where others would test that prophecy.  Question would arise and debate, at times would ensue.

A new prophecy would be tested against scripture and apostolic teaching.  It wasn’t just automatically excepted.

Paul emphasized this as he is trying to bring order to the Corinthian church gatherings.

Remember, the church often would meet in homes.  But Paul encouraged the proper adornment of women because it was a signal of the proper submission to their husbands and to those in leadership in the church, but also so that it separated them from the women of the world – namely prostitutes who did not wear head coverings.

Is Paul a male chauvinist?  – Quite the contrary.  He comments about women praying and prophesying among the church members in chapter 11.

He planted the church of Philippi with the help of women.  He sees great value in the service of women in the church body.  But he is also keenly aware of the order that God has given all of us for leadership and submission.

Is he trying to oppress women?

Context:

Paul has no problem with women talking in church.  (chapter 11)

Acts – Phillip has 7 daughters who prophesy

Acts 2 – 500 were gathered – not just men.

All of them spoke in tongues –

ACTS 2:15  – Sons and daughters.

in Luke – Anna prophecies

Women were there.  They were active in the fellowship.  They were serving .  They were praying and they were prophesying.

“Silent” – segao – To refrain from using a certain kind of speech or speech in a certain context

vs. 29-35  – is about the judgement of prophecy. or the evaluation of prophecy.

Paul is saying women should be silent when there is the judgement of prophecy taking place.  This was to avoid more confusion. And they were not to speak in tongues in the church house.

Many women are gifted in teaching.  But Paul states that there are right and wrong contexts for those gifts to be expressed.

Vs. 30-33a – contraints are imposed on the utterance of prophecy

Vs. 33b- contraints are imposed on the evaluation of prophecy

Andrew Thistleton –

The speaking in question denotes the activity of sifting or weighing the words of prophets – specifically about asking probing question in public about the prophet’s theology or even private lifestyle.  That’s why Paul tells them to ask about this from their husbands at home.

There is logic behind why Paul says this. And it had much to do with the cultural chaos that was already happening within the church.

What is our response to this?

To judge whether or not a prophecy was Biblical and from the Lord was reserved for those who were in leadership in the church (elders and Apostles – which are God ordained roles for a male.) So even though women could pray and prophesy, it was only the ordained male elders and the leaders of the church who were to teach and preach from an authoritative position. That’s why here at TRBC, we will always have a male as the lead pastor. We believe that is the Biblical order of things. But we certainly recognize and celebrate the role of women in our church in their many gifts of teaching, leading, organizing, serving, nurturing, and much much more. Can you imagine this place without the gifts and the service of women?? We’d be up a creek without a paddle!

³⁶ Or was it from you that the word of God came? Or are you the only ones it has reached? ³⁷ If anyone thinks that he is a prophet, or spiritual, he should acknowledge that the things I am writing to you are a command of the Lord.

(It’s as if Paul knew what he was writing was ordained and inspired by God as future scripture )

³⁸ If anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized. ³⁹ So, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. ⁴⁰ But all things should be done decently and in order.

To summarize:

1. What happened in Corinth stayed in Corinth.
2. Tongues and Prophecy had an important purpose at this time. But since the apostolic age has ended, and we have the completed Word of God, these “sign gifts” have ceased except in rare and miraculous occasions. 

the overall testimony of Scripture is that the gift of tongues refers to known languages that were unknown to the one speaking them. There is only one gift of tongues presented in the Bible, with nuanced purposes. It was mostly intended for public use and was to be a sign to unbelievers. If the gift was used in the church gathering, it was to be interpreted so that the church could receive edification.

3. God can do anything, at anytime, in any place and through anyone He chooses.  

4.  All spiritual Gifts given to us by the Holy Spirit are for the edification or the building up of the church – the body of Christ.

5. God has given you a spiritual gift.  Use your spiritual gift in ways that are clearly and plainly understood by others. 

6.  Find your spiritual Gift and use it for His glory!

A worship service should be a beautiful, meaningful, and edifying experience for everyone who takes part.  It should be open to the appropriate contributions of all, using the Gifts God has given us, under the oversight of properly ordained leadership, and all of this without a trace of disorder, chaos, or confusion.  Remember the big picture.  The elephant.  That is this:  all things must be done with one goal in mind:  the mutual edification of the body of Christ.

May every song we sing, every testimony we share, every dollar we spend, every sermon we preach and every service we present be for two reasons and two reasons alone:

The edification of the church body

The glorification of Jesus Christ – the one and only, who is the chief cornerstone of the church, the one for whom the church was founded. He is the ruler of the church.  It is His church!

