Heroes of Faith

Heroes of Faith

By W.H. Wood

“One of my favorite sermons”

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for , the evidence of things not seen .  For by it the elders obtained a good report .  Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.  By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh .  By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found , because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony , that he pleased God.  But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is , and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.  By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear , prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.  By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out , not knowing whither he went .  By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:  For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.  Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age , because she judged him faithful who had promised.  Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead , so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. Hebrews 11:1-12

This brief message is written with the hope that it may be beneficial to someone seeking more light on God’s word.  We sat in the study many hours musing, meditating, and praying that God would reveal to us why these particular individuals were chosen as the “heroes of faith” instead of some of the other great Bible characters.  Surely these were great characters, but there were others who were outstanding in the esteem of the Almighty. 

            We believe after much prayer and careful consideration, we have found a satisfactory interpretation at least for our own mind.  These were men of adventure who were obedient to the inner urge or expressed will of God.  They were men of reverence and faith, willing for their lives to conform to the will of God.  Hence, there sprang from their lives some of the great fundamental doctrines of Christianity.  

Abel:  Coveys to the human mind the doctrine of Christian Giving.

Whether God spoke to Abel in so many words and commanded the offering or whether it was a natural instinct, we aren’t sure, however, we know from the very morning of time the doctrine of Christian giving have been practiced by people who love the Lord.  We read in Genesis 4:4, “and Abel, he also brought of the firstling of his flock and the fat thereof.  And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering.”  So, we see that the doctrine of Christian giving is about as old as the human race.  Therefore, we aren’t surprised that God chose Abel as one of the great “heroes of faith”, because he shared the very first of his wealth with God.  Dear readers, are you sharing your wealth with God, or are you robbing Him of the “tithe and offering”, if so, you better be careful less some misfortune snatch from you even more than the “tithe and offering.”

Enoch:  Conveys the doctrine of the conquering power of God.

In Enoch’s life, we see God exercising His conquering power over death, hell and the grave.  In Hebrews 11:5, “By faith, Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him; for before his translation he had this testimony, the he pleased God. “  Enoch walked with God not once a week or once a month, but continually for three hundred years.  What a great life!  My friends, if we are to conjure with God, we must walk with Him.  We see this great truth brought out by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, “Behold, I show you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet for the trumpet shall sound and the dead shall be raised incorruptible and we shall be changed.”  My friends out yonder some time in the future the righteous dead shall be raised while the righteous living shall be caught up in the clouds of glory to be with the Lord forever.  Then can we say with Paul, 1 Corinthians 15:54-55, “Death is swallowed up in victory.  O death, where is thy sting?  O grave, where is thy victory?”

Noah:  Conveys the doctrine of the preparation for eternal life.

Noah being warned by God of the flood to come was instructed to prepare the ark for the saving of his posterity on earth.  For more than a hundred years, Noah labored in building the ark that was to serve as his shield and protector during the awful days of the flood.  During this long period of the construction of the ark, Noah used all his spare time preaching repentance and the preparation for eternal life, but to no avail the people refused to listen, they turned a deaf ear to God’s man just as so many are doing today.  Sin was abroad in the land, the devil had the upper hand, people were marrying and giving in marriage, going all the gates, if you please.   When one day, the clouds lowered the sun, the thunder began to roar, the lightening flashed, the rain descended, the floods came.  For forty days and nights, the rains continued, the streams became swollen, in course of time the lowlands were covered, the people began to take refuge on the mountain sides, the water continued to rise, the people went higher and still higher while the waters continued to follow.  Then it was that the people realized their doom.  No doubt they wailed, the wept, they moaned, they prayed, as they saw the angry water creep upon them.  My friends, those people would have given fifteen million worlds like this one just to have old Noah reach out his strong arm and pulled them into the ark of safety, but it was too late, they had failed to prepare and had to face the consequences.  Fair warning, dear reader, are you prepared for eternity?  

The Glory of the Sunrise

The Glory of the Sunrise

By W.H. Wood

Prepared on September 1, 1946 for Oak Vale School opening on September 2, 1946

“The sun ariseth…” Psalm 104:22

The glory of the sunrise lies not in its beauty, but in the fact that it is a token of a new day which has been given to us. Going to bed is always an adventure.  We surrender our lives to the unknown, but when the morning comes we awake to a new day.

