Sunday, December 6, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Thessalonians 5

“In God We Trust”
1 Thessalonians 5

Introduction: Hebrews 12:9


I.  Trust God as your focus vs. 1-10
     “Now as to the times and the epochs, brethren, you have no need of anything to be written to you. [2] For you yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night. [3] While they are saying, “Peace and safety!” then destruction will come upon them suddenly like labor pains upon a woman with child, and they will not escape. [4] But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief; [5] for you are all sons of light and sons of day. We are not of night nor of darkness; [6] so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober. [7] For those who sleep do their sleeping at night, and those who get drunk get drunk at night. [8] But since we are of the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. [9] For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, [10] who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we will live together with Him.” 

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Ephesians 6:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4' Revelation 2:4; Matthew 6:33; Malachi 1:6


II. Trust God in your fellowship vs. 11-15
     “Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing. [12] But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, [13] and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another. [14] We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. [15] See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.”

Galatians 6:10; 2 Thessalonians 3:6; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7


III. Trust God as your Father vs. 16-22
     “Rejoice always; [17] pray without ceasing; [18] in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. [19] Do not quench the Spirit; [20] do not despise prophetic utterances. [21] But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; [22] abstain from every form of evil.”

Colossians 3:2; Psalm 50:23; 2 Peter 1:20-21


IV. Trust God enough to put Him first vs. 23-28
     “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. [24] Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass. [25] Brethren, pray for us. [26] Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. [27] I adjure you by the Lord to have this letter read to all the brethren. [28] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.”


Conclusion: Ephesians 6:1-3; Revelation 7:11-12


LISTEN TO AUDIO MESSAGE HERE

Sunday, November 29, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

"The Christian’s Comfort”
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope. [14] For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus. [15] For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. [16] For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. [17] Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. [18] Therefore comfort one another with these words.”


I.  Comfort in the Revelation of Truth

1 Timothy 2:4; John 17:17; Romans 15:4; John 5:24-25; John 10:27


II. Comfort in the Return of Christ

Acts 1:8-11; Isaiah 25:8-9; 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20; 2 Timothy 4:8


III. Comfort in the Resurrection of the Saints

Revelation 17:14; Romans 6:8


Conclusion: 1 Corinthians 15:52-57; Psalm 116:15; Proverbs 12:28; John 14:1-3; Philippians 2:11; John 8:51; Psalm 119:105; 1 Peter 1:13


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Sunday, November 22, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12

"The Christian's Attitude"
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12


I.  Our Attitude Toward God vs. 1-8
     “Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that you excel still more. [2] For you know what commandments we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. [3] For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; [4] that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, [5] not in lustful passion, like the Gentiles who do not know God; [6] and that no man transgress and defraud his brother in the matter because the Lord is the avenger in all these things, just as we also told you before and solemnly warned you. [7] For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification. [8] So, he who rejects this is not rejecting man but the God who gives His Holy Spirit to you.”

Luke 1:17; Matthew 19:6; Romans 6:19


II. Our Attitude Toward One Another vs. 9-10a
     “Now as to the love of the brethren, you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another; [10] for indeed you do practice it toward all the brethren who are in all Macedonia.”

John 3:16; Mark 10:45; Philippians 2:2-3


III. Our Attitude Toward the World vs. 10b-12
     “But we urge you, brethren, to excel still more, [11] and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you, [12] so that you will behave properly toward outsiders and not be in any need.”

Philippians 3:20; 1 John 3:13; Matthew 5:16


Conclusion: Matthew 16:21-25; Jeremiah 12:3


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Thursday, November 19, 2015

Signs, Wonders and Miracles

I recently received the following question: “I've been studying signs, wonders and miracles. Can I ask what you think the definitions of each are or are they the same thing?” I post the answer publicly, hoping that perhaps this information will prove useful to others as well.

The terms are used concerning Jesus in Acts 2:22, “Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know.”

These identifiers were also associated with the apostles in both 2 Corinthians 12:12, “The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with all perseverance, by signs and wonders and miracles,” and in Hebrews 2:3-4, “After it was at the first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard, [4] God also testifying with them, both by signs and wonders and by various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit according to His own will.”

Signs were used to authenticate the message of God's spokesmen. They accompanied the revelation of the word, as inspired by the Holy Spirit. An excellent example concerns the deacon, Philip, in Acts 8:6, “The crowds with one accord were giving attention to what was said by Philip, as they heard and saw the signs which he was performing.” The signs manifested confirmed the word preached.

Wonders are events that are supernatural and extraordinary. As Thayer's lexicon states, a wonder is “something so unusual it arouses close observation.” Examples of wonders are the healing of a man who had been lame from birth (Acts 14:8-10), casting out a slave girl's spirit of divination (Acts 16:16-18), and the raising of Eutychus from the dead in Acts 20:9-12.

Miracles are special demonstrations of the Holy Spirit's power. Paul described such miracles in his second epistle to the Corinthians. “For we do not want you to be unaware, brethren, of our affliction which came to us in Asia, that we were burdened excessively, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life; [9] indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead; [10] who delivered us from so great a peril of death, and will deliver us, He on whom we have set our hope” (2 Corinthians 1:8-10).

He further clarifies that thought later in the letter. “Five times I received from the Jews thirty-nine lashes. [25] Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, a night and a day I have spent in the deep. [26] I have been on frequent journeys, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my countrymen, dangers from the Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers on the sea, dangers among false brethren; [27] I have been in labor and hardship, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure” (2 Corinthians 11:24-27).

The point the apostle makes isn't that such things don't happen to others, but that the escape provided from these particular predicaments were very clearly not of human origin. Such miracles are clearly associated with the grace of God. By definition, grace is what God provides for us that we could not possibly provide for ourselves. As we near one of our primary texts, this association is made clear as Paul writes of the Lord, “He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. [10] Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong”” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

The difference between wonders and miracles is that wonders cause one to focus on WHAT was being done, while miracles should focus one's attention on WHO is receiving them and WHY.

In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul identified those who were “false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:13). While it is popular to associate everything miraculous today with the Lord, we should know this is not the case. Jesus stated clearly that “false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect” (Matthew 24:24). The deeds of such men are anti-Christ, and thus are to be associated with “the activity of Satan, with all power and signs and false wonders, [10] and with all the deception of wickedness for those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth so as to be saved” (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10).

Again, wonders cause one to focus on WHAT was being done, while miracles should focus one's attention on WHO is receiving them and WHY. True miracles are the result of God's divine providence, as He proves without question that He cares for His own. As it is written, “He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity” (2 Timothy 1:9).

