Category: Christian Living
Subject: Christian Living
Sermon: Confidence in Purpose
While Paul was in prison, he knew he might lose his life. But, if he lived, his purpose in living was Christ, (cf. Philippians 1:19-26).
“Woe to Him”
On the matter of offenses Jesus said, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones” (Luke 17:1-2). It can be said that Jesus is not happy with those who offend others.
But, what is it that Jesus refers to as an offense? The words is found a total of 15 times in the New Testament. In the KJV of the Bible, the term is translated offence (9x), stumbling block (3x), occasion of stumbling (1x), occasion to fall (1x), thing that offends (1x).
Thayer defines the term, (skandalon) – a trap, snare; any impediment placed in the way and causing one to stumble or fall.
So, Jesus frowns upon the one who would cause another to stumble or fall — that is, to sin against Him. It is bad enough when we ourselves sin, but if we lead others to sin, “woe to him”!
We should think of this when considering the proper attitude we should have toward those who teach error. When we think about teaching others ourself. When we consider how our actions will affect or influence others. As parents and grandparents as we consider our children and grand-children are watching us closely, and learning from our words and actions. Offenses will certainly come, but “woe to him through whom they do come!”
Click below to…
Glorifying God
The Bible clearly teaches that those who seek to please the Lord are expected to glorify Him. Some may not be fully aware of what that entails. First, consider a definition of the term. The Greek word doxázo is found numerous times in the New Testament, and is defined by Thayer in an illuminating way. It means “to praise, extol, magnify, celebrate.” It has the idea of holding the object in honor, and to “cause the dignity and worth of some person to become manifest and acknowledged.”
In 1 Corinthians 6:20 Paul wrote, “For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” Here we see the responsibility of the Christian, in response to His redemptive efforts on our behalf. Because of what He has done for us, we should praise Him, and celebrate His righteousness and preeminence.
“Things which are proper for sound doctrine”
The phrase that begins the second chapter of Paul’s letter to Titus is important. “But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine” (2:1, NKJV). Here are a few other versions: “But speak thou the things which befit the sound doctrine” (ASV); “But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine” (ESV); “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine” (KJV). Consider the word used in each version to translate the Greek phrase (hos prepo): which are proper for; which befit; what accords with; which become.”
The word (prepo) is defined by Thayer as: to be becoming, seemly, fit (as it is used in our context).
So what did Paul tell Timothy to say to the disciples, things which would be becoming to, to be seemly or appropriate, as it regards sound doctrine or teaching? Interestingly, his words were about the characteristics and actions of those who belong to the Lord.
Continue reading ““Things which are proper for sound doctrine””
Sermon: Living a Balanced Life
The wise man in Ecclesiastes establishes the importance of living a balanced life (cf. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). The only way this is possible is by having Christ at the center of your life.
Sermon Powerpoint View and Download:
<<———><><———>>
Sermon: Proper Attitudes Toward One Another
As we work together as brethren, certain attitudes will help us to be successful in our efforts.
Sermon Powerpoint View and Download:
<<———><><———>>
Sermon: Individuals Helping Individuals
Speaker: Justin Carrell
As Christians, it is our duty and should be our desire to be helpful one to another.
Sermon: What It Means to Transform (Romans 12)
A short 10 minute invitation talk, explaining Romans 12:1-2, by noting the further context in the remainder of the chapter.
The Patternists: Walk Worthy of the Lord
Beginning in Colossians 2, the apostle Paul labored to establish the primacy of Christ and His will. As men consider how we will live our lives, what our philosophies and actions will be, allegiance to Jesus as Lord is the best choice we can make.
In contrast, Paul stated, “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (2:8). Human philosophy is persuasive, but ultimately flawed and impotent. But, we are “complete in Him [Christ], who is the head of all principality and power” (2:10).
Sermon: I Am the True Vine
Jesus is the source of life, and His disciples must be in spiritual fellowship with Him. Without Him we can do nothing.
Sermon: It is Finished
Speaker: Josh Cox
An examination of Jesus’ last words on the cross as He died for the sins of mankind. Applications are made to our own lives.
Sermon: Metamorphosis
Speaker: Justin Carrell
Justin uses the illustration of the metamorphosis of a butterfly to illustrate the importance of a transformed life (cf. Romans 12:1-2).
Making Plans
Dick Hatch and I managed to establish a Thursday afternoon Bible class in the assisted living facility where he lives. Just about any afternoon would have worked, but I started out convinced that Thursday is great. I could see myself being there every class without fail.
In reality, I have missed two of the first six weeks we have had the class! The first Thursday I missed was because of sickness and ice on the roads. (I know, it is supposed to get up in the 90’s today). The second was this past Thursday when I had to take my mom to the hospital. “The best laid schemes o’ mice an’ men …” (Robert Burns, “To a Mouse”)
Paul had a similar thing happen to him in Acts 16. After spending some time in the region of Galatia, he decided he wanted to go on to Asia to preach there. But, the Holy Spirit did not allow it. So, instead he and his companions “tried to go into Bithynia”, but again the effort was vetoed by the Spirit. Finally, a vision appeared to Paul, with a man of Macedonia pleading with him to come help them in that region (Acts 16:6-10).
We can’t know what God has in store for us. Only one thing is certain. “…you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away… you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.’ But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil” (James 4:14-16). Humble yourself and obey God now!
Click below to…
Sermon: Seeking Counsel
Speaker: Ian Tilley
Ian describes the importance of recognizing the benefit of counsel, or own need of it, and the importance of humbling ourselves that we might receive advice that others might give.
Sermon: How Do I Apply God’s Truth in My Life?
When the truth falls on a good heart, the response of faith leads to total commitment. May we all examine ourselves to ensure we are faithful to His will!
Sermon Powerpoint View and Download:
<<———><><———>>