It means a new opportunity.  Yesterday, we compromised; today is ours to stand erect again.  Yesterday, we saw the work and accumulation of years go down in a crash for which we were not responsible.  Today, we are still in possession of that same power which enabled us to achieve and we have the courage to try all over again.  When a day is gone, it is gone forever.  There is no recovery of time which has been wasted.  The biographies of the great reveal that they were those who knew how to use time.  There was no idle time with Benjamin Franklin or Thomas A. Edison.  They knew the value of a day. To kill time is to murder opportunity.  Every day should yield its full fruitage, but when one is gone it can never be recovered.  But the sunrise offers a new day; another opportunity.  It is not a number of hours to be wasted on trivial things.  Possible the fate of our civilization will depend on what we do with the days that are ours now. 

We either master or days or the days master us.  “To him whose elastic and vigorous thought keeps pace with the sun, the day is a perpetual morning.”  It matters not what the clocks say or the attitudes and labor of men.  Henry David Thoreau said:  “The millions are awake enough for physical labor; but only one in a million is awake enough for intellectual exertion; only one in a hundred million to a poetic or divine life.”   Paul urged young Timothy to “lay hold on eternal life”.  He was expressing life in terms of quality, not alone of time.  This type of life is only possible for those who command the best of their days. 

Great days come in every life.  The great day for Moses dawned at the edge of the desert.  The great day for Isaiah came when he went to the temple to worship after the death of Uzziah.  Samuel’s great day came when he was a mere youth. Shakespeare said:  “There is a tide in the affairs of men which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune, omitted, all the voyage of their life is found in shallows and misery.” The difference between great men and ordinary men lies in the ability of the great to recognize the greatness of the day that is theirs. 

What do you think about your thinking?

What Do You Think?

About Your Thinking…

By Estelle Nazary

This could be a never-ending subject.  While we are awake, we usually are thinking most of the time, about something.  Let’s think for a few minutes about:

            WHAT             we think

            HOW               we think

            WHY               we think the way we do.

I have being studying this subject for several weeks and have discovered there is considerably more than I realized in God’s word dealing with our thinking.

Let’s start with Proverbs 23:7 - For as he thinks within himself, so he is.  This brings up some hard questions. 

            Who am I?

            Why am I the way I am?

            It must have to do with the way I think!!

Do you like who/what you are?

Are there some things/areas that could use some improvement? 

I am sure we can all think of some.

           

How we think affects our whole outlook/approach to life.  Most everything we say or do begins with how we think.  So, if we are wrong in the way we think about something, odds are, we will be wrong when we say or do that thing.  Someone has called this, “Stinkin Thinkin”. 

           

Well, it is clear that we need to change our thinking if we hope to change our actions.  We must have some standards or guidelines that we can use.  Guess what?  God has already provided some for us.  Using our own standards gets us into trouble.  We may think something is right and be very sincere about it, but we can be sincerely wrong!  I am certain we have all had experience with this.

           

How ever we think about things, let us measure them by God’s word.  That is the only true and certain standard for us to use.  We tend to see things from our own perspective or viewpoint.  Are we willing to let God change our thinking when it is not in line with His?

Just think, if we had not changed how we thought about ourselves when we were in a lost condition, we would still be in that condition!

            Do you look for what is right?

            Do you look for what is wrong?

            Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

How does God want us to think about ourselves?  By the way, that is what many think about the most.  Do you agree?  Let us look at some examples:

           

Worry is one of our biggest areas of bad thinking. 

"Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will wear for clothing?' "For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things ; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. "So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:31-34

We have Wrong Thinking.

Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil, Proverbs 6:17-18

We should not depend on our thinking.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. 

Proverbs 3:5

Do not be wise in your own eyes ; Fear the LORD and turn away from evil. Proverbs 3:7

There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12

There is a new way to think, soberly, seriously.

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think ; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. Romans 12:2-3

We should think Cautiously.

Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. 1 Corinthians 10:12

We should think Humbly.