The differentiation between true workers and deceitful workers is not as difficult as most would make it. Supernatural evidence can be rejected as false if either the life or the message of the worker are not in harmony with the word of God. False teachers “are from the world; therefore they speak as from the world, and the world listens to them.” But an inspired apostle writes, “We are from God; he who knows God listens to us; he who is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error” (1 John 4:5-6). As he had earlier stated, “By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does not love his brother” (1 John 3:10).

I hope this answers covers the subject sufficiently. I always welcome sincere questions concerning the word of the Lord! :)


Sunday, November 15, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Thessalonians 3

“A Blameless Christian Life”
1 Thessalonians 3

I.  Enduring in Their Affliction vs. 1-5
     “Therefore when we could endure it no longer, we thought it best to be left behind at Athens alone, [2] and we sent Timothy, our brother and God's fellow worker in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you as to your faith, [3] so that no one would be disturbed by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we have been destined for this. [4] For indeed when we were with you, we kept telling you in advance that we were going to suffer affliction; and so it came to pass, as you know. [5] For this reason, when I could endure it no longer, I also sent to find out about your faith, for fear that the tempter might have tempted you, and our labor would be in vain.”

Romans 5:3-5; 1 Thessalonians 2:14-15; John 15:18-21; 2 Thessalonians 1:4-9


II. Standing Firm in Their Faith vs. 6-10 
     “But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always think kindly of us, longing to see us just as we also long to see you, [7] for this reason, brethren, in all our distress and affliction we were comforted about you through your faith; [8] for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord. [9] For what thanks can we render to God for you in return for all the joy with which we rejoice before our God on your account, [10] as we night and day keep praying most earnestly that we may see your face, and may complete what is lacking in your faith?” 

2 Corinthians 1:8-10; 1 Corinthians 16:13-14


III. Increasing in Their Love vs. 11-13 
     “Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord direct our way to you; [12] and may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you; [13] so that He may establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints.” 

1 John 4:10-1; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15


Conclusion: Revelation 2:23


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Sunday, November 8, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-13

“The Christian’s Ministry”
1 Thessalonians 2:1-13

Introduction: Romans 12:1-6


I. The Motive of Our Ministry vs. 1-4 
     “For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain, [2] but after we had already suffered and been mistreated in Philippi, as you know, we had the boldness in our God to speak to you the gospel of God amid much opposition. [3] For our exhortation does not come from error or impurity or by way of deceit; [4] but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who examines our hearts.” 

Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Peter 4:11; Acts 5:27-29; Colossians 1:10


II. The Manner of Our Ministry vs. 5-12 
     “For we never came with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness— [6] nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, even though as apostles of Christ we might have asserted our authority. [7] But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children. [8] Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us. [9] For you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship, how working night and day so as not to be a burden to any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. [10] You are witnesses, and so is God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly we behaved toward you believers; [11] just as you know how we were exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children, [12] so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.”

     A. Christians are gentle, vs. 7-8

     B. Christians are hard-working, v. 9

     C. Christians are honorable, v. 10

     D. Christians teach others, vs. 11-12

     E. Christians live lives worthy of God, v. 12


III. The Measure of Our Ministry v. 13 
     “For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe.”

     A. We are measured by what we accept as truth. 

2 Timothy 3:16-17; John 12:46-48

     B. We are measured by what we do in truth.

1 John 3:18; 2 Corinthians 13:8; James 2:18, 21-24


Conclusion: James 1:22; Proverbs 23:23-26


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Sunday, November 1, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Thessalonians 1

1 Thessalonians 1
"Mission-Minded"

Introduction: Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:47-48; John 20:21; Acts 1:8

I. Thessalonica, the mission vs. 1-5a
     “Paul and Silvanus and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. [2] We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers; [3] constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father, [4] knowing, brethren beloved by God, His choice of you; [5] for our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; ...” 

1 Corinthians 15:58


II. Thessalonica, the missionaries vs. 5b-10
     “... just as you know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. [6] You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit, [7] so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. [8] For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God has gone forth, so that we have no need to say anything. [9] For they themselves report about us what kind of a reception we had with you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve a living and true God, [10] and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, that is Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath to come.” 


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Sunday, October 25, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 2 Timothy 4

Staying Effective in Adversity 
“Depending Fully on the Lord”
2 Timothy 4

I.  Dealing with Others vs. 1-2 
     “I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: [2] preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.” 

     A. Preach v. 2 

     B. Prepare v. 2 

     C. Correct v. 2 

     D. Warn v. 2 

     E. Encourage v. 2 


II. Dealing with Yourself vs. 3-5 
   “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, [4] and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. [5] But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” 

     A. Focus v. 5 

     B. Persevere v. 5 

     C. Prioritize v. 5 

     D. Execute v. 5 


III. Dealing with Your Work vs. 6-18 

     A. Real Love vs. 6-15 
     “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. [7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; [8] 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. [9] Make every effort to come to me soon; [10] for Demas, having loved this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. [11] Only Luke is with me. Pick up Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service. [12] But Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. [13] When you come bring the cloak which I left at Troas with Carpus, and the books, especially the parchments. [14] Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. [15] Be on guard against him yourself, for he vigorously opposed our teaching.” 

     B. Real Security vs. 16-18 
     “At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be counted against them. [17] But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was rescued out of the lion's mouth. [18] The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” 


Conclusion: vs. 19-22, “Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. [20] Erastus remained at Corinth, but Trophimus I left sick at Miletus. [21] Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, also Pudens and Linus and Claudia and all the brethren. [22] The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.” 


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Sunday, October 18, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 2 Timothy 3

Staying Effective in Adversity
“A Good Foundation in an Evil Generation”
2 Timothy 3

I.  The Evil Generation vs. 1-9 
     “But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. [2] For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, [3] unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, [4] treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, [5] holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these. [6] For among them are those who enter into households and captivate weak women weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses, [7] always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. [8] Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men of depraved mind, rejected in regard to the faith. [9] But they will not make further progress; for their folly will be obvious to all, just as Jannes's and Jambres's folly was also.” 


II. The Good Foundation vs. 10-17 

     A. Expect the persecution vs. 10-13 
     “[10] Now you followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance, [11] persecutions, and sufferings, such as happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium and at Lystra; what persecutions I endured, and out of them all the Lord rescued me! [12] Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. [13] But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.” 

Acts 14:19

     B. Establish the priority vs. 14-17 
     “[14] You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them , [15] and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. [16] All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; [17] so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”


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Sunday, October 11, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 2 Timothy 2

Staying Effective in Adversity
“Great Expectations”
2 Timothy 2

Introduction: Acts 8:20-22


I.  As Christians, we are expected to be effecient. vs. 1-7
     “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. [2] The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. [3] Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. [4] No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. [5] Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules. [6] The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops. [7] Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.”