We can argue whether or not these two gifts have ceased or if they are very much alive until we are blue in the face, but the most important thing is that we stay on task – the task of worshiping Jesus with all our hearts and reaching those who don’t know HIm.

If we stay on these tasks and don’t waver from those two things, then the church will thrive, and not even the gates of hell itself will prevail against us!!

2024-07-21

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

1 Corinthians 12 notes a shift in Paul’s writing to the church at Corinth. While the first 11 chapters of the book are focusing on the dangers of worldliness within the church, he knows moves on to the importance of spirituality within the church. He is giving clear statements as to what the church at Corinth should be doing.

1. He is the giver of gifts

1 Corinthians 12:1-11 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: ² You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. ³ Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.

⁴ There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. ⁵ There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. ⁶ And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. ⁷ But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: ⁸ for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, ⁹ to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, ¹⁰ to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. ¹¹ But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.

• “dumb” refers to the idols and “gods” who could not inspire nor speak
• Paul begins this section with a clear statement on the indwelling of the Holy Spirit power within all believers
• He further explains how the Holy Spirit moves us to action through gifts
• The important takeaway from the first 11 verses is that all receive gifts, just not necessarily the same gifts (Romans 12:3-8)
• Paul lists 9 specific gifts here (others found in Romans 12) which are: word of wisdom, word of knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, different kinds of tongues, interpretation of tongues.
• In Romans 12 we find: mercy, prophecy, teaching, giving, serving, leadership, administration.

2. Focus on unity

1 Cor. 12:12-27 For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. ¹³ For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. ¹⁴ For in fact the body is not one member but many. ¹⁵ If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? ¹⁶ And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? ¹⁷ If the whole body were an eye, where would bethe hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? ¹⁸ But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. ¹⁹ And if they were all one member, where would the body be? ²⁰ But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. ²¹ And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” ²² No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. ²³ And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty, ²⁴ but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, ²⁵ that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. ²⁶ And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. ²⁷ Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.

• Paul clearly states the importance of EVERYONE within the body of Christ
• While gifts differ, the value of each doing their part is what makes the body work properly
• When the body is not functioning correctly, every part suffers
• Richard Pratt states, “Without exception every person who has trusted Christ receives a place in the body of Christ.”^[1]
• While the body of Christ might display its differences, we must embrace our dependence on one another

3. Let’s work together

1 Cor. 12:28-31 And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. ²⁹ Areall apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? ³⁰ Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? ³¹ But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.

• Paul once again encourages the church at Corinth to do their part

Action Points:

1. Get acquainted with the Spirit
   • This begins with our salvation experience
   • However, it is cultivated through our spiritual growth
   • It can be thwarted through choosing sin, through disobedience and through neglect 

2. Find and develop your spiritual gift
   • Seek out your spiritual gift (i.e. tests, friends, mentors)
   • The best way to find and develop your spiritual gift is to start doing something

3. Get to work!

^[1] Richard L. Pratt Jr, I & II Corinthians, vol. 7, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000), 220.

2024-07–07

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

1. Responsibility in Marriage

• Sexual Purity and Connection

1 Cor. 7:1-5 Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. ² Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. ³ Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. ⁴ The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. ⁵ Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.

• Because of the rampant immorality present in Corinth, Paul indicated the importance of being faithful to your spouse
• He also made it clear of the responsibilities in intimacy each spouse has to the other to protect against Satan’s ever-present temptations

• Perseverance

Vss 6-16 ⁶ But I say this as a concession, not as a commandment. ⁷ For I wish that all men were even as I myself. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. ⁸ But I say to the unmarried and to the widows: It is good for them if they remain even as I am; ⁹ but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. ¹⁰ Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband. ¹¹ But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife. ¹² But to the rest I, not the Lord, say: If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her. ¹³ And a woman who has a husband who does not believe, if he is willing to live with her, let her not divorce him. ¹⁴ For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. ¹⁵ But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace. ¹⁶ For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?