For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But each one must examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another.  For each one will bear his own load. Galatians 6:3-5

We should not think Foolishly.

If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless .James 1:26

We should think on Things Above.

Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. Colossians 3:1-2

We should think about Pure Things.

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8

Paul said, “when I do good (think right), evil is present with me.” Romans 7:21

Satan roams about looking to devour us.  If he gets us to thinking wrong, we are beat already.  Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

Lord, teach us to think more like you, to see things through our spiritual eyes, so we will see from your point of view and become more of what you want us to be.  

Powerful Lives

Powerful Lives

by Estelle Nazary

There was once a sculptor who had a piece of marble. As he examined this marble he saw only flaws. He felt that he could not use it, so he tossed it aside. For many months it lay beside the road gathering dust. One day Michelangelo came along and saw this piece of marble. As he examined it, he did not see the flaws but the great beauty of it. He took it home and after four long, hard years of labor, he came out with a masterpiece, a statue of David. It was truly a masterpiece.

Jesus is seeking to make a masterpiece of each of our lives. He has the power available for us. He said in Matthew 28:18b, "all power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." His great power is available for our lives as we yield ourselves to Him.

Often times we are prone to say, "There is nothing I can do. I have no special talent." But there are three areas of our lives, in which each of us may excel, if we allow the power of God to flow through us.

First, there is prayer power - Prayer is power. You cannot do more than pray until you have prayed; you can do more than pray after you have prayed. Prayer is not overcoming God's reluctance; prayer is taking hold of God's eager willingness. Prayer is winning the victory over the devil; service is gathering up the results of that victory after you have already won it.

Walking along the road, chopping a typewriter, working in the kitchen, doing anything that comes into the regular round of the day affords moments when we can commune with God and talk to him without speaking words. This is the type of prayer the Bible refers to when we are enjoined to "pray without ceasing". It is understanding God, enjoying his presence, sharing his love, feeling close to him, and being aware of his will.

Each of us can have this power flow through our lives if we are willing to pay the price.

Second, there is tongue power. You have a wonderful opportunity of meeting dozens of people in one day, many who are discouraged, depressed, lonely, or even sick, and only a cheerful word from you may give them a lift. I remember on one occasion, I went to the Poindexter Branch, feeling very despondent because the doctor had just told us our little daughter could not live. There was no hope for her. It was of necessity that I went to the bank that morning for I certainly did not feel like seeing anyone. The young lady at the window was so pleasant, cheerful, with such a lovely voice, it lifted my spirits. I went back home to Brenda with my heart a little lighter because of her happy spirit. Many are the opportunities we have of using this tongue power for our Lord.

Third, there is example power. Paul said on one occasion, "Be thou an example". If only our lives could be examples of Christian living, how marvelous would be our testimony for our Lord. Jesus is our example and we must pattern our lives from His, in love, in word, in action - It's difficult at times to be an example in every phase of our lives, but Jesus said His power is available for us.

The decision is ours, if our lives shall be powerful or not. Once there lived an old man who was supposed to be the wisest man who ever lived. People everywhere came to ask the old man questions and he could answer them every one. Once there were two little boys who decided they were going to stump the old man.  They would ask him a question he could not possibly answer. They were in the garden plotting and planning what they would ask him when one little boy ran and caught a bird. He said, "now we'll go to the old man and I'll say, Old man, what do I have in my hand. And he'll say, a bird. I'll then say, is he dead or alive? If he says its alive, I'll squeeze it tight until its dead. If he says it's dead, I'll open my hand and it will fly away. Then we'll have the old man. He can't possibly answer this question." They went to the old man knowing he couldn't possibly answer their question. The little boy said, "Old man, what do I have in my hand?" The old man replied, "A bird". The little boy asked, "Is he dead or alive?" The old man looked into the face of each little boy before he replied. - Then he said, "As you will my son."

Even so, as you will, so can your life be. It can be powerful if you're willing to let the power of Christ flow through your life. May the power of our Christ flow through your life to each person you meet.