      A. Efficient teachers vs. 1-2

2 Timothy 1:13-14

     B. Efficient soldiers vs. 3-4

     C. Efficient athletes v. 5

1 Timothy 4:7-8

     D. Effecient farmers v. 6

1 Corinthians 15:58


II. As Christians, we are expected to be educated. vs. 8-14 
      “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descendant of David, according to my gospel, [9] for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned. [10] For this reason I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory. [11] It is a trustworthy statement: For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him; [12] If we endure, we will also reign with Him; If we deny Him, He also will deny us; [13] If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself. [14] Remind them of these things, and solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is useless and leads to the ruin of the hearers.” 

     A. About the gospel v. 8 

     B. About the truth vs. 9 

     C. About salvation vs. 10-11

     D. About judgment vs. 12-14 


III. As Christians, we are expected to be effective. vs. 15-26
     “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. [16] But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness, [17] and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, [18] men who have gone astray from the truth saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and they upset the faith of some. [19] Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.” [20] Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor. [21] Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. [22] Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. [23] But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. [24] The Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, [25] with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, [26] and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.”

     A. A holy minister vs. 15-19

1 Peter 2:2

     B. An honorable minister vs. 20-23 

James 2:26; Matthew 12:43-45

     C. An honest minister vs. 23-26

Titus 3:9


LISTEN TO AUDIO MESSAGE HERE

Sunday, October 4, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 2 Timothy 1

Staying Effective in Adversity
“Loyalty to the Lord”
2 Timothy 1

I.  The Legacy of Faith vs. 1-5
     “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life in Christ Jesus, 2 to Timothy, my beloved son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience the way my forefathers did, as I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day, 4 longing to see you, even as I recall your tears, so that I may be filled with joy. 5 For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois, and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well.”

     A. A heritage received from his teacher v. 2

     B. A heritage received from his forefathers v. 3

     1 Timothy 1:5

     C. A heritage received from his mother and grandmother v. 5


II. The Loyalty of Faith vs. 6-18

     A. Remembering Christ’s power vs. 6-8
     “For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. 8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of me His prisoner; but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, …”

     B. Remembering Christ’s purpose vs. 9-11
     “… who has saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, 10 but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death, and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, 11 for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher.”

     C. Remembering Christ’s promise v. 12
     “For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.”

     D. Remembering Christ’s pattern vs. 13-14
     “Retain the standard of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14 Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you.”

     E. Remembering Christ’s people vs. 15-18
     “You are aware of the fact that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes. 16 The Lord grant mercy to the house of Onesiphorus for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chains; 17 but when he was in Rome, he eagerly searched for me, and found me-- 18 the Lord grant to him to find mercy from the Lord on that day-- and you know very well what services he rendered at Ephesus.”


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Sunday, September 27, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Timothy 6

“The Great Gain of Godliness”
1 Timothy 6

Introduction: 1 Samuel 2:9; Psalm 37:28-29


I.  Being godly in our service vs. 1-2
     “All who are under the yoke as slaves are to regard their own masters as worthy of all honor so that the name of God and our doctrine will not be spoken against. [2] Those who have believers as their masters must not be disrespectful to them because they are brethren, but must serve them all the more, because those who partake of the benefit are believers and beloved. Teach and preach these principles.” 


II. Being godly in our teaching vs. 3-5
     “If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, [4] he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, [5] and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain.” 

1 Timothy 3:3, 8; Titus 1:7, 11; 1 Thessalonians 2:5


III. Being godly AND content vs. 6-10
     “But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. [7] For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. [8] If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. [9] But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. [10] For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” 

Matthew 19:24; Mark 10:25; Luke 18:25; Psalm 127:2


IV. How to be godly vs. 11-14
     “But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. [12] Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. [13] I charge you in the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who testified the good confession before Pontius Pilate, [14] that you keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, …” 


V.  Why we should be godly vs. 15-16
     “... which He will bring about at the proper time—He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, [16] who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen.” 


VI. Being godly with our possessions vs. 17-19
     “Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. [18] Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, [19] storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.” 

 Acts 26:20; 2 Corinthians 9:7; Matthew 6:20-21; Luke 12:15


VII. Guarding your godliness vs. 20-21
     “O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called “knowledge”— [21] which some have professed and thus gone astray from the faith. Grace be with you.” 

2 Timothy 1:13-14


Conclusion: 1 Timothy 4:8


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Sunday, September 20, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Timothy 5

The Administration of God’s Household
“A Righteous Family”
1 Timothy 5

Introduction: 1 Peter 2:5


I.  Righteous Relationships vs. 1-2
     “Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, [2] the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity.” 

Malachi 2:10


II. Righteous Responsibilities vs. 3-16

     A. Dealing with those who cannot care for themselves vs. 3-10
     “[3] Honor widows who are widows indeed; [4] but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. [5] Now she who is a widow indeed and who has been left alone, has fixed her hope on God and continues in entreaties and prayers night and day. [6] But she who gives herself to wanton pleasure is dead even while she lives. [7] Prescribe these things as well, so that they may be above reproach. [8] But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. [9] A widow is to be put on the list only if she is not less than sixty years old, having been the wife of one man, [10] having a reputation for good works; and if she has brought up children, if she has shown hospitality to strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has assisted those in distress, and if she has devoted herself to every good work.”

     B. Dealing with those who should be caring for themselves vs. 11-15
     “[11] But refuse to put younger widows on the list, for when they feel sensual desires in disregard of Christ, they want to get married, [12] thus incurring condemnation, because they have set aside their previous pledge. [13] At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house to house; and not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, talking about things not proper to mention. [14] Therefore, I want younger widows to get married, bear children, keep house, and give the enemy no occasion for reproach; [15] for some have already turned aside to follow Satan. [16] If any woman who is a believer has dependent widows, she must assist them and the church must not be burdened, so that it may assist those who are widows indeed.”


III. Righteous Rulers vs. 17-25

     A. Honoring the leader who rules well. vs. 17-18 
     “[17] The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. [18] For the Scripture says, “YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING,” and “The laborer is worthy of his wages.””

Hebrews 13:17

     B. Correcting the leader who rules poorly. vs. 19-25
     “[19] Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. [20] Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. [21] 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. [22] Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin. [23] No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments. [24] The sins of some men are quite evident, going before them to judgment; for others, their sins follow after. [25] Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident, and those which are otherwise cannot be concealed.”