• At that time, like now, it was too easy to simply walk away from marriage at the first sign of trouble. Paul makes it clear this is not what the Christian should do

2. Responsibilities in Service

• Dedication vss 17-24 – you have a calling, walk in it
• Do not be bound by legalism
• Accept your current condition

Vss 23-24 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. ²⁴ Brethren, let each one remain with God in that state in which he was called

3. Responsibilities for the Future

• Do not be frozen in fear over your current state
• Marriage and singleness are both a gift from God

Vss 32-35 But I want you to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord—how he may please the Lord. ³³ But he who is married cares about the things of the world—how he may please hiswife. ³⁴ There is a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world—how she may please her husband. ³⁵ And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction

4. Responsibilities in Freedom

1 Cor. 8:7-13 However, there is not in everyone that knowledge; for some, with consciousness of the idol, until now eat it as a thing offered to an idol; and their conscience, being weak, is defiled. ⁸ But food does not commend us to God; for neither if we eat are we the better, nor if we do not eat are we the worse.⁹ But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak. ¹⁰ For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, will not the conscience of him who is weak be emboldened to eat those things offered to idols? ¹¹ And because of your knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? ¹² But when you thus sin against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. ¹³ Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble

• We are free, but not free to harm others
• 1 Corinthians 10 speaks to this encouragement – 1 Cor. 10:31

5. Responsibility of Sacrifice

• All things to all people to reach all

1 Cor. 9:19-23  For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; ²⁰ and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; ²¹ to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; ²² to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. ²³ Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you

• So, RUN!

1 Cor. 9:24-27 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. ²⁵ And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. ²⁶ Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. ²⁷ But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified

Recap

1. Do not deprive
2. Do not depart
3. Do not be bound
4. Do not be frozen
5. Do not offend
6. Do not fail

Action Points:

1. If married, know your rights and responsibilities

• You do not belong to yourself
• You are not the boss

2. If unmarried, know the value of your position

• Regardless of what the future might hold, it is a gift

3. For everyone, know your responsibility to the King

2024-06-23

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

The first letter to the church at Corinth is strong statement by Paul to remain faithful. As we have discussed over the past few weeks, Paul is writing to encourage and to correct.

Chap. 1 – A call for unity

Chap. 2 – A focus on wisdom

Chap. 3 – A description of the two different types of Christians; spiritual and carnal

1 Corinthians 4 is a clear statement by Paul to the church at Corinth on the importance of faithfulness in our ministry. He uses these 21 verses to bolster his case by making a simple statement to the faithful believers in Corinth.

It is important that you understand your position and have the proper perspective while walking in humility in what really matters!

1 Corinthians 4:1-21

1. Understanding our position

Vss 1-2 Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. ² Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.

• “servants” (hypẽretẽs means “under-rower”) indicates working for someone else
• “stewards” (oikonomos means “manager”) indicates managing someone else’s stuff

2. Having the proper perspective

Vss 3-5 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by a human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. ⁴ For I know of nothing against myself, yet I am not justified by this; but He who judges me is the Lord. ⁵ Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God.

• 3 types of judgment – others, self, God
• This does not give license to self-righteous independence
• We are part of the body of Christ and thus accountable to one another

3. Walking in humility

Vss 6-13 Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other. ⁷ For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? ⁸ You are already full! You are already rich! You have reigned as kings without us—and indeed I could wish you did reign, that we also might reign with you! ⁹ For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. ¹⁰ We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored! ¹¹ To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. ¹² And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; ¹³ being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now.

• Paul sarcastically contrasts the apostles to the Corinth church members
• He encourages them to consider their true position in the Kingdom as a way to encourage humility
• NIV translates verse 13 – We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage of the world—right up to this moment
• David Prior said it this way, “…all Christians are, at one and the same time, both kings and paupers, i.e. it is the authentic Christian experience to be wealthy in Christ and yet despised by the world.”^[1]

4. In what really matters

Vss 14-21 I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. ¹⁵ For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. ¹⁶ Therefore I urge you, imitate me. ¹⁷ For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church.¹⁸ Now some are puffed up, as though I were not coming to you. ¹⁹ But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord wills, and I will know, not the word of those who are puffed up, but the power. ²⁰ For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power. ²¹ What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?

• Paul now takes on the role as their “spiritual father” to remind them of what matters
• He tells them not to mimic the world but to imitate Christ (1 Cor. 11:1)

Action Points:

1. Know that it’s all his anyway

vs 2 Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful

• Oikonomos – manager
• Nothing you have or do belongs to you, it all is from Him

2. Know that everything you do, both in private and in public, is within the eyesight of God

Vs 5b … who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts.

3. Know where your power comes from

Vs 20 For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power

Vs 20 (NLT) For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God’s power

^[1] David Prior, The Message of 1 Corinthians: Life in the Local Church, The Bible Speaks Today (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1985), 67.