Our Purpose and Our Mission

Our Purpose and Our Mission

By Estelle Nazary

Our Purpose:

1.      We were planned for God’s pleasure.

2.      We were formed for God’s family.

3.      We were created to become like Christ.

4.      We were shaped for God’s ministry.

5.      We were made for God’s mission.

Our Mission:

We are sent to tell and to make disciples/teach.

SENT                                                   "As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. John 17:18

TELL                                                   solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 20:21

MAKE DISCIPLES/TEACH                     "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always , even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20

God is working in the world.  He wants us (His children) to join Him.  He wants us to have:  a ministry in the body of Christ and a mission in the world. 

Our ministry is our service to believers. 

Our mission is our service to un-believers. 

There are two basic parts to our mission. 

            1.  A responsibility we share with every Christian.

            2.  An assignment that God has given only to us.  (No one else can do this.)

Some other aspects of our mission:

·         Our mission is to continue Jesus’ mission. 

"As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. John 17:18 

The Lord has called us first, to come to Him, then to go for Him.  If we are a part of God’s family, our mission is not optional, it is required.

·         Our mission is a privilege. 

Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 2 Corinthians 5:18-20

And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain -2 Corinthians 6:1

It is a great honor and a blessing to see God work spiritual miracles through us.  Things that are impossible for us to do. 

·         Our mission is the most important thing we can do for anyone. 

If we had a cure for cancer or some other terrible disease, and kept it a secret, we would be considered a criminal.  We have the greatest cure in the world and sharing it with others is the single most important thing we can do for anyone.  Of course, if we gave someone a pill that cured their disease, they would have to accept it, and take it before it did them any good.  It would profit them nothing if they just looked at it, or put it in their pocket.  The same is true when we do share the truth about God’s love and provision for someone’s life.  They must accept it, and apply it in their life before it does them any good. 

·         Our mission has eternal importance.

Nothing else we can ever do for anyone will matter as much to them as helping them to find a right relationship with God.  We should be alert to the people who God places in our paths that He wants us to tell about Him. 

·         Our mission gives our lives real meaning.

Our most important possession is our time.  He alone knows how much of it we have on earth.  God allows us to vary the amount we have by how we use it.  My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments; For length of days and years of life And peace they will add to you. Proverbs 3:1-2

We waste a lot of our time on insignificant things, selfish things, temporary things that only pertain to this life.  I’m guilty.  I wasted most of my first 20 years on myself.  Then, Christ intervened.  He called and I finally answered.  He showed me my need to have a right relationship with Him.  I responded by believing and receiving and accepting what He had done for me long before I was ever born.  Only then could I even please God.  (and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:8)

Now I know that spending time on things that have eternal importance not only pleases Him, but gives real meaning to my life.  (For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man's work will become evident ; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. If any man's work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.1 Corinthians 3:11-15)

So, if we commit ourselves more deeply to our mission in life, (God’s plan and purpose) He has promised to commit Himself to:

o   Providing our needs

"Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will wear for clothing?'  "For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:31-33

o   Giving us peace and contentment

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

o   Providing the power we must have to accomplish His will

            I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." Acts 1:8

Only we, ourselves can limit what God wants to do through us, in our church, and in this area.  We must cooperate with Him, which means we have to present ourselves as a living sacrifice, (Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. Romans 12:1), willing to deny self, giving up our rights, our plans, our goals, in order to take up our cross and follow Him.  The greater our sacrifice, the greater our rewards in this life and the life to come!!!

The "P" Plan

The “P” Plan

Peter’s Program to Provide Powerful Punch

By Estelle Nazary

A 5 step plan that will help us become more of what God wants us to be.

Step 1:            PERSONAL (Relationship) 

knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ. 1 Peter 1:18-19

and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.1 Peter 2:24

At the moment we are conceived, we begin to grow.  The first few months no one hardly notices.  After we are born, it becomes obvious to everyone that we are growing.  There are several factors involved in how we grow physically.  Our genes that we get from our parents, nutrition, exercise, and so on.  This is also true about our spiritual life.  What do we need for our spiritual growth? 