2 Peter 3:14


Conclusion: 1 John 3:7-12


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Sunday, September 13, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Timothy 3:14 - 4:16

The Administration of God’s Household
“The Mystery of Godliness”
1 Timothy 3:14 - 4:16

I.  The Objective of the Spirit 3:14-16
     “I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; [15] but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. [16] By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness: He who was revealed in the flesh, was vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.”

John 17:17; 14:6


II. The Obstacles to Salvation 4:1-5
     “But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, [2] by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron, [3] men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth. [4] For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; [5] for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.”

Matthew 24:11; Acts 20:28-30


III. The Offering of a Servant 4:6-16

     A. The Foundation of Truth v. 6
     “In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following.”

2 Timothy 1:5

     B. The Fortification of Training vs. 7-10
     “But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; [8] for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. [9] It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. [10] For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.”

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

     C. The Fruit of Sound Teaching vs. 11-16
     “Prescribe and teach these things. [12] Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. [13] Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. [14] Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. [15] Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. [16] Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.”


Conclusion: Five ways to be an example ...
     Speech (2:8; 5:1-2; 6:3-5)
     Conduct (3:2; 6:18)
     Love (5:1-2)
     Faith (6:12-14)
     Purity (3:2; 5:2; 6:14) 


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Sunday, September 6, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Timothy 3:8-13

The Administration of God's Household
“Defining the Deacon”
1 Timothy 3:8-13

Introduction: Luke 22:24-27; James 2:15-17; Mark 10:45


I. Godly Examples of Servants

Nehemiah 9:8; 1 Samuel 16:7; 1 Chronicles 28:9; Matthew 22:37-38; Romans 1:9-10

1 Timothy 3:8-13, “Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, [9] but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. [10] These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. [11] Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. [12] Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. [13] For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.”


II. Godly Expectations of Servants

     A. The Personal Character of the Deacon vs. 8, 11

     B. The Spiritual Life of the Deacon v. 9-10

     C. The Moral Purity of the Deacon vs. 10

     D. The Home Life of the Deacon v. 12


Conclusion: v. 13, “For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.”

James 4:10; Matthew 25:21


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Sunday, August 30, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Timothy 3:1-7

“Looking Over the Overseer”
1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9

1 Timothy 3:1-7, “It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. [2] An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, [3] not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. [4] He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity [5] (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), [6] and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. [7] And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.”

Titus 1:6-9, “if any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion. [7] For the overseer must be above reproach as God's steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, [8] but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, [9] holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict.”

I. Character qualifications: Examining his personal life.


II. Domestic qualifications: Examining his home life.

1 Corinthians 7:12, 15-16


III. Competence qualifications: Examining his spiritual life.


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Sunday, August 23, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 TImothy 2

The Administration of God’s Household
“Keeping the House Orderly”
1 Timothy 2

I.  The Importance of Prayer vs. 1-7
     “First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, [2] for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. [3] This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, [4] who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. [5] For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, [6] who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time. [7] For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying) as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.”

     A. It brings about a proper lifestyle. vs. 1-2
          Colossians 1:10; Matthew 5:16

     B. It pleases the Lord. vs. 3-7
          2 Peter 3:9; Deuteronomy 6:4; John 14:6; 1 Timothy 3:15; 4:3; 6:5; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:8


II. The Importance of Position vs. 8-15
     “[8] Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension. [9] Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, [10] but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness. [11] A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. [12] But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. [13] For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. [14] And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. [15] But women will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.”

     A. The Role of Men in worship v. 8
          James 5:16

     B. The Role of Women in worship vs. 9-15

           1. True beauty vs. 9-10
                1 Samuel 16:7; James 2:2-4; Titus 2:3-5

          2. True learning vs. 11-12
               1 Timothy 2:2, 8; Acts 18:26; 2 Timothy 1:5; Titus 2:4-5

          3. True living vs. 13-15
               1 Timothy 4:1; 1 Timothy 5:11-15


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Sunday, August 16, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Timothy 1

The Administration of God’s Household 
“Practice Sound Teaching”
1 Timothy 1

I.  Preparation for Sound Teaching vs. 1-2
     “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus according to the commandment of God our Savior, and of Christ Jesus, who is our hope, [2] To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.” 

2 Timothy 2:2; Luke 8:20-21


II. The Pollution of Sound Teaching vs. 3-7
     “As I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, remain on at Ephesus so that you may instruct certain men not to teach strange doctrines, [4] nor to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which give rise to mere speculation rather than furthering the administration of God which is by faith. [5] But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. [6] For some men, straying from these things, have turned aside to fruitless discussion, [7] wanting to be teachers of the Law, even though they do not understand either what they are saying or the matters about which they make confident assertions.” 

1 Timothy 6:3-4


III. The Purpose of Sound Teaching vs. 8-11
     “But we know that the Law is good, if one uses it lawfully, [9] realizing the fact that law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers [10] and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching, [11] according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, with which I have been entrusted.” 

2 Timothy 4:3-4; Titus 1:9


IV. The Profit of Sound Teaching vs. 12-17
     “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, [13] even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; [14] and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. [15] It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.[16] Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. [17] Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.”

John 1:14; James 1:21; John 5:24; 15:7-8


V.  Perseverance in Sound Teaching vs. 18-20
     “This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight the good fight, [19] keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith. [20] Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan, so that they will be taught not to blaspheme.”

Hebrews 10:28-29


Conclusion: 1 Timothy 4:13-16


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Sunday, August 9, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Psalm 2

"Why are the nations in an uproar?"
Psalm 2

Introduction: Acts 4:24-28; 1 Kings 18:17-18; Luke 16:31, 14-15; Acts 17:1-7; Mark 7:6-8; Romans 1:16-18; Psalm 19:7; Romans 1:32; Matthew 23:37


I.  David speaks of rebellion. vs. 1-3
     “Why are the nations in an uproar, and the peoples devising a vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth take their stand, and the rulers take counsel together against the LORD and against His Anointed: 3 "Let us tear their fetters apart, and cast away their cords from us!"


II. God speaks in response. vs. 4-6
     “He who sits in the heavens laughs, the Lord scoffs at them. 5 Then He will speak to them in His anger and terrify them in His fury: 6 "But as for Me, I have installed My King upon Zion, My holy mountain."

John 13:20


III. Christ speaks with reassurance. vs. 7-9
     “"I will surely tell of the decree of the LORD: He said to Me, 'Thou art My Son, Today I have begotten Thee. 8 Ask of Me, and I will surely give the nations as Thine inheritance, and the very ends of the earth as Thy possession. 9 Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron, Thou shalt shatter them like earthenware.'"