2024-06-09

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today, we continue in our study of 1 Corinthians. Last week, we gained some perspective on the cultural attributes of Corinth. We discovered while the city was overrun with sinful desires, there was a thriving church which Paul had planted. However, this church was allowing the habits of the people of Corinth to seep into the church. Paul writes this letter as a reminder, warning and encouragement to the church at Corinth.

1 Cor. 1:18-2:16

1. The wisdom of foolishness

1 Cor. 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

• Paul continues writing in chapter 1 on the significance of the cross of Christ
• For the hope of the Messiah to come through a carpenter from Nazareth who is was crucified made no sense to many

Vs 22-24 For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; ²³ but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, ²⁴ but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

• 3 types of people addressed – Jews, Gentiles, Believers
• Paul underscores the importance of gaining our wisdom from God, not man

Vss 27-29 But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; ²⁸ and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, ²⁹ that no flesh should glory in His presence.

• Clearly, God’s desire is for all glory to go to Him
• God uses circumstances which many may dismiss as the hope for mankind

Vs 31 that, as it is written, “He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.”

2. The foolishness of wisdom

1 Cor. 2:1-5 And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. ² For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. ³ I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. ⁴ And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, ⁵ that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.

• While many in that day felt knowledge and philosophy was the answer, Paul shares the answer is always found in Jesus
• And, the only way to discover the hope found in Christ was through the work of the Holy Spirit

3. The hope of God’s wisdom

Vss 6-9 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. ⁷ But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, ⁸ which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. ⁹ But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him

• Paul quotes Isaiah as he reminds the reader of the goodness of God

4. Finding God’s wisdom

Vss 10-16 But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. ¹¹ For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. ¹² Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. ¹³ These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. ¹⁴ But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. ¹⁵ But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. ¹⁶ For “who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ.

• Again Paul speaks of the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives
• Listening to the Holy Spirit is vital in discovering God’s perfect plan

Action points:

1. Never lose sight of what is truly important—the Cross!

1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God

2. Determine daily to seek the wisdom gained from the Holy Spirit

2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God

3. Seek the mind of Christ

2024-05-26

Charles Billingsley

The Parable of the Good Samaritan :  Luke 10:25-37

“Real strength has to do with helping others.” – Fred Rogers 

The issue of being a neighbor came up in Jesus’ ministry, too.  

You’ll find the story in Luke 10:25-37.  

Luke 10:25 And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”

26 He said to him, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?”

27 So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’ ”

28 And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.”

29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”

30 Then Jesus answered and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

 31 Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

 32 Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side.

 33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion.34 So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.35 On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.’

 36 So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?”

37 And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.”

Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

³² Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 

Same story here.  The Levites were assistants to the Priests. thy handles the business of the temple, even led in the music. 

The Levite was probably following not far behind.  And so, he observes the actions of his Priest, and the follows suit.  If the Priest doesn’t stop, then I probably shouldn’t either.  

No time to serve another, because they were busy serving God.  

What they failed to remember….what WE fail to remember… is that 

In serving others, you ARE serving God.  

Meanwhile, the man still lays there in pain and agony. 

And btw….the priest and the Levite would have been both Jews. ignoring their fellow Jewish citizen. 

If you want to find out who your neighbor is, then be one yourself.  Stop worrying about WHO your neighbor is, and start asking HOW can I help them?  How can I serve them?  How can I share God’s love with them.  

It is not identifying or defining who your neighbor is that causes you to love.  But rather it is the love that you give that makes you a good neighbor! 

But there is a cost to show this kind of love. To be a Good Neighbor – is more than just knowing Jake from State Farm. 

It is going to take some effort!  

Look at all this Samaritan did!  10 different things! 

A.  To be a Good Neighbor is often an interruption 

B.  To be a Good Neighbor is usually an inconvenience 

None of what this man did helped his own personal business ventures. And none of it was convenient in any way! 

C.  To be a Good Neighbor will require an investment 

To Be a good neighbor, we can use the Samaritan as our inspiration.   

Cross the street  –   Open your eyes to the needs around you 

Give up your seat – Open your hands and give generously

Meet the need –       Open your heart and show compassion

Plant the seed –       Open their ears to the truth and their hearts to the Love of God

Even more so: “The Lord is testing constantly the authenticity of our love for Him in our practical caring for others.  Our response to them is our response to Him. ”

– Lloyd Ogilvie 

“All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether we’re giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. That’s one of the things that connects us as neighbors–in our own way, each one of us is a giver and a receiver.” – Mr. Rogers

Now in return, He wants us to:

 Be the InnKeeper.  