Step 2:                        PREPARE (to follow/serve)

In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ  1 Peter 1:6-7

but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior;          because it is written, "YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY."1 Peter 1:15-16

Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation,1 Peter 2:1-2

At our spiritual birth, God gives us certain things – gifts – that we need in order to become what He planned.  We are also physically born with certain natural talents and abilities that He wants us to develop and use.  He also sends the Holy Spirit to live in us to help us.  So, He has done His part to prepare us for service.  But we must prepare also, by learning to use that which He has given us.  

Step 3:            PUT (into action)

But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 1 Peter 2:9

Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul. Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation. 1 Peter 2:11-12

To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead ; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. For, "THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS, MUST KEEP HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT. "HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.1 Peter 3:8-11

but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.1 Peter 3:15-16

As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1 Peter 4:10

God planned from the beginning to send Christ to establish His church, and then return to heaven.  He chose to continue the work that Christ started though us.  “The body”.  Only by applying (putting it into action) the truths God reveals to us can we accomplish the plan and purpose God has for us. The “use it or lose it” principle comes into play.  We may not completely lose what He gives us, but it may become useless.  We won’t do ourselves or Him much good. 

Step 4:            PRAISE (Rejoice)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials,1 Peter 1:3-6

and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.1 Peter 1:8-9

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.1 Peter 5:6-7

As we put into action the gifts, truths God gives us, we’ll begin to see Him working, feel his presence, and experience a spiritual relationship with Him.  These things cause us to rejoice and praise Him.

Step 5:             PERSEVERE 

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER? Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right. 1 Peter 4:12-19

Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you.1 Peter 5:8-10

This means that we are to “keep on keeping on”.  God wants us to “be not weary in doing right”, but to “endure to the end”.  He has promised to be with us, to guide us, to give us strength (if we depend on Him).  Also, “the destination is well worth the journey”.  Paul said something about this in Romans 8:18 - For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Paul expands further in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 by stating “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

This is just the tip of the iceberg in each of these 5 steps that we need to discover and use in our journey toward the goal of being all of what God wants and planned for us to be.  Peter has provided a program; it is up to us on how we will use it.  We are the only one that can put them into action in our lives.  We are also the only one who can LIMIT what God will do in and through us.  God never fails to do His part.  He will never lead us to do anything that He won’t give us the strength, ability, the power or whatever we need to accomplish it.  We may not always see the results that we wanted to see, or when we wanted to see them.  Sometimes we will see results.  That is good, but either way, the results are up to Him.  We can plant, water, hoe the weeds, even help with the harvest, but God gives the increase. 

Prayer:           Lord, give us the assurance and a stronger conviction that you are always ready, willing, and able to do Your part and help us to be more committed to doing our part.  AMEN

The Believer’s Unshakable Assurance in Christ

The Believer’s Unshakable Assurance in Christ

Romans 8:1-39

By W.H. Wood

Prepared on April 10, 1944 in the afternoon.

Personal note added “May God help me to preach it.  I feel it in my heart.”

There will be no condemnation.  Romans 8:1-13

Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1

The believer has been made free from the law of sin and death.

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. Romans 8:2

The believer has been given the indwelling spirit of God, who brings life and peace. 

However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. If Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. Romans 8:9-11

There will be no alienation.  Romans 8:14-17

True believers are led by the spirit of God.  

For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. Romans 8:14

True believers are adopted into God’s family.

For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!" Romans 8:15

God’s spirit bears witness with the believer’s spirit. 

The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, Romans 8:16

True believer’s become heirs and joint-heirs with Christ. 

and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him. Romans 8:17

There will be no disintegration (to break up in component parts).  Romans 8:18-25

            Believer’s bodies will fall into dust, but later will be redeemed. 

            All of God’s creation groans for the new and coming day of full redemption – body and spirit. 

            God’s full glory is revealed in our complete redemption. 

There will be no isolation (being left alone).  Romans 8:26-27

            The true believer will never be left alone.

            God’s Holy Spirit will be in him on earth.

            Christ will be interceding for him in heaven. 

There will be no miscalculation.  Romans 8:28-30

All the vicissitudes of life must work together for good to the real believer. 

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

All the links in God’s chain or plan of salvation will hold together – not one of them will be broken – foreknowledge, predestination, calling, justification, and glorification. 