IV. David speaks of repentance. vs. 10-12
     “Now therefore, O kings, show discernment; take warning, O judges of the earth. 11 Worship the LORD with reverence, and rejoice with trembling. 12 Do homage to the Son, lest He become angry, and you perish in the way, for His wrath may soon be kindled. How blessed are all who take refuge in Him!”


Conclusion: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Isaiah 57:20-21; Revelation 3:15-16; Psalm 1; Romans 6:23; Proverbs 14:34; Acts 26:19-20


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Sunday, August 2, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Exodus 32:7-8

“Corruption within the Camp”
Exodus 32:7-8

Introduction: 1 Samuel 16:7

Exodus 32:7-8, “Go down at once, for your people, whom you brought up from the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves.[8] They have quickly turned aside from the way which I commanded them. They have made for themselves a molten calf, and have worshiped it and have sacrificed to it and said, ‘This is your god, O Israel, who brought you up from the land of Egypt!’” 

Exodus 32:9-10, “The LORD said to Moses, “I have seen this people, and behold, they are an obstinate people. [10] Now then let Me alone, that My anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them; and I will make of you a great nation.””

Exodus 15:1-2; Hebrews 4:11


I. Corruption occurs when you refuse to wait on God
     Exodus 32:1, “Now when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down from the mountain, the people assembled about Aaron and said to him, “Come, make us a god who will go before us; as for this Moses, the man who brought us up from the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him.””

Deuteronomy 32:4-6; Exodus 32:3-4; Exodus 20:22-23; Psalm 10:11; Isaiah 49:14-15; Romans 8:28; Psalm 34:15, 19; Psalm 27:14; Galatians 5:5


II. Corruption occurs when God is no longer in control.
     Exodus 32:25, “Moses saw that the people were out of control—for Aaron had let them get out of control to be a derision among their enemies.”

Isaiah 1:4; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15


III. Corruption in the camp cannot be tolerated.
     Exodus 32:25-28, “Now when Moses saw that the people were out of control—for Aaron had let them get out of control to be a derision among their enemies— [26] then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, “Whoever is for the LORD, come to me!” And all the sons of Levi gathered together to him. [27] He said to them, “Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, ‘Every man of you put his sword upon his thigh, and go back and forth from gate to gate in the camp, and kill every man his brother, and every man his friend, and every man his neighbor.’” [28] So the sons of Levi did as Moses instructed, and about three thousand men of the people fell that day.”

Deuteronomy 23:14; Exodus 32:29


Conclusion: Galatians 6:7-9


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Sunday, July 26, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Psalm 104

Psalm 104
“God Provides”

I. The Lord is the Creator. vs. 1-9 
     “Bless the Lord, O my soul! O Lord my God, You are very great; You are clothed with splendor and majesty, 2 Covering Yourself with light as with a cloak, stretching out heaven like a tent curtain. 3 He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters; He makes the clouds His chariot; He walks upon the wings of the wind; 4 He makes the winds His messengers, flaming fire His ministers. 5 He established the earth upon its foundations, so that it will not totter forever and ever. 6 You covered it with the deep as with a garment; the waters were standing above the mountains. 7 At Your rebuke they fled, at the sound of Your thunder they hurried away. 8 The mountains rose; the valleys sank down to the place which You established for them. 9 You set a boundary that they may not pass over, so that they will not return to cover the earth.” 


II. The Lord is the Provider. vs. 10-30
     “10 He sends forth springs in the valleys; they flow between the mountains; 11 They give drink to every beast of the field; the wild donkeys quench their thirst. 12 Beside them the birds of the heavens dwell; they lift up their voices among the branches. 13 He waters the mountains from His upper chambers; the earth is satisfied with the fruit of His works. 14 He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, and vegetation for the labor of man, so that he may bring forth food from the earth, 15 and wine which makes man’s heart glad, so that he may make his face glisten with oil, and food which sustains man’s heart. 16 The trees of the Lord drink their fill, the cedars of Lebanon which He planted, 17 Where the birds build their nests, and the stork, whose home is the fir trees. 18 The high mountains are for the wild goats; the cliffs are a refuge for the shephanim. 19 He made the moon for the seasons; The sun knows the place of its setting. 20 You appoint darkness and it becomes night, in which all the beasts of the forest prowl about. 21 The young lions roar after their prey and seek their food from God. 22 When the sun rises they withdraw and lie down in their dens. 23 Man goes forth to his work and to his labor until evening. 24 O Lord, how many are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all; the earth is full of Your possessions. 25 There is the sea, great and broad, in which are swarms without number, animals both small and great. 26 There the ships move along, and Leviathan, which You have formed to sport in it. 27 They all wait for You To give them their food in due season. 28 You give to them, they gather it up; You open Your hand, they are satisfied with good. 29 You hide Your face, they are dismayed; You take away their spirit, they expire and return to their dust. 30 You send forth Your Spirit, they are created; and You renew the face of the ground.” 


III. The Lord is the Judge. vs. 31-35
     “31 Let the glory of the Lord endure forever; let the Lord be glad in His works; 32 He looks at the earth, and it trembles; He touches the mountains, and they smoke. 33 I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. 34 Let my meditation be pleasing to Him; as for me, I shall be glad in the Lord. 35 Let sinners be consumed from the earth and let the wicked be no more. Bless the Lord, O my soul. Praise the Lord!” 


Conclusion:  Nehemiah 9:15-16, 20-21; Matthew 6:25-33; Hebrews 11:39-40


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Sunday, July 5, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Galatians 5:1-12

“Freedom in Christ”
Galatians 5:1-12

Introduction: 2 Peter 2:18-20


I.  Justification by Law vs. 1-4
     “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. 2 Behold I, Paul, say to you that if you receive circumcision, Christ will be of no benefit to you. 3 And I testify again to every man who receives circumcision, that he is under obligation to keep the whole Law. 4 You have been severed from Christ, you who are seeking to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.” 

Acts 15:1, 5; Galatians 1:6-7; 2:3-5, 18, 21; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 3:3


II. Justification by Faith vs. 5-6
     “For we through the Spirit, by faith, are waiting for the hope of righteousness. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.” 

Titus 2:13; 2 Peter 3:13; Acts 15:8-11; Galatians 3:24-29


III. Judgment on False Teachers vs. 7-12 
     “You were running well; who hindered you from obeying the truth? 8 This persuasion did not come from Him who calls you. 9 A little leaven leavens the whole lump of dough. 10 I have confidence in you in the Lord, that you will adopt no other view; but the one who is disturbing you shall bear his judgment, whoever he is. 11 But I, brethren, if I still preach circumcision, why am I still persecuted? Then the stumbling block of the cross has been abolished. 12 Would that those who are troubling you would even mutilate themselves.” 