“Do all the good you can, to all the folks you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, for as long as ever you can….for Jesus’ sake.” – David Jeremiah  

Just like that Samaritan, He is coming back, but until He does, let us put our love for God on display by how we love others – especially those in need.  

Who’s your neighbor?   Anyone and everyone God puts in your path that you can help, serve, bless, and love.  

Is there someone in your pathway even now, that you’ve stepped over or walked by that you need to be a neighbor to?  

I promise you, if you will open your heart to the interruptions and the inconvenience of being the neighbor God wants you to be, and if you are willing to make an investment into the lives of others, I promise you that God will fill your days with incredible opportunities to change the lives of those around you.    

Open your eyes.

Open your heart

Open your hands

And it just may open their ears….

2024-05–12

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Luke 18:1-8 Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, ² saying: “There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. ³ Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, ‘Get justice for me from my adversary.’ ⁴ And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, ‘Though I do not fear God nor regard man, ⁵ yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’ ” ⁶ Then the Lord said, “Hear what the unjust judge said. ⁷ And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? ⁸ I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

1. The Importance of Prayer

Vs 1 Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart

• Unlike most parables, the Bible makes it clear the meaning of this parable before we even read it
• This passage is in response to the “last days” narrative Jesus gave at the end of chapter 17
• People quickly forget to run after God and get distracted by the world

2. The Burden of Oppression

Vss 2-5 There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. ³ Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, ‘Get justice for me from my adversary.’ ⁴ And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, ‘Though I do not fear God nor regard man, ⁵ yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’

• This widow continued to “cry out” to the judge for help yet he would not help.
• When the judge became tired of hearing her cries and feared what she might do, he relented.
• In our lives, there is no question we often step into the role of the widow.

3. The Promise of Deliverance

Vss 6-7 Then the Lord said, “Hear what the unjust judge said. ⁷ And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them?

• Jesus made it clear; God is not like the unjust judge. He wants to hear from us.
• He will ALWAYS answer our cries for help.

4. The Gift of God’s Timing

Vs 8 I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

• God will take care of us in His timing, not ours.
• Jesus made a clear plea for all of us to faithfully trust Him, no matter the circumstances.

Action Points:

1. Prayer is not a “good” thing to do, it’s the ONLY thing to do

Phil. 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; ⁷ and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus

2. Don’t allow the pressures of life to drown out the promises of God
3. Trust Him and His timing completely

Prov. 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; ⁶ In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

“The Parable of the Rich Fool”
2024-04-28
Scott Bullman

Luke 12:13-21

13Then one from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 But He said to him, “Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?” 16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ 18 So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.” 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’ 21 “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”
“Jesus didn’t come to make bad people good…he came to make dead people alive.” – Skip Heitzig

15 And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”

“Take care and be on guard against all covetousness!!”

Gen 4:7 (NLT) – “Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.”

“Never judge your self-worth by your net-worth” – Rick Warren

THE PARABLE

16 And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully,

The issue is not how much stuff you have…but does your stuff have you.

“The Christian life is not a vow to poverty…but it is a vow to generosity.”
– Nick Floyd.

You make a living by what you get, you make a life by what you give.

“God doesn’t bless us to raise our standard of living, he blesses us to raise our standard of giving” – Dr. Jerry Falwell

17 and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’
18 And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods.

• It’s not a BARN ISSUE…it’s a HEART ISSUE.
• Good stewardship is now turning to GREED.

GREED

Chuck Swindoll identifies 5 Types of Greed
1. MONEY
2. THINGS
3. FAME – an inordinate desire to be known, to be seen, to be recognized in public, to be influential and powerful.
4. PLEASURE – satisfying one’s sensual desires.
5. SECRET GREED – where we entertain excessive and inordinate desires for the good things in life because of another’s achievement.

And it leaves us wanting more and more.

• When asked how much it will take to make you happy, Howard Hughes, one of the wealthiest and most influential men of his day, said “Just a little more.”

The Pursuit for More is…

• Exhausting

Most people give up their health in the first half of their life to get money. And the second half of their life they spend all of their money to try and get their health back.
Proverbs 23:4 (NLT) – “Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit.”

• Expensive

Ecc. 5:11 (NLT) – “The more you have, the more people come to help you spend it. So what good is wealth—except perhaps to watch it slip through your fingers!”

We think we don’t make enough. The problem is we want too much.