There will be no accusation.  Romans 8:31-34

God is for us. 

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Romans 8:31-32

God is the one who justifies. 

Who will bring a charge against God's elect ? God is the one who justifies; who is the one who condemns ? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. Romans 8:33-34

There will be no separation.  Romans 8:35-39

            All the forces in the universe are powerless. 

            The love of Christ triumphs over all.  

Some Reasons Why It Could be God's Will that We Suffer

Some Reasons Why It Could Be God’s Will That We Suffer

By Estelle Nazary

 To refine us.  Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction. Isaiah 48:10

 For His sake.  "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11-12

Discipline.  He will die for lack of instruction, And in the greatness of his folly he will go astray. Proverbs 5:23; "You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved. Matthew 10:22; For to you it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake. Philippians 1:29

To be able to help others.  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

To humble us. Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me-to keep me from exalting myself! 2 Corinthians 12:7

To remind us of our helplessness.  "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. John 15:5

To make us trust Him.  indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead; 2 Corinthians 1:9

To release us from sin’s power.  Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 1 Peter 4:1

Jesus did.  For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted. Hebrews 5:8

To teach us obedience.  Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. Hebrews 5:8

For sin.  The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it? Jeremiah 17:9

Helps us commit ourselves to God.  And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, "Father, INTO YOUR HANDS I COMMIT MY SPIRIT." Having said this, He breathed His last. Luke 23:46

Can bring peace and mercy.  Those who desire to make a good showing in the flesh try to compel you to be circumcised, simply so that they will not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For those who are circumcised do not even keep the Law themselves, but they desire to have you circumcised so that they may boast in your flesh. But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither is circumcision anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. And those who will walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. Galatians 6:12-16

For chastisement. 'Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. Revelation 2:10

Problems Between Us

Problem Solving Between Us

Sermon by Jack Nazary

Calvary Baptist – 1984; West Jackson Baptist 1989; Yockanookany Baptist 1990

"If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother.”But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED. "If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

Matthew 18:15-17

In conflicts between us, we neglect the steps set forth in the Word of God.  If these steps were followed, it would answer Christ’s prayer in John 17:21 - that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.

Let’s look at Matthew 18:15-17 to discuss the proper steps in problem solving between us.

 “If your brother”…         We are to have love for one another.  The use of Brother in this verse is a term of endearment to illustrate that your fellow Christians are your family.  God and the world expect us to demonstrate special loyalty to each other.  In fact, 1 John 3:16 states that We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.   In John 13, Jesus explains to the disciples the importance of loving one another even as Jesus himself loves us, we are to loved others in the same way.  The love that we have will show all men that we are Disciples of Christ. 

“Sins…”  The King James Version expands “sins” by saying “shall trespass against you”.  The word trespass here in the New Testament is not used elsewhere.  In this particular verse, trespass means to miss the mark; to cause one not to share in a prize.  The words “against you” are not in some manuscripts.  In basic sense, when a Christian sins “against you”, he misses the mark by damaging the reputation of Christ and offends all that are called by that name.  When David sinned, the prophet said because by this deed you have given occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme – 2 Samuel 12:14.  In other words, his sin caused others to fail and disrespect the Lord.  Our first response when we see a brother “sin” or miss the mark is to think “He hasn’t really offended me, therefore, I’m not responsible”, but the Bible makes it our responsibility.  When one member of the body hurts, the whole body hurts. 

“Go…”  Going to someone that has sinned is God’s greatest test of genuine love.  It is easy to pass judgment in your mind and forget it.  It is easy to tell someone else hoping that they will do something about it.  It is easier to go boldly to him and tell him he’s wrong.  However, the best way to “go” is in the spirit of Galatians 6:1 - Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness ; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted.

Before we “go”, we need to examine ourselves to see if we have failed in similar areas.     