John 18:38; 17:17; 7:22-23; Leviticus 12:3; Deuteronomy 23:1


Conclusion: Galatians 6:12-15; John 12:48; 8:31-32


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Sunday, June 28, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Luke 4:17-21

“A Christian Jubilee”
Luke 4:17-21

Introduction: Leviticus 25:10, “You shall thus consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim a release through the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you ...”

Luke 4:17-21, “And the book of the prophet Isaiah was handed to Him. And He opened the book, and found the place where it was written, 18 "THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME, BECAUSE HE ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR. HE HAS SENT ME TO PROCLAIM RELEASE TO THE CAPTIVES, AND RECOVERY OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND, TO SET FREE THOSE WHO ARE DOWNTRODDEN, 19 TO PROCLAIM THE FAVORABLE YEAR OF THE LORD." 20 And He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed upon Him. 21 And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing."” 

Luke 4:28-29


I. The message of Jubilee is a message of forgiveness.

Isaiah 43:25; Psalm 32:1; 103:12


II. The message of Jubilee is a message of freedom.

Genesis 1:27; John 8:36; Romans 6:20-23


III. The message of Jubilee is a message of restoration.

1 Peter 5:8-10


IV. The message of Jubilee is a message of faith.

Matthew 9:20-22; Luke 18:27


Conclusion: "THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME, BECAUSE HE ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR. HE HAS SENT ME TO PROCLAIM RELEASE TO THE CAPTIVES, AND RECOVERY OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND, TO SET FREE THOSE WHO ARE DOWNTRODDEN, 19 TO PROCLAIM THE FAVORABLE YEAR OF THE LORD." 


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Sunday, June 21, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Real Worship

"Real Worship"

Introduction: Psalm 100; Deuteronomy 6:5-7; Matthew 22:37; Mark 12:30; Luke 10:27; John 4:19-24; Deuteronomy 10:12-13; Micah 6:6-7


I.  Renew your Reverence for God

Psalm 29:1-2, "Ascribe to the LORD, O sons of the mighty, Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 2 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due to His name; Worship the LORD in holy array." 


II. Practice the Presence of God 

Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.”


III. Develop a Sense of Community

Hebrews 10:24-25, "Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, 25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near." 

Psalm 133:1; Psalm 26:4-8


Conclusion: Matthew 15:9


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Sunday, May 24, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8

“Four Great Memorials of the Church”
1 Corinthians 15:1-8

Introduction: Mark 16:15; Romans 1:16


I.  We Remember the Death of Christ. v. 3
     “I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.”

1 Corinthians 11:23-26, 28-30


II. We Remember the Burial of Christ. v. 4a
     “I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, [4] and that He was buried …”

Romans 6:3-6; 1 John 5:18; Ephesians 2:5; Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Acts 22:16; Acts 2:37-38; 1 Peter 3:21


III. We Remember the Resurrection of Christ. v. 4b
     “I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, [4] and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures …” 

Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:26; Hebrews 10:25


IV. We remember the Witnesses of Christ. vs. 5-8
     “I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, [4] and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, [5] and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. [6] After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; [7] then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; [8] and last of all, as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also.” 

2 Corinthians 5:17-20; 2 Timothy 2:2


Conclusion: Ephesians 5:8


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Sunday, May 10, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: John 2:13-17

“Real Zeal”
John 2:13-17

Introduction: Jude 1:14; Luke 19:38, 41; 19:10, 45-46

John 2:13-17, “The Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. [14] And He found in the temple those who were selling oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers seated at their tables . [15] And He made a scourge of cords, and drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen; and He poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables; [16] and to those who were selling the doves He said, “Take these things away; stop making My Father's house a place of business.” [17] His disciples remembered that it was written, “ZEAL FOR YOUR HOUSE WILL CONSUME ME.”” 

 John 1:29


I. True zeal will not tolerate sin in the temple of God

2 Timothy 2:21; John 15:12-14; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Romans 6:11-13


II. True zeal will not tolerate pollution in the Body of Christ.

Matthew 23:37-38; Revelation 2:1-7, 14-16, 20-22; 3:1-3, 16-19


III. True zeal will not tolerate lies against God’s Word

2 Peter 3:16; Psalm 119:10-11; 1 John 2:4-5


Conclusion: Psalm 51:17; Galatians 2:20; Romans 8:8; 2 Timothy 3:4; 4:5; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Romans 1:16-17; Galatians 1:6-9; 2 Timothy 4:3-4; Mark 7:6-8; Acts 17:16-17; 1 Corinthians 9:16


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Sunday, April 19, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Luke 12:13-21

“How Soon We Forget”
Luke 12:13-21

Introduction: Proverbs 23:7


I.  While thinking of the gifts, he forgot the Giver. vs. 16-18
     “And He told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man was very productive. [17] “And he began reasoning to himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?’ [18] “Then he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods.'” 

James 1:17


II. While thinking of himself, he forgot his neighbor. v. 19
     “‘And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry.’””

Matthew 10:8


III. While thinking about his body, he forgot about his soul. vs. 20-21
     “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is required of you; and now who will own what you have prepared?’ [21] So is the man who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” 

Hebrews 9:27


Conclusion: Luke 12:34; 1 Peter 2:24


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Sunday, March 29, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Ecclesiastes 12

The Conclusion
Ecclesiastes 12

Introduction: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, “The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. [14] For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.”


I.  The Motivation vs. 1-8
     “Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near when you will say, “I have no delight in them”; [2] before the sun and the light, the moon and the stars are darkened, and clouds return after the rain; [3] in the day that the watchmen of the house tremble, and mighty men stoop, the grinding ones stand idle because they are few, and those who look through windows grow dim; [4] and the doors on the street are shut as the sound of the grinding mill is low, and one will arise at the sound of the bird, and all the daughters of song will sing softly. [5] Furthermore, men are afraid of a high place and of terrors on the road; the almond tree blossoms, the grasshopper drags himself along, and the caperberry is ineffective. For man goes to his eternal home while mourners go about in the street. [6] Remember Him before the silver cord is broken and the golden bowl is crushed, the pitcher by the well is shattered and the wheel at the cistern is crushed; [7] then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it. [8] “Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher, “all is vanity!””

1 Corinthians 6:19; 2 Corinthians 4:16


II. The Instruction vs. 9-12
     “[9] In addition to being a wise man, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge; and he pondered, searched out and arranged many proverbs. [10] The Preacher sought to find delightful words and to write words of truth correctly. [11] The words of wise men are like goads, and masters of these collections are like well-driven nails; they are given by one Shepherd. [12] But beyond this, my son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive devotion to books is wearying to the body.”