“A lot of the things we think are needs are actually just GREEDS. God promises to supply all our NEEDS…not our GREEDS.” – Rick Warren

• Explosive

Proverbs 15:27 (NLT) – “Greed brings grief to the whole family…”

o 1 Tim 6:9 (NLT) – “People who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction.”

• Endless

We are addicted to upgrades.

o You can buy happiness…for a short period of time.

Ecc. 5:10 (ESV) – “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity.”

19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.” 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’

“Greed is an unquenchable desire for more that comes from discontentment. Being content with what you have releases you from the bondage of greed. Contentment frees you up to enjoy what God has given you.” – Chuck Swindoll

1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NKJV) – “Now godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.”

Philippians 4:12 (NIV) – “I have learned the SECRET of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

The Secret to Contentment – (Rick Warren)

1. Stop comparing yourself to others
• DESIRE is not wrong…UNCONTROLLED DESIRE is.
• DON’T COVET – Comparing always leads to coveting.

2. Enjoy what you have
• God wants you to enjoy life.
Ecc. 5:19 (NLT) – “It is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life—this is indeed a gift from God.”

3. Focus on what will last forever

The rich fool totally lost sight of…

• The Brevity of Life
19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”

• His Own Mortality
20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you,

• You can’t take it with you.
“…and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’

Two things that will last forever:

1. The Word of God

2. People
“Matthew 6:19-20 (NKJV) – “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.”

21 So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”

• The rich fool laid up treasure for himself, trading GOD for GOLD…and as a result, lost his soul.

• Mark 8:36 (NKJV) – “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?”

• You may have a lot to live on…but do you have a lot to live for?

This parable is about money…but really, it’s not about money at all.

This story is not about inheritance…but in reality, it’s all about inheritance.
2 Corinthians 8:9 (NIV) “ For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.”

2024-04-14

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today, we’re going to continue in Matthew 13 with the parable of the wheats and tares. This is a parable where Jesus is referencing our world today and the constant attacks coming from satan himself.

Matthew 13:24-30 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; ²⁵ but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way. ²⁶ But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. ²⁷ So the servants of the owner came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?’ ²⁸ He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The servants said to him, ‘Do you want us then to go and gather them up?’ ²⁹ But he said, ‘No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. ³⁰ Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.”

Matthew 13:36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.”

1. The Playing Field

• The Sower = Jesus

Vs 37 He answered and said to them: “He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man.”

• This is a direct reference to the Gospel being spread and it taking root in the hearts of people everywhere

• The Field = The World

Vs38a The field is the world…

• A statement about our current condition of being “in the world”

• The Good Seeds = Believers

Vs 38b …the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom…

• This is a reference to those who have truly trusted Christ as Lord and Savior believing He died and rose again for us all

• The Tares = Unbelievers

Vs 38c …but the tares are the sons of the wicked one.

• “tares” – zizanion (darnel) is a weed which closely resembles wheat yet it can actually contain poison in its yield
• This is a reference to those who don’t believe, but are a counterfeit of true believers

• The Enemy = Satan

Vs39a The enemy who sowed them is the devil…

• The Harvest = Future Judgment

Vs 39b the harvest is the end of the age

• The Reapers = Angels

Vs 39c and the reapers are the angels.

2. The Game

• The Present Day

Vss 26-27 But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. ²⁷ So the servants of the owner came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?’

• Jesus makes the case where believers and unbelievers are coexisting in our current world
• These “tares” are trying to destroy the “grain” in the world

• The Strategy

Vss 28-30a He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The servants said to him, ‘Do you want us then to go and gather them up?’ ²⁹ But he said, ‘No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. ³⁰ Let both grow together until the harvest

• God’s plan is we would remain in the world, but not of the world until we are with Him for eternity
• His plan includes the “wheat” making a positive impact on the “tares” through the spreading of the Gospel
• This patience shows God’s mercy and grace to an undeserving world

3. The End of the Game

• Victory Belongs to Him

Vss 40-43 Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. ⁴¹ The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness, ⁴² and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. ⁴³ Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!

• This is a statement about satan’s ultimate defeat at the hand of Jesus.
• Believers will enter into the Kingdom of God (Heaven) which has been prepared for us all (John 14) and unbelievers will spend eternity in separation from God in Hell.

Our Response:

1. Be sure of which category describes you: wheats or tares
2. Live as light within a world of darkness
3. Strive to be more like Christ
4. Do your best to introduce as many as possible to the hope of the
 Gospel