• Our judgment - Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. And we know that the judgment of God rightly falls upon those who practice such things. But do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment on those who practice such things and do the same yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God? Romans 2:1-3
• Our lack of prayer for the person – "Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way. 1 Samuel 12:23
•   Our failure to be an example to him - and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed. Hebrews 12:13; …restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Galatians 6:1

“Show him his fault…”  This step is very difficult.  The questions that we may have – What do I say as I approach him?; What reason can I give for talking about something he doesn’t want to discuss?; How can I avoid giving the impression that I’m intruding in his private business especially if the offense was not directly against me?  The answer is that we should simply say “I always want to give a good report about you to anyone who asks.  For this reason, I wonder if you could explain something to me that I’m not sure I understand.”  This shows you are loyal and not condemning him, but coming as a learner and servant.  If the offense is against you personally, you might say, “Is there something that I have done to cause you to react to me in this way.”

Be sure to look at yourself.  Do you have a beam or a splinter in your eye? – "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? “Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold, the log is in your own eye? "You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. Matthew 7:3-5 

Sometimes being able to examine ourselves and pointing out our own fault, helps others to see theirs in the same area. 

If you have the slightest offense, attitude, or neglect on your part that might have contributing to his offense you must follow Matthew 5:23-24 - "Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.

“his fault in private…”  This is must be between you and him alone.  If you tell someone else before talking to “him”, 3 problems tend to be created:

1.      We prove to God and the ones that we tell that we don’t love the offender and we don’t love the Lord himself who said in John 14:15 – If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

2.      We tempt the listener to take up offense against him which may destroy friendships.  A perverse man spreads strife, And a slanderer separates intimate friends. Proverbs 16:28

3.      It can destroy the sincerity of our approach and hinder the potential of restoring him.  Argue your case with your neighbor, And do not reveal the secret of another, Proverbs 25:9

To give a bad report to another is to speak evil of “him”.  The most important reason to go directly to the offender is to check out all the facts – get the facts from the “horse’s mouth.”

“If he listens to you, you have won your brother…”  God assumes that we want to win the brother back rather than condemn him.  If we go to expose him, we fall into the temptation warned about in Galatians 6:1 - you too will not be tempted.  Typically the greatest offense to us or others is through words.  We are not always sure what word mean to others.  When we share with “him” what his words meant to us, it will help him to be more precise in his message to others.  If we assume that he meant what we heard him say and attack him for it, we are using Satan’s most effective tool of dividing Christians in the church.

“But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED”…  If it is difficult to go to the offender alone, it may be even more difficult to go a 2^nd time with the right witnesses, but it may be necessary if the steps Jesus suggested are to be followed in restoring a brother who persists in his offense.  If he offense was by words, two or three confirms what “he” meant by the words spoken. If the offense was by actions, the ideal witness would be those who conquered similar problems.  In other words, those that have battled similar problems could witness to him first before witnessing against him. 

“If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church…”  The purpose of this statement is not to expose, but to enlist the help of the church in restoring the brother.  As more know, the more humbling it is to the offender.  James 4:6 - But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE."  This grace is the desire and power to do God’s will and this is what he needs to overcome his problem.  It can also be a warning and cleansing agent within the church.  One person’s stumbling is likely to happen to others in the church.  Therefore, the exposure can help others keep from stumbling as well.  The response of the church should be that of prayer and fasting for self-examination.  As “he” sees the church humbled it can be motivation for him to repent.  We need to ask the offender for forgiveness if the church has contributed to the offense. 

“if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” 

In 2 Corinthians 2:6-8, Paul says that Sufficient for such a one is this punishment which was inflicted by the majority, so that on the contrary you should rather forgive and comfort him, otherwise such a one might be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. Wherefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him. 

In 1 Timothy 5:19-21, Paul reinforces the procedure.  This assumes that there should be harmony, unity in church. Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality. If not, the church should be cleaned before discipline.   If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be put to shame. Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.  2 Thessalonians 3:14-15

According to 1 Corinthians 5:11-13, there are six offenses that require church discipline. - But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler -not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church? 1 But those who are outside, God judges. REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES.

      Fornicator – to have illicit sexual relations; whoremongers

      Covetous – to have more; to have that which belongs to others; greed

      Idolatry – turning away from God to idols either openly or in secret, consciously or unconsciously.

     Reviler – to abuse

     Drunkard – to be drunk with wine; intoxicated

     Swindler – plundering; to carry away by force; spoiling