Ephesians 4:11-13; Titus 1:9; Hebrews 13:7-9; John 5:39-40


III. The Conclusion vs. 13-14
     “[13] The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. [14] For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.”

Revelation 14:6-7; 2 Corinthians 5:1-11


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Sunday, March 22, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Ecclesiastes 11

Sow With a View to Righteousness
Ecclesiastes 11

Introduction: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, “The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. [14] For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.”

 Hosea 10:12


I.   Work Wisely  vs. 1-2
     “Cast your bread on the surface of the waters, for you will find it after many days. [2] Divide your portion to seven, or even to eight, for you do not know what misfortune may occur on the earth.”

 Matthew 6:19-21


II. Work Trustingly  vs. 3-6
     “[3] If the clouds are full, they pour out rain upon the earth; and whether a tree falls toward the south or toward the north, wherever the tree falls, there it lies. [4] He who watches the wind will not sow and he who looks at the clouds will not reap. [5] Just as you do not know the path of the wind and how bones are formed in the womb of the pregnant woman, so you do not know the activity of God who makes all things. [6] Sow your seed in the morning and do not be idle in the evening, for you do not know whether morning or evening sowing will succeed, or whether both of them alike will be good.”

 Psalm 37:3-18


III. Work Joyfully  vs. 7-10
     “[7] The light is pleasant, and it is good for the eyes to see the sun. [8] Indeed, if a man should live many years, let him rejoice in them all, and let him remember the days of darkness, for they will be many. Everything that is to come will be futility. [9] Rejoice, young man, during your childhood, and let your heart be pleasant during the days of young manhood. And follow the impulses of your heart and the desires of your eyes. Yet know that God will bring you to judgment for all these things. [10] So, remove grief and anger from your heart and put away pain from your body, because childhood and the prime of life are fleeting.”

Ecclesiastes 9:10; John 9:4; Hebrews 12:1; 1 Corinthians 6:18-20; 2 Corinthians 6:16 – 7:1


Conclusion: Hosea 10:12


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Sunday, March 15, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Ecclesiastes 10

The Foolishness of Foolishness
Ecclesiastes 10

Introduction: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, “The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. [14] For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.”

1 Corinthians 1:19-25


I.   Belief does not guarantee blessing. vs. 1-4
     "Dead flies make a perfumer's oil stink, so a little foolishness is weightier than wisdom and honor. [2] A wise man's heart directs him toward the right, but the foolish man's heart directs him toward the left. [3] Even when the fool walks along the road, his sense is lacking and he demonstrates to everyone that he is a fool. [4] If the ruler's temper rises against you, do not abandon your position, because composure allays great offenses.”

James 2:19; Revelation 3:15-16


II. Status does not guarantee success. vs. 5-10
     “[5] There is an evil I have seen under the sun, like an error which goes forth from the ruler— [6] folly is set in many exalted places while rich men sit in humble places. [7] I have seen slaves riding on horses and princes walking like slaves on the land. [8] He who digs a pit may fall into it, and a serpent may bite him who breaks through a wall. [9] He who quarries stones may be hurt by them, and he who splits logs may be endangered by them. [10] If the axe is dull and he does not sharpen its edge, then he must exert more strength. Wisdom has the advantage of giving success.”

1 Peter 5:6


III. Words do not guarantee wealth. vs. 11-14 
     “[11] If the serpent bites before being charmed, there is no profit for the charmer. [12] Words from the mouth of a wise man are gracious, while the lips of a fool consume him; [13] the beginning of his talking is folly and the end of it is wicked madness. [14] Yet the fool multiplies words. No man knows what will happen, and who can tell him what will come after him?”

Ecclesiastes 5:3; 1 Corinthians 2:4-5; 14:19


IV. Effort does not guarantee effectiveness. vs. 15-20
     “[15] The toil of a fool so wearies him that he does not even know how to go to a city. [16] Woe to you, O land, whose king is a lad and whose princes feast in the morning. [17] Blessed are you, O land, whose king is of nobility and whose princes eat at the appropriate time—for strength and not for drunkenness. [18] Through indolence the rafters sag, and through slackness the house leaks. [19] Men prepare a meal for enjoyment, and wine makes life merry, and money is the answer to everything. [20] Furthermore, in your bedchamber do not curse a king, and in your sleeping rooms do not curse a rich man, for a bird of the heavens will carry the sound and the winged creature will make the matter known.”

Proverbs 13:4; Matthew 25:29; Psalm 127:1-2


Conclusion: 1 John 5:4; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Matthew 12:34-37; 1 Timothy 5:18; Matthew 25:26, 30; Ephesians 4:12; Revelation 14:13


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Sunday, March 8, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Ecclesiastes 9

One Life Under God
Ecclesiastes 9

Introduction: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, “The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. [14] For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.”


I.  Use your time wisely. vs. 1-6
     “For I have taken all this to my heart and explain it that righteous men, wise men, and their deeds are in the hand of God. Man does not know whether it will be love or hatred; anything awaits him. [2] It is the same for all. There is one fate for the righteous and for the wicked; for the good, for the clean and for the unclean; for the man who offers a sacrifice and for the one who does not sacrifice. As the good man is, so is the sinner; as the swearer is, so is the one who is afraid to swear. [3] This is an evil in all that is done under the sun, that there is one fate for all men. Furthermore, the hearts of the sons of men are full of evil and insanity is in their hearts throughout their lives. Afterwards they go to the dead. [4] For whoever is joined with all the living, there is hope; surely a live dog is better than a dead lion. [5] For the living know they will die; but the dead do not know anything, nor have they any longer a reward, for their memory is forgotten. [6] Indeed their love, their hate and their zeal have already perished, and they will no longer have a share in all that is done under the sun.” 

Genesis 2:17; Romans 5:12; 3:23; Ecclesiastes 7:2; 1 Timothy 6:17-19


II. Live your life fully. vs. 7-10
     “[7] Go then, eat your bread in happiness and drink your wine with a cheerful heart; for God has already approved your works. [8] Let your clothes be white all the time, and let not oil be lacking on your head. [9] Enjoy life with the woman whom you love all the days of your fleeting life which He has given to you under the sun; for this is your reward in life and in your toil in which you have labored under the sun. [10] Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no activity or planning or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol where you are going.” 

 Revelation 3:4-5; 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12; John 9:4


III. Prepare for your death immediately. vs. 11-12
     “[11] I again saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift and the battle is not to the warriors, and neither is bread to the wise nor wealth to the discerning nor favor to men of ability; for time and chance overtake them all. [12] Moreover, man does not know his time: like fish caught in a treacherous net and birds trapped in a snare, so the sons of men are ensnared at an evil time when it suddenly falls on them.” 

 Luke 21:34-36


IV. Examine everything carefully. vs. 13-18
     “[13] Also this I came to see as wisdom under the sun, and it impressed me. [14] There was a small city with few men in it and a great king came to it, surrounded it and constructed large siegeworks against it. [15] But there was found in it a poor wise man and he delivered the city by his wisdom. Yet no one remembered that poor man. [16] So I said, “Wisdom is better than strength.” But the wisdom of the poor man is despised and his words are not heeded. [17] The words of the wise heard in quietness are better than the shouting of a ruler among fools. [18] Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good.” 

1 Corinthians 3:19; Proverbs 2:6-10; James 1:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22; 1 Corinthians 1:27-29; Jeremiah 7:27-28; 13:11; Matthew 23:37; 2 Timothy 4:3-4


Conclusion: John 12:31; 2 Timothy 3:12-17


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Sunday, March 1, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Ecclesiastes 8

“Life from a Divine Perspective”
Ecclesiastes 8

Introduction: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, “The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. [14] For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.”


I.  The wise man will submit to the Lord. vs. 1-8
     “Who is like the wise man and who knows the interpretation of a matter? A man's wisdom illumines him and causes his stern face to beam. [2] I say, “Keep the command of the king because of the oath before God. [3] Do not be in a hurry to leave him. Do not join in an evil matter, for he will do whatever he pleases.” [4] Since the word of the king is authoritative, who will say to him, “What are you doing?” [5] He who keeps a royal command experiences no trouble, for a wise heart knows the proper time and procedure. [6] For there is a proper time and procedure for every delight, though a man's trouble is heavy upon him. [7] If no one knows what will happen, who can tell him when it will happen? [8] No man has authority to restrain the wind with the wind, or authority over the day of death; and there is no discharge in the time of war, and evil will not deliver those who practice it.”

2 Kings 11:17-18; Hebrews 13:7; Luke 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 6:12


II. The wicked man will be judged by the Lord. vs. 9-13
     “[9] All this I have seen and applied my mind to every deed that has been done under the sun wherein a man has exercised authority over another man to his hurt. [10] So then, I have seen the wicked buried, those who used to go in and out from the holy place, and they are soon forgotten in the city where they did thus. This too is futility. [11] Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed quickly, therefore the hearts of the sons of men among them are given fully to do evil. [12] Although a sinner does evil a hundred times and may lengthen his life, still I know that it will be well for those who fear God, who fear Him openly. [13] But it will not be well for the evil man and he will not lengthen his days like a shadow, because he does not fear God.”

Matthew 25:41, 46


III. Every man should prepare for the Lord. vs. 14-17
     “[14] There is futility which is done on the earth, that is, there are righteous men to whom it happens according to the deeds of the wicked. On the other hand, there are evil men to whom it happens according to the deeds of the righteous. I say that this too is futility. [15] So I commended pleasure, for there is nothing good for a man under the sun except to eat and to drink and to be merry, and this will stand by him in his toils throughout the days of his life which God has given him under the sun. [16] When I gave my heart to know wisdom and to see the task which has been done on the earth (even though one should never sleep day or night), [17] and I saw every work of God, I concluded that man cannot discover the work which has been done under the sun. Even though man should seek laboriously, he will not discover; and though the wise man should say, “I know,” he cannot discover.”

Revelation 14:10-12; Hebrews 10:30; 13:5; Galatians 6:7-9


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Sunday, February 22, 2015

Sunday Sermon Outline: Ecclesiastes 7

Everything is Better with God
Ecclesiastes 7

Introduction: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, “The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. [14] For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.”

Romans 8:18


I.  Consider what is greater. vs. 1-10
     “A good name is better than a good ointment, and the day of one's death is better than the day of one's birth. [2] It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, because that is the end of every man, and the living takes it to heart. [3] Sorrow is better than laughter, for when a face is sad a heart may be happy. [4] The mind of the wise is in the house of mourning, while the mind of fools is in the house of pleasure. [5] It is better to listen to the rebuke of a wise man than for one to listen to the song of fools. [6] For as the crackling of thorn bushes under a pot, so is the laughter of the fool; and this too is futility. [7] For oppression makes a wise man mad, and a bribe corrupts the heart. [8] The end of a matter is better than its beginning; patience of spirit is better than haughtiness of spirit. [9] Do not be eager in your heart to be angry, for anger resides in the bosom of fools. [10] Do not say, “Why is it that the former days were better than these?” For it is not from wisdom that you ask about this.”

Philippians 2:9


II. Consider what is wiser. vs. 11-19
     “[11] Wisdom along with an inheritance is good and an advantage to those who see the sun. [12] For wisdom is protection just as money is protection, but the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the lives of its possessors. [13] Consider the work of God, for who is able to straighten what He has bent? [14] In the day of prosperity be happy, but in the day of adversity consider— God has made the one as well as the other so that man will not discover anything that will be after him. [15] I have seen everything during my lifetime of futility; there is a righteous man who perishes in his righteousness and there is a wicked man who prolongs his life in his wickedness. [16] Do not be excessively righteous and do not be overly wise. Why should you ruin yourself? [17] Do not be excessively wicked and do not be a fool. Why should you die before your time? [18] It is good that you grasp one thing and also not let go of the other; for the one who fears God comes forth with both of them. [19] Wisdom strengthens a wise man more than ten rulers who are in a city.”

Mark 8:36; Luke 12:23-31


III. Consider what is better. vs. 20-29
     “[20] Indeed, there is not a righteous man on earth who continually does good and who never sins. [21] Also, do not take seriously all words which are spoken, so that you will not hear your servant cursing you. [22] For you also have realized that you likewise have many times cursed others. [23] I tested all this with wisdom, and I said, “I will be wise,” but it was far from me. [24] What has been is remote and exceedingly mysterious. Who can discover it? [25] I directed my mind to know, to investigate and to seek wisdom and an explanation, and to know the evil of folly and the foolishness of madness. [26] And I discovered more bitter than death the woman whose heart is snares and nets, whose hands are chains. One who is pleasing to God will escape from her, but the sinner will be captured by her. [27] “Behold, I have discovered this,” says the Preacher, “adding one thing to another to find an explanation, [28] which I am still seeking but have not found. I have found one man among a thousand, but I have not found a woman among all these. [29] Behold, I have found only this, that God made men upright, but they have sought out many devices.””

Romans 3:23; 1 Corinthians 3:19; Proverbs 7:7-12; 1:20-33; 2 Peter 1:3; Romans 8:31-32


Conclusion: Job 28:12-28